MSc Artificial Intelligence (Online)
MSc Artificial Intelligence (Online)
Award
MSc
Start Date
14/09/2026
Duration
12 months
Mode
Full-time Distance Learning
Location
University of Greater Manchester
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how we work and live by solving problems through automation. If you're a graduate with a background in computing, the University of Greater Manchester's online MSc in Artificial Intelligence will support you in developing a breadth of knowledge and practical capability in AI methods and techniques. You'll study machine learning, deep learning, computer vision and natural language processing, ready for a career in this rapidly developing field.
Course Overview
Major industries such as healthcare, financial services, entertainment, manufacturing and retail all offer significant and growing employment opportunities in AI. A wealth of career opportunities await highly qualified and talented graduates with expertise in AI design, development and deployment.The University of Greater Manchester's MSc in Artificial Intelligence is an ideal choice for graduates with a computing or software engineering background. Our expert team will support you in developing wide-ranging knowledge of AI methods and techniques, along with strong practical skills in applying these technologies. We'll cover essential areas, including machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing (NLP).
You'll explore the latest methodologies and development techniques based on industry standards. Our expert team will support you in developing a detailed understanding of specialised and advanced AI topics, emphasising deep learning. Our dedicated tutors will promote lifelong learning skills, creativity and critical thinking, so you're ready to adapt as the AI industry evolves throughout your career.
We'll use realistic scenarios developed with industry partners to test your skills and understanding. During the course, you'll build a coursework portfolio demonstrating your ability to solve technical issues, develop proposals, and write reports. This vital experience will help prepare you for a successful postgraduate career.
Interpersonal and transferable skills are also vital, so we'll challenge you to develop sought-after communication, problem-solving, analytical, self-management, and decision-making skills. Our dedicated team will focus on helping you gain the skills employers value and a detailed understanding of the technologies and methods underpinning AI.
What you will learn
- Applied artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques
- Computer vision, deep learning, and neural networks
- Natural language processing and generative AI
- Data analysis, model development, and AI deployment
- Research, problem-solving, and professional practice
Prefer to study on campus? This programme is also available as an on-campus course at the University of Greater Manchester.
Highlights
- Hands-on experience with data analysis, machine learning, and AI techniques
- Industry-relevant modules including NLP, GenAI, and data mining
- Real-world datasets and applied project work
- Opportunities for industry engagement, hackathons, and data-focused challenges
- Strong focus on employability and practical skills development
Key Features
- Access to industry-recognised platforms and tools supporting data analytics and cloud-based data processing, including access to AWS resources and cloud-based data processing environments
- Practical experience with modern data tools, visualisation platforms, and machine learning techniques
- Opportunities to work on applied projects using real-world datasets
- Engagement with industry professionals through guest lectures and applied activities
- Supportive learning environment with strong focus on career development
Entry Requirements
- Normally, you should have at least an upper second class (2.1) honours degree in a computing-related subject.
- For applicants without a first or upper second, a lower second class (2.2) honours degree will be considered on a case-by-case basis (particularly for candidates with good relevant industrial experience).
- As this is an online course, you’ll need access to a computer or tablet capable of running the necessary software, along with a webcam, microphone, and a sufficient broadband connection. (We recommend a laptop with a minimum specification of Intel Core i5, or equivalent, with at least 8GB RAM, along with an internet connection offering at least 1.5 Mbps up and down). We recommend that you have at least two devices set up so that you can attend lectures and undertake coursework more easily. You’ll also need appropriate IT skills. In particular, you’ll need to be able to access and use the University of Greater Manchester’s virtual learning environment, Moodle and the Zoom video communication platform. Please contact the programme leader for details if you are uncertain that you’ll be able to meet these requirements.
- We'll consider applications where appropriate work experience can be demonstrated in lieu of, or in addition to, the published academic qualifications in line with the University’s Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) procedures.
- You may be required to attend an interview and/or provide a portfolio of work.
- If English isn’t your first language, you’ll also need IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band (or equivalent). We also accept a range of other English language qualifications – please visit our English Language Requirements web page for more details.
