Why study this course?
With a global AI skills gap, graduates in this field are in high demand. You will gain theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills developed through labs and group projects allowing you to make a success of your career in a wide range of sectors. You may have the opportunity to experience working with industry on real-world projects through supervised dissertations.
- Enjoy a specialist course offering you flexibility to pursue other areas of computer science alongside the compulsory modules.
- Extend your specialist knowledge and critical thinking with a project involving a wide-ranging investigation and a substantial software development, leading to your dissertation.
- Programming languages covered include Java and Python, which are used across most modules. Some modules may also introduce and use other programming languages.
- Access modern computing laboratories 24 hours a day. These labs are student spaces which support the close-knit community within the School where students at different stages of study and disciplinary interests can meet. There are also areas where groups can work together on projects.
Teaching
A mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical classes.
Class sizes
Typically from 20 to 110 students.鈥�
Dissertation
A three-month project leading to a 15,000-word dissertation.
Assessment
Practical coursework exercises and exams.
Modules
The 杏吧论坛 degree structure is designed to be flexible. You study compulsory modules delivering core learning together with optional modules you choose from the list available that year.
If you choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) instead, finishing the course at the end of the second semester of study.
Course information may change. Module information and course content, teaching and assessment may change each year and after you have accepted your offer to study at the University of 杏吧论坛. We display the most up-to-date information possible, but this could be from a previous academic year. For the latest module information, see the module catalogue.
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- Object-Oriented Modelling, Design and Programming: introduces and reinforces object-oriented modelling, design and implementation to provide a common basis of skills, allowing students to complete programming assignments within other MSc modules. The module assumes a substantial amount of prior programming experience equivalent to having completed an undergraduate degree in Computer Science.鈥�
- Symbolic Artificial Intelligence: gives an overview of traditional AI methods, and the philosophy and history of AI. It covers the main classical approaches to AI: logical reasoning, search algorithms, knowledge representation and modelling, and formal languages. In conjunction with Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence, the module will form a theoretical and practical foundation for other specialist AI modules.鈥�
- Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence:鈥痗overs reasoning and decision making in the presence of uncertainty. The module introduces probabilities and probabilistic reasoning, approximate inference (Monte Carlo methods), Bayesian Networks, and different types of Markov models. In conjunction with Symbolic Artificial Intelligence, the module will form a theoretical and practical foundation for other specialist AI modules.鈥�
Students should choose one of:
- Constraint Programming: introduces constraint-based reasoning as a powerful mechanism for knowledge representation and inference.
- Language and Computation: covers the major aspects of natural language processing and speech understanding.
And one of:
- Machine Learning: provides a foundation in the theory behind machine learning and enables students to apply machine learning in practice to solve real-world problems.
- Knowledge Discovery and Datamining: covers many of the methods found under the banner of Datamining, building from a theoretical perspective but ultimately teaching practical application.
September entrants may switch to an MSc in Computer Science or in Computing and Information Technology after the first semester.
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- Object-Oriented Modelling, Design and Programming: introduces and reinforces object-oriented modelling, design and implementation to provide a common basis of skills, allowing students to complete programming assignments within other MSc modules. The module assumes a substantial amount of prior programming experience equivalent to having completed an undergraduate degree in Computer Science.
- Symbolic Artificial Intelligence: gives an overview of traditional AI methods, and the philosophy and history of AI. It covers the main classical approaches to AI: logical reasoning, search algorithms, knowledge representation and modelling, and formal languages. In conjunction with Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence, the module will form a theoretical and practical foundation for other specialist AI modules.
- Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence: covers reasoning and decision making in the presence of uncertainty. The module introduces probabilities and probabilistic reasoning, approximate inference (Monte Carlo methods), Bayesian Networks, and different types of Markov models. In conjunction with Symbolic Artificial Intelligence, the module will form a theoretical and practical foundation for other specialist AI modules.
- Language and Computation: covers the major aspects of natural language processing and speech understanding, including computational syntax, computational semantics, discourse processing, machine translation, and speech recognition.
Students should choose one of:
- Machine Learning: provides a foundation in the theory behind machine learning and enables students to apply machine learning in practice to solve real-world problems.
- Knowledge Discovery and Datamining: covers many of the methods found under the banner of Datamining, building from a theoretical perspective but ultimately teaching practical application.
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The following modules are optional for Computer Science programmes. Not all combinations of modules will be available for all programmes, and some modules are subject to pre-requisites being satisfied.
