University of Essex

MSc by Dissertation Artificial Intelligence

University of Essex

Course overview

The MSc (by Dissertation) Artificial Intelligence at the University of Essex is a specialist research programme that enables students to complete a major research project and develop into independent researchers capable of producing work with practical applications. The course also covers extensive AI topics, including explainable AI, generative AI, advanced data science, and the integration of AI in fields such as health technology.

Learning involves one-on-one supervision with an academic expert who guides the student in refining their research topic and developing quality research expertise. The final assessment method is the submission and examination of a Master's dissertation on the student's specialist area.

Entry requirements

Applicants are to submit a personal statement in which they discuss their reasons for applying for the course and other information regarding their studies. A relevant academic and/or employer reference is also required. Students also have the option to upload CVs along with their applications to demonstrate work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants typically need a good Master's degree, or equivalent, in Computer Science or Engineering.

  • A different degree will be acceptable if the applicant can demonstrate technical knowledge and experience in at least one high-level programming language such as Matlab, Java, or Python.

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants from non-English speaking countries need to score 6.0 overall in IELTS and at least 5.5 in each component.

  •  Equivalent English tests like TOEFL are also accepted.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Loyalty Discount

    First Class or Distinction, 2.1 or Merit, 2.2 or successful completion of a Masters, Graduate or PG Diploma - 20%.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Essex Futures BT– Masters Scholarship

    School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is delighted to be offering up to six scholarship worth £5,500 each for 1 year full time.

    Up to £5,500

  • Essex Preparation Programme Bursary

    £250 cash bursary.

    Up to £250

  • Global Talent Masters Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a scholarship worth £5,000, paid as a discount on your tuition fee.

    Up to £5,000

  • Hong Kong Undergraduate Scholarship

    The awards offered are a discount of £5,000 per year for a maximum of three years of full-time undergraduate study, up to a maximum of £15,000.

    Up to £15,000

  • Hugh Brogan Bursary

    If you are applying to study a History MA degree, you could be eligible for one of four available cash bursaries worth £2,500.

    Up to £2,500

  • International Baccalaureate Excellence Scholarship

    If you're starting at Essex in 2026-27 and achieve academic excellence in your International Baccalaureate, we will offer you a scholarship of £2,000 for your first year of study.

    Up to £2,000

  • Performance Sports Scholarships and Bursaries

    Tier 1 - Tuition fee discount up to 100%, Tier 2 - Cash bursary (of varying amounts), Tier 3 - Access to the above performance package benefits, with a value of up to £1,500.

  • Postgraduate Masters (PGT) International Health Bursary

    The University is offering a bursary of £776 for Masters (PGT) international students.

    Up to £776

  • Postgraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £6,500, for your first year of study at Essex.

    Up to £6,500

  • Sociology and Criminology - Fuller PGT Scholarship

    The Department of Sociology and Criminology is offering scholarships of £11,025 to support six postgraduate students to study within the department in 2026-2027.

    Up to £11,025

  • The Always Essex Staff Discount Scholarship

    33% discount of the first-year tuition fee (first two years for part-time study).

  • The Eleonore Koch Travel Fund

    The School of Philosophical, Historical & Interdisciplinary Studies is offering a bursary of up to £5,000.

  • The Essex MBA Dean's Award

    The school is able to offer fee discounts between 10% - 100% of tuition fee value.

  • The International Undergraduate Scholarship

    The award is offered as a £5,000 discount on your tuition fees for the first year of study in 2026-27 only.

    Up to £5,000

  • The Ronald J. Hill Fund

    The department of Government is offering a bursary of £3,000 to assist one postgraduate student within the department of Government to assist with tuition fees or living costs.

    Up to £3,000

  • The Undergraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You may be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £5,000, for each year of study at Essex up to a maximum of 3 years.

    Up to £5,000

  • University of Sanctuary Scholarship

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc (by Dissertation) Artificial Intelligence from the University of Essex can work as:

  • Machine Learning Engineers

  • Robotics Engineers

  • Data Scientists

  • AI Research Scientists

  • AI Consultants

Cost of study

The MSc (by Dissertation) Artificial Intelligence at the University of Essex costs £20,625 per year for international students.

Admission

Students can apply for the programme through the University's online platform. You can speak to our trained advisors for guidance.

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