MSc Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence (Conversion)
- MSc
Overview
The MSc Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence is an exciting conversion programme for graduates from non-computing backgrounds who want to combine the power of artificial intelligence with the principles of human-centred design. The programme is designed to give graduates the skills to create AI systems that are not only technically capable, but genuinely useful, usable, trustworthy and aligned with human needs.
The programme is developed on the premise that the future of AI depends as much on understanding people as it does on understanding algorithms. Rather than treating human-centred design as an afterthought, students learn to integrate user needs, organisational practice, ethics and societal context into every stage of AI design and development. Alongside practical skills in AI, data, machine learning and generative AI, students will develop expertise in human-AI interaction, user research, design methods, evaluation, AI governance and responsible innovation. They will learn how to design, build and critically evaluate AI systems that create value in healthcare, public services, business, industry and the creative economy.
A distinctive feature of the programme is its innovative approach to technical learning. Teaching is specifically designed for students without a computing background, using problem-driven learning that introduces technical concepts through authentic design challenges. Throughout the programme, students will work with the latest generative AI development tools and AI-supported coding environments, enabling them to prototype and build sophisticated AI applications while focusing on solving meaningful human problems rather than mastering programming syntax alone.
Graduates will emerge with a sought-after combination of AI capability and human-centred design expertise. They will understand not only how AI systems work, but how to ensure they are usable, responsible and effective within the complex realities of organisations and society. This distinctive blend of technical AI skills, design thinking, critical analysis and ethical judgement prepares graduates for careers at the forefront of AI innovation, where the ability to bridge technology and human experience is becoming one of the defining capabilities of the AI workforce.
Programme structure
The programme combines technical AI capability with human-centred design, enabling students from non-computing backgrounds to develop the skills to design, build and evaluate AI systems that deliver meaningful value in real-world contexts.
Students begin with AI-Augmented Programming, where they learn modern Generative AI-supported software development ("vibe coding"), programming fundamentals and AI-assisted coding workflows used in contemporary industry. Human-AI Interaction introduces user-centred design for AI, equipping students with practical methods for understanding users, designing AI experiences, prototyping, evaluation, explainability and human-in-the-loop approaches.
The core technical foundations are developed in Introduction to Applied AI, where students gain practical experience of data, machine learning, generative AI and agentic AI through accessible, problem-driven learning and AI-supported development environments. Throughout, emphasis is placed on critical evaluation, responsible innovation and applying AI within authentic human and organisational settings.
Students then broaden their perspective through Introduction to AI, Societies, Ethics and Futures, examining the societal, ethical, regulatory and governance challenges surrounding AI, alongside AI-Supported Collaborative Work, which explores how AI transforms teamwork, organisational practice, human-AI collaboration, workflow automation and emerging agentic AI systems.
The programme culminates in a substantial Summer Project, allowing students to integrate technical, design and socio-technical perspectives through an individual or group project, often in collaboration with industry. Graduates leave with a distinctive combination of AI proficiency, human-centred design expertise and practical experience, enabling them to create responsible, effective and impactful AI solutions across diverse sectors.
Entry requirements
You will typically need a strong upper second-class honours degree (65% or higher) or an international equivalent in any subject.
We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement if you have a relevant postgraduate qualification. If this is the case, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £19,100 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £35,300 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
The programme supports a range of likely destinations including industry, public sector, and future research in academia. With a focus on the application of machine learning to address real world problems across different professions and industries, the course is geared up to supporting AI-augmented careers. It is specifically designed to give students the practical skills to understand problem domains and skills to design and evaluate potential AI-based solutions. Potential destination roles for graduating students include AI Service Designer, Human-AI Interaction Designer, AI Communications and Marketing specialist, AI Product Manager, Data and AI Business Analyst, AI Auditor, AI Strategy Consultant, AI Transformation Specialist, AI Literacy Coordinator, AI Training Lead.
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