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MSc Applied AI for Business

  • Design Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven solutions to support businesses
  • Evaluate emerging research on AI, and undertake your own research project
  • Assess the responsible integration of AI technologies today
  • Confidently implement data science tools, algorithms, and cloud platforms
  • Be at the forefront of AI in business
Masters in Information Management and Digital Business

What you need to know

Subject area(s)
Digitalisation
Start date
September 2025
Duration
12-36 months
Attendance
Full-time , Part-time
Giannis Haralabopoulos
Programme Director
Dr Giannis Haralabopoulos

Overview

This programme aims to develop the future leaders who will play a key role in an AI-empowered business environment. By the end of the programme you will be able to effectively align business strategy with AI strategy through the understanding of both business and technology.

The principal aim of the MSc Applied AI for Business is to produce graduates who are equipped with the knowledge and skills around AI, necessary for a career in the ever-evolving digitised management sector and make a positive impact on the world we live in. The programme combines academic rigor – teaching underpinned by research from both faculty from Henley Business School and the Department of Computer Science – with ‘real world’ practical application and insight.

Our Department of Computer Science offers expertise in data science and AI, as well as advanced computing for environmental science. 100% of the University’s research impact in Computer Science and Informatics has been classed ‘outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ (Research Excellence Framework 2021, combining 4* and 3* submissions).

MSc Applied AI for Business - intro

MSc Applied AI for Business - intro

An introduction to the MSc Applied AI for Business programme, from Dr Giannis Haralabopoulos.

Careers support

Receive dedicated support from our award-winning careers team during your postgraduate studies and four years after graduation:

Careers Consultant appointments

Our Careers Consultants will help empower you to progress your career, they offer support with:
• advice on your CV
• interview practice
• post application feedback
• next steps to planning your career goals

Careers and Employability Modules

All Henley PGT students receive career management skills sessions designed to help you understand and develop the tools and mindset to compete successfully in the today’s increasingly competitive labour market. These timetabled modules will appear in your calendars.

Events

Henley Careers organise numerous events aimed to help you build your confidence and employability skills. Additionally, we organise networking events with employers to expand your industry and sector knowledge.

Alumni support

We offer four years support after graduating. You can continue to book one-to-one appointments with your Careers Consultant, use our online resources and attend events in the UK or globally.

For more information  please see our Careers page.

Careers support PGT

Course structure

Pre-study
Compulsory modules
Optional modules

Exclusively available to Henley Business School offer holders, the Pre-study course suite comprises of innovative short courses designed and developed by Henley faculty on the Futurelearn platform, one of the leading online learning platforms.

Future of Work: Coding with Python for Business & Finance (Exclusive to Henley offer holders)

A course delivered online by Henley faculty and you will receive online support from one of our teaching staff members and be able to interact with other prospective students in your course.

Study skills for success (Exclusive to Henley offer holders)

This course will provide building blocks of knowledge to help you prepare for your learning journey in the area of your choice as well as equip you with key employability and study skills for successfully navigating your studies and professional career.

The programme comprises 180 credits, allocated across a range of compulsory and optional modules, some of which are shown below.

AI and Data Analytics in Business (INMR81)

20 [10 ECTS credits]

The aim of this module is for students to be able to evaluate the business value in utilising AI and data analytics and develop business technology solutions with an appreciation of AI and data analytics methods and technologies.

AI Software on the Cloud (CSMASC)

20

This module introduces the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and software engineering, with a focus on cloud environments. It highlights the critical knowledge and skills needed to design, optimize, configure, and manage the development of AI-powered applications in the cloud.

Students will establish understanding of how cloud services support scalable AI solutions, automate software engineering tasks, and enable efficient deployment in response to the fast-changing and AI-advancing world in the digital ear. This course is structured to support students transitioning into the field, emphasizing core concepts, practical applications, and hands-on projects with minimal prior technical experience required.

Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (CSMFAI)

20

The aim of the module is to introduce students to fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI) and tools widely used; establish awareness of AI methods, such as machine learning (ML) covering supervised, unsupervised, and deep learning. Students will learn how to apply these AI tools to develop solutions in real-life problem contexts.

