Why Study Master of Artificial Intelligence

The Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI) at the University of Waikato is a 180-point postgraduate degree designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in artificial intelligence, machine learning and related computing technologies. The programme also places strong emphasis on responsible and ethical AI, including issues such as bias, fairness, transparency, privacy, accountability and societal impact. It is offered through the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences at the Hamilton campus and can be completed in approximately 1.5 years.

• Level of study: Master's Degree (MAI)

• Campus: Hamilton

• Mode of learning: Primarily campus-based/onsite; some individual papers may have dual delivery options

• Duration: 1.5 years

• Total credits: 180 points

• Intakes: March and July

• Teaching area: Au Reikura | School of Computing & Mathematical Sciences

• International students: Yes

Key Benefits

The programme combines advanced AI and computing knowledge with research, problem-solving and ethical decision-making skills, making it suitable for students who want to develop specialist expertise for the rapidly growing AI sector. Waikato also has dedicated GPU computing facilities and is home to Te Ipu o te Mahara, the Artificial Intelligence Institute.

• Advanced learning in artificial intelligence and machine learning

• Exposure to deep learning, computer vision and natural language processing

• Focus on responsible and ethical AI development

• Development of advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities

• Opportunity to undertake AI-related research or a dissertation

• Access to Waikato's established computer science research environment

• Designed to support continued professional development and independent learning

• Internationally relevant skills applicable across technology and other industries

Program Structure

The Master of Artificial Intelligence normally requires 180 points at 500 level for students entering with a relevant bachelor's degree. Students must complete at least 60 points from papers listed under the Artificial Intelligence subject regulations and complete either a research preparation/dissertation pathway or the 60-point Artificial Intelligence Dissertation.

Key study areas and papers available within the AI subject include:

• Interpretable Machine Learning – COMPX521

• Machine Learning for Data Streams – COMPX523

• Deep Learning – COMPX525

• Ethics of Artificial Intelligence – COMPX565

• Preparation for Research in Computer Science – COMPX585

• Artificial Intelligence Dissertation – AIMLX592

• Dissertation – COMPX520

• Artificial Intelligence Dissertation – AIMLX591

• Artificial Intelligence Thesis – AIMLX594

• Graph Theory – COMPX546

• Technology in Biomedicine – BIOMD501

The programme structure is approved according to the student's entry qualifications and prerequisites, so the exact combination of papers can vary.

Discipline / Specialisation

The programme is focused on Artificial Intelligence as its main discipline rather than offering separately named specialisations. Students can develop expertise across several AI-related areas through their selection of advanced papers and research work.

Key areas include:

• Artificial Intelligence

• Machine Learning

• Deep Learning

• Interpretable Machine Learning

• Natural Language Processing

• Computer Vision

• AI Ethics

• Data Analysis and Modelling

• AI Research and Dissertation

• Advanced Computing and Algorithms

Programme Highlights

The Master of Artificial Intelligence provides a combination of technical AI training, research capability and responsible-technology perspectives. Waikato's computer science environment has contributed to open-source technologies including WEKA, MOA and ADAMS, while its AI facilities support advanced computing and research.

• 180-point master's qualification completed over approximately 1.5 years

• March and July entry points

• Hamilton campus

• Strong emphasis on machine learning and modern AI applications

• Dedicated AI computing facilities

• Research/dissertation opportunities

• Strong focus on ethical and responsible AI

• Graduates develop communication, analytical thinking, independent-learning and complex problem-solving skills

• The degree may be awarded with First Class Honours, Second Class Honours (First Division), Second Class Honours (Second Division), or without honours, subject to the applicable regulations.

• 2026 estimated international tuition fee: approximately NZD 68,370 for 180 points

• 2027 estimated international tuition fee: approximately NZD 71,789 for 180 points; fees are estimates and subject to change.

• Scholarship opportunities are available for eligible international students, including the Vice-Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship.

Career Outcomes

The degree prepares graduates for professional and technical roles involving artificial intelligence, advanced computing, machine learning and AI-based problem solving. The University specifically identifies Artificial Intelligence Specialist as a career opportunity, while the programme's advanced AI and computing skills can also support related roles across technology and data-driven industries.

Potential career areas include:

• Artificial Intelligence Specialist

• Machine Learning Specialist

• AI/ML Engineer

• AI Consultant

• AI Researcher

• Data and AI-focused technology roles

• AI applications in sectors such as finance, healthcare, technology and other industries

Visa Requirements (International Students)

• Valid New Zealand student visa for the duration of study

• University of Waikato Offer of Place

• Evidence of tuition fee payment or acceptable evidence for the visa process

• Evidence of sufficient living funds, currently at least NZD 20,000 per year

• Appropriate medical and travel insurance for the required period

• Medical examination or police certificates may be required depending on individual circumstances

• Visa approval is determined by Immigration New Zealand; receiving an offer from the University does not automatically guarantee a visa

• International students must maintain appropriate insurance to remain enrolled.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Academic entry normally requires a relevant bachelor's degree or postgraduate diploma, generally in Computer Science or Computer Engineering/related study, with a B grade average or higher in the relevant 300-level study.

• Equivalent qualifications from recognised institutions may be considered by the Academic Board.

• Applicants who do not meet the standard requirements may, in exceptional circumstances, be considered based on academic merit and relevant experience, potentially with additional qualifying papers.

• International applicants must meet the University's postgraduate English-language requirements. The standard postgraduate requirement includes IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, or accepted equivalent tests such as TOEFL iBT 90, PTE Academic 58, or Duolingo 120, subject to the University's applicable requirements.

• The Vice-Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship is available to eligible new international postgraduate students and is merit-based. The current scholarship information lists awards of up to NZD 15,000 towards tuition fees; country-specific conditions can apply.

• For Indian students, the University has a dedicated Vice-Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship for India. Current scholarship information should be checked against the applicable intake and award regulations before applying.

• The University lists the 2027 estimated international tuition fee for the 180-point MAI as NZD 71,789; tuition and other charges may change before enrolment.

• The University recommends checking the exact paper availability and timetable for the intended intake because individual papers can vary by teaching period.