Heriot-Watt University

MSc Artificial Intelligence 2 years

Heriot-Watt University

Course overview

The MSc Artificial Intelligence (2 years) programme at Heriot-Watt University is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of how to combine elements of AI with practical experience in developing AI software tools. This 2-year conversion programme is an ideal choice for students aiming for a career in artificial intelligence who may not come from a computing background. Whether their experience lies in psychology, linguistics, science, mathematics, technology or the arts, this pathway programme offers a unique opportunity to become well-versed in the advanced, challenging field of AI.  

Throughout the master's programme, students will explore a variety of AI topics, including machine learning, computational intelligence, computer vision and robotics. Each module emphasises industrial problem solving using AI, and students will also undertake a dissertation that involves an in-depth investigation into a topic of their choice. During their studies, they will gain practical experience in constructing AI using both existing tools and new methods.

Entry requirements

Applicants need to write a personal statement. In this, they should explain why they want to study this course and give other important information about their studies. They also need to provide a reference from a teacher or someone they worked for. Students can also add their CV to their application to show their work experience. 

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants should possess a minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or non-UK equivalent in a subject area which includes some numeracy. Programming skills would be preferable but not essential, either through your degree or a short course. 

English Proficiency:

  • For students whose first language is not English, proof of proficiency in the language is required. An IELTS overall score of 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each component is required. TOEFL or other equivalents are also accepted.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Discount Scheme

    A 20% discount is applicable to postgraduate taught courses across all of our global campuses.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Coaching Scholarships Programme

    Varies – up to a 100% Tuition fee Reduction (dependent on experience and number of coaching hours across the year).

  • Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence

    The Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence awards the successful recipient(s) with a 20% reduction on their tuition fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Remission of Fees (Families of Staff)

    Please contact the provider.

  • Staff Scholarships

    Please contact the provider

  • The Brodie Family Scholarship (PGT)

    The Brodie Family Scholarship provides financial support of £2,500 per year (or £2,000 per year for students enrolled in a five-year programme) to four undergraduate students.

  • The Island Scholarship Programme - Orkney Campus (UK) (International)

  • The New Dawn Energy Scholarship

    The New Dawn Energy Scholarship provides £1900 towards living costs to two students enrolling on our MSc in Petroleum Engineering in September 2026.

    Up to £1,900

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Artificial Intelligence from Heriot-Watt University can pursue various career roles, including:

  • AI Engineer
  • Robotics Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • Machine learning engineer
  • AI Researcher
  • Manufacturing engineer

Cost of study

The tuition fee (2025/2026 session) to study an MSc in Artificial Intelligence (2 years) at Heriot-Watt University is £25,480.

Admission

To apply for this course, you’ll need to apply directly to the university. To find out more about this process, speak to one of our trained counsellors.

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