A computer science student smiling while looking at a monitor in an computing lab
MSc Professional Experience option available

Artificial Intelligence

Advance your computing career with artificial intelligence. Develop practical expertise in machine learning, deep learning and data modelling at ARU in Cambridge.

Start date
September 2026 January 2027
Location
Cambridge
Award
MSc
Duration
1 year full-time

Course durations vary slightly: 12 months (September starts), or 20 months (January starts). The Professional Experience option takes 2 years.

Start date
September 2026 January 2027
Location
Cambridge
Award
MSc
Duration
2 years with professional experience

Course durations vary slightly: 12 months (September starts), or 20 months (January starts). The Professional Experience option takes 2 years.

1st

in the region for postgraduates progressing into senior roles.
Source: Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026

If you’re already working in computing, mathematics, or data analysis, this course will equip you with the practical AI skills employers are looking for.

You’ll learn about machine learning algorithms, neural computing, deep learning, and Natural Language Processing (NLP), and discover how to analyse data, develop intelligent models, and create AI-powered solutions that improve systems, solve complex problems and support innovation across industries.

Before starting the course, we strongly recommended that you have basic programming knowledge of Python for Machine Learning.

Why ARU?
  • Master machine learning algorithms, neural computing, deep learning and Natural Language Processing (NLP)

  • Build practical skills using real-world datasets

  • Study in Cambridge’s ‘Silicon Fen’ and connect with leading tech employers

  • Prepare for high-demand careers in machine learning, AI learning, data analysis and modelling

Logo: THE Awards 2023
 

Study at an award-winning university

We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.

Careers

ARU unlocks the potential you have deep inside to flourish.

Fabrice Thomas Luchmun, MSc Artificial Intelligence student

Gain in-demand skills at the forefront of computing.

As organisations across every sector adopt AI technologies, demand is growing for professionals with expertise in machine learning, data analysis and intelligent systems. This course prepares you for careers in AI, data science, software development and technology consultancy, equipping you with practical skills to help organisations innovate, automate processes and solve complex real-world challenges.

Graduation doesn’t have to be the end of your time with us. You could choose to continue your academic career with a research programme at ARU, such as our PhD in Computer Science or a Professional Doctorate in Science and Technology. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and save £400 on your fees.

Teaching and modules

Gain the expertise to develop intelligent systems and lead the next generation of AI innovation.

Dr Arooj Fatima, Course Director

Gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to understand, develop, and apply modern AI and data science techniques.

You’ll develop a strong foundation in semantic data technologies, learning how to structure and integrate semantic data, develop ontological models, and build intelligent applications that extract insights, support data-driven decision-making, and create value from complex datasets.

You'll also explore machine learning, neural computing, and deep learning, examining how these techniques are applied to large-scale data across diverse domains, including the physical and biological sciences, finance, and the social sciences.

You'll complete your Master's with a Major Project, researching an AI topic of your choice that matches your interests and career ambitions, applying advanced AI methods, and demonstrating your ability to address a significant research or industry problem independently.

Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.

Year 1
  • Semantic Data Technologies (30 credits)
  • Advanced Machine Learning (30 credits)
  • Research Methods (15 credits)
  • Applications of Machine Learning (15 credits)
  • Neural Computing and Deep Learning (30 credits)
  • Postgraduate Major Project (60 credits)
  • Into ARU
Module details

You can choose to study with us over two years (full-time), and take Professional Experience modules (2x project modules or 2x placement modules) in Year 2, with a Preparation for Professional Experience module in Year 1. You'll also complete your Postgraduate Major Project (60 credits) in Year 2.

Professional experience modules
  • Postgraduate Major Project (60 credits)
  • Professional Experience Computing Project 1 (60 credits) *
  • Professional Placement 1 (Computing and Information Science) (60 credits) *
  • Professional Experience Computing Project 2 (60 credits) *
  • Professional Placement 2 (Computing and Information Science) (60 credits) *
Module details

Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.

Facilities

Enjoy a range of facilities designed to support your studies and career development.

In our dedicated computer labs and skills spaces, you'll have access to specialist hardware, software and online resources including:

  • Cisco devices
  • Intel's AI Academy data processing resources
  • Microsoft Imagine Premium's professional tools
  • AWS Academy resources

You'll have extensive library and IT resources, and careers support through our Employability Service. After you graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to our Alumni Career Centre.

You can also access support, should you need it, with study skills, health and wellbeing, and more.

Take a guided tour and meet our students.

Entry requirements

Fees and funding

Apply now for Artificial Intelligence

Apply now