Overview
Develop the fundamental skills and practical expertise needed to excel in the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with our MSc Artificial Intelligence programme. This comprehensive course is designed to equip you with both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience required to apply AI technologies to real-world challenges, driving innovation and enhancing organisational capabilities.
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.
Throughout the programme, you will gain a deep understanding of what AI truly means, how it has emerged as a transformative academic discipline, and how it is currently being utilised to elevate human skills and improve operations across all industries. You’ll explore the evolution of AI, learning to navigate the complexities of this technology while mastering the skills necessary to use its full potential.
What will I learn?
Term 1 - Fundamental Skills in AI
In the first term, you will 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. This term emphasises the importance of data—how it is gathered, structured, and utilised to drive AI solutions. 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.
Term 2 - Applied Artificial Intelligence
Building on the foundations laid in the first term, the second term offers a selection of modules that allow you to tailor your studies to your career aspirations. You’ll explore major application areas of AI, such as Natural Language Processing, where you’ll work with language models and engage in prompt engineering, and Intelligent Agents and Autonomous Systems, where the focus is on the development of autonomous AI. Modules on Generative AI and Computer Vision will expand your expertise into cutting-edge areas of the field. The ‘Advanced Topics in AI’ module ensures that you remain at the forefront of AI technology, learning about the latest developments and trends. Additionally, you will develop 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.
Term 3 (Summer) - Dissertation Project
In the final term, you will have the opportunity to apply everything you’ve learned in a 14-week dissertation project. This project is your chance to tackle a real-world challenge, often in collaboration with an external industry partner looking to leverage AI for innovation. Alternatively, you may choose to undertake a university-based research project, ideal for those considering a PhD. Your project work will culminate in a comprehensive dissertation and a poster conference, where you will present your findings and showcase your achievements alongside your peers.
Launching your career
By the end of the MSc Artificial Intelligence programme, you will be fully prepared to design, deploy, and operate AI systems, or to continue your academic journey with advanced research. There is a surging global demand for numerate and skilled AI scientists and with the knowledge and expertise needed to make rational and responsible decisions, graduates entering industry can expect to command high salaries. Those choosing to undertake further study through a PhD will find themselves conducting research at the forefront of human progress. Whether you aim to enter the industry or pursue further study, this programme provides a solid foundation for a successful and rewarding career in AI.
Entry requirements
Academic Requirements
A 2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in any discipline, provided that the applicant has some experience of programming and has had exposure to quantitative methods such as statistics, or mathematical modelling. Applicants with a 2:2 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in any discipline are welcome to apply and will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Any relevant experience and performance in relevant modules will be taken into consideration.
We welcome applications from applicants with undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Life Sciences, Economics, Finance, Linguistics, and others.
If you have studied outside of the UK, we would advise you to check our list of international qualifications before submitting your application.
English Language Requirements
We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.
We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications.
If your score is below our requirements, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language programmes.
Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email pgadmissions@lancaster.ac.uk
Pre-master’s programmes
Delivered in partnership with INTO Lancaster University, our one-year tailored pre-master’s pathways are designed to improve your subject knowledge and English language skills to the level required by a range of Lancaster University master’s degrees. Visit the INTO Lancaster University website for more details and a list of eligible degrees you can progress onto.
Course structure
You will study a range of modules as part of your course, some examples of which are listed below.
Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, but changes may be necessary, for example as a result of student feedback, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes, and new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.
Core
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The main goal of this module is to equip you with essential Python programming skills and foundational mathematical concepts crucial for AI and Data Science. Through hands-on learning, you'll develop the ability to solve real-world problems, process complex data sets, and apply key mathematical techniques like probability and matrix operations. Formative assessments will support your learning, leading to a final practical assessment that prepares you for advanced studies. Perfect for those new to computing or mathematics, this module sets the stage for your success in AI and Data Science.
The main goal of this module is to explore the essence of AI and Data Science, their origins, and their roles in solving real-world challenges. You'll delve into the duties and skills of data professionals, emphasising effective communication and ethical considerations. The module also covers the legal and societal impacts of AI, while promoting teamwork through hands-on projects that tackle AI and Data Science challenges. Supported by industry talks, you'll learn to formulate problem statements, select appropriate methods, and communicate findings effectively, preparing you for a successful career in this dynamic field.
The main goal of this module is to equip students with a solid foundation in data representation, manipulation, and processing, essential for advancing in Data Science and AI. You'll explore key topics such as Big Data, Cloud Computing, data pre-processing, and both supervised and unsupervised learning. The module also covers clustering and classification methods, including neural networks, providing hands-on experience in implementing and validating these techniques using software tools like Python. By mastering these concepts, you'll be well-prepared for more advanced modules and projects, while also enhancing your problem-solving, analytical, and independent learning skills.
