Indian student guide to studying Artificial Intelligence in the UK
The term ‘Artificial Intelligence’ was first coined by John McCarthy in 1956 at the Dartmouth conference. AI can be defined as “the science and engineering of making intelligent machines”. AI is the process of making a computer system capable of doing tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as understanding natural language and recognising objects/shapes, etc.
Studying AI and ML in the UK means learning, benefitting from world-beating research and taking advantage of great facilities. The UK has been at the forefront of AI research or machine learning since it developed as a field. There are two main types of AI: rule-based systems and learning systems.
Rule-based systems are designed by humans, who write rules for the computer to follow. This type of AI is often used in expert systems designed to solve specific problems, such as diagnosing medical conditions. AI courses in the UK are available as Bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and PhD in artificial intelligence.
Bachelor’s of Artificial Intelligence
Bachelor’s degrees in artificial intelligence in the UK are available as BSc (4 years) and BEng (3 years) courses.
Artificial Intelligence in both disciplines covers Machine Learning, 3D Computer Vision, Visual and Spoken interfaces, Industrial Robotics, Mobile Robots and Drones, Robot Systems Design, Robot Communication, Robot Product Design, AI Theory and Application, and Human-Robot Interaction in both theory and practice that can be later applied in practical robotics and AI systems.
Master’s of Artificial Intelligence
Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence in the UK is available as MSc, MEng, and in Artificial Intelligence across a range of specialisms.
The Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence targets a wide range of areas in AI and Machine learning and draws on research in relevant fields such as Cognitive science, linguistics, mathematics, and neuroscience. Common courses offered in Master’s of Artificial Intelligence courses include Natural Language Understanding, Generation, Machine Translation, Machine Learning, Advanced Robotics, and Reinforcement Learning.
PhD in Artificial Intelligence
A PhD degree in artificial intelligence from the leading centre for development and research in Artificial Intelligence will train you to become a leading expert in a growing field of commerce and research.
Artificial Intelligence Careers and Salary
Graduates with a degree in Artificial Intelligence (AI) are increasingly sought after by employers across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, finance, cybersecurity, automotive, retail, and defence. As AI technologies become integral to data-driven decision-making and automation, skilled professionals are needed to develop intelligent systems, manage AI infrastructure, and interpret complex datasets.
In the UK, AI professionals work in roles such as:
- Machine Learning Engineer
- AI Research Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Robotics Engineer
- Computer Vision Specialist
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) Engineer
- AI Consultant
For Indian students, an AI degree from the UK offers global exposure, access to cutting-edge research, and strong links to leading technology firms. Post-study work opportunities under the Graduate Route visa allow eligible international graduates to remain in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies, increasing the chances of securing a skilled role in the AI field.
Average graduate starting salaries in the UK:
- Professional AI-related roles: £44,365
- Non-professional or general tech-related graduate roles: £37,000
(Source: Payscale.com. Figures are indicative and may vary by role, location, and prior experience.)
The UK’s growing AI sector, backed by initiatives such as the Alan Turing Institute and government investment in emerging technologies, provides a strong platform for Indian graduates to launch international careers.
Artificial Intelligence UK Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Artificial Intelligence programmes in the UK vary by university, particularly between undergraduate and postgraduate levels. However, general academic standards are outlined below.
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
- A-levels: ABB typically required, including Mathematics and Physics or Chemistry
- International Baccalaureate (IB): 30 points overall, with strong performance in Maths and Science subjects
- CBSE/ISC (India): 80%–85% average in Year 12, with high marks in Mathematics and at least one science subject
- English language requirement (IELTS): 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 6.0
Some universities may accept alternative qualifications such as the Indian School Certificate (ISC), State Board Higher Secondary Education exams, or recognised foundation programmes.
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
- Academic background: A recognised bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related discipline with a minimum of 60–70% from a reputable Indian university
- Work experience (desirable but not always required): Applicants with relevant technical or research experience may have an advantage
- English language requirement (IELTS): 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0; some universities may require 7.0 for research-intensive courses
Note: Entry requirements may differ by institution and programme type (e.g. MSc in AI vs MSc in Data Science with AI). Students are advised to check directly with their chosen university.
Where can I study Artificial Intelligence in the UK?
To learn more about the best artificial intelligence colleges in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Computer Science and Information Systems universities that offer AI specialisations in the Guardian University Guide 2025 below:
- University of Cambridge
- University of St Andrews
- University of Oxford
- Imperial College London
- University of Dundee
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Bristol
- University College London
- University of Sheffield
- University of Bath
Study Artificial Intelligence in the UK
If you are interested in studying Artificial Intelligence in the UK, arrange your free consultation today.