Heriot-Watt University introduces the first post-graduate conversion programme in Artificial Intelligence (AI). This programme targets highly qualified graduates from non-computer science backgrounds who wish to make the transition into AI.
The inter-disciplinary nature of AI means that it is a field that is naturally of interest to graduates from non-CS backgrounds such as mathematics, linguistics, psychology, cognitive science and engineering disciplines (in fact, many university researchers and industrial leaders in AI have come from such backgrounds). However, the necessity for a graduate from a non-CS background to quickly acquire the computer science skills required to work in this area can put some graduates off making the move into AI. Heriot-Watt provides a 2-year integrated Masters programme which is tailored to the needs of graduates from non-CS backgrounds who wish to make the transition into AI.
Perfect for graduates from non Computer Science backgrounds
We have chosen to design this programme so that graduates can gain a firm foundation in Year 1 in the computer science skills needed in AI and then can progress and engage fully and confidently in a programme of study in Year 2 that is aligned with our current 1-year MSc in AI (rather than designing an unsatisfactory 1-year “conversion” MSc programme which would not be able to get students to the level of expertise expected by industry from PGT graduates in AI).
This programme is prompted by a recent governmental report on Growing the artificial intelligence industry in the UK (released 15 Oct 2017), which recommends that Universities should explore the potential demand for […] conversion Masters degrees in AI for graduates in subjects other than computing and data science.
We currently offer 6 scholarships funded by the DataLab for students to study on this programme. We especially encourage female students and students from other minorities to apply.