MSc Machine Learning / Course details

From breakthroughs in medical decision making to previously unimaginable forecasting capabilities, machine learning has changed how we approach problem-solving forever. On this master’s course, you will take your understanding to new depths – investigating both the theory and practice of this revolutionary approach.

Your study spans a diverse yet in-depth set of modules, encompassing deep neural network architectures, language learning models, and cognitive humanoid robots. With our MSc Artificial Intelligence students, you will study both i) The Fundamentals of Machine Learning and ii) AI and its Applications, however you will also explore iii) Decision Making Under Uncertainty - a key concept when making decisions based on predictive models.

During your time with us, you will follow 75% of core taught material whilst also enjoying a wide choice for tailoring the remainder of your study with optional units. You may find one of the most rewarding elements of your course is your Master’s Project, which enables you to carry out a substantial technical task which truly focuses in on your area of interest.

As you depart this course as a well-trained postgraduate, you will find you have a widely applicable skillset – providing you with both the gift of choice and in a workplace where there is strong demand for machine learning skills.

The aim of the Machine Learning MSc programme is to enable graduate computer scientists to deepen their knowledge in one or a few specialisms. Specifically, the programme aims to:

1. Enable graduate computer scientists to deepen their knowledge in machine learning (ML), so that they can identify methods that are appropriate to a particular application, select and explain suitable techniques, and build solutions with good understanding of their potential limitations
2. Provide students with the opportunity to specialise in a variety of ML topics that provide a combination of skills that together address distinctive requirements.
3. Enhance students’ ability to communicate complex technical results, through submissions on laboratory work in course units.
4. Provide students with the opportunity to develop, apply and evaluate advanced ML techniques through an individual project. (MSc only)
5. Meet the needs of universities, industry, and other employers by supplying graduates with an ability to devise, apply, compare and evaluate advanced ML techniques.
   

Flexibility
You will follow three specialised themes, each of which combines two related course units, and choose a fourth theme from a wide range of options.

Strong links with employers
We maintain close relationships with potential employers and run various activities throughout the year, including career fairs, guest lectures, and projects run jointly with partners from industry.

Excellent facilities
You will have access to a fantastic range of facilities and equipment. In the Kilburn Building, our hub of Computer Science, this includes our hardware library – equipped with everything from basic electronic components to VR headsets and drones. You can also study in and benefit from Our Home for Engineering and Materials .

Welcoming community
You can join some of the various student societies, such as the Manchester University Data Science Society, UniCS, Sustainable Engineering Initiative, Volunteering and Outreach, Women in Science and Engineering and many more. Meet like-minded people, make new friends, master your subject, and discover just how powerful collaboration can be!

Championing gender diversity
It's our priority to make sure students feel seen and supported on their journey, so we're always looking to spotlight and uplift women, non-binary, and otherwise marginalised voices. Get first-hand guidance and insight from students, lecturers, and industry professionals from all different stages of their journey, on our podcast Big Sisters in STEM .

At Manchester you will be taught by academic staff who are leading experts in machine learning, in a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

We use a combination of methods, including lectures, tutorial classes, computer-based sessions, and blended learning.

You will learn through a mix of lectures and seminars, and supported by practical exercises. These skills are augmented through an MSc project, enabling you to put into practice the techniques you have been taught throughout the course.

Would you like to discover authentic stories when it comes to life at, and after, The University of Manchester? Engage with our student community at @uomscieng on Instagram and TikTok, and tune into our conversations with students, lecturers, and industry professionals on our popular podcast, Big Sisters in STEM .

Our facilities are second to none. Based within Kilburn Building – hub of Computer Science – we have over 300 computers, newly refurbished labs, and substantial collaborative working labs with specialised computing and audio-visual equipment.

As our student, your projects and extra-curricular pursuits also benefit from our hardware library – equipped with everything from basic electronic components to VR headsets and drones.

You can also study in Our Home for Engineering and Materials – an academic playground signifying our 200-year history of innovation in Science and Engineering at Manchester. The University of Manchester also offers an extensive library and online services , helping you get the most out of your studies.