UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY · NEW ZEALAND
Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€34k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI) at the University of Canterbury is designed for students with a background in computing who wish to specialise in AI engineering and innovation. This applied master's programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, focusing on equipping you with the skills to address real-world challenges using AI methodologies. AI is increasingly integral to various sectors, and this degree prepares graduates to contribute to its advancement and application in fields like primary industry, manufacturing, climate change, and more.
Curriculum
The MAI consists of 180 points, comprising 120 points of taught courses and a 60-point practical project. You can tailor your studies with elective courses and can choose to start in either Semester 1 (February) or Semester 2 (July).
- Compulsory Courses
- Machine LearningCOSC401
- Deep LearningCOSC440
- Research Methods in Computer Science and Software EngineeringCOSC469
- Ethics of Artificial IntelligencePHIL425
- Intelligent Tutoring Systems OR Computer VisionCOSC420 / COSC428
- Project Course
- AI ProjectCOSC681
- Elective Courses
- Courses from DATA400-level (e.g., DATA420, DATA423-425, DATA430-439)DATA4xx
- AI in BusinessINFO621
- Data Analytics and Business IntelligenceINFO634
- 400-level Computer Science courses (excluding specific codes)COSC4xx
- 400-level Software Engineering courses (excluding specific codes)SENG4xx
Careers
Graduates are in high demand across the ICT industry due to the growing need for AI expertise. This degree prepares you for various roles in areas such as automated transportation, AI assistants, large-scale data processing, and cybersecurity.
- AI Engineering
- Research
- Data Processing
- Cybersecurity
- Automated Transportation
- AI Assistants
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI) for international students?
- The estimated tuition fee for the MAI for international students in 2026 is $67,950 for 180 points. A Student Services Levy of $1,236.00 for 120 points is also payable annually.
- How long does the Master of Artificial Intelligence programme take to complete?
- The Master of Artificial Intelligence is a 180-point programme with a full-time duration of 18 months.
- What are the entry requirements for the MAI programme?
- You need a Bachelor's degree in a subject related to Computer Science with a B Grade Average in 60 points of your 300-level COSC/SENG/ENCE/DATA301 courses, or a B Grade Average in 60 points of your 300-level courses plus other approved qualifications or experience. English language proficiency requirements must also be met.
- How do I apply for the Master of Artificial Intelligence?
- You can apply online through the myUC portal. Ensure you gather necessary documents like academic transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of English language proficiency before applying.
- What kind of career opportunities are available after completing the MAI?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as AI Engineering, Research, Data Processing, and Cybersecurity across the ICT industry due to the growing demand for AI expertise.
- Can international students receive scholarships for the MAI programme?
- Yes, various scholarships are available for international students, including Manaaki NZ Scholarships funded by the New Zealand Government, as well as UC Scholarships and specific scholarships for female, Pacific, or Ngāi Tahu-affiliated students.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree in a subject related to Computer ScienceA B Grade Average in 60 points of your 300-level COSC/SENG/ENCE/DATA301 courses OR a B Grade Average in 60 points of your 300-level courses, plus other approved qualifications, qualifying programmes, and/or at least 5 years of relevant experience.
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider UC's Pre-Master’s Two Semester programme. English language proficiency must also be met as per UC's postgraduate requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)2026 estimate: $67,950 (180 points)
Tuition (home)2026 estimate: $14,962 (180 points)
Living—
Tuition fees are estimates for 2026. A Student Services Levy (SSL) is also payable per year ($1,236.00 for 120 points in 2026).
How to apply
1. Check EligibilityReview the academic and English language entry requirements for the Master of Artificial Intelligence.
2. Prepare DocumentsGather all necessary academic transcripts, certificates, and proof of English language proficiency.
3. Apply OnlineSubmit your application through the myUC portal ([myUC](https://myuc.canterbury.ac.nz/login)).
4. Meet Conditions (if applicable)If you need to improve your academic or English language skills, consider the Pre-Master’s programme or English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Scholarships
The Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship—
Graduate Women Canterbury (Inc.) Trust Board Scholarship—
Pacific Community Scholarship—
Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate Scholarship—
Manaaki NZ ScholarshipsFull scholarships
UC Scholarships—
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI) for international students?
+
The estimated tuition fee for the MAI for international students in 2026 is $67,950 for 180 points. A Student Services Levy of $1,236.00 for 120 points is also payable annually.
How long does the Master of Artificial Intelligence programme take to complete?
+
The Master of Artificial Intelligence is a 180-point programme with a full-time duration of 18 months.
What are the entry requirements for the MAI programme?
+
You need a Bachelor's degree in a subject related to Computer Science with a B Grade Average in 60 points of your 300-level COSC/SENG/ENCE/DATA301 courses, or a B Grade Average in 60 points of your 300-level courses plus other approved qualifications or experience. English language proficiency requirements must also be met.
How do I apply for the Master of Artificial Intelligence?
+
You can apply online through the myUC portal. Ensure you gather necessary documents like academic transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of English language proficiency before applying.
What kind of career opportunities are available after completing the MAI?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as AI Engineering, Research, Data Processing, and Cybersecurity across the ICT industry due to the growing demand for AI expertise.
Can international students receive scholarships for the MAI programme?
+
Yes, various scholarships are available for international students, including Manaaki NZ Scholarships funded by the New Zealand Government, as well as UC Scholarships and specific scholarships for female, Pacific, or Ngāi Tahu-affiliated students.