Why Study / Key Benefits

The University of Canterbury Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI) is designed for students who already have a computing-related background and want to develop advanced AI engineering and innovation skills.

Key benefits include:

• Combines taught coursework with practical, applied learning.
• Covers both technical and broader social/philosophical aspects of AI.
• Provides opportunities to customise study through electives such as deep learning, computer vision, embedded systems, AI in business and data analytics.
• Includes a substantial 60-point AI project where students design, develop and test an AI software solution to a complex problem.
• Focuses on applying AI methodologies to real-world problems rather than only theoretical study.
• Develops professional communication, project management and technical leadership skills.
• UC highlights applications of AI across primary industries, high-value manufacturing, climate change, tourism, gaming, social interaction and other sectors.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The MAI consists of 180 points: 120 points of taught courses plus a 60-point practical project.

Compulsory courses include:

• COSC401 – Machine Learning – 15 points
• COSC440 – Deep Learning – 15 points
• COSC469 – Research Methods in Computer Science and Software Engineering – 15 points
• PHIL425 – Ethics of Artificial Intelligence – 15 points
• COSC420 – Intelligent Tutoring Systems OR COSC428 – Computer Vision – 15 points
• COSC681 – AI Project – 60 points

Elective study can include areas such as:

• Intelligent Tutoring Systems
• Computer Vision
• Artificial Intelligence in Business
• Data Analytics and Business Intelligence
• Computer Science 400-level courses
• Software Engineering 400-level courses
• Data Science-related courses
• Selected Mathematics, Statistics and other approved subjects

Disciplines / Specialisations

The MAI does not list formal named specialisations or majors.

Students can, however, customise their learning through elective choices in areas such as:

• Machine learning
• Deep learning
• Computer vision
• Intelligent tutoring systems
• AI in business
• Data analytics
• Business intelligence
• Computer science
• Software engineering
• Mathematics/statistics-related study
• AI ethics

Programme Highlights

• 180-point master's degree.
• 18 months full-time.
• Up to 3 years part-time.
• February and July intakes.
• Strong emphasis on applied AI.
• 120 points of taught coursework.
• 60-point dedicated AI Project.
• Machine learning and deep learning are core components.
• AI ethics is included as a compulsory component.
• Choice between Intelligent Tutoring Systems and Computer Vision.
• Electives allow students to build expertise around particular AI interests.
• The AI Project involves designing, developing, testing/evaluating and professionally communicating an AI software solution to a complex problem.

Career Outcomes

UC identifies growing demand for graduates capable of developing AI systems and integrating AI into products and services.

Potential career directions include:

• AI software solutions consultant
• AI robotics engineer
• Data scientist
• R&D product manager
• AI engineer
• AI software developer
• AI-related research and development roles
• AI applications in cybersecurity
• Automated transportation
• Intelligent/automated systems
• Large-scale data processing
• AI-enabled products and services

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

The current UC programme information confirms that the MAI remains a 180-point qualification with February/July entry and an 18-month full-time structure.

Important current points for applicants:

• The degree requires a relevant Computer Science-related bachelor's background.
• A B grade average requirement applies to the specified 300-level coursework route.
• Applicants without the required academic preparation may have a Pre-Master's pathway available through UC.
• The 60-point COSC681 AI Project is restricted to students enrolled in the MAI and requires Head of Department approval.
• Course prerequisites apply to individual papers.
• Some electives require specific prior study or Head of Department approval.
• The programme is primarily campus-based.
• The project is a practical applied AI project rather than a conventional purely theoretical dissertation.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students intending to study the MAI in New Zealand generally require a Fee Paying Student Visa, unless another visa category applies to their circumstances.

Immigration New Zealand currently states that applicants need:

• An offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Sufficient funds to pay tuition fees or evidence of an applicable scholarship.
• Sufficient funds for living expenses or an acceptable sponsor.
• Acceptable medical and travel insurance.
• Good health and character, where required.
• Genuine reasons for coming to New Zealand to study.
• Evidence that they can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay.
• Evidence of onward travel or sufficient funds to purchase an onward ticket.
• Medical examination/chest X-ray or police certificates where applicable.