Artificial Intelligence and Data Science - MSc
Our career-focused Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Masters provides a supportive pathway for graduates from varied academic backgrounds to smoothly transition into the dynamic world of computing and technology. Combining cutting-edge theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications, you'll explore key areas such as machine learning, neural networks, deep learning, and cloud technologies. On successful completion of the programme, you'll develop essential employability skills, including advanced analytical thinking, complex problem-solving, and strong communication abilities to pursue development and leadership roles across AI and data science fields within various industries.
Month of entry
- September, January
Mode of study
- Full time
Fees for 2026/27 academic year
- UK - Full time £11,700 per year.
International - £18,200 per year.
Duration of study
- 1 year full-time, or up to 2 years with Placement
This course is no longer accepting applications from international students for the 2025/26 academic year.
Why study Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at Keele University?
Course summary
AI and data science have seen remarkable growth in recent years, fuelled by a mix of technological progress, greater data accessibility, and rising demand across multiple sectors. As AI and data-centric technologies become more integrated into various industries, the need for skilled professionals in these fields has grown exponentially.
As one of the first UK universities to teach Computer Science back in 1972, we take pride in being at the forefront of computer science education and research.
Our Artificial Intelligence and Data Science MSc builds on this rich heritage, combining professional standards and key industry knowledge with advanced expertise in modern AI and data science concepts, and opportunities to apply your skills to real-world challenges.
To ensure relevance and alignment with industry needs, our course content has been shaped by our collaborations with a diverse range of national and international employers, as well as our partnership with The Alan Turing Institute - the UK’s leading institute for data science and AI.
Specifically designed for students from non-computing backgrounds, initial modules will introduce you to the essential mathematical concepts and programming required for effective study. This foundational knowledge will support and enhance your understanding of the core AI and data science concepts covered later in the course, while also covering the basics of software engineering. Additionally, you'll learn to use industry tools like GitHub to effectively manage your projects.
Building on this foundation, you will delve into essential professional standards that shape current and future AI and data science, including fairness and bias. You will also develop a strong understanding of data management, cloud technologies, and advanced applications of AI and machine learning.
To ensure you gain valuable industry-relevant experience, your final assessment will provide you with the opportunity to complete an industrial placement project or address an industry-focused challenge as part of your MSc project.*
Gaining industrial experience during your MSc will not only impress potential employers but also give you the opportunity to apply what you have learned to industry-relevant problems.
There are two placement options available:
Placement Opportunity 1: Integrated Industrial Placement Project (8-12 weeks)
This is an optional module integrated within the programme, which you can choose in the final stage of your studies (instead of undertaking an academic MSc project). The Industrial Placement Project involves a short placement with a relevant organisation and offers the chance to apply your learning to industry-relevant problems.
Placement Opportunity 2: Extended Industry Placement (6-12 months)
This longer placement is undertaken once the standard part of the MSc course is complete (180 credits). It offers a more immersive experience in a professional setting, giving you the opportunity to build on your academic learning and gain substantial industry insight.
*Please note that the choice of industry placement will be dependent on your suitability and availability of an appropriate placement.
Other courses you may be interested in:
Discover AI and Data Science
This session outlines our Artificial Intelligence and Data Science MSc programme, covering its structure, industry-aligned modules, and placement opportunities. It will also explain how the programme supports employability in the industry, and conclude with a Q&A.
View transcript
Embarking on my journey as an international master’s student in AI and Data Science at Keele University has been nothing short of transformative. It’s far more than just academic pursuit; it’s about personal growth amidst a community that feels like family. The program blends cutting-edge labs and real-life projects with an engaging curriculum, all while fostering a vibrant spirit of camaraderie among peers. Keele stands out not just for its academic excellence, but for its warm, inclusive community that prepares you for the world beyond, bridging theory with practical application in a nurturing environment.
Course structure
This course is studied full-time over one year. Should you wish for more flexibility with your studies, we also offer 100% online part-time Computer Science programmes, with routes in Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Please note, if you are beginning the programme in January, you will study the same modules as those listed below, but in a slightly different order.
September entry
During the first part of the programme, which runs over the first two semesters, you will study five core taught modules (120 credits). In semester three you will have the opportunity to undertake either an industrial placement project* (60 credits) OR an advanced research and development project (60 credits).
If you choose the 'with Placement' route, you will complete a 6-12 month placement module after the taught element of your programme.
Modules
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
Semester 1
Compulsory modules
Mathematical Techniques for Computational Sciences
A knowledge of some of the fundamental concepts in mathematics is important to all our MSc programmes, and something that will give you enhanced understanding in areas such as AI, data management and cyber security. This module is designed for students without recent mathematical knowledge or experience and will support you to explore the power of Linear Algebra for solving complex systems, use Probability and Statistics to make data-driven decisions, and harness the beauty of Calculus to understand dynamic changes.
Foundations of Programming and Software Engineering
Programming is an essential skill in all areas of Computer Science. This module is specifically designed for students from non-computing backgrounds, building confidence and competence in programming, using Python, the most widely used programming language in the world. Through a series of closely supported practicals, you will gain an understanding of concepts such as Data Types, Variables, Functions and Control Structures, as well as the basics of Software Engineering and industry tools such as GitHub to manage your projects.
