Learn how to use artificial intelligence to shape real-world decisions in sustainable development. Our innovative MSc in AI and Sustainable Development equips you with the skills, knowledge and practical experience to drive ethical tech solutions and impactful change through interdisciplinary learning.
Build the confidence to lead AI-enabled projects in sustainability and development settings. Develop expertise in artificial intelligence and sustainability challenges, and strengthen your ability to navigate ethics, real-world constraints, and complex systems to turn data-driven insight into meaningful, long-term impact.
I chose the MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development because it aligned perfectly with my long-term goal of working at the intersection of technology, democracy, and public policy. The course offered a rare combination of technical foundations in AI alongside critical perspectives on ethics, governance, and sustainability.
Course Structure This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis for Home students.
In the first semester, you'll take three 20-credit core modules to build a strong foundation. These introduce how AI can advance global sustainability through ethical governance and participatory design. You’ll also develop modern data science skills - covering supervised learning, data mining, and programming techniques - to prepare you for tackling diverse data‑driven challenges.
You'll also choose one 20-credit optional module from our AI, Policy, and Government module list. Assessment includes group work, exams, and assignments throughout the semester.
In the second semester, you'll take two 20-credit core modules. The first, AI for Global Challenges focuses on applying machine learning to sustainability issues while evaluating ethical, inclusive, and human-centred AI use. The second, Current Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science , keeps you up to date with the latest developments through seminars, presentations, and quizzes on recent advancements, helping you deepen your expertise.
During this term, you will be completing assignments and focusing on your 60-credit research dissertation project.
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Our MSc in AI and Sustainable Development brings together computer science and social science to tackle global sustainability challenges. This programme equips you with the skills to responsibly apply AI to complex global challenges, integrating technical, social, and ethical perspectives. You’ll graduate ready to work across disciplines and deploy AI in contexts where societal, ethical, and sustainability considerations matter most.
This Masters programme is for those who want to apply AI to sustainability and global development challenges, rather than focusing on algorithm design or purely technical computer science pathways.
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
While a background in mathematics is not required, we recognise that some students may wish to strengthen these skills. To support this, we offer a free online course providing comprehensive maths and data literacy preparation to help you succeed.
Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognised English test. For more information on what proof you will need, visit our International Postgraduate requirements page
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.