1 Years On Campus Masters Program
The MSc Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning at University of Portsmouth equips students — even those from non-CS backgrounds — with the data science, programming and AI-engineering skills needed to solve real-world problems across sectors like healthcare, engineering, agriculture, and business. It suits numerate graduates (with a degree in maths, psychology, business-info-systems, etc.) or those with basic computing skills who want to convert into AI/ML as a career.
Curriculum Structure
In the taught year, students start with AI Foundations in Practice, gaining mathematical and algorithmic understanding of machine learning and AI techniques. They then study Programming for Data Analytics and AI, learning Python and data-processing skills, and Intelligent Data and Text Analytics, where they apply ML and text-analysis methods to unstructured data. Modules such as Big Data and Machine Learning Applications give hands-on practice with large datasets and scalable ML, while Explainable AI teaches how to build AI systems whose decisions are transparent and trustworthy. The course concludes with the Master’s Project (Dissertation) — an independent research or development project where students implement, test and evaluate an AI/ML solution on a real problem.
Focus areas: “machine learning, data analytics, big-data AI systems, explainable AI, data/text analytics, AI project work”
Learning outcomes: “Design and implement machine-learning models; process structured/unstructured data; handle large datasets; build transparent, explainable AI; conduct independent research or application projects; apply AI/ML across varied domains.”
Professional alignment (accreditation): The programme is designed to meet industry demand for AI/ML engineers, data scientists, automation specialists, consultants — providing relevant tools, techniques and project-level experience to succeed in AI-driven sectors.
Reputation (employability): University of Portsmouth is ranked 5th among modern UK universities for research quality in computer science/informatics (REF 2021) — offering students credible academic backing and good employability prospects in AI, data science and related fields.
Students gain practical skills through hands-on projects using the University's high-performance computing resources, applying AI and machine learning techniques to real-world datasets and problems. The programme emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical implementation, with a focus on developing deployable solutions and a strong professional portfolio. This applied learning is central to the curriculum and is delivered through:
Core Software & Programming: Intensive use of Python and key AI/ML libraries including TensorFlow, Keras, PyTorch, and Scikit-learn.
Computing Facilities: Access to the University's High-Performance Computing (HPC) resources, including GPU-accelerated systems for training complex models.
Professional Portfolio: Development of a substantial portfolio of AI/ML projects, demonstrating practical competence to potential employers.
Research Project: A significant individual MSc dissertation project, often with an applied focus, allowing for deep specialisation.
Group Projects: Collaborative team-based projects focused on designing and building complete AI/ML systems.
Digital Tools & Platforms: Use of industry-standard tools for version control (e.g., Git) and collaborative development.
Graduates of the MSc Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at University of Portsmouth master AI ethics, data analysis, and real-world applications, securing roles as machine learning engineers, data scientists, AI consultants, and automation specialists:
Careers Service offers CV workshops, placements, and networking with business partners.
High employability in tech/healthcare/finance; salaries £30,000–£50,000.
Partnerships enable industry projects in engineering, agriculture, robotics.
Training in deep learning/NLP ensures lasting skills for AI innovation.
Graduates complete research projects solving societal/business challenges.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates pursue PhDs in AI/ML or R&D roles for advanced research/leadership.



Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
