Kingston - MSC Artificial Intelligence
Kingston - MSC Artificial Intelligence
Programme Specification
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SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION
Teaching Institution:
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Entry Requirements: Kingston University typically uses a range of entry
requirements to assess an applicant’s suitability for our
courses. Most postgraduate taught course requirements
are based on having been awarded a relevant
undergraduate degree and are normally coupled with
minimum grades expectation of 2:2, specific courses in
certain areas may have a stricter grade requirement. We
may also use interview, portfolio and performance pieces
to assess a person's suitability for some courses. We
recognise that every person's journey to a postgraduate
taught education is different and unique and in some
cases we may take into account work experience and
other non-standard pathways onto University level study.
Additionally, all non-UK applicants must meet our English
language requirements.
Please see our course pages on the Kingston University
website for the most up to date entry requirements.
Programme Accredited by: Will be submitted for accreditation by BCS in due course,
who require at least 2 cohorts.
Higher or N/A
Degree
Apprenticeship
standard:
Recruitment, N/A
Selection and
Admission
process:
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SECTION 2: THE COURSE
The MSc in Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a comprehensive range of modules that
cover cutting-edge algorithms, tools, and techniques in the field of AI. These
modules are designed to align with the growing market opportunities in various
areas, including big data, data mining, machine learning, deep learning and their
direct application in Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, and Cyber
Security.
The principal aim of the course is:
To provide students with a strong foundation in the theoretical aspects of AI
technologies, enabling them to apply these algorithms to real-world data and
develop intelligent systems ready for deployment.
The course is ideal for students that wish to develop and apply computing skills in
this domain that is widely used throughout industries and the public sector.
The modules are structured in a way that follows the typical roadmap of an AI
project, ensuring a systematic approach to learning. Most importantly, elective
modules are available to allow students to specialise and focus on specific areas of
interest. The compulsory modules include Applied Data Programming, Ethics &
Regulation in AI, and Machine Learning & Deep Learning. These modules provide a
broad understanding of AI principles and applications. The elective modules include
Cyber & AI Applications, Natural Language Processing, and Computer Vision. These
modules offer students the opportunity to delve deeper into specialised areas within
AI, depending on their chosen stream of study.
The programme outcomes are referenced to the QAA subject benchmarks for
computing and mathematics and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications
(2024), and relate to the typical student. The course provides opportunities for
students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding specific to the
subject, key skills and graduate attributes.
The programme learning outcomes are the high-level learning outcomes that will
have been achieved by all students receiving this award. They must align to the
levels set out in the ‘Sector Recognised Standards in England’ (OFS 2022).
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Programme Learning Outcomes
A2 Evaluate key ethical, legal, social B2 Synthesise information and draw C2 Use and modify established
and commercial and other human new conclusions from disparate systems, AI models, techniques
factors that affect the design, and potentially incomplete and tools to model, develop and
development and deployment of sources. build computer-based AI solutions
Artificial Intelligence systems.
A3 Demonstrate a critical awareness B3 Analyse, evaluate and advise on C3 Collaborate and communicate
of current developments and future the development of AI models to effectively with other
trends in Artificial Intelligence. ensure they meet the needs of its professionals/stakeholders to plan,
current use and future design, implement, evaluate and
development deliver AI projects
A4 Evaluate security issues and B4 Elicit, evaluate and model C4 Create and implement software
evaluate risk in the context of business, customer and user solutions involving AI using a
Artificial Intelligence. requirements, incorporating variety of programming languages,
considerations such as sociological environments and platforms
and commercial contexts.
A5 Examine, appraise and identify B5 Use different programming C5 Keep up-to-date in the Artificial
appropriate ways that data and environments and justify the Intelligence profession through
information can be stored and selection of one or more for a given relevant literature, research and
processed using Artificial context. using professional networks.
Intelligence in ways appropriate to
the context of different uses.
A6 Apply knowledge in a professional B6 Identify and develop appropriate C6 Relate academic theory to
context, including understanding of methods and any relevant practice, develop and practise key
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their professional development and computer applications, to assist in personal and employability skills
the structure of the placement the solution of problems. and show examples of the
organisation (with Professional application of these skills.
Placement Only).
B7 Reflect critically on their experience
during the professional placement,
including research and information
literacy, numeracy, management
and leadership skills (with
Professional Placement Only).
