Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence for Professionals

This programme focuses on the strategic and practical aspects of AI applications, rather the low-level details of how particular AI algorithms are implemented.  Therefore, learners are not required to have a background in computer science, or to learn programming or advanced mathematics to succeed in this programme. Candidates will learn about the main AI techniques and what they can be used for, data and skills requirements for AI projects, case studies of AI systems, as well as the ethical and legal implications of AI applications for business and society.



Who is this course for?



The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is targeted at learners who would benefit professionally from gaining a high-level understanding of the field of artificial intelligence (AI). This programme is suitable for those who currently work with AI, or for those who plan to work with AI in the future. The PgCert is also suitable for those who would like to explore the possibilities of how AI might be applied within their own organisation or industry sector.



What will I study?



The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is delivered 100% via remote learning, so students are not required to attend the University of Galway campus to complete the programme. The PgCert is delivered asynchronously, so students are free to learn at their own pace, at the times and places that best suit them. During each week of the programme, pre-recorded video lectures will be made available for students to watch via the university’s learning management system.



The pre-recorded video lectures will be supplemented by additional carefully curated content and activities, including assigned readings, discussion forums and other exercises. There will also be some optional synchronous live online sessions where students will have a chance to meet the lecturers who deliver the programme. The programme is assessed 100% via continuous assessment, so there is no need for students to attend University of Galway for traditional end-of-semester exams.



The programme is delivered on a part-time basis over 9 months and is designed so that it can be completed while students are in full-time employment.  The PgCert is delivered over two teaching semesters (September - December and January - May), and in each semester students will take 3 modules. Each individual module is worth 5 ECTS, and in total the PgCert consists of 30 ECTS.

Year 1 (30 Credits)

RequiredCT5181: Introduction to AI

RequiredCT5182: Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing

RequiredCT5184: Data Analysis and Visualisation

RequiredCT5186: Future of Artificial Intelligence

RequiredCT5185: Ethics and Law for Artificial Intelligence

RequiredCT5212: Societal Impact of Artificial Intelligence

Minimum Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold a Level 8 honours undergraduate degree in any discipline. Applicants with a Level 7 ordinary undergraduate degree and relevant work experience will also be considered. Please email the Programme Director: patrick.mannion@universityofgalway.ie with any queries regarding entry requirements.



English Language Entry Requirements

Overall, entry to the MSc requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, 6.5 in writing, with no less than 6.0 in any other band. TOEFL: Overall 88, Listening 12–19, Speaking 18–19, Writing 24–26, Reading 13–18. PTE: 61 overall, no less than 61 in writing, and no less than 50 in any one other component.



Supporting Documents

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.

1 year, part-time Online

Next start date: September 2026

The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is targeted at learners who would benefit professionally from gaining a high-level understanding of the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Many of our learners are in mid or upper level management positions, and wish to upskill so that they can lead AI project within their own organisation or industry sector. The PgCert in Artificial Intelligence for Professionals is designed to address the needs of professionals who wish to upskill and learn the key concepts in AI, without needing to train as AI engineers.