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.

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.

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.

Core Modules

• Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
• Programming for Artificial Intelligence
• Data Analytics for Artificial Intelligence
• Data Governance and Ethics
• Engineering and Evaluating Artificial Intelligence Systems
• Intelligent Agents and Process Automation
• Artificial Intelligence Driven Decision Making
• Machine Learning
• Emergent Artificial Intelligence Technologies and Sustainability

Research Elective

• Practicum OR
• Internship

Elective modules are subject to availability and a minimum number of students required to run a module

Assessment

The course will be assessed with a blend of project work and exams. This varies between modules but typically assessment is 50% continuous assessment and 50% exam.

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.

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. 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.

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.

For international students, please visit NCI's Your Country section to view the specific entry requirements for your region.

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 8GB of RAM (16GB are recommended); a modern 64-bit x86 multicore processor (Intel i5 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.

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

Please note that in some instances exams may take place in the daytime, evening, and/or at weekends.

On-campus face-to-face classes.

See the MSc in Artificial Intelligence course brochure for an explanation of the learning methods.

This course runs over 1 year; 3 semesters with an internship/research practicum.

€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 course fee for international students for September 2024 is €15,000.

From the January 2025 intake onwards, the course fee for international students will be €17,000. Fees will be revised annually.

For more information on international fees, please visit International Fees & Funding and International Scholarships. Learn more about studying at NCI as an international student.