This module also fosters the development of transferable and professional skills, such as critical thinking, formulating research problems, teamwork, technical report writing, self-reflection, and appropriate, effective, and ethical use of Generative AI technologies to enhance learning.

Business Data Analytics (INMR95)

20 [10 ECTS credits]

This module introduces key concepts, methods, and tools for business data analytics. Data analytics are a fundamental tool for any organisation that plans to make strategic use of their data assets, and enables data-driven decision making. Core concepts that lend themselves to the three stages of data analytics.

Business Informatics (INMR91)

20 [10 ECTS credits]

This module helps the student understand the underpinning theory and methodology of business informatics for information systems and information management; appreciate business principles, organisation, processes and models; identify the user requirements and suitable IT systems solutions; and perform analysis and design of a systems solution using appropriate technologies.

MSc Dissertation (Applied AI for Business) (INMR78)

40

MSc Dissertation (Applied AI for Business)

Problem Solving with Python (CSMPSP)

20

The module aims to cultivate students' ability to think computationally, breaking down complex problems into manageable parts and developing algorithmic solutions, developing critical and analytical thinking skills through structured problem-solving exercises, fostering a systematic approach to challenges, and practising application of Python concepts tools through hands-on projects, case studies, and collaborative exercises.

This module also fosters the development of transferable and professional skills, such as critical thinking, teamwork, technical report writing, self-reflection, and appropriate, effective, and ethical use of Generative AI technologies to enhance learning.

Students to take 20 credits of optional modules

Data Integration and Information Visualisation (CSMDIV)

20

This module introduces students to the concepts, principles, design methodologies, and tools of data integration and extracts information to transform the raw data into visual insights. These insights can then be effectively utilised to support decision-making processes and build knowledge. Students will develop an understanding of data integration employed in pre-processing multidimensional, multimodal data from homogenous and/or heterogeneous sources and formalising datasets for analytics in solving computing problems with knowledge and wisdom. Students will also study various data visualisation methodologies and tools adapted to implement interactive dashboards showing 360o contextual views required by a given scenario.

IT Project Management (INMR65)

20 [10 ECTS credits]

The module consists of theoretical foundation for management with practical focus for the topic of IT projects. The module is designed to answer the question why different methodologies are used for different management purposes. It also answers the question how to utilize common project management tools for IT projects. The assessment uses a real-life case scenario asking the students to apply theories and techniques learned from this module. Management theories, principles and most up-to-date methodologies are naturally integrated including planning and delivery for different types of projects. After completing the module, students will be able to carry out project planning with different methods, exercise risk management and quality control techniques. Students will also be able to understand the characteristics of IT projects and measures on how to improve the project management success rate and understand how to use change control procedures to manage changes.

The programme can be taken part-time over three consecutive years.

The dissertation should be taken in the final year. The other 140 credits can be divided between the three years at the student’s discretion. A student may undertake an optional module at any time, without necessarily being constrained by the completion of core modules. The programme can be completed earlier but may not be completed over more than three years.

Students may carry out their dissertation projects in organisations as part of a placement. The placement needs to be arranged by students and requires an approval by the Programme Director who ensures that the placement satisfies the requirements of the Dissertation.

Modules or course content marked as optional are indicative and may be subject to change. Please note, constraints in timetable scheduling may mean you are unable to take some optional modules at the same time as others.

How we teach you

A holistic approach

Henley Business School is where business theory meets real world practice. Our Masters programmes don’t just teach you the tools of the trade; they help you grow as a leader, with a focus on personal development that runs through everything we do.

You will be taught by the best academics with a passion for their subject area, and have the opportunity to interact with guest lecturers and speakers from the industry. We will introduce you to the latest research and thinking, as well as exploring real world issues and challenges.

How you will learn

Our masters programmes feature a mix of core and optional modules, tailoring your degree towards your needs and career ambitions. You will complete up to seven taught modules and a dissertation during your programme, totalling 180 credits. One taught module usually equates to 20 credits or 10 hours of work per week.

Your week will include lectures, tutorials, workshops and personal study, with each accounting for 25% of your time on average. This provides you with the opportunity to discuss and explore the material in depth with your lecturers and fellow students.

