Course features

There has never been a more exciting time to study artificial intelligence. By studying applied AI in context, you will also acquire the ability to critically and ethically evaluate applications in your own substantial investigations.

Each week, you will study a different topic surrounding AI and its implications for society from health and social care applications to facial recognition technologies, to AI governance.

The module contextualises artificial intelligence from the following three perspectives:

• Understanding and evaluation of applications of AI in different fields and the technical concepts driving these applications;

• Understanding and evaluation of the challenges AI poses for society;

• Reflections on potential responses to curb AI including policy answers and regulations.

No previous knowledge of artificial intelligence is required. By the end of this module, you should have a comprehensive and critical understanding of this technology and how it impacts our lives today.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you:

• Will have a systematic understanding of the concept artificial intelligence;

• Will have acquired a systematic overview of the key fields in which AI is applied in everyday life;

• Will be able to illustrate critical and ethical awareness of how AI applications affect society;

• Will be able to independently develop a substantial investigation of the application of AI in a certain field (eg the workplace, healthcare);

• Will be able to independently create recommendations about the regulation of a specific AI application.

Entry requirements

T​he standard entry requirements comprise:

• A 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent 
• A CV and personal statement outlining reasons for study  
• English language at Band B (IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each skill).

For information on our English language requirements please see our English Language requirements page.

Assessment

You will be assessed via the following:

• 1000-word practical research project (30%)
• 3,000-word report (70%)

Further information

This module runs over 10 weeks and combines online interactions with your peers and instructors with self-directed learning.

The module materials aim to provide you with a rich and varied online learning experience and include:

• Five live webinars
• Topic-specific interactive lessons
• Readings
• Discussion forums
• A variety of activities designed to encourage student participation, learning, debate and contributions.

Every two weeks, there will be a live webinar session where you will engage with your instructor and fellow students. These sessions may include a range of activities: to discuss the week’s topics, debrief the week’s activities and/or debate on and answer questions posted in the weekly forum. They may also have specific preparation activities and readings.