AI for Business Intelligence MSc

Unlock the power of data to drive business success with our MSc in AI for Business Intelligence at the University of Leicester. This cutting‑edge course will equip you with advanced skills in data analytics and AI, to transform insights into impactful decisions. In today’s data‑driven world, businesses need skilled professionals who can not only understand data, but also harness AI to generate actionable insights. Our MSc in AI for Business Intelligence offers a deep dive into how AI and data analytics can revolutionise decision‑making in businesses. This course will prepare you to work with data in the business environment, using mathematical, statistical and computational skills. You’ll explore practical, real‑world applications of AI in areas such as predictive and prescriptive analytics, and data mining, equipping you with the tools to drive strategic growth in any organisation. Your summer project will allow you to apply your knowledge to solve real‑world business challenges. This course is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands, preparing you for a career at the forefront of the data‑driven business revolution. At the University of Leicester, you’ll benefit from an inclusive learning environment with a global outlook. As a Citizen of Change, you’ll engage in research that has a tangible impact on communities worldwide. Studying this course at Leicester means being part of a university that values research‑inspired education and practical applications.

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• This course was previously advertised (with minor differences) as Data Analysis for Business Intelligence.
  
• You will carry out an extended AI for Business Intelligence Project, based around analysis of a real dataset, organisation of a database or preparation of data analysis software for a specific problem.
  

The modules listed reflect those currently available to students. Every year, we review our modules and their content to ensure that our courses maintain the best academic and student experience possible. Whilst this does mean elements of your course may change in future academic years, it ensures your course is giving you a research‑inspired education and preparing you for your future.

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• Global Impact Research: Benefit from the School's research excellence in AI, as our academics lead the way in foundations and industrial applications of data analytics.
  
• Inclusive Community: Be part of a diverse, supportive community that values collaboration and innovation, encouraging you to make a difference in your field.
  
• Industry‑Ready Skills: In your final project you'll work on a problem with an industry client, allowing you to graduate with the expertise to directly impact businesses using AI and data.
  
• Solid foundations: Based in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, the degree emphasises analytical and technical skills and their practical application.
  

Teaching on this course is a combination of lectures, workshops, independent work, group and team work, supervised study and directed reading. Assessment of each module is through written exams, marked assignments, assessed problems, oral presentations and written project reports. Your research project assessment will be based on your written thesis and an oral exam.

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• 2:2 degree in Maths or related subject (e.g. Physics) or equivalent international qualification.
  
• IELTS 6.0 or equivalent. If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability.
  
• If you do not yet meet our requirements, our English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) offers a range of courses to help you improve your English to the necessary standard.
  

The School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science has a long history of collaborating with industry for student projects. Companies we have worked with include Asset Intelligence, City Group, Santander, Deloitte, Risk Care, Alstom. Your summer project will be based on real data and developed in partnership with industrial contacts like these. Your project gives you a chance to find out more about working in industry, as well as exploring your options to set up your own start‑up company.

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• Starting in January 2026: MSc – £13,250; MSc with Industry – £13,250.
  
• £3,520 additional fee will be charged if a placement is secured.
  
• If you are resident outside the UK and the Republic of Ireland, you will need to pay a deposit of £3,000 to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.
  
• Find out more about scholarships and funding.
  

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• Placements last between nine and eleven months and are normally paid, full‑time roles with a formal contract between you and the employer.
  
• Placements begin after the taught part of your course finishes. After your placement has finished, you will return to the University to complete your dissertation or individual project.
  
• You will gain valuable industry experience, helping you develop key skills and enhance your career prospects.
  
• Securing an industrial placement is very competitive. While the University will fully support you in your search for a placement, securing a placement is not guaranteed. You will be responsible for applying to and securing an opportunity.
  
• Support is provided from:
  
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  • The Careers and Employability Service, which provides access to placement opportunities, job search strategies, CV and cover letter advice, and interview preparation.
    
  • A dedicated Placement Tutor, who will guide you during your placement and help you reflect on the skills and experience gained.
    
  
  
  
• Gain an understanding of working in a professional setting (industry, commercial, or non‑commercial).
  
• Experience real‑world business and technical challenges.
  
• Develop hands‑on experience in project management and working to deadlines.
  
• Improve your employment prospects through essential transferable skills.
  
• Gain a clearer understanding of the career path you wish to pursue.