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In addition to the programme learning outcomes, the programme of study defined in
this programme specification will allow students to develop the following range of
Graduate Attributes:
1. Creative Problem Solving
2. Digital Competency
3. Enterprise
4. Questioning Mindset
5. Adaptability
6. Empathy
7. Collaboration
8. Resilience
9. Self-Awareness
The programme is made up of four core taught modules in total worth 90 credits, two option
modules (total: 30 credits) that have to be chosen worth 15 credits each and an individual
project worth 60 credits. All students will be provided with the University Postgraduate
Regulations. Full details of each module are provided in module descriptors and via the
VLE.
The optional Professional Placement is undertaken following completion of the other
modules, specifically in Year 2 – all deadlines for it are posted on the VLE. Students on
placement complete a portfolio assessment which includes a reflection on how the theories
they have learnt during their teaching year have helped them in their placement and
demonstrate the ability to apply their teaching in a real-world situation.
Modules will run in the following order:
The project dissertation module's start and end dates are cohort-dependent. For the
September cohort, students are enrolled in the module in January and are expected to
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submit it by mid-September. Similarly, for the January cohort, students are enrolled in the
module in June and are expected to submit it by mid-January.
Consistent with all PG courses in the School of Computer Science and Mathematics (CSM),
modules will be delivered in Block Delivery Mode to offer students high flexibility in balancing
their work and other commitments. Each 30-credit and 15-credit module will be delivered
over two and one week(s) respectively, with classes scheduled for five days a week, six
hours a day.
The three elective modules should function as practical applications of the machine learning
and deep learning concepts introduced in the 30-credit core module CI7520. Additionally,
students are expected to extend the topics covered in the taught modules and treat the
Dissertation module (CI7000) as an exemplary AI project. This project should not only
demonstrate students' domain knowledge but also showcase their practical skills.
The target of our course extends well beyond covering the main theories of contemporary AI
applications. Our primary goal is to prepare our graduates for the industry by focusing
extensively on real-world commercial applications and full enterprise architecture. In the
current industry, there are AI research-oriented staff who understand AI theory very well but
struggle to commercially implement or integrate it into an enterprise platform due to a lack of
understanding of system engineering and architecture principles. Conversely, there are very
good software engineers who understand best software practices but struggle to efficiently
integrate AI components due to a lack of understanding of AI theory. As a result, they use AI
as a black-box component without being able to efficiently customise it to meet application
needs, which affects the performance, reliability, efficiency, operational cost, and other
aspects of the final product.
While each of the modules covers some aspects of software engineering practice and
architecture frameworks, an integrated approach is crucial. Therefore, we are introducing a
compulsory one-and-a-half-day intensive workshop titled “Developing an AI-Driven Cloud-
Based Enterprise System,” which will be offered twice a year. Students are expected to enrol
in the workshop during the early stages of their dissertation project. The main aim is to
provide a comprehensive understanding of the development of AI-driven cloud-based
enterprise systems while highlighting essential systems engineering and architectural
principles.
Level 7
MSc Artificial Intelligence
Core modules Modul Credit Level Teaching Pre-requisites Full Part
e code Value Block Time Time
Applied Data CI7340 30 7 TB1 1 1
Programming
Big Data and Data CI7524 15 7 TB1 1 2
Mining
Ethics and CI7522 15 7 TB1 1 2
Regulation of
Artificial
Intelligence
Machine Learning CI7520 30 7 TB2 1 1
and Deep Learning
Project Dissertation CI7000 60 7 TB1 and 1 2
TB2
Optional Modules
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Computer Vision CI7523 15 7 TB2 1 2
Cyber Security and CI7526 15 7 TB2 1 2
Artificial
Intelligence
Applications
Natural Language CI7525 15 7 TB2 1 2
Processing
Level 7 information
Level 7
MSc Artificial Intelligence with Professional Placement
Core modules Modul Credit Level Teaching Pre-requisites Full Part
e code Value Block Time Time
Applied Data CI7340 30 7 TB1 1 1
Programming
Big Data and Data CI7524 15 7 TB1 1 2
Mining
Ethics and CI7522 15 7 TB1 1 1
Regulation of
Artificial
Intelligence
Machine Learning CI7521 30 7 TB2 1 1
and Deep Learning
Professional CI7900 120 7 TB3 2 2
Placement
Project Dissertation CI7000 60 7 TB1 and 1 2
TB2
Optional Modules
Computer Vision CI7523 15 7 TB2 1 2
Cyber Security and CI7526 15 7 TB2 1 2
Artificial
Intelligence
Applications
Natural Language CI7525 15 7 TB2 1 2
Processing
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Students on postgraduate courses in the School of CSM come from diverse social,
cultural and educational backgrounds and their past learning experiences are varied.
The School’s broad strategy of aiming for problem-centred teaching and accessible,
relevant (authentic) artefact-based assessment (assessment of learning by
doing/creating) was created in recognition of this. The course adopts the University’s
Inclusive Curriculum Design Principles to cater for this diversity and define the
approaches to learning, teaching and assessment (LTA), pastoral care and
employability with the following broad principles:
1. An inclusive curriculum with the student at the heart of the learning process
encouraging choice in their focussed topics for investigation within the
prescribed module assignment formats (where practical) and sharing
experiences and perspectives within the course through discussion and
presentation of results.
o Module descriptors adopt problem-centred approaches which in turn
facilitate an inclusive learning environment.
o Curricula and approaches to LTA allow for expression of cohorts’
experiences and perspectives, ultimately for sharing and shaping
understanding together. Modules and the dissertation challenge
students’ epistemological and ontological approaches to the study of
Artificial Intelligence, including software and its legal, social and ethical
aspects and the impact on society to develop approaches to critical
evaluation of current and future knowledge.
o Teaching sessions are problem-centred, predominantly workshop-
based, and necessarily interactive to make best use of the intensive
weeks of study interspersed with directed study. Workshops and the
use of the VLE (or other cohort-inspired networking tools) allow
students to investigate and share their understanding of new concepts,
techniques and technologies. This approach is also designed to
enhance their practical competency and confidence when dealing with
a range of requirements.
o The delivery is research informed, taking advantage of CSM’s diverse
research portfolio, dynamically updated in accordance with advances in
the field.
o Modules incorporate opportunities to explore current developments in
the field, in practice and applied settings incorporating student
perspectives, real world situations, problem solving and task based
learning. Content includes the opportunity for students to personalise
the topics being explored and allow them to adapt summative
assessments towards their personal interests and motivations, where
practical in module assignments as well as the dissertation.
o Teaching teams draw on the academic strengths and research
interests of staff and use invited speakers and experts from research
and industry to bolster the curriculum. This offers students up-to-date
learning experiences from experts in these areas.
o Students complete their MSc by conducting an individualised capstone
research project, designed in collaboration with the Artificial
Intelligence team.
2. Assessment for learning (rather than solely of learning) enabling an inclusive
student perspective in their design and application, permitting a degree of
individual choice and direction for assessed tasks work.
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o All assessments have been designed at level 7, as appropriate for the
Artificial Intelligence MSc, to be inclusive, accessible, artefact-based
and authentic to the field.
o Students’ induction at the start of the course includes an introduction to
the language of UK HEI assessment and the tools used to measure the
quality of their academic performance.
o The assessment strategy aims to incorporate an element of choice
within a carefully designed framework of assessments that align with
the diversity of a Artificial Intelligence professional’s needs, and thus
encourages students to be personally involved in their assessments.
For example, students will have opportunities to choose to focus on
different industries and contexts reflecting their specialism or areas of
interest in coursework assignments.
o Students have formative tasks and feedback available within the
workshops preceding all assessments. Teaching sessions adopt a
range of activities (including practical tasks, case studies, group
discussion, role play) to enrich the learning experience in a problem-
centred, predominantly workshop-based setting, which directly
supports the formulation of summative assessments.
o Feedback on both formative tasks and summative work enables
students to learn from assessment experiences, reflect alongside
directed study and feed-forward that learning to future assessments,
most critically to the final dissertation project.
3. An approach to the personal tutor system appropriate to the Artificial
Intelligence MSc, which provides opportunities for students to personalise
their experience and track their academic and personal skills development.
o The Course Leader is the nexus of the postgraduate personal tutor
system and normally acts as the formal Personal Tutor, supported day-
to-day during intensive week-block teaching by the course’s module
leaders. The personal tutors take the lead on academic advise and
pastoral support. This is also complemented by the Individual Project
Supervisor who also develops a complementary relationship with their
supervisees. The personal tutor and project supervisor are the major
touchpoints for the investigation of students’ current future skills and a
point of guidance for their development.
o Students will have a Dissertation Supervisor from the Artificial
Intelligence team and in cases where that is the Course Leader, an
independent Personal Tutor will also be appointed so that all students
have the opportunity for independent pastoral and academic advice.
o The Course Leader and/or Personal Tutor will meet with Artificial
Intelligence students regularly to provide guidance on assessment and
personal development choices, discuss progress on the course, career
plans, goals, development and recognition of personal and graduate
attributes.
The assessment during the Professional Placement year will include a reflective
practice piece of work supported by evidence of achievement, and the employer’s
appraisal. The performance and attendance will be regularly monitored through the
placement year. The marking of the placement is “pass” or “fail”.
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E. Support for Students and their Learning
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o Elected/appointed Student Representatives who can report to the
Student Voice Committee meetings with feedback from students on the
course specific to the modules and the course in general.
The University has several methods for evaluating and improving the quality and
standards of its provision. These include:
External examiners
Student Voice Committees (SVC)
Annual Monitoring and Enhancement
Internal Subject Review undertaken at subject level
Student evaluation including MEQs
Moderation policies
Feedback from employers
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Students’ employability skills are developed throughout the course, through activities
that are embedded within the syllabus and from the University’s Careers and
Employability Service. During induction week students are encouraged to reflect on
and identify what they have previously learned, whether academically or in terms of
transferable skills, and how these may be relevant to their choice of subject
discipline and employment opportunities. They are also encouraged to explore the
job market and possible career paths at an early stage of the course, and to consider
attributes that employers look for in graduates above and beyond essential academic
skills. The students are then encouraged to continue to build on the key skill
attributes learnt from their previous education and experiences, and focus on the
importance of the following KU graduate attributes that are particularly relevant to
Artificial Intelligence: Creative and original thinking, being inventive and
experimental, finding original solutions to problems, influencing change, being more
resilient and self-aware and able to consider their actions in the context of the wider
community. As the course progresses, students are further encouraged to develop
clearer ideas about career options and are offered assistance and guidance in the
preparation of a CV and for job applications and interviews. For students already in
employment the course offers an opportunity to enhance their knowledge and to
develop their practical, intellectual and key skills to assist them in their career
development, obtaining recognition for current and acquired skills.
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The appropriateness of placement positions is vetted by the Course Leader
and while out on placement students are supported by a placement tutor who
monitors progress and visits the students on site.
The aim from start to finish is to ensure that students have a successful and
rewarding placement experience which develops their knowledge and skills
and prepares them for higher levels of employment.
All students will be benefiting from the Future Skills programme that the University is
rolling out as a part of the Town House Strategy. These skills include problem solving,
communication skills, digital skills, critical thinking, analytical skills, adaptability,
imitativeness, resilience, building relationships and creativity. Post-graduate students
come with many of these skills with them, so there will be great opportunities for peer-
based work and sharing and the development of these skills across the cohort. The
development of these skills will be built into the degree programme coherently as the
future skills programme rolls out into post-graduate study. In the beginning, they will
be discussed during Personal Tutor meetings and supervision of the Individual Project.
Students are encouraged to have an industrial client as the focus for their projects,
and this offers an ideal common area for discussion.
The British Computer Society (The Chartered Institute for IT) https://www.bcs.org
The Institute for Mathematics and its Applications https://ima.org.uk
QAA Subject Benchmark Statement https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-
benchmark-statements for Computing and Mathematics at master’s level.
This table maps where course learning outcomes are summatively assessed across the
modules for this course. It provides an aid to academic staff in understanding how individual
modules contribute to the course aims, a means to help students monitor their own learning,
personal and professional development as the course progresses and a checklist for quality
assurance purposes.
Level 7
Module Code
CI7522
CI7523
CI7524
CI7525
CI7526
CI7340
CI7521
CI7520
CI7000
CI7340
CI7900
A1 S S S S S
A2 S S S S
Knowledge & A3 S S S S S
Understandin
g A4 S S S S
A5 S S S S S
A6 S
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B1 S S S S
B2 S S S S
B3 S S S S S
Intellectual
B4 S S S S S
Skills
B5 S S S S
B6 S S S S
B7 S
C1 S S S S S
C2 S S S S S
Practical C3 S S S S S
Skills C4 S S S S
C5 S S S S S
C6 S S S S S
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