Master's specialisation of Artificial IntelligenceMachine Learning and Neural Computing
Are you driven to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence and understand the inner workings of the brain? This AI Master’s specialisation enables you to explore both. Shape the future of AI by developing smarter AI systems and building advanced brain-inspired technologies.
Something for you?
- You want to work on the development of better AI systems that are more robust and efficient.
- This Master’s specialisation offers a unique blend of theory and application, giving you a strong foundation in both machine learning and neural computing.
- You can personalise the programme to best match your interests by choosing one of the two tracks and elective courses.
- This programme equips you with the technical expertise and scientific insight to design AI systems that are not only powerful but also meaningful - ready to make a difference in science, industry, and society.
- This specialisation can also be combined with related programmes to obtain a double degree such as the Research Master’s in Cognitive Neuroscience or the Master’s in Data Science, with the option to apply for a 60 EC exemption.
Admission requirements
Do you want to know if you can be admitted? Read more about the admission requirements of this programme.
Admission and applicationApply now
If you have determined that you can be admitted with your previous education, you can apply via Studielink.
Apply nowFactsheet
- Main language
- English (100%)
- Study duration
- 2 years (120 EC)
- Start
- September
- Contact hours
- 12-18
- Programme format
- Full time
- Degree
- Master of Science, specialisation of Artificial Intelligence
- Faculty
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- CROHO code
- 66981
- Accreditation
- NVAO
What will you learn
In this Master’s specialisation in Machine Learning and Neural Computing, you will gain the skills and expertise to understand, design, and advance modern AI systems. Courses in mathematics and programming provide a solid theoretical and technical foundation, while dedicated modules on the societal implications and sustainability of AI equip you to develop technologies that align with human values and contribute positively to science, industry, and society. Within the programme, you can choose one of two tracks. With the Machine Learning track, you will develop deep technical expertise in core AI technologies and explore how these methods are applied in natural sciences, healthcare and industries. Or you can focus on the development of brain-inspired technologies by choosing the Neural Computing track. You will then dive into computational neuroscience and edge computing and develop your own neural-inspired system.
Study programmeFuture career opportunities
Graduates of our Artificial Intelligence Master’s specialisation enjoy excellent career opportunities—and many receive job offers even before completing their degree. A significant number of our graduates choose to pursue a PhD at leading research institutes or top universities, often continuing their work in machine learning or neural computing. Others take on roles in industry, applying their expertise in machine learning, data science, or brain-inspired technologies across a wide range of sectors. Our graduates are highly sought after by major tech companies such as Google, IMEC, and ASML, innovative startups and scale-ups, hospitals and healthcare providers, and governmental and non-governmental organisations. Some graduates have even founded their own AI-driven companies or joined early-stage startups, helping shape the next wave of intelligent technology.
Career prospectsResearch
This Master’s programme is offered by the Department of Machine Learning and Neural Computing (MLNC), part of the internationally renowned Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour. The Donders Institute is home to more than 600 researchers and offers world-class research facilities, including advanced AI compute infrastructure, a robotics lab, a neuromorphic computing lab, a brain-computer interface (BCI) lab, as well as cutting-edge neuroimaging facilities (EEG, MEG, fMRI, FUS).
The MLNC department is at the forefront of research in machine learning and neural computing, with internationally recognized experts leading groundbreaking work in both fields. As a student, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate closely with these researchers—pushing the boundaries of AI and helping to shape a smarter, more sustainable future.
Questions about this programme?
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ContactTuitions & grants
If you are going to follow this Master's programme, you will pay an annual tuition fee. There are different tuition rates. The amount depends on your personal situation.
Tuition