Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

The Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Adelaide University is a two-year coursework degree for people who want to build systems that learn from data. You will study the maths that sits underneath machine learning, including linear algebra, probability and optimisation, then move into supervised and unsupervised learning, deep learning, natural language processing and computer vision. Later units cover reinforcement learning, generative models and the practical business of getting a model out of a notebook and into production. Assessment is a mix of programming assignments, written reports and exams, with group work common in the applied units.

How the degree is structured

The programme runs over two years of full-time study, usually split into semesters, with each unit carrying a set number of credit points. You need to accumulate the required credit points to graduate, and the exact unit list and credit point values are set out in the official course rules. Core units build your foundation in AI and machine learning; electives let you specialise in areas such as robotics, data engineering or natural language processing. Most students finish with a capstone project or a minor thesis, where you work on a real problem under supervision and present your findings. Some students take the research pathway instead, which can lead to a PhD.

Work-integrated learning and industry links

Adelaide has a growing AI and defence technology sector, and the university has research groups working in machine learning, computer vision and autonomous systems. Depending on the units you choose, you may have the option of an industry placement or a project with an external organisation. These are not guaranteed for every student, so check the official course page for current placement options and eligibility. The university also runs its own English language programmes if you need to meet the English requirement before starting.

Who it suits and what you need

This degree suits graduates with a background in computer science, mathematics, engineering or a related field who want to move into AI roles or deepen their technical skills. If your first degree is in another area, you may need to complete bridging units first. English proficiency is required for international applicants: IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common standard for coursework postgraduate programmes, though some faculties ask for higher. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and Cambridge C1 Advanced are accepted as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While you study, your visa generally allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during term. After you graduate, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register. Always confirm entry requirements, unit details and fees on the official Adelaide University page or the CRICOS listing for course 115898H.

• Machine learning engineer
• Data scientist
• AI research assistant
• Computer vision engineer
• Natural language processing engineer
• Robotics software engineer
• Data analyst
• AI consultant

Graduates work in technology companies, defence and security firms, healthcare and medical research, finance, retail, mining and government. Adelaide and other Australian cities have growing AI teams in these sectors, and some graduates go on to PhD study.