MSc Artificial Intelligence

If you're looking to specialise and become an expert in the most current and challenging areas of computer science, the MSc Artificial Intelligence at the University of York is designed to give you a deep, research-informed, and practical advantage. 

Your learning is built around applying advanced theory to solve complex, real-world problems:

• Specialist Research Laboratories: You will have access to our suite of specialist labs, including the Intelligent Systems Lab for practical work in AI and robotics, the Embedded Systems Lab equipped with a wide range of devices for development, and the Quantum Computing Lab, providing a unique opportunity for hands-on exploration of this emerging field.

• Industry-Standard & Research Software: You will gain hands-on experience with the tools that drive innovation. This includes data science and machine learning platforms like Python with TensorFlow and PyTorch, professional development environments, and specialised software for areas such as formal verification and quantum programming.

• Research-Led Group Projects: You'll be taught by active researchers from groups like the Autonomous Systems and Intelligent Systems research groups. A core part of your experience will involve collaborative projects, tackling challenges that mirror the cutting-edge work happening in our research centres.

• Substantial Individual MSc Project: The programme culminates in a significant individual research project. This is your opportunity to work deeply on a specialist topic of your choice, often supervised by one of our research experts, to create a substantial and impressive piece of work for your professional portfolio.

• High-Performance Computing (HPC) Resources: For projects requiring significant computational power, such as processing large datasets or running complex simulations, you will have the opportunity to utilise the University's High-Performance Computing service, Viking.

Graduates of the MSc Artificial Intelligence at the University of York secure specialist roles in AI technology, applying advanced skills to sectors such as software, robotics, data science, and research. Many contribute to cutting-edge projects, industry innovations, or pursue academic research, benefiting from multidisciplinary skills and a strong career foundation:

• York’s Careers and Placements Service offers targeted employer networking, AI careers panels, placement support, project-based internships, and bespoke CV/interview training aligned with computing and technology roles.

• Typical graduate roles include Programming Engineer, Artificial Intelligence Researcher, Data Scientist, and Systems Architect.

• Recent employment stats show 97% of postgraduate students employed or in further study within 15 months; starting salaries for AI-related roles usually range from £32,000 to £50,000 depending on role and sector.

• Industry partnerships include collaborations with IBM, Google, NHS Digital, and local Yorkshire tech firms, providing direct exposure through guest lectures, live case studies, and sponsored research projects.

• The program is accredited by leading professional bodies and aligns with current AI benchmarks, ensuring long-term career value and recognized qualifications across the tech sector.

• Graduates develop expertise in machine learning, deep learning, robotics, data-driven intelligent systems, and project management, preparing for immediate contribution to commercial and research environments.

Further Academic Progression:
Students can continue into PhD study in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, or Data Science, either at York or other leading universities in the UK and abroad. Options include postdoctoral or collaborative research, or pursuing academic and professional advancement in AI-driven disciplines.