MSc in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)
Part-fundedAccelerate innovation through AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been at the forefront of computer science research for over 50 years. A confluence of recent breakthroughs in both hardware capability and insights into algorithm design have made the early promise of intelligent machines a reality.
AI is now set to be the key source of transformation, disruption and competitive advantage in today’s fast changing economy, with deep AI skills soon to be required in almost every industry across the globe. Business leaders are looking for expert specialists to guide them into an unknown future.
This innovative 2 year online and part-time Master’s in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence, delivered in partnership with the School of Computer Science at University of Galway, will propel your expertise to new heights, elevate your career prospects, and give you the confidence to make a significant impact by harnessing the real value of AI.
This is a distinctive programme taught by an internationally renowned, interdisciplinary team of University of Galway experts in the field, several of whom are researchers at the Insight Centre for Data Analytics.
The programme is taught over 2 years and is delivered completely online using state-of-the-art technologies and techniques to support the virtual classroom.
Lectures are all online and asynchronous, allowing you to learn on your own schedule. Some modules may use synchronous live-streams or online drop-in sessions, but they are optional and will be recorded for those who cannot attend.
Exams are held on campus at the end of each semester.
This is an intensive and technically rigorous programme. The estimated workload is 20 hours per week during the teaching semesters (September to December and January to April).
Each semester is 12 weeks plus a study week and exam period.
The MSc in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence is a 90-ECTS course with 3 main elements:
- Core foundational modules (30 ECTS)
- Optional advanced modules (30 ECTS / individual modules subject to availability)
- A substantial capstone project (30 ECTS)
Year 1 – Semester 1:
- Principles of Machine Learning (5 ECTS / Core)
- Programming and Tools for Artificial Intelligence (5 ECTS / Core)
- Statistics for Artificial Intelligence (5 ECTS / Optional)
Year 1 – Semester 2:
- Research Skills in Artificial Intelligence (5 ECTS / Core)
- Data Visualisation (5 ECTS / Core)
- Tools and Techniques for Large Scale Data Analytics (5 ECTS / Optional)
Year 2 – Semester 1:
- Artificial Intelligence and Ethics (5 ECTS / Core)
- Introduction to Natural Language Processing (5 ECTS / Core)
- Information Retrieval (5 ECTS / Optional)
Year 2 – Semester 2:
- Deep Learning (5 ECTS / Optional)
- High Performance Computing and Parallel Programming (5 ECTS / Optional)
- Agents, Multi-Agent Systems and Reinforcement Learning (5 ECTS / Optional)
- Knowledge Representation (5 ECTS / Optional)
Capstone Project (30 ECTS)
From Year 1 – Semester 2 onwards, students will work on industry-focused projects and submit them in August of Year 2. Projects may have a research or applied focus.
Academic Eligibility
Candidates must have a strong 2.2 level 8 computer science degree or a strong 2.2 level 8 science / engineering degree that provides extensive training in computing.
Applicants who do not meet the formal entry requirements may still be considered through a combination of academic qualifications and relevant work experience as detailed in the Applicant’s CV and application. A formal Recognition of Prior Learning application is not required.
Fees
Fees for 2027 to be confirmed.
For reference, the 2026 fees were are follows:
Full course fee: €5,000 per year
Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet grant: €1,495 per year
Subsidised course fee: €3,505* per year
Subsidised fees are only available to eligible applicants*.
*Funding Eligibility
Applicants must be employed by, or operating as, an eligible business engaged in economic activity in the Republic of Ireland. This includes private companies, sole traders, commercial social enterprises and eligible commercial semi-state organisations. Additional eligibility verification may be required for certain organisation types to avail of grant-aided fees.
Applicants who do not meet our funding criteria may in some cases be able to apply and pay the full fee directly to the college if there are available places.
Please complete the Make an Enquiry form on this page. You will then be notified when applications open.
The University of Galway has sole discretion and is the final arbiter on who will participate. Making an application is not a guarantee of selection. Applications are treated in strictest confidence.
Applicants accept that no feedback will be provided to them, or any other party, regarding the selection process nor will applicants be provided with any reason for their non-selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
This MSc in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) is fully online and designed so you can study in your own time. You will be expected to take 3 modules every semester (2 semesters per year) and a final year project in year 2. Each semester runs for 12 weeks and there are exams at the end – with a gap between the end of the semester and the exam period.
The workload is estimated to be approximately 21 hours per week over 14 weeks in each semester (of which 12 weeks are used for delivery). This includes engaging with lectures, online discussions, reading, carrying out assignments and study time. Some students successfully complete modules with less time commitment.
The main languages are Python, R, and Java in that order. University of Galway teaches Python from scratch (but very fast, assuming students already know at least one language), and it is used in some other modules. We teach a little R, and develop it more in some other modules. We do not teach Java, but we assume that students have used/studied it, or can self-study some basics, for one module.
End-of-semester exams are traditional on-campus written exams. Semester 1 exams will be in December, and Semester 2 exams in April/May. The academic calendar is available by clicking here.
Applicants must be employed by, or operating as, an eligible business engaged in economic activity in the Republic of Ireland. This includes private companies, sole traders, commercial social enterprises and eligible commercial semi-state organisations. Additional eligibility verification may be required for certain organisation types to avail of grant-aided fees
Candidates for the MSc in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) should first apply to Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet for initial eligibility screening. Once your eligibility is confirmed, we will send you the link to the University of Galway application portal. You will need your Academic transcripts and certificates for the formal application.
The MSc in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) programme takes a two-year part time commitment to complete.
University of Galway will generally waive any requirement for an English language qualification for Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet applicants already working in industry in Ireland.
Lectures are all online/asynchronous, so you can watch them according to your own schedule. Some modules will use synchronous live-streams or online drop-in sessions as well, but they are optional as we know there is no time during the week which will suit all students. They will generally be recorded for later viewing by others. There is usually an optional on-campus day at the start of each year. You will be notified in advance about this.
As this is a highly technical MSc course, applicants must have sufficient competence in mathematics and computer programming to be able to participate. Candidates must have a strong 2.1 Level 8 (or equivalent) computer science degree or a strong 2.1 Level 8 (or equivalent) science/engineering degree that provides extensive training in computing. Candidates who do not meet this requirement but are deemed by the programme director to have reached an equivalent standard will also be considered.
Please go to the University of Galway course webpage to view further module details by clicking here. If you scroll down you can click “+” for each module to see more details.
The degree parchment awarded at the end of the degree states Magisterii Scientiae (Master of Science). The transcript states the official degree title, MSc in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence (Online).
