The aim of the new MSc Artificial Intelligence programme, starting in September 2022, and which will be delivered in English, is to be a modern programme, containing a strong interdisciplinary element as required by human-centric, explainable, and responsible artificial intelligence. Its compulsory courses include courses on artificial intelligence and ethics, as well as on artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship. Providing career counselling to students is a high priority, with the aim of helping all graduates to successfully pursue an AI-related career, possibly set up their own start-ups.
The development of this new master’s programme is co-funded by the European Union (Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) — Telecommunications Sector). Europe’s initiative to fund new master’s programmes in Artificial Intelligence demonstrates the importance Europe attaches to recent developments in this area, in providing solutions to global problems related to every aspect of human life, contributing to growth and competitiveness. Europe urgently needs more professionals in Artificial Intelligence, entrepreneurs, and researchers, capable of paving the way for new innovations for the good of society and pushing the borders of the field towards new challenges. This new generation of AI graduates must be fully familiar with the latest technological developments in terms of the breadth and depth of technical knowledge in Artificial Intelligence, be connected to industry and be fully aware of the ethical issues involved.
The programme’s collaboration network includes four European Universities (University of Cyprus, University of Bologna, Technische Universität Dresden, and University of Ruse Angel Kanchev), the CYENS Centre of Excellence and four high-tech SMEs (Nodes & Links Labs, 3AeHealth LTD, INJENIA SRL, MLPS AD). Fostering strong links with industry provides significant added value to the educational experience.
The programme’s intended learning outcomes are the following:
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Grasp the fundamental principles and techniques that underline software systems that exhibit “intelligent” behavior, be aware of the latest developments in AI and appreciate the wide breath of study that AI requires.
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Acquire a holistic view of machine learning enabling them to understand the principles that drive most scientific and industrial AI innovations.
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Understand how to provide computers with the ability to intelligently process human language, extracting meaning, information, and structure from text, speech, web pages, and social networks.
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Master key concepts and challenges of relevance to AI and data-driven entrepreneurship.
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Be able to apply methods and tools of AI research, and be aware of professional practices, and associated technological culture, bearing in mind EC’s regulatory framework.
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Understand the basics of implementing systems that are not only highly performing, but also adhere to our ethical socio-legal cultural values and to understand how research into AI ethics feeds into policy and how policy requirements affect the development of AI systems.
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Acquire deep knowledge and familiarity with current and future research challenges in several specialized topics covered in the elective courses.
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Be aware of the career opportunities in the various countries.
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Exhibit versatility and innovative thinking in addressing and managing open questions in a variety of contexts, as an essential asset for careers in AI.
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Develop transferable skills such as: oral and written scientific communication, near fluent use of scientific English, use of information/communication technology, organization and planning of group work.