Course Summary
This 12-month full-time programme provides cutting edge technical training and research opportunities in the emerging area of AI-driven and data analytics-driven cybersecurity.
It is a unique offering that is only matched by a small number of European and US-based Universities and builds on the vast research experience and technical skills of renowned, interdisciplinary experts based in the School of Computer Science, University of Galway.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Prior qualification
This MSc is targeted at high-performing graduates of Level 8 computer science programmes, or Level 8 science/engineering programmes that offer sufficient training in computing.
The minimum academic requirement for entry to the programme is a First Class Honours (or equivalent) from a recognised university or third-level college. However, a good Second Class Honours (or equivalent) can be deemed sufficient on the recommendation of the Programme Director.
English language proficiency
Overall, entry to the MSc Artificial Intelligence requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band. TOEFL: Overall 88, Listening 1219, Speaking 1819, Writing 2426, Reading 1318. PTE: Overall 61, Writing 61, all other bands no less than 50.
Applicants are required to submit a personal statement outlining:
o A summary of your primary degree and its relevance for a successful completion of this programme. We strongly encourage an evidence based approach to highlighting your academic accomplishments.
o A summary of your previous capstone projects (e.g., undergraduate final year projects) including an outline of your exact contribution there. We strongly encourage an evidence based approach to outlining your existing technical skills and experience
Please upload a current C.V.
Application Details
Closing Date: No set closing date. Offers made on a continuous basis.
Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.
An application requires a registration fee of 35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).
Next start date: September 2025
Fees
Fees: EU 8,640 p.a. (including levy) 2024/25
Fees: Tuition 8,500 p.a. 2024/25
Fees: Student levy 140 p.a. 2024/25
Fees: Non EU 27,000 p.a. (27,140 p.a. including levy) 2024/25
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grantplease note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay 4,000 towards your tuition (2023/24). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. An F5 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of 6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of 140.
Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa at https://www.educationinireland.com/en/News/Ireland-24-Month-Stay-Back-Option-.html.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Linguistic
The Linguistic's interests are usually focused on ideas and information exchange. They tend to like reading a lot, and enjoy discussion about what has been said. Some will want to write about their own ideas and may follow a path towards journalism, story writing or editing. Others will develop skills in other languages, perhaps finding work as a translator or interpreter. Most Linguistic types will enjoy the opportunity to teach or instruct people in a topic they are interested in.
Career Progression
The high global demand in cybersecurity experts is being reflected in a range of career options for example as network security architect, cybersecurity operations analyst or information security analyst.
While our graduates can compete for such jobs, the programme, in particular, will cater for the demand stemming from emerging R&D career paths in cybersecurity that have a strong focus on machine learning and data analytics. These include positions such as an AI security controls architect, cybersecurity data analytics engineer, or cyber intelligence analyst.