School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

MSc Artificial Intelligence

MSc Artificial Intelligence (AI) incorporates elements of the theoretical underpinnings of AI along with exposing students to the practical considerations of constructing AI software tools. Students will study deep technical modules on topics including machine learning, computational intelligence, computer vision and big data, while studying modules on applied AI and robotics to gain an appreciation of the wide range of industrial applications AI has in the modern world.

Postgraduate opportunities – virtual drop-in sessions

Find out more about postgraduate study in the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics at one of our virtual drop-in sessions.
  • 9 February 2024
  • 21 May 2024
This programme offers you the option to start your studies in either September or January. 

Key features

  • The programme has the potential for students to tailor their degree towards the industry in which they wish to apply their AI knowledge by selecting and exploring industry-relevant data sets and problems.
  • A combination of module types, including technical modules facilitating a deep-dive of cutting-edge AI technologies and providing experience of constructing AI software from first principles, alongside workshop modules providing insight into the field of AI as a whole. Each Semester is comprised of two technical modules and a workshop module.
  • An embedded research-informed teaching experience offering state-of-the-art knowledge, skills and practice, delivered by internationally recognised and world-leading academics. Students will work directly with these academics, receiving education, support and guidance from researchers at the forefront of AI research.
  • Excellent facilities for conducting research and project work in AI and robotics, including a range of state-of-the-art robotics laboratories, recently-updated computing facilities and the new engineering design facility, all of which provide an inclusive learning environment.
  • The programme incorporates a substantial element of practical and production-based work, resulting in an end product of industrial quality that solves a relevant problem. The programme’s assessment is inclusive, being completely coursework and practice based, and providing authentic and holistic means of assessing progress.
  • We promote learning through practice and doing, and a prominent feature of the programme is a dissertation module that enables students to draw together the rest of their taught content to produce outputs of a professional and publishable standard.
  • As a result of our industrial links students have excellent employment opportunities with a wide variety of organisations. These include both providers and consumers of AI.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • Students will learn a variety of cutting edge AI topics including machine learning, computational intelligence, computer vision and robotics. In all modules there is a focus on industrial problem solving with AI, and you will complete a dissertation in which you will conduct a deep exploration of a topic of your choice. Throughout your studies you will gain practical experience of constructing AI using both existing tools and innovating new methods from first-principles. 

    Core modules

    • Artificial Vision and Deep Learning (AINT515)

      This module will provide an advanced knowledge of artificial vision systems for autonomous robots. It will be underpinned by current theoretical understanding of animal vision systems and computational models. This module will introduce the use of deep-learning neural networks in vision systems.

    • Advanced Machine Learning (COMP5008)

      This module equips students with knowledge of the underlying theory of machine learning, as well as practical skills that enable them to apply theory to real-world problems. A variety of problems (including unsupervised, supervised and reinforcement learning tasks) are considered with a range of cutting-edge techniques. Students can customise the module to their career aims by identifying and exploring relevant data sets.

    • Big Data and Social Network Visualization (MATH513)

      Sophisticated analytics techniques are needed to visualize today's increasing quantities of Big Data. Up-to-date R tools including dplyr for data manipulation, ggplot2 for visualization, and knitr/LaTeX for document presentation are studied. These are applied to database interrogation, social network visualization and sentiment analysis. The module provides considerable experience of writing professionally documented R code using RStudio.

    • MSc Dissertation and Research Skills (PROJ518)

      You will develop a methodical approach to research that helps propose research projects that are practically realistic and academically worthwhile. A substantial project will be planned and carried out using ethically suitable quantitative and qualitative research methods. The project will be reported through a high quality, scholarly and professional write-up, either as a formal dissertation or journal paper.

    • Computational Intelligence (COMP5012)

      This module examines the state-of-the-art in computational intelligence, focussing on evolutionary computation, swarm intelligence, fuzzy systems and Bayesian and Markov networks. Students will learn about the underlying theory behind these techniques and gain practical experience of implementing them. CI approaches will be discussed against the backdrop of various industrial problems that they are suited to solving.

    • Topics in Applied Artificial Intelligence (COMP5013)

      This module provides students with a view of how artificial intelligence is used within research and commercial settings. Delivered by a mix of academics developing novel AI techniques, and research and commercial users of AI, the module will enable students to appreciate the range of complexities inherent in the application of AI to solving real-world problems. As well as technical topics, the ethics of AI are explored.

    • Advanced Robot Design and Prototyping (ROCO507Z)

      This module aims to give the students a theoretical and practical understanding of designing and building advanced robot assemblies and mechanisms, through engineering and bioinspired approaches.

    • MSc Dissertation and Research Skills (PROJ519)

      You will develop a methodical approach to research that helps propose research projects that are practically realistic and academically worthwhile. A substantial project will be planned and carried out using ethically suitable quantitative and qualitative research methods. The project will be reported through a high quality, scholarly and professional write-up, either as a formal dissertation or journal paper.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Artificial Intelligence Programme Specification September 2023 7045

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Entry requirements

A lower second class (2:2) honours degree or better in a STEM-based discipline. Applicants will need to have a sound awareness of programming and be comfortable in learning programming techniques. Applicants without any prior programming experience may be accepted subject to undertaking preparatory work prior to the start of the programme. Applicants with a lower classification, or substantial industrial experience in lieu of formal qualifications may be considered subject to interview.
A minimum IELTS English proficiency score of 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each component. 
The programme adheres to the University regulations and guidelines for the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) and Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) for masters programmes. 
Students are required to produce evidence of English language ability. This will normally be the equivalent of GCSE Grade C or above in English language or IELTS average score of 6.5 or above with at least 6.0 in the written component.

Fees, costs and funding

Student 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home £9,500 £10,000
International £18,000 £19,800
Part time (Home) £530 £560
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

Find out more about your eligibility for a postgraduate loan

You may now be eligible for a government loan of over £11,000 to help towards the cost of your masters degree.

Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 
  • £2,000 discount on tuition fees for international students 
.

Postgraduate scholarships for international students

We offer several scholarships for international students who wish to study postgraduate taught (PGT) degree programmes.

How to apply

When to apply
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.
Before you apply
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance. 
Disability Inclusion Services
If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides.
International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Submitting an application
Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply now' icon on this page). 
What happens after I apply?
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeksof us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail. 
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 (0)1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk 
Admissions policy
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk

People

Meet our school technical staff 

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.

Babbage Building: where engineering meets design

"The building provides a state-of-the-art setting to inspire the engineers and designers of tomorrow, making it the ultimate place to bring together students, academics and industry in an environment that not only benefits them but also society as a whole." – Professor Deborah Greaves OBE
Situated on the western edge of our city centre campus, the landmark new facility is home to the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics and offers additional space for the School of Art, Design and Architecture.
New Engineering and Design Facility

Research - Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS)

The centre builds on world-leading excellence in computer science, robotics and neural systems research. Staff at the centre coordinate large projects and collaborate with major international centres in cognitive robotics and computational neuroscience.
Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems