Joint MSc in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

Start Date: July 2024        Program Type: Joint MSc             Course Type:  Postgraduate, Taughtsp      Locations: IIT Madras, India, and

Duration: ; 18 Months       Medium of Instruction: English    Degree: MSc in Data Science & AI            University of Birmingham,UK.

MSc Data Science & Artificial Intelligence


IIT Madras and the University of Birmingham are pleased to announce their Joint Masters Program in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Learn from the leaders in the field through a world-class curriculum with the flexibility to choose your location for a part of the program. With an opportunity for industrial placement, and a year-long research project co-guided by expert faculty from both institutes, this 18 month program promises to give you an unparalleled learning experience while you gain international exposure.

Join us on an exciting academic journey that starts at the prestigious IIT Madras in Chennai. As part of the program, you will have the opportunity to

complete a short industrial placement to gain valuable hands-on experience. In the following semester, you will head to the esteemed University of Birmingham for your studies.

On completing the second semester, you will have the option to choose between two tracks. The choice is yours, and whichever track you choose, you can be assured of a world-class education and an experience that will set you up for success in your future career.

Track 1: Complete your research project and attend electives at the University of Birmingham, leading to an overall continuous stay of 12 months in the UK.

Track 2: Return to IIT Madras to complete your research project and attend electives in Chennai.


Why study this Joint Masters?


Top-Ranked Institutions:

  • Both the University of Birmingham and IIT Madras have strong reputations for academic excellence and research.
  • The University of Birmingham’s School of Computer Science is world-renowned for its education and research.
  • IIT Madras’ is recognized as an Institute of Eminence by the government of India for excellence in technical education, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and industrial consultancy.
  • Specialization in Data Science and AI:

  • Get the opportunity to learn from highly experienced academics and leading industry professionals.
  • The University of Birmingham is a partner in the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence. Birmingham has state-of-the-art, multi-million-pound facilities, including dedicated laboratories for Computer Science students, a teaching laboratory for Robotics, and research laboratories for Security, Medical Imaging, Intelligent Robotics and Computer Vision.
  • IIT Madras has world-class infrastructure for research in Data Science and AI, including high-performance computing facilities, cloud computing resources, and advanced software tools. The institute has several Centres of Excellence in the field, including Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and AI. These centres provide a platform for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
  • Access to Industry Partnerships:

  • Both universities have strong industry partnerships and collaborations, providing opportunities for industrial placement and networking with professionals in the field. This hands-on experience will give you a competitive edge in the job market and help you build your professional network.
  • International Experience:

  • Gain a unique global perspective on Data Science and AI while studying at two leading institutions in the UK and India. You will develop cross-cultural competencies that are highly valued by employers in today’s globalized world and build a diverse network of contacts in both countries, including fellow students, professors, and professionals in the industry.
  • Winter Project - Industrial Placement


  • Get employment ready through practical industry experience working on real data science and AI projects in some of the best companies in Chennai.
  • Expand your professional network and make connections with experienced data scientists and AI experts.
  • Experience a new culture and work environment, enhancing your cross-cultural communication skills.
  • Stand out in the job market by demonstrating your adaptability, resilience, and ability to work in diverse environments.
  • Develop independence, self-confidence, and problem-solving skills through a challenging but rewarding personal growth experience.
  • Research Project


  • Hands-on Experience: During the program, you will work on a nearly year-long research project that will give you hands-on experience in applying theoretical concepts to real-world problems in Data Science and AI. This experience is invaluable when it comes to finding employment in the industry, as it shows potential employers that you have practical experience in the field.
  • Expert Guidance: Your research project will be supervised by experienced faculty from IIT Madras and the University of Birmingham. They will offer guidance and mentorship throughout the project, ensuring that you receive exposure to cutting-edge research and are well-prepared for future research opportunities.
  • Skill Development: Through the project, you will develop essential skills such as data analysis, programming, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in the industry. This hands-on approach will help you refine your skills and build a solid foundation in Data Science and AI.
  • Timeline