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GUARANTEED INTERNSHIPS WITH EVERY MASTER'S DEGREE

Course overview

The MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence at Aston University is designed for graduates from any discipline who want to enter the rapidly expanding field of AI. You will build strong foundations in machine learning, data science, predictive modelling and neural networks, developing the skills needed to apply AI techniques to real world challenges.

The programme combines accessible theory with hands on practical work, group projects and industry informed learning. You will work with real datasets, explore modern AI tools and gain practical experience applying algorithms, while developing the analytical and ethical awareness required for responsible AI practice.

With expert teaching, employer engagement and a curriculum shaped by current research, this conversion master’s equips you with the practical skills and confidence to begin a successful career in AI, data science and emerging intelligent technologies.

More time. More experience. More impact.

This course offers the opportunity to extend to 22 months through our Professional Practice route*. You’ll need to meet the criteria and secure a suitable placement.

Why study Applied Artificial Intelligence at Aston University?

Top 5% in the world

Top 5% of global evaluated institutions (QS World University Rankings 2026)

Bridges industry gaps

This course is designed specifically to address industry skills gaps

Professional experience

Opportunity to extend your studies and gain real-world experience through our professional practice route.

We're serious about employability

As a postgraduate student, you will have access to dedicated careers guidance with specialist support from our experienced team of careers consultants.

Gain a competitive edge

As well as opening doors, an Aston University postgraduate degree builds on your experience, develops your skills and gives you a competitive edge in a crowded job market.

Course description

MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence

Begin your journey into artificial intelligence with a conversion master’s designed for graduates from any academic background. You will develop practical skills in machine learning, deep learning, predictive modelling and data handling, preparing you for high demand careers across fast growing AI and data driven industries.

What we will provide
We provide clear, supportive teaching designed to help learners from any background transition into AI. You will benefit from expert academic guidance, structured practical sessions, access to specialist computing facilities and opportunities to connect with industry through the Computer Science Industry Club. You will also receive support with programming, academic skills and project development.

What you will provide
We welcome applicants with curiosity, motivation and a desire to learn new technical skills. You do not need prior experience in computing, but you should be ready to engage with problem solving, analytical thinking and hands on experimentation. A willingness to work collaboratively and explore emerging technologies will help you thrive on this programme.

What skills we teach
You will learn essential skills in applied machine learning, neural networks, deep learning, data visualisation, data preparation, algorithmic thinking and predictive modelling. You will develop the ability to design and evaluate AI solutions, interpret model outputs, communicate technical ideas and understand the ethical and societal dimensions of AI deployment.

Professional practice year
If you meet satisfactory academic performance and have secured a suitable professional experience, you will have the option to be transferred onto our MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence including Professional Practice programme.

Taking the professional practice route allows you to extend the duration of your masters to 22 months and gain valuable working experience to support your career aspirations. The placement commences after the completion of your MSc dissertation and can be paid work, study abroad exchanges or unpaid research projects or even a mix of these options. You will return to Aston the following May for an intensive period on campus to draw all your learning together and finalise the assessments.

Career prospect
As a conversion programme, this MSc prepares you to enter the AI and data science workforce from a non-technical background. Graduates will be equipped for roles such as AI engineer, machine learning practitioner, data analyst, junior data scientist, software engineering assistant or technical consultant. The skills you develop can be applied across technology, finance, healthcare, marketing, logistics, consulting and other data driven sectors. The programme also provides a foundation for further study or research.

How you will learn

You will learn through lectures, hands on labs, practical workshops and guided exercises designed to build confidence in computing and AI methods from scratch. Group projects and collaborative activities help you develop communication, teamwork and problem solving skills while working on AI challenges.

Independent study allows you to reinforce core concepts and practise working with data and algorithms. You will be supported by personal tutors, dedicated programming help and the Learning Development Centre, as well as peer assisted learning sessions. Opportunities to join societies, competitions and industry activities give you additional ways to build your skills, network and practical experience.

Gain the advantage

Our flagship professional development module provides a range of opportunities to apply your learning and increase your employability.

Aston Global Advantage

What you will learn

You will learn the core principles of artificial intelligence, including machine learning, data preparation, predictive modelling, neural networks and deep learning. You will develop an understanding of how AI systems operate, how they can be applied across sectors, and how to use relevant tools and techniques to solve real problems.

The programme ensures you understand the ethical and societal implications of AI and equips you with the ability to interpret and communicate technical results. Through your dissertation project, you will apply your new skills to a substantial AI challenge, gaining confidence in designing and delivering complete, evidence based solutions.

Course objectives

Enables you to develop a systematic understanding of artificial intelligence and data science, regardless of your previous academic background.
Supports you to plan, design and implement appropriate AI solutions for practical real world scenarios.
Provides broad knowledge of AI techniques and develops your ability to create well justified and responsible solutions.
Gives you practical experience of a substantial AI research or development project from initial problem analysis through to evaluation and documentation.
Prepares you for future challenges in AI by developing analytical thinking, ethical awareness and adaptability in evolving technological environments.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Taught stage modules

In the taught stage you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
AI: Vision and Reality	15
Applied Machine Learning	15
Aston Global Advantage	15
Fundamentals for AI and Data Science 1	15
Fundamentals for AI and Data Science 2	15
Neural Networks and Deep Learning	15
Total	90

You will choose one from the following optional modules*:

Module Title	Credits
Data Visualisation	15
Health Data Analytics and Management	15
Multi Agent Systems and Strategic Decision Making	15

You will choose one from the following optional modules*:

Module Title	Credits
AI in Biomedical Imaging	15
Natural Language Processing	15

*Availability of optional modules depends on staff availability and student demand.