Where changes are made to material information contained in this course description or a decision is taken to suspend a course between the offer of admissions and enrolment, we will inform applicants at the earliest possible opportunity and will outline the various options available to the applicant.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme are well prepared for roles such as:
- AI Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Computer Vision Engineer
- NLP Engineer
- Data Scientist
The programme also provides a strong foundation for further specialist study or progression to doctoral research.
What can I do with this qualification?
You'll be able to seek employment in areas such as machine learning, data science, computer vision, business intelligence, robotic science and research science. Employers range from established big-tech firms to ambitious young start-ups, with opportunities across the UK and the globe. AI is already transforming sectors such as retail, entertainment, finance, and transportation and has enormous potential in healthcare, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, energy, education, and even agriculture. As a graduate of this course, your skills will be in high demand. Additionally, your lifelong learning skills will support you to customise your skillset, adapt and specialise as your career and the field of AI develops.
This course also paves the way for PhD research studies in AI and computing-related subjects.
Alternative career options
Graduates may also progress into related roles. Some of these roles may require relevant experience and/or postgraduate study. Examples of possible careers include:
- AI Consultancy
- Research and Development
- Intelligent Systems Development
- Technology Innovation and Strategy
- Teaching and Academic Research (with further study)
Fees & Funding
Home/EU Fees
No fee information is currently available, please contact the University of Greater Manchester’s Academic Fees team by emailing AcademicFees@greatermanchester.ac.uk for more information.
International Fees
No fee information is currently available, please contact the University of Greater Manchester’s Academic Fees team by emailing AcademicFees@greatermanchester.ac.uk for more information.
Bursaries
Click here for more information on our Master's Bursaries.
Important note regarding tuition fees: EU nationals who meet residency requirements (have settled or pre-settled status) may be eligible for 'Home' fee status. If you do not meet these residency requirements, overseas fees will apply. Irish citizens living in the UK or Ireland will be eligible for 'Home' fee status under the Common Travel Area arrangement. Please read the student finance for EU students web page on www.gov.uk for information.
Home Undergraduate Tuition Fee Adjustment
The tuition fee applicable to the first year of your programme of study is confirmed in your offer letter. The tuition fee set is based on the regulations and guidance in force at the time of offer but remains subject to adjustment in accordance with any government-approved inflationary increase. The University reserves the right to amend tuition fees for all years of study, including the first year, by no more than the maximum increase permitted under legislation and regulatory guidance issued by the UK Government and the Office for Students.
Where such increases are approved, they will not exceed the rate of inflation, as measured by an appropriate index such as the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), or any successor measure specified by government. The University will apply any adjustment consistently across affected student cohorts and will give reasonable notice to students of any confirmed change to the published fee before the start of the relevant academic year.
This approach ensures that tuition fees remain compliant with applicable legislation, proportionate to inflationary changes, and consistent with government policy linking permitted fee uplifts to the maintenance of high-quality education and outcomes. For more information, please refer to the government guidance at: gov.uk – Universities to deliver better outcomes in return for full fees.
Postgraduate and International Tuition Fee Adjustment
The tuition fee applicable to the first year of your programme of study is confirmed in your offer letter. The University reserves the right to amend tuition fees for subsequent years of study in accordance with its Course Fees Policy. Where such increases are approved, they will not exceed the rate of inflation, as measured by an appropriate index such as the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), or any successor measure specified by government. The University will apply any adjustment consistently across affected student cohorts and will give reasonable notice to students of any confirmed change to the published fee before the start of the relevant academic year.
How to apply
Home Applicants
You may apply directly to the University using the University's online application form. Please select your chosen start date from the list below:
You should have to hand:
-
Details of the educational establishments you attended and dates
-
Your certificates for the qualifications you are using to gain entry to the course – you will need to enter the completion date and upload copies
-
Details of any employment history including name, address, dates and role
-
Personal statement – this can be either input into the relevant field or uploaded separately
-
Details including e-mail addresses of two referees, at least one of which should be someone who can provide an academic reference
Please make sure any documents you wish to upload in support of your application are in pdf or jpeg format. Personal statements may be word documents.
