Who is this course for?

The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is targeted at learners who would benefit professionally from gaining a high-level understanding of the field of artificial intelligence (AI). This programme is suitable for those who currently work with AI, or for those who plan to work with AI in the future. The PgCert is also suitable for those who would like to explore the possibilities of how AI might be applied within their own organisation or industry sector. 

What will I study?

The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is delivered 100% via remote learning, so students are not required to attend the University of Galway campus to complete the programme. The PgCert is delivered asynchronously, so students are free to learn at their own pace, at the times and places that best suit them. During each week of the programme, pre-recorded video lectures will be made available for students to watch via the university’s learning management system. 

The pre-recorded video lectures will be supplemented by additional carefully curated content and activities, including assigned readings, discussion forums and other exercises. There will also be some optional synchronous live online sessions where students will have a chance to meet the lecturers who deliver the programme. The programme is assessed 100% via continuous assessment, so there is no need for students to attend University of Galway for traditional end-of-semester exams. 

The programme is delivered on a part-time basis over 9 months and is designed so that it can be completed while students are in full-time employment.  The PgCert is delivered over two teaching semesters (September - December and January - May), and in each semester students will take 3 modules. Each individual module is worth 5 ECTS, and in total the PgCert consists of 30 ECTS. 

Semester 1 modules (September - December): 

• CT5181 Introduction to AI (5 ECTS)
• CT5182 Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing (5 ECTS)
• CT5184 Data Analysis and Visualisation (5 ECTS) 

Semester 2 modules (January - May): 

• CT5212 Societal Impact of AI 
• CT5185 Ethics and Law for AI (5 ECTS)
• CT5186 Future of AI (5 ECTS) 

• No experience in computer science or programming required: Learn about the key topics in AI from a high-level perspective. No prior qualification in computer science required. Ideal for learners who wish to be able to engage with AI experts, but who do not need to learn how to code AI systems or to become AI engineers.  
  
• 100% online delivery: The full course can be completed from anywhere in the world, and it is not necessary to attend the university campus. Applications from learners based outside of Ireland are welcome.
• Study at your own pace: The course is delivered asynchronously, with no formal timetable. Study at your own pace with prerecorded lectures and course materials that are released weekly.
• 100% continuous assessment: The course does not have any formal end of year exams. Assessment is via 100% continuous assessment, where learners demonstrate what they have learned via a broad mix of assessment types, e.g. MCQs, essays, projects, presentations, discussion boards. 

The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is targeted at learners who would benefit professionally from gaining a high-level understanding of the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Many of our learners are in mid or upper level management positions, and wish to upskill so that they can lead AI project within their own organisation or industry sector. The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is designed to address the needs of professionals who wish to upskill and learn the key concepts in AI, without needing to train as AI engineers.  

• Dr Patrick Mannion - Programme Director
• Dr Heike Schmidt-Felzmann
• Dr Rónán Kennedy
• Dr John McCrae 
• Dr Mamoona Asghar 
• Dr Karl Mason 
• Dr Frank Glavin 
• Dr Nazre Batool 
• Dr Priyanka Verma 

How will I learn?

The MSc in Data Analytics combines innovative teaching methods with practical, hands-on learning to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, seminars and workshops led by expert faculty. Real-world case studies, data-driven projects and coding exercises will enable you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. 

Group projects and collaborative activities will enhance your teamwork and communication skills, while individual assignments and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.  

Throughout the programme, you will have access to cutting-edge resources, including industry-standard software and real-world datasets, to support your learning and professional growth. 

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Throughout the programme, your progress is assessed through various coursework and exams, including reports, essays, presentations, and computer assignments. 

1. Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, including essays, presentations, in-class tests, and language exercises. Students receive regular (weekly) feedback on their progress. (20%)
2. Examinations - Written exams take place before Christmas and in May. Written and oral exams evaluate proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and communication. The Final Examination accounts for 50%.
3. Project Work - Research and subtitling projects and translation assignments allow students to apply their skills in real-world contexts. (30%)

Course queries: 
patrick.mannion@universityofgalway.ie

Programme Director(s):  

Dr Patrick Mannion 
Programme Director  
School of Computer Science,  
College of Science & Engineering

Minimum Entry Requirements 

Applicants should hold a Level 8 honours undergraduate degree in any discipline. Applicants with a Level 7 ordinary undergraduate degree and relevant work experience will also be considered. Please email the Programme Director: patrick.mannion@universityofgalway.ie with any queries regarding entry requirements. 

English Language Entry Requirements

Overall, entry to the MSc requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, 6.5 in writing, with no less than 6.0 in any other band. TOEFL: Overall 88, Listening 12–19, Speaking 18–19, Writing 24–26, Reading 13–18. PTE: 61 overall, no less than 61 in writing, and no less than 50 in any one other component. 

Supporting Documents

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.   

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.  

Fees for Academic Year 2026/27

For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.