Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Science MSc / PGDip

About This Programme

The MSc Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science at the University of Birmingham Dubai is a conversion master's for graduates who have not studied computing, lasting 12 months full-time or two years part-time. It lets career changers move quickly into the field, building an in-depth understanding of the core principles of AI and computer science, from programming and data management to algorithm analysis and machine learning, and applying them to a real-world problem in an individual project. A Postgraduate Diploma is awarded after 120 credits. The first semester covers object-oriented programming, AI and machine learning fundamentals, and computer systems, including low-level hardware and software, operating systems and networking. The second semester develops AI programming in Python, data structures, algorithms and databases, and applied topics such as image analysis and machine learning applications. Students work alongside peers in the UK and learn from academics in Birmingham and Dubai.

Course Highlights

• A conversion course that lets non-computing graduates move into AI and computer science quickly.
• Graduates receive the same University of Birmingham degree as students in the UK.
• Research-led teaching in AI and computer science, with academics from Birmingham and Dubai and a global community of AI and computer scientists.
• Evening and Saturday classes designed for working professionals as well as full-time students.
• Birmingham is ranked 68th in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and in the top 10 UK universities, as stated on the course page.

What You'll Study

Teaching combines lectures on the latest developments, tutorials with tailored guidance and feedback, lab work and projects guided by research-focused academics. Programming is taught through a Software Workshop module with classroom training, supervised laboratory work, programming assignments and practical assessments, and active learning in the lab builds collaboration, teamwork, critical thinking and independent problem-solving. In the conversion MSc project, students design, implement and test a solution to a complex problem using AI techniques and computer science principles under a supervisor, ending with a final report and presentation. Work is assessed through exams, coursework, presentations and a dissertation. Classes combine evenings and weekends to suit working professionals as well as full-time students. The draft full-time timetable has teaching on one or two evenings a week from 18:00 to 21:00 and on Saturdays from 09:00 to 17:00 (the day varies by module), with each module taught over 11 weeks in Semester 1 and 12 weeks in Semester 2; part-time students attend the same sessions for the modules they take. Teaching staff listed on the course page include Dr Muhammad Usman Ilyas, Assistant Professor.

Entry Requirements

Careers

The course gives specialised training for careers in academia, industry and research, with technical and transferable skills to analyse complex problems, design innovative solutions and critically evaluate outcomes. The University says graduates find work in engineering, finance, consultancy and commerce, at companies such as Microsoft, Google, Apple, IBM, HSBC and JP Morgan. The Careers Network Dubai offers information, advice and guidance to identify options, build skills and reach opportunities.

Accreditation & Professional Recognition

Accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and listed as Active on the Commission for Academic Accreditation register as the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science; the register does not list a separate postgraduate diploma in this subject.

Programme Details