MSc Artificial Intelligence

There is a surging global demand for numerate and skilled AI scientists with the fundamental skills and practical expertise needed to excel in this rapidly evolving field. We can help you meet this need and launch your career. Our MSc Artificial Intelligence has been designed by leading academics and industry professionals to deliver cutting-edge material that will be of great value to any employer.

Why do we need experts in AI?

AI allows computers and machines to simulate human intelligence and problem-solving abilities and is revolutionising the way we live, work and learn. From personalised recommendations on streaming services to real-time detection of fraud, and from the early diagnosis of disease to autonomous monitoring of our changing environment, AI is reshaping the world as we know it, impacting every major industry. We need experts to understand the technologies to drive innovation and impact.

Who is the programme for?

Those looking to start a career in AI, whether that’s in employment or research. You may have an undergraduate degree in any subject but will need some understanding of maths (ideally to A level) and be able to learn coding.

Looking ahead to employability

As you gain a deep understanding of what AI truly means and explore the evolution of AI, you will develop the skills to navigate the complexities of this technology to maximise its potential. You will have demonstrable experience to put on your CV.

You will also:

• Master truly cutting-edge technology - NLP/LLMs, GenAI, Comp Vision, AI Cyber Security and Quantum AI
• Gain practical and theoretical skills in machine learning, data analysis and visualisations, ethics and prompt engineering – highly sought after by employers
• Work with an industry partner to design and implement an AI solution as part of your dissertation project
• Develop your communication, project management and professional skills

What to expect

Delve into the foundational elements of AI, including its historical context and the critical technologies that are shaping our world today. You’ll learn Python, the essential programming language for AI, and acquire a strong grasp of the statistical methods that underpin machine learning. You’ll also explore the power of neural networks and deep learning technologies, understanding the types of challenges they can address. Practical exercises will reinforce your learning, culminating in the development of operational AI solutions coded in Python. Ethical considerations and sustainability will be integral to your studies, ensuring that you are prepared to create AI solutions that are responsible and impactful.

Building on these foundations, select your optional modules that allow you to tailor your studies to your career aspirations. This is where you’ll explore the major application areas of AI and develop the practical skills in planning, developing, and managing the computing platforms needed for large-scale AI operations, preparing you to lead AI projects in any setting.

Over the summer, complete a 14-week project, often in collaboration with an industry partner or working with one of our leading researchers based in our AI community. This is an opportunity to design and implement an AI solution and culminates with a poster conference where you present your findings.

Three things we would like you to know

• Lancaster University is home to an outstanding group of AI researchers which means you will learn from leaders in this field
• We have recently been awarded major grants of £12 million and £9 million relating to AI and machine learning, namely the Probabilistic AI Hub and the Mathematics for Real World Systems (MARS) putting Lancaster University at the forefront of AI research
• You will hone your skills in our brand new, state-of-the-art computer labs