Artificial Intelligence

MSc

  • Entry year 2025
  • Duration Full time 1 year

Overview

Top reasons to study with us

  • 51-70 for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024

  • World Leading Research

  • Theoretical and Practical Study

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 academic, professional, or project experience 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

core modules accordion

Optional

optional modules accordion

Fees and funding

Location Full Time (per year) Part Time (per year)
Home £14,140 n/a
International £30,310 n/a

General fees and funding information

Additional fees and funding information accordion

Scholarships and bursaries

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status and course. You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.

If you're considering postgraduate research you should look at our funded PhD opportunities.

Scheme Based on Amount
Based on {{item.eligibility_basis}} Amount {{item.amount}}

We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries.

Postgraduate digital open event - 6 November

Join us online and let us tell you about postgraduate study at Lancaster and how to apply.

Book our online event
 A student sitting in a library using their laptop

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.