Artificial Intelligence in Business

The MSc AI in Business programme is a full-time postgraduate course aimed at students with any undergraduate degree background. The curriculum covers essential areas of AI, including machine learning, data science and analytics, generative AI, design thinking, and ethical considerations, alongside business-oriented modules focused on strategy, innovation, and decision-making. This programme will prepare students to apply AI-driven solutions to challenging business problems, making them valuable in a wide range of industries where AI is transforming strategic approaches and enabling new business insights.



Designed with a focus on real-world application, the MSc AI in Business programme incorporates case studies and applied projects to address current challenges in AI and business integration. Through these projects, students gain practical experience and build competencies that are highly relevant in a data-driven economy.



As AI increasingly augments tasks rather than replaces jobs, this applied focus supports students’ professional development and prepares them for the growing need for a ‘future-ready’ workforce. The programme equips graduates with in-demand AI skills that improve productivity and career prospects, catering to the rising demand for AI capabilities in both tech and non-tech roles. In addition to technical skills, the curriculum emphasises skills such as strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and innovation, which are critical for navigating AI-driven business landscapes. Graduates of the programme will be well-positioned for roles such as Business Transformation Consultant, Customer Insights Specialist, Strategic Innovation Advisor, and Business Intelligence Analyst, where they can leverage AI to drive business efficiency, customer engagement, and strategic growth.

The MSc AI in Business is a one-year full-time programme designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage AI technology in business contexts, enabling them to drive innovation, informed decision-making, and responsible AI adoption across various sectors. The programme covers core areas such as AI integration, ethical considerations, data-driven strategy, and innovative business solutions. These areas are crucial for addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities presented by AI in today’s business landscape.



Semester 1 modules include AI in Business and Society, which explores the societal and ethical impacts of AI on business; Technology for Good, focusing on the potential for AI and digital technologies to promote social and environmental objectives; Design Thinking with AI, which integrates AI with user-centric design principles to foster creative problem-solving; and Generative AI and Business Intelligence, covering the application of generative AI for data analysis and business insights.



Semester 2 enables students to deepen their expertise in AI applications within business contexts, focusing on areas like data-driven strategy, consulting, and emerging AI technologies. Semester 2 includes 3 core modules: Strategy, Change, and Analytics, which applies AI tools to inform strategic decision-making and manage organisational change; AI Entrepreneurship and Consulting, where students gain hands-on experience with consulting projects focused on AI solutions; and AI Frontiers, exploring cutting-edge advancements in AI technologies. Additionally, students can choose one optional module from Marketing Analytics, Making Ethical Business Decisions, and Emerging Technologies for Business, allowing them to tailor their studies to specific interests within AI and business.



Semester 3 consists of a module called AI in Business Capstone. The Capstone represents the culminating independent piece of research of the MSc AI in Business programme. This substantial research work allows students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired over previous semesters to design, develop, and propose AI- driven solutions for real-world business or societal challenges. The capstone combines critical elements of business models, AI, machine learning, and data analytics, supporting students in delivering actionable and sustainable impact.

Graduate

Normally a strong 2.2 honours degree (with minimum 55%) or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in any discipline.



We welcome applications from a diverse range of backgrounds so may consider previous managerial work experience alongside lower academic qualifications.



Please note: international applicants will be required to pay a deposit to secure a place on this course.



The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL). Please visit the link below for more information. http://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicyQUB

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 15th August 2025 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.

1 year full-time.

Entry Year: 2025/26

Career Prospects

Introduction

The programme provides a wide range of opportunities for graduates to work in roles such as Business Transformation Consultant, Strategic Innovation Advisor, Customer Insights Specialist, and Business Intelligence Analyst, among others. With skills in AI-driven solutions, strategic decision-making, and ethical AI applications, graduates will excel in diverse industries, driving innovation, efficiency, and growth in an AI-powered business environment.



Employment after the Course

The MSc AI in Business programme uniquely combines advanced AI expertise with strategic business applications, preparing graduates for in-demand roles such as Business Transformation Consultant, Customer Insights Specialist, and Strategic Innovation Advisor in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven economy.