Who is this course for? 

This programme is aimed at graduates with a primary qualification in Computer Science or related subject area. It is not a conversion course, but expects students to be already at a very high technical standard with regard to their Computer Science education. This MSc is targeted at high-performing graduates of Level 8 computer science programmes, or Level 8 science/engineering programmes that offer sufficient training in computing. The minimum academic requirement for entry to the programme is a First Class Honours (or equivalent) from a recognised university or third-level college. However, a good Second Class Honours (or equivalent) can be deemed sufficient on the recommendation of the Programme Director.  

What will I study?

The MSc is a 1 year, fulltime, 90-ECTS course with three main elements: core modules (45 ECTS), optional (elective) modules (15 ECTS), and a substantial capstone thesis project (30 ECTS). 

Core modules include: Programming and Tools for AI; Introduction to Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning; Deep Learning; Research Topics in AI; Information Retrieval; Artificial Intelligence and Ethics; Agents, Multi-Agent Systems & Reinforcement Learning. 

Optional modules include: Advanced Topics in Natural Language Processing; Knowledge Representation; Optimisation; Knowledge Graphs; System Modelling & Simulation; Tools and Techniques for Large Scale Data Analytics; Web & Network Science.  

From Semester 2 onwards, students work on individual projects and submit them in August. Projects may have a research or applied research focus. 

Core modules: 

• Programming and Tools for AI
• Introduction to Natural Language Processing
• Machine Learning
• Deep Learning
• Research Topics in AI
• Information Retrieval
• Artificial Intelligence and Ethics
• Agents, Multi-Agent Systems & Reinforcement Learning 

Optional Modules may include: 

• Advanced Topics in Natural Language Processing
• Knowledge Representation; Optimisation
• Knowledge Graphs
• System Modelling & Simulation
• Tools and Techniques for Large Scale Data Analytics; Web & Network Science.

The MSc is a 1 year, fulltime, 90-ECTS course with three main elements: core modules (45 ECTS), optional (elective) modules (15 ECTS), and a substantial capstone thesis project (30 ECTS). 

AI skills will be required in every industry and AI is projected - according to recent World Economic Forum research - to create globally around 97 million new jobs. The World Economic Forum estimates that by 2025 machines are expected to perform more current work tasks than humans compared to 71% being performed by humans today , and a PwC-report concludes that artificial intelligence, robotics and smart automation technology could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global GDP by 2030. 

Within the AI space, there is a diversity of jobs requiring various levels of expertise: 

• More foundational jobs include data architects, software engineers and machine and deep learning engineers.
• Advanced roles include specialist research engineers, including those that specialise in computer vision, language and speech, and AI architects. 

• Dr Bharathi Chakravarthi
• Professor Paul Buitelaar
• Dr Brian Deegan
• Professor James Duggan
• Dr Heike Felzmann
• Dr Conor Hayes
• Dr Enda Howley
• Professor Michael Madden
• Dr Patrick Mannion
• Dr James McDermott
• Dr John McCrae
• Dr Matthias Nickles
• Dr Colm O'Riordan
• Dr Ihsan Ullah

How will I learn?

The MSc in AI 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. 
2. Examinations-  Written exams take place before Christmas and in May. Written and oral exams evaluate proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and communication. 
3. Project Work- Research and subtitling projects and translation assignments allow students to apply their skills in real-world contexts.  

Course queries: 
E: MScCS-AI@univeristyofgalway.ie 
T: +353 91 493 836 

Programme Director(s):  

Dr Bharathi Chakravarthi,  
Lecturer in Computer Science  
School of Computer Science 
College of Science & Engineering 

Graduates of the MSc in AI will be able to:  

• Strong Programming & Mathematical Foundation: Proficiency in programming languages and a solid grasp of linear algebra, calculus, probability, and statistics are fundamental for understanding and implementing AI algorithms.
• Data Handling and Analytical Skills: The ability to clean, transform, analyse, and visualise data is crucial, along with a keen problem-solving and critical thinking mindset to dissect complex AI challenges.
• Research and Independent Learning: Given the rapidly evolving nature of AI, skills in information retrieval, academic research methods, and a strong capacity for continuous self-directed learning are vital for success in the program's research components and beyond.
• Effective Communication: Clearly articulating complex technical concepts, research findings, and project outcomes through both written reports and verbal presentations is essential for academic collaboration and future career progression.
• Teamwork and Ethical Awareness: The ability to collaborate effectively on projects and a strong understanding of the ethical implications and societal impact of AI are increasingly important skills for responsible AI development. Apply enhanced critical thinking and analytical skills to their object of study 
• Plan, manage, and execute a substantial independent study project 
• Reflect deeply on a range of research perspectives, topics, and approaches related to the object of study 
• Exhibit the ability to self-assess and self-direct 

This MSc is targeted at high-performing graduates of Level 8 computer science programmes, or Level 8 science/engineering programmes that offer sufficient training in computing. 

The minimum academic requirement for entry to the programme is a First Class Honours (or equivalent) from a recognised university or third-level college. However, a good Second Class Honours (or equivalent) can be deemed sufficient on the recommendation of the Programme Director.  

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

English Language Entry Requirements

Overall, entry to the MSc Artificial Intelligence requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, 6.5 in Writing and 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: Overall 61, Writing 61, all other bands no less than 50. 

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.  

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 2025/2026

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  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. 

The School of Computer Science Advanced MSc Scholarship (Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics) 

University of Galway, School of Computer Science is offering one scholarship for the MSc in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics) commencing the next academic year; this scholarship, up to the full value of the EU tuition fee is awarded to the highest ranked graduate of the BSc Computer Science & IT undergraduate programme (GY350) among those who apply for the scholarship. This is open to all current GY350 final year students due to graduate in the current academic year, and all previous graduates of the programme.  

Please note that to be considered for this merit-based scholarship, applicants must first apply and be accepted to their chosen programme. They will subsequently be required to complete a separate scholarship application form. 

Other scholarships available 
Find out about our Postgraduate Scholarships here. 
You may also be interested in one of our other School of Computer Science postgraduate programmes. 

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System.  

Application requirements: 

• A personal statement
• A CV
• University Degree Transcripts
• Two references
• IELTS/TOEFL certificate—only if English is not your mother tongue 

What is not required (please do not submit these) 

• secondary school certificates
• training certificates
• membership certificates

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 each 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.