A large part of the Master's involves completing the industry or research related project. This starts with the students selecting an industry or research partner, undertaking a placement in June - July, and then submitting a written dissertation of up to 20,000 words in early September.
This is primarily a self-study module designed to provide the foundation of the main dissertation, at a level considered to be of publishable quality. The project also offers students the opportunity to apply their technical skills and knowledge on current world class research problems and to develop an expert knowledge on a specific area.
The topic of the project will vary from student to student, depending on the data science specialism (eg computing may involve the design of a system, while specialism in data analytics, health or environment, are likely to be more applied, perhaps focusing upon inherent data structure and processes).
Optional
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This module aims to equip students with a deep understanding of the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), focusing on both cutting-edge methods and applications. You'll explore AI's role in areas like cybersecurity, ethical considerations, human-AI interaction, and emerging technologies like Quantum AI. The module prepares you to apply AI to real-world challenges or pursue research in innovative AI techniques, ensuring alignment with current industry and academic trends. Additionally, you'll develop skills in implementing AI solutions, making ethical decisions, and effectively communicating your findings in professional settings.
The main goal of this module is to provide a comprehensive understanding of computer vision theory and its practical implementation. You'll learn key algorithms and mathematical principles behind image processing and how to apply machine learning techniques to solve complex computer vision problems. Advanced topics such as object recognition, attention mechanisms, and self-supervised learning will be explored, with applications in fields like medical imaging and autonomous vehicles. The module also enhances your proficiency in Python and state-of-the-art frameworks like PyTorch, equipping you to independently explore emerging trends and technologies in computer vision.
The main goal of this module is to provide a thorough understanding of Generative AI by combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. You'll gain insights into foundational theories, key technologies, and practical applications of generative models. The module is designed to help you understand how Generative AI works, how to develop and deploy simple applications using cloud platforms and open-source tools, and how to navigate the ethical and societal implications of these technologies. You'll also develop skills in discussing, presenting, and integrating Generative AI into real-world applications while considering compliance and ethical guidelines.
The main goal of this module is to explore the development and optimisation of intelligent, autonomous agents capable of outperforming human capabilities in various tasks. You'll learn the core concepts of intelligent agents, from fundamental AI paradigms like rule-based systems, planning, and learning, to advanced decision-making algorithms. The module emphasises both classical and modern AI techniques, showing how traditional ideas continue to inspire powerful innovations. Through practical exercises, you'll design, implement, and validate AI algorithms, enhancing your skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and translating complex algorithms into functional code.
The main goal of this module is to equip students with the expertise to design and implement robust technology platforms essential for effective AI and Data Science systems. You’ll explore a range of technologies like Hadoop, Spark, and PyTorch Distributed, learning how to select, configure, and optimise them for large-scale, high-performance computing. The module focuses on principles of system architecture, distributed machine learning, and scalability, with real-world case studies and industry insights. By the end, you'll be able to architect and engineer data-driven systems, critically evaluate enterprise-scale IT solutions, and implement distributed machine learning models effectively.
The main goal of this module is to provide students with cutting-edge knowledge in natural language processing (NLP) as applied in both industry and research. You'll learn how to collect, clean, and analyse language data at scale, using methods ranging from rule-based to deep learning techniques. The module covers key applications like machine translation, sentiment analysis, and summarisation, alongside discussions on language models, ethics, and bias in NLP. By the end, you'll be able to create scalable solutions for language data challenges, understand current NLP research trends, and enhance your skills in independent study, critical thinking, and effective communication.
Fees and funding
We set our fees on an annual basis and the 2025/26 entry fees have not yet been set.
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There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.
Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.
College fees
Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small College Membership Fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.
For students starting in 2024, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses. Fees for students starting in 2025 have not yet been set.
Computer equipment and internet access
To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.
The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.
For most taught postgraduate applications there is a non-refundable application fee of £40. We cannot consider applications until this fee has been paid, as advised on our online secure payment system. There is no application fee for postgraduate research applications.
For some of our courses you will need to pay a deposit to accept your offer and secure your place. We will let you know in your offer letter if a deposit is required and you will be given a deadline date when this is due to be paid.
The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status.
If you are studying on a programme of more than one year’s duration, tuition fees are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about fees in subsequent years.
Scholarships and bursaries
Details of our scholarships and bursaries for 2025-entry study are not yet available, but you can use our opportunities for 2024-entry applicants as guidance.
Check our current list of scholarships and bursaries.
Important Information
The information on this site relates primarily to 2025/2026 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.
The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.
More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information.
Our Students’ Charter
We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. View our Charter and other policies.