Please ensure your data is correct at each stage of the application before you proceed to the next page. If you use the back button at any time during the application, you should check the validity of the data you have already input.
If you experience difficulties during the application process, contact the Admissions Team on 01204 903394 or admissions-team@greatermanchester.ac.uk
-
Apply online: University of Greater Manchester MSc Artificial Intelligence (online) - Home applicants - 14 September 2026
-
Apply online: University of Greater Manchester MSc Artificial Intelligence (online) - International applicants - 14 September 2026
International Applicants
The University welcomes applications from international students from all over the world. We try to make the application process as simple and as fast as possible for our international applicants.
How you apply is determined by your current location and what you are choosing to study:
- Apply direct to the University. Links for the next available intakes of this course are shown below. Please click the link which will direct you to the online application form. Please read the user guidance before completing this.
- Apply via one of our approved in-country referral partners. A list of our partners may be found on the International pages of this website.
- Apply via UCAS for courses starting in September only – visit www.ucas.com.
Should you have any queries please contact the International Team on +44 (0) 1204 903110 or email international@greatermanchester.ac.uk
-
Apply online: University of Greater Manchester MSc Artificial Intelligence (online) - Home applicants - 14 September 2026
-
Apply online: University of Greater Manchester MSc Artificial Intelligence (online) - International applicants - 14 September 2026
Teaching & Assessment
Teaching is delivered fully online through a synchronous distance learning model, with a primary emphasis on scheduled live sessions that enable real-time interaction, discussion and applied problem-solving. Sessions include interactive seminars, guided technical activities and collaborative tasks, supported by digital learning resources.
You will prepare through guided independent study using materials such as readings, recorded content and practical exercises. This flipped approach enables live sessions to focus on application, analysis and deeper engagement.
Practical skills are developed through virtual labs, simulations and hands-on technical activities using industry-relevant tools and cloud platforms.
Assessment is conducted fully online through coursework, projects and applied tasks, with regular formative and summative feedback provided throughout each module.
Modules
The modules listed below may be a mixture of compulsory and optional. You may not have the opportunity to study all the modules shown as part of the course.
- Research Methods
- Project
- Professional Practice
- Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Vision and Deep Learning
- Data Analysis and Visualisation
- NLP and GenAI
- Data Mining and Machine Learning
Assessment methods
| Level | Assessment method |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | Coursework 100% |
Learning Activities
| Level | Activity |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | Guided independent study 83% Scheduled learning and teaching activities 17% |
The university will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver your course as described in its published material and the programme specification for the academic year in which you begin your course. The university considers changes to courses very carefully and the university will minimise any changes. Please be aware that our courses are subject to review on an ongoing basis and changes may be necessary due to legitimate staffing, financial, regulatory and academic reasons. The content of course modules and mode of associated assessments may be updated on an annual basis. This is to ensure that all modules are up-to-date and responsive to employment and sector needs. The published course material and the programme specification contain indicative ‘optional modules’ that may be subject to change due to circumstances outside of our control. For this reason, we cannot guarantee to run any specific optional module.
Related Courses
MSc Cloud and Network Security (Online) Full-time distance learning
University of Greater Manchester
12 Months
MSc Data Analytics and Technologies (Online) Full-time distance learning
University of Greater Manchester
12 Months
MSc Software Engineering (Online) Full-time distance learning
University of Greater Manchester
12 Months
MSc Health Analytics and Technologies (Online) Full-time distance learning
University of Greater Manchester
12 Months
MSc Business Analytics and Technologies (Online) Full-time distance learning
University of Greater Manchester
12 Months
Programme Contacts
Disclaimer: The “Greater Manchester Way” represents our preferred teaching and learning approach; however, not all courses follow a block-teaching model. While course structures and delivery patterns may vary to meet Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) requirements, all courses benefit from the GM Way approach to curriculum design and assessment. Applicants and students should refer to individual course specifications for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
