Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning MSc
About This Programme
The MSc Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the University of Birmingham Dubai is a 12-month full-time or two-year part-time master's for graduates with a strong mathematical background. It covers what current AI and machine learning techniques can achieve, how machines perceive, explore and understand the world, and the mathematical tools behind machine intelligence, preparing students for roles such as machine learning engineer, research scientist, data analyst, computer vision engineer and technology consultant. The first semester builds the foundations, from linear algebra and neural networks to advanced models such as CNNs and GANs, core algorithms like logistic regression and support vector machines, and model validation. The second semester turns to data visualisation and computer vision, comparing classical image processing with deep learning, alongside current research. A 60-credit research project in areas such as image processing, natural language processing, computer vision or large-scale data analysis completes the degree.
Course Highlights
- Graduates receive the same University of Birmingham degree as students in the UK.
- Research-led teaching in AI and machine learning from research-active experts, with a global experience alongside researchers in Birmingham.
- A 60-credit project with interdisciplinary or industry-based options, which may lead to academic publications or open-source contributions.
- 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 is by research-active AI experts through lectures on the latest developments, tutorials with tailored guidance and feedback, labs, presentations, practical assignments that put theory into practice, and project work that builds critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management and communication. The 60-credit AI and machine learning project, with interdisciplinary or industry-based options, demonstrates professional competence and ends with a final report and presentation. 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. The Admissions Tutor listed on the course page is Dr Muhammad Usman Ilyas.
Course modules
2026/27 session. 180 credits: 120 credits of taught modules and a 60-credit project, over 12 months full-time or two years part-time. Semester 1 covers mathematical foundations (linear algebra, neural networks, CNNs and GANs) and core algorithms such as logistic regression and support vector machines, with model validation; Semester 2 covers data visualisation, computer vision and current research.
- Mathematical Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)20 credits
- Machine Learning20 credits
- Current Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning20 credits
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Project60 credits
Choose 60 credits from the following.
- Computer Vision and Imaging (Extended)20 credits
- Natural Language Processing (Extended)20 credits
- Neural Computation (Extended)20 credits
- Visualisation20 credits
Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet both the University's general entry requirements and the course's own criteria. Each application is reviewed by the course's Admissions Tutor, who decides whether to make an offer.
Careers
Graduates go into roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, AI Developer, Research Scientist, Technology Consultant, Computer Vision Engineer and Data Scientist, or into academic teaching, research and technology development, with strong prospects given the demand for AI and machine learning skills. The University names global employers such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Sony and Samsung, and in Dubai, where the economy is embracing digitisation and AI, organisations such as RTA, Deloitte, Dubai Airports, Noon and DEWA. 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 Machine Learning.
Programme Details
Award
Master of Science (MSc)
Start Date
September 2026 (applications closed; September 2027 details to follow)
Typical Offer
2:1 Honours degree in a numerate discipline
Duration
1 year full-time; 2 years part-time
Qualification
Masters
Subject Area
Computer Science
Campus
Dubai
Study Pattern
Full time, Part time
Delivery Format
In person
Tuition Fee
AED 174,509/yr
AED 174,509 a year full-time or AED 87,255 a year part-time, for September 2026 entry. The fee covers tuition, examinations and graduation and is charged for each year of study, so part-time students pay it in both years; it can be paid in full or in three instalments a year, and it does not include visa or living costs. Applications for September 2026 entry to this programme are closed, and details for September 2027 entry will be published later. Applications are made online through the University of Birmingham Dubai Admissions portal, with no application fee; postgraduate applicants upload transcripts for study completed so far, their degree certificate if available, and a CV. Decisions are usually made within 10 working days of all documents arriving. A non-returnable AED 5,000 deposit, deducted from tuition, is paid on accepting an offer. Scholarships of up to 30% are assessed from the application itself, with no separate form, and full-time students can apply for a student visa sponsored by the University.
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