Ethics, Governance, and Professionalism in AI and Data Science
Embark on a transformative journey into key professional standards that underpin current, and future AI and Data Science. You will delve into critical topics like fairness and bias, privacy and ethical frameworks; and explore the impact of regulations and compliance and AI’s impact on society. To support you in preparing for future employment, you'll access cutting-edge research in areas like explainable and responsible AI, gain insights from invited industry speakers, and receive expert guidance from our dedicated employability and careers team.
Semester 2
Compulsory modules
Data Management and Cloud Technologies
A solid understanding of data and its management is crucial for all areas of computer science, driving innovation and informed decision-making. You will learn how to prepare data and how to design and build databases for efficient data management using a language called SQL; the most in-demand technical skill for data jobs. You will also explore Big Data technologies like Hadoop and Spark and gain hands-on experience with Cloud Platforms such as Amazon Web Services.
Advanced Applications of AI and Machine Learning
During interactive lectures and practicals, delivered by experts from the University and Industry, you will learn to master methods such as Exploratory Data Analysis, Machine Learning and Neural Networks with common frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow. You will also encounter concepts such as Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, and Computer Vision as well as Generative Models which drive technologies such as ChatGPT. We will then explore how these techniques can be contextualised for your future career.
Semester 3
Optional modules
You will choose one of the following:
Industrial Placement Project
Obtaining industrial experience during your MSc will not only impress potential employers but also give you the opportunity to apply what you have learned to industry relevant problems, as part of an 8-12 week placement. Preparation for this module starts as soon as you arrive at the University and you will be supported with finding and applying for relevant opportunities by our experienced placements’ team, making sure that the placement is suitable for you and the area of your degree.
Advanced Research and Development Project
Students often wonder how they can differentiate themselves from other graduates in the job market. Your “Advanced Research and Development Project” will help you to do just that by enabling you to work on a problem, either set by our industrial partners, an academic at the University or yourself. Under 1-to-1 supervision of an experienced academic, you will undertake in depth research and development, that will not only improve your skills but also give you something to show employers in the UK and abroad.
Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion
Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) agenda is embedded throughout our curriculum, and we are proud to hold a school-level Athena SWAN Bronze Award in recognition for our activities in this area.
As a School, we embrace this approach and will actively aim to ensure that all our activities will be organised so that everyone is made to feel safe and welcome, and that diversity is encouraged. We believe that this attitude is vital to help everyone flourish and feel valued for who they are. To achieve this, we promote fair treatment for all, irrespective of gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, relationship status, caring responsibilities, race, religion or belief.
Entry requirements
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.
Typical offer
Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.
Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
UK
2:2 degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bangladesh
60% in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a public university or CGPA 2.8 in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a private university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
We don’t accept degrees from certain universities, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Canada
70% or C or a GPA of 2.5 in a degree (Ordinary or Honours) in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
China
70% in a degree in any subject or 65% in a degree in any subject from a '211' university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
India
55% or CGPA 6/10 in any degree of three years or longer
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kenya
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nepal
60% / 2.4 in a 4-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
65% / CGPA 2.8 in a 3-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nigeria
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pakistan
We accept a range of qualifications from Pakistan. Please visit our Pakistan Country Page for more information
or we will consider demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need an English language qualification (see below)
South Africa
Second class division 2 / 60% in a Bachelor's degree with Honours in any subject
or
Second class division 1 / 70% in an Ordinary Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Sri Lanka
55% in a Special Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Uganda
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Zimbabwe
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pre-Master's in Computing
The Keele University International College offer a one semester Pre-Master's in Computing programme for international students who do not meet the traditional entry requirements for a postgraduate computing degree at Keele University.
Please visit the Keele University International College for more information on how to apply, entry requirements and course details
English language requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group B.
References
Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.
RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.
Professional qualifications and work experience
The majority of our courses will consider relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications at the appropriate level, as an alternative to an undergraduate degree for entry. The work experience should be for a sustained period and at a suitable level, based within a relevant sector to your chosen course.
Admissions staff will review your work experience and/or professional qualifications during the assessment of your application to ensure suitability in terms of relevancy, level and appropriate learning outcomes.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application. For international students, find out how we work with approved agents as part of our admissions process.
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Postgraduate funding and scholarships
Funding
Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, our dedicated financial support team is here to help.
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2026 start date falls in the 2025/26 academic year. Please see the tuition fees archive for the 2025/26 fees.
Planning your funding
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses and not all students are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in some cases, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our financial support team.
Scholarships
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in this case, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our Financial Support Team.
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Additional costs
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching
Developed with input from both employers and students, our MSc provides distinctive and inclusive teaching tailored for individuals from diverse non-computing backgrounds.
The main methods for acquiring knowledge include interactive lectures and hands-on practical sessions, complemented by smaller group tutorials tailored to the topics covered in each module. The smaller group tutorials and practicals enable both consolidation of this material and an understanding of the practicalities of its application in industry and research.
The tutorials and practicals achieve this aim by you having to apply the taught concepts to real world problems and data sets, in a supportive environment where we can assess individual progress and offer you one-to-one support. Self-study materials are also available through our Virtual Learning Environment.
Assessment
Wherever possible, assessments will be closely aligned with industry expectations, helping you develop relevant skills. These will mainly take the form of coursework, such as programming tasks and data science investigations, complemented by demonstrations, presentations, teamwork, and class tests. When it comes to your final piece of assessment, you can either undertake an Industrial Placement or Research Project. Both will include a substantial report and a project or placement viva.
