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Course overview
Influence the future with our MSc in AI for a Sustainable Development at Birmingham. Our innovative programme will equip you with the skills and knowledge to drive ethical tech solutions and impactful change through interdisciplinary learning and real-world projects.
Our course will help you kickstart your career by empowering you to lead in ethical tech innovation. Gain the expertise to influence global policies, drive sustainable solutions, and make a lasting impact through interdisciplinary and practical learning.
We equip passionate learners to spearhead ethical, empowering AI innovation globally. Our pioneering programme offers interdisciplinary training critical for responsible technology. By bridging computer science foundations with policy contexts, we produce versatile, well-rounded AI leaders. Graduates become strategic facilitators of AI deployments that advance access, inclusion and human rights locally and internationally.
Course Structure
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis for Home students.
In the first semester, you'll undertake three core 20-credit modules that will allow you to explore how AI advances global sustainability through ethical governance and participatory design. You will then master modern data science techniques, including supervised learning and data mining, and develop robust programming skills to tackle diverse data science challenges.
Additionally, you must also select one 20-credit optional module from our AI, Policy, and Government module list. Assessment includes group work, exams, and assignments throughout the semester.
Course highlights
What makes this course different?
This programme offers rigorous interdisciplinary training, integrating AI with social sciences to tackle global challenges. You’ll gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge techniques, from machine learning to policy analysis, while focusing on impactful, responsible technology deployment. With a breadth of expertise and optional modules available to develop a broader perspective, you’ll graduate equipped and confident to lead in diverse roles, driving meaningful change in underserved communities and beyond.
- Integrated Curriculum: Study a combination of computer science and social science perspectives to offer a comprehensive skillset for tackling complex challenges.
- Advanced Technical Training: Learn from expert in their fields who cover the latest in programming, machine learning, and data science to ensure you master highly sought-after skills.
- Focused Development: Enhance your essential non-technical skills such as systems thinking, ethical reasoning, and participatory design, crucial for driving responsible innovation.
- Practical Experience: Benefit from valuable insights into the real-world deployment of AI in underserved regions, balancing benefits with potential risks.
Established in August 2023, the Department of Public Administration and Policy (DPAP) leads the study of (inter)national, regional and local public administration and public policy.
Course delivery
Teaching will utilise a range of learning methods, including lectures, workshops and seminars as well as blended learning support.
- Lecture: Academics give organised talks to large groups of students who take notes, less interactive.
- Seminars: Small group sessions designed to complement lectures and are generally more informal in nature. They give you the chance to discuss issues with fellow students and allow for more interaction than a traditional lecture.
- Workshops: Workshops are for smaller groups, but instead of discussion, students might learn about a tool or a technique that they will be required to know about for their course. They are usually more hands-on learning that allow discussion regarding the given topic.
Module information
The programme is composed of six 20-credit core modules completed by 20 credits to choose across a range of optional International Development modules. To complete this and graduate with the 180 credits that will award you the MSc, you will have to undertake a 60-credit dissertation project.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
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.
Standard Entry Requirements:
- A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in any subjects from a UK university; or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
- In addition to the above, applicants must also demonstrate strong mathematical skills through one of the following:
- Grade A (or above) in A Level Mathematics or equivalent (if your first degree is not Mathematics).
- Successful completion of the University of Birmingham's Mathematics for AI and Data Science microcredential.
Applicants who meet the Bachelor's degree requirement but do not meet the mathematical prerequisites may be offered conditional admission, subject to successful completion of the Mathematics for AI and Data Science microcredential prior to the application deadline.
All applicants are required to provide detailed evidence of their qualifications at the point of application. Applications cannot be considered without this supporting documentation.
If you have undertaken studies outside the UK and have not taken A Levels, you can check if you hold a suitable equivalent qualification.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
- £11,740
Full-time
- £5,870
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
Application Fee
For international applicants this programme is subject to a £50 non-refundable application fee. At the end of the application form, before you can submit it to us, you will be required to pay, or indicate how you will pay the required fee in order for us to process your application. Please complete and submit your application before paying your application fee.
Personal Statement
Entry to this programme is highly competitive and as a result your application and personal statement will be closely scrutinised by our Admissions Tutors. Please ensure that you spend some time familiarising yourself with the programme modules and outcomes. Personal Statements should be relevant to the programme and how you believe it will enable you to achieve your career goals.
How to apply to our taught courses
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Career opportunities
Open doors to a wide variety of career opportunities with our MSc in AI and Sustainable Development. This interdisciplinary programme equips you with the technical and ethical expertise to drive responsible AI innovation, preparing you for impactful roles in NGOs, governments, and international organisations. You’ll gain hands-on experience and a global perspective, ready to address real-world challenges in sustainability, inequality, and governance.
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.