If students hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet the entry requirements for a master’s, a Pre-Master’s can help them gain a place on a postgraduate degree. For progression to the 1st year of a postgraduate degree at the University of Essex. Course length is determined mainly by students English language level (UKVI IELTS score).

Students on all course lengths take a set of common or similar modules to gain a solid base of skills for university. If their course is longer than 2 terms, students will take additional modules designed to improve one or more of their English language level, academic skills, and basic knowledge of particular subjects.

Master of Science - Artificial Intelligence and its Applications Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad area of research that uses rigorous and hands-on computational techniques to address significant problems that arise in many disciplines, including, but not limited to, computing systems, economics, business, healthcare, games, medicine design, education and agriculture. With the rapid advance of AI, there is a growing demand for students who can understand and promote AI to all these sectors.

The University of Essex MSc Artificial Intelligence and its Applications conversion course will equip students with a skill set on AI techniques, and prepare them for meeting demand, regardless of their academic background. Students will obtain a comprehensive perspective of the current developments, the needs and the potential of AI, by participating in taught modules that promote a deep understanding of AI methods together with others that deliver the necessary technical expertise.

The course covers areas including: machine learning, data mining, decision-making, and big data. This course will give students both theoretical and technical relevant skills, and will offer: the understanding of the specifics and the intricacies of AI methodologies, the ability to apply both basic and advanced AI methods, and the ability to design and implement novel solutions.

Students will also gain transferable skills such as the ability to develop and present arguments, as well as the ability to work independently and in groups. Within Essex's School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering lies the very strong AI for Decision Making research group, which will offer graduates of the course networking opportunities.

The course is developed in collaboration with industry partners and public sector organizations, offering students paid work placement opportunities. Essex's partners include BT, Profusion, Essex County Council, Essex Police, and Suffolk County Council.

With a skillset that combines both technical and analytical know-how from Essex's School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, graduates will be able to find employment in very competitive institutions in a wide range of disciplines. A career in artificial intelligence can be realized within a wide range of sectors, including health, finance, education etc, both in the public and the private sector. Examples of specific jobs held by Essex's AI graduates include computer/data/research scientists, software developers and analysts.