NCI Course Details

The course will be delivered using academic research, industry defined practical problems, and case studies. This approach will naturally provide a deeper knowledge of AI and create skills required in industry such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creative thinking, communication, teamwork, and research skills.

Upon completion of this course, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate expert knowledge of Engineering Artificial Intelligence systems, Machine Learning, Optimisation Techniques, and the tools, techniques and technologies of Artificial Intelligence utilised in real world contexts.
• Formulate, design, implement, and evaluate novel real- world solutions at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence using the latest industry practices and standards.
• Select, assess, and apply advanced and emerging Artificial Intelligence techniques and tools to enhance decision making.
• Synthesise and communicate technical Artificial Intelligence solutions.
• Critically assess and evaluate ethical, sustainable, and responsible issues associated with the development and deployment of Artificial Intelligence systems.
• Conduct independent research in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

This course is ideal for graduates that are looking to progress into the emerging AI market to increase their employment potential. The course is suitable for graduates who have programming and mathematical problem-solving skills. Graduates from disciplines that have not developed these skills will need to be able to demonstrate an aptitude for programming or mathematical problem solving.

A minimum of a level 8 primary degree in Computing or a cognate area with a 2.2 award or higher or equivalent on the National Qualifications Framework in Computing or a Cognate area. Candidates are expected to have programming ability. Cognate area means a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degree that also taught programming/ application development related modules. An assessment and/ or interview may be conducted to ascertain suitability if necessary for candidates who do not meet the normal academic requirements.

The college operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme meaning applicants who do not meet the normal academic requirements may be considered based on relevant work and other experience. This may be assessed using a portfolio of learning, demonstration of work produced, and an interview. The programming ability of the applicant will also be assessed.

Non-English speaking applicants must demonstrate fluency in the English language as demonstrated by IELTS academic score of at least 6.0 or equivalent.

This programme has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. Specifically, students are expected to successfully participate in lectures, laboratories and projects using a portable computer (laptop/notebook) with a substantial hardware configuration. The minimal suitable configuration is 16GB of RAM (32GB are recommended); a modern 64-bit multi-core processor (Intel i7, Apple M1, or superior); 250+ GB of available space in hard disk; WiFi card; and a recent version of Ubuntu, macOS, or Windows.

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure their computer is functioning correctly and that they have full administrator rights. NCI IT cannot provide support for these personal devices.

A Laptop Loan Scheme is available for eligible students to assist them in completing their chosen course.

Core Modules

Semester 1:

• Data Governance and Ethics
• Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
• Programming for Artificial Intelligence

Semester 2:

• Engineering and Evaluating Artificial Intelligence Systems
• Intelligent Agents and Process Automation
• Data Analytics for Artificial Intelligence

Semester 3:

• Emergent Artificial Intelligence Technologies and Sustainability
• Machine Learning
• Artificial Intelligence Driven Decision Making

For more information on the modules taught on this course view our module descriptors.

The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. Students who successfully complete this course may progress to a major award at level 10 on the NFQ. Students may also elect to exit early with the Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Artificial Intelligence at level 9 on the NFQ.

This course runs over 1 year; 2 semesters and a final research project.

Students need to be available 09.00 - 18.00 Mon – Fri (class days and times vary).

Please note that exams can be scheduled during the morning, afternoon or evening Monday to Saturday.

Classes for this course will take place on-site at our IFSC campus.

€6,800 total fee

(EU/Ireland applicants, fees revised annually)

You can spread the cost of this course with a direct debit plan.

NCI Scholarships

We offer a range of scholarships and discounts for both NCI and non-NCI graduates. Current NCI students and alumni can avail of a 25% discount on this course by applying for our Master's Edge Scholarship.

View our full list of scholarships.

The fee for this course for international students is €15,000.

Find out more about studying at NCI as an international student.