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Course overview
Gain a global perspective in data science and contribute to cutting edge research in Artificial Intelligence. Join our Joint Masters Data Science and AI at Birmingham and IIT Madras and prepare for an exciting career.
With in-depth study in data analytics, machine learning and algorithms, alongside advanced research and industrial experience you'll stand out from the crowd and advance your career in this rapidly evolving field.
Why study the Joint Masters Data Science and AI?
Course Structure
The MSc is an 18 month full-time programme comprising of taught modules in both Birmingham and IIT Madras. You'll also complete a industrial placement and research project, with the option to choose to spend the majority of your studies either in the UK or in India.
From late July to November you will study at IIT Madras then you will undertake an industrial placement. In January, you will transfer to Birmingham for the remainder of the programme.
Whether in Birmingham or Madras, you'll study a range of core and optional modules covering the breadth of data science and AI.
View the course on IIT Madras website
Course highlights
Birmingham is ranked 80th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us 12th amongst UK universities.
Our research-informed teaching will put you at the forefront as you prepare to start your careering in Data Science and AI.
Dive into the exciting and rapidly evolving world of data science and artificial intelligence. Experience a global perspective by dividing your studies between Birmingham and IIT Madras, learning how to extract meaningful insights from data.
Explore recent advances in artificial intelligence as you learn about the emerging digital world that AI is helping us to create.
You'll undertake a substantial individual project that will give you a unique opportunity to apply your knowledge to real world challenges.
Course delivery
This course takes an interdisciplinary approach, through traditional study, projects and industrial placements, with a focus on energy systems and technologies deployment for a sustainable future.
You will be able to select from two programme options when you apply. Both programmes begin with 6 months at IIT Madras.
Then, the Birmingham majority option sees you spend 12 months at Birmingham for the remainder of the taught programme and to conduct a programme of research over the summer.
The IIT majority option has you spending 6 months in Birmingham before returning to IIT Madras to complete the research project and undertake the last part of the taught programme.
Lecture
Projects
Tutorial
Practical assignments
Module information
This programme is a 18 month full time taught masters degree (180 credits) consisting of taught modules, research project and industrial placement. The dissertation is completed under the direction of a project supervisor which will give you the opportunity to work one-to-one with a leading expert in their field.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
From late July to November you will study at IIT Madras then you will undertake an industrial placement until January. In January, you will transfer to Birmingham for the remainder of the programme.
2025/26
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Current Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Project | 80 | Full Term |
Optional modules
Select 80 credits of options.
40 credits chosen from list A:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Vision and Imaging (Extended) | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Evolutionary Computation (Extended) | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Intelligent Interactive Systems (Extended) | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Natural Language Processing (Extended) | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Visualisation | 20 | Semester 2 |
40 credits chosen from list B:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Intelligent Data Analysis | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Machine Learning | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Neural Computation (Extended) | 20 | Semester 1 |
Teaching staff
Professor Mark Lee
Programme Director
Staff profile for Dr Mark Lee
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
in a numerate discipline (Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Economics, or another programme with substantial Mathematics content).
You will be considered for this programme if you have the following academic scores:
- Indian undergraduate: Bachelor’s degree with 60% and above in Science and/or Engineering
- Equivalent of a UK 2:1 Honours degree in a numerate discipline (Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Economics, or another programme with substantial Mathematics content).
English requirements
- The IELTS requirement is 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band. The equivalencies for this from the Indian Standard XII English are: - 80% from ISC, CBSE, and Maharashtra
- 75% from West Bengal
- 85% from Other State boards - TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Speaking and 21 in Writing;
- PTE Academic: Pearson Test of English (PTE) including online: PTE Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills.
- Applicants with appropriate grades in Standard XII English (English Core/English Elective/Functional English in CBSE) do not require additional SELT qualifications.
A valid English qualification is required on the enrolment date of the programme, not the arrival date to the UK for the part of the programme studied at Birmingham.
Fees and scholarships
Programme option one
IIT Madras, INR 300,000 - University of Birmingham, £10,140
Programme option two
IIT Madras, INR 600,000 - University of Birmingham, £7,240
Application process
Apply for this programme IIT Madras website
Career opportunities
You will graduate with specialist, advanced skills, well prepared for a wealth of roles including: data scientist, AI developer, machine learning expert, business analysist and research scientist.
Studying in both India and the UK will equip you with a unique international perspective with specialised knowledge and skills. Your access to industry partnerships will expand the breadth of your understanding of data science and AI.
You'll develop cross-cultural communication skills helping you to stand out from the crowd and advance your career in this rapidly evolving field.
IIT Madras’ impressive industry connections make it a highly sought-after destination for recruitment, providing you with ample opportunities to participate in the institute’s placement season.
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.