September 2025 entry
Here is a sample of optional modules that may be offered:
- Advanced Communication Networks and Systems
- Computer Architecture
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Security
- Concurrency and Multi-Core Architectures
- Critical Systems Engineering
- Data Ethics and Privacy
- Data-Intensive Systems
- Databases
- Distributed Systems
- Fundamentals of Software Engineering
- Human Computer Interaction Principles and Methods
- Information Visualisation
- Interactive Software and Hardware
- Knowledge Discovery and Datamining
- Logic and Software Verification
- Principles of Computer Communication Systems
- Programming Language Design and Implementation
- Signal Processing: Sound, Image, Video
- Software Architecture and Design
- Software Product and Project Management
- Software Quality
- User-Centred Interaction Design
- Video Games
- Web Technologies
January 2026 entry
Here is a sample of optional modules that may be offered:
- Artificial Intelligence (Special Subject)
- Complex Systems Modelling and Simulation
- Computer Architecture
- Computer Security
- Concurrency and Multi-Core Architectures
- Data Ethics and Privacy
- Data-Intensive Systems
- Databases
- Discrete Optimisation
- Distributed Systems
- Fundamentals of Software Engineering
- Information Visualisation
- Interactive Software and Hardware
- Logic and Software Verification
- Software Architecture and Design
- Software Quality
- Video Games
Optional modules are subject to change each year and require a minimum number of participants to be offered; some may only allow limited numbers of students (see the University's position on curriculum development).
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During the second semester, students work with staff to define and agree upon a topic for the extended project, which they will work on during the final three months of the course, and which finishes in a 15,000-word dissertation. Dissertation projects may be group-based or completed individually (students are assessed individually in either case).
The dissertation typically comprises:
- a review of related work
- the extension of existing ideas or the development of new ideas
- software implementation and testing
- analysis and evaluation
Each project is supervised by one or two members of staff, typically through regular meetings and reviews of software and dissertation drafts.
What it will lead to
Careers
Our graduates work in a variety of organisations in the public and private sectors, in roles ranging from AI programmers, consultants, and full stack AI developers, to:
- data analysts
- research scientists
- integration engineers
- cloud consultants
- game developers
- machine learning engineers and consultants
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at. We offer:
- Access to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring
- One-to-one guidance covering everything from career choice to application support and interview coaching
- Employer connections, global vacancies, and practical experiences
- Academic and professional skills development
Elevate your career
Alumni of Computer Science MSc programmes have gone on to work in a variety of global, commercial, financial and research institutions, including:
- Microsoft
- Cisco
- Civil Service
- RegGenome
Further your education
The 鈥痠s a four-year Engineering Doctorate involving an industrial partner. If you have already completed an MSc you may be able to proceed directly to the individual research component of the EngD.
Go your own way
Our offers training and start-up support, gives you access to experienced and expert mentors and an investor network, and one-to-one advice to help you realise your commercial potential.
Why 杏吧论坛?
The School of Computer Science is highly rated for its theoretical and practical research in areas such as:
- 鈥疉滨&苍产蝉辫;
- symbolic computation
- networking
- distributed systems
- human computer interaction
- systems engineering
Get to know us
Join our optional 'Transition to CS@杏吧论坛' online hub to get early information about learning, teaching, assessment and student support. You can chat with staff and current students during live monthly Question and Answer sessions over the summer before the start of your course.
Events
The School of Computer Science organises a regular programme of colloquia, talks and seminars by external and internal speakers from both industry and academia. The talks are aimed at bringing the diversity, excitement and impact of computer science from around the globe to staff and students within the School.
The and ) regularly organise hackathons and other events open to local and external participants, including Masters students. These are very popular events, often supported by industrial sponsors.
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at 杏吧论坛 you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree in Computer Science, or strongly related discipline. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- Applicants to this programme are expected to be competent programmers with prior practical experience in a programming language such as Java, C, Python, C++ or JavaScript.
English language proficiency
For direct entry to a Masters in Artificial Intelligence, you will be required to provide evidence of English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV. This should include your personal details with a history of your education and employment to date.
- Personal statement (optional).
- Two original signed academic鈥痳eferences.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates. Please only provide鈥痗ertified copies with official English translations if applicable. Do not send original documents as they cannot be returned.
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £29,990
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the .
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University鈥檚 approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 24 June 2025