Who is this course for?

This is a distinctive programme taught by an internationally renowned, interdisciplinary team of University of Galway experts in the field, many of whom are researchers at the Insight Centre for Data Analytics. 

The programme is taught over two years and is delivered completely online using state-of-the-art technologies and techniques to support the virtual classroom. Exams are on-campus at the end of each semester. Students are required to attend the University only for normal exam periods at the end of Semester 1 each year (December) and Semester 2 each year (April-May). 

This is an intensive and technically rigorous programme. The estimated workload is 20 hours per week during the teaching semesters (September–December and January– April). Each semester is 12 weeks plus a study week and exam period. 

This course is part-funded by Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet under the Training Networks Programme of Skillnet Ireland and by member companies. Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Education and Skills. For further information see www.ictskillnet.ie 

What will I study?

The MSc in Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence (online) is a two-year 90-ECTS course taught online comprising: 

• 12 taught modules in core AI topics (60 ECTS)
• A substantial capstone project (30 ECTS) 

The taught modules include: 

• Principles of Machine Learning;
• Deep Learning;
• Introduction to Natural Language Processing;
• Programming and Tools for Artificial Intelligence;
• Tools and Techniques for Large Scale Data Analytics;
• Research Skills in Artificial Intelligence
• Agents, Multi-Agent Systems, and Reinforcement Learning;
• Data Visualisation;
• Knowledge Representation;
• Information Retrieval;
• Artificial Intelligence and Ethics;
• Statistics for Artificial Intelligence;
• High Performance Computing and Parallel Computing. 

From Year 1, Semester 2 onwards, students work on industry-focused projects and submit them in August Year 2. Projects may have a research or applied focus. 

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

This innovative online MSc in Artificial Intelligence will equip the student with state-of-the-art knowledge and practical skills that are increasingly sought after in industry today.

Career Opportunities 

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 Jamal Nasir – Programme Director
• Professor Paul Buitelaar
• Dr Enda Barrett
• Prof Edward Curry
• Dr Conor Hayes
• Dr Enda Howley
• Prof Michael Madden
• Dr John McCrae
• Dr James McDermott
• Dr Patrick Mannion
• Dr Colm O’Riordan 

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, online tests. 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: 
For more information email info@ictskillnet.ie 
Or visit www.ictskillnet.ie 

Programme Director(s):  

Dr Jamal Nasir,  
Programme Director 
School of Computer Science 
College of Science & Engineering 
E: jamal.nasir@universityofgalway.ie 

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. 

Graduates of the MSc in AI Online will be able to:  

• Strong Programming and 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.

Minimum Entry Requirements

This MSc is targeted at people currently working in industry who wish to significantly deepen their computing skills through a specialisation in Artificial Intelligence. Candidates must have a strong 2.2 Level 8 (or equivalent) computer science degree or a strong 2.2 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. 

For ICT subsidy, candidates must be EU/EEA nationals or working in Ireland on an Irish Employment Permit. 

Applications can also be made (non-funded positions) through the University of Galway Postgraduate Admissions page.  

Eligibility: in addition to the academic requirements, candidates must be working in private or commercial semi-state organisations in Republic of Ireland. 

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

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Part Time	1	€3,975					€3,975

 For eligible candidates, fees are grant-aided by ICT Skillnet. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

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 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.