Dissertation stage modules

In the dissertation stage you will study the following core module:

Module Title	Credits
Dissertation	60
Total	60

Programme outcomes

On successful completion of the taught and dissertation stages, you will be able to:

Design solutions to real world problems based on a knowledge of theories, principles and concepts in artificial intelligence.
Create and implement algorithms using advanced computational skills and assess their applicability to different scenarios.
Analyse and critique AI methodologies and techniques and apply them to practical problem solving.
Communicate complex AI concepts clearly for academic, technical and non technical audiences.
Evaluate AI systems in light of their ethical and legal implications.
Critically review academic and professional literature and conduct independent research using appropriate tools.

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Facilities

Aston University provides modern, well equipped computing facilities that support your learning and development throughout the MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence. You will have access to specialist computer labs, industry standard software tools and collaborative study spaces where you can work independently or with your peers on applied AI, machine learning and data driven tasks.

Teaching takes place in contemporary lecture theatres and seminar rooms that support both theoretical learning and hands on practical work. You will also have access to our extensive library, which offers digital and print resources including academic journals, technical literature and online databases relevant to artificial intelligence and data science.

Support technicians are available to help you make the most of the computing facilities, ensuring you can confidently use the tools and environments needed for your studies.

Entry requirements

One of the following:

2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree or equivalent in a non-computing related subject
Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University (see international students tab below for more information)

You will also need to provide:

Evidence of GCSE Mathematics at grade 5/B, or equivalent
A professional reference
- If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2-3 years), we will ask for an academic reference
- If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference
An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
A completed application form.

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study but also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:

English language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

How to apply

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Pathway programmes

If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.

We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.

The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications.

Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.

Speak to our Admissions Team

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:

Email: pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk

Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 09.30am-4.30pm)

Read our guide to applying

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:

£12,500

International students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:

£24,800

The duration of this programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.

More information on fees

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore scholarships for UK students

Explore scholarships for international students

Assessment

You will be assessed through a variety of methods designed to reflect real world artificial intelligence practice. Assessment is primarily coursework based and may include technical reports, programming exercises, data analysis tasks, machine learning assignments, presentations and portfolio projects. Some modules may also include practical assessments or quizzes where you demonstrate your solution to a defined AI problem.

Assessment tasks are designed to evaluate your understanding of AI concepts and your ability to apply algorithms, techniques and tools in practical scenarios. This approach ensures you gain experience with industry relevant workflows and develop the analytical, computational and professional skills needed for roles across the AI and data science sectors.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence will be equipped for a wide range of roles across AI, data science and intelligent digital technologies. Your skills in machine learning, neural networks, data handling and predictive modelling will prepare you for careers such as AI practitioner, machine learning assistant engineer, data analyst, junior data scientist, software engineering assistant or technical consultant.

As a conversion degree, the programme is designed to help you transition into the AI sector from a non technical background. The versatile skill set you develop will support employment opportunities across technology, finance, healthcare, marketing, logistics, consultancy and other data driven industries. The programme also provides a strong foundation for further study or research at postgraduate level.

Throughout your studies you will benefit from Aston’s employer links, industry engagement opportunities and support from the award winning Careers and Placements team to help you explore your options and prepare for your next steps.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni services

Frequently asked questions

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham

What is the Postgraduate Guaranteed Internship Scheme?

Aston’s Postgraduate Guaranteed Internship Scheme means you get more than a degree; you will graduate with an industry internship and the experience and skills employers around the world are looking for.

We guarantee an internship to all full-time students studying a taught master’s programme at either our Birmingham or London campus, including MA and MSc programmes, for students joining Aston in the 25/26 or 26/27 academic year.

It is open to both international and UK students, and there is no charge to register or participate in the scheme.

Our multi award-winning Careers and Placements Team will work with you to secure your industry internship which you will complete part-time, taking no more than 20 hours per week. The precise hours and timing will depend on each employer’s requirement, but will fit around your study timetable.

The duration of the internship will usually be around two months, but could range from around one month up to six months.

Postgraduate Guaranteed Internship Scheme

Why study Advanced Computer Science at Aston University?

Applied AI is one of the fastest growing areas in the digital economy, with increasing demand for professionals who can use machine learning and data driven techniques to solve real problems. This programme is designed for graduates from any discipline who want to enter the AI field, giving you practical, accessible training in modern AI methods.

At Aston University you will learn from expert academics, take part in hands on projects and gain experience using tools and techniques that reflect real industry practice. You will also benefit from strong employer links, networking opportunities and a supportive learning environment that helps you build confidence as you transition into a technical career. This combination of applied skills, industry engagement and academic support makes Aston an excellent place to begin your journey into artificial intelligence.

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Applied Artificial Intelligence