0507 PGT group

How we assess you

You will be assessed through a variety of teaching methods depending on your chosen postgraduate course, including:

  • online materials
  • group assignments
  • case studies
  • presentations
  • consultancy work
  • examinations

For a major piece of dissertation work, you will be assessed by a written dissertation report.

Ongoing support

Even the most motivated students need support sometimes, and at Henley, you’re never on your own! From lecturers to dedicated support staff, we’re here to guide and encourage you every step of the way.

Boost your business English whilst you study

Clear communication is essential for collaboration in global business, particularly in how you express ideas and influence others. That’s why, as a Henley Masters student, you’ll have access to our free Effective Communication: Language Skills for Business module.

This free, non-credit-bearing course runs alongside your main studies and is designed to help you improve your English fluency and confidence in academic and professional settings. Delivered in partnership with the International Study and Language Institute (ISLI) at the University of Reading, it’s part of Henley Business Schools commitment to supporting your personal and professional development.

The course is designed to help you:

  • Speak clearly in meetings, presentations and group settings
  • Write professionally for business, everything from emails to reports writing
  • Learn industry-specific terminology
  • Prepare for your career with confident communication for interviews and networking

Who Can Take Part?

If your English level meets the selection criteria, you’ll be invited to join, however the course is open to any student who wants to enhance their communication skills and boost their career prospects.

With real-world business examples, interactive learning, and expert feedback, this course helps you thrive at Henley Business School and beyond.

Fees & funding

UK/Home for 2025 entry

Full time Part time
£14,500 £7,250 per year

International (incl. EU) for 2025 entry

Full time Part time
£27,000 £13,500 per year

Scholarships

We're pleased to announce that, following the recent closure of our previous scholarship scheme, we’ve now been allocated additional funding to support more students on their postgraduate journey to Henley. This new funding allows us to provide further financial support to high-potential applicants. If you’re considering postgraduate study, now is a great time to apply!

Current scholarships

Entry requirements

Entry requirement Criteria
Undergraduate degree A good second class honours degree or the equivalent from an Internationally recognised University

English Language Requirements

Studying in a second language can be challenging. If your English language ability is below the minimum requirement, we may ask for evidence of proficiency. Alternatively, we may ask you to attend an English language course before you begin your studies with us.

Requirement Criteria
IELTS 6.5 with no component below 5.5 in any sub-skills

Pre-sessional English Programme

The Pre-sessional English Programme is for international students who need to meet their degree programme English language requirements. Our courses equip you with the skills and language needed for academic success, including critical thinking, self-reflection, learner autonomy, research skills and integrating sources. The Pre-sessional English Programme is accredited by the global association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes, which guarantees you will receive a high-quality student experience.

Find out about our comprehensive range of Pre-Sessional English courses

Acceptance of LanguageCert Online and DuoLingo English qualifications

We accept the non-SELT version of LanguageCert (which includes the online version) and DuoLingo as suitable English language qualifications. These can be accepted for direct entry onto Undergraduate (except Speech and Language Therapy), Postgraduate Taught (except Speech and Language Therapy) and Postgraduate Research programmes.

For information on individual programme requirements and other English language qualifications, please visit our English requirement equivalent page.

If you require specific advice on your qualification please contact admissions directly by e-mail  or telephone at +44 (0) 118 378 5289.

UK visa requirements

You may need to obtain a UK visa. This visa will allow to live and study in the UK. See the  UK Border Agency website.

Graduate Route

The UK's Graduate Route post-study work visa allows you to apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after you graduate, with the opportunity to undertake skilled work. Visit the University website for the latest information.

How to apply

Apply for 2025 entry now

Apply online  now through the University of Reading’s online application service.

The online application service allows you to complete your application information, attach electronic copies of your academic transcripts, certificates and other supporting information. It also provides a facility for an email request to be sent to your referees. This enables the referees to send your supporting references directly to us.

When to apply

We operate a rolling admissions system and it is recommended that you apply early to secure your place. There is no specific deadline and applications will be considered until the programme is full. However, to allow us time to process your application we recommend that you apply by the following dates:

UK/Home applicants International applicants
1 August 1 July

After you apply

You will receive a confirmation email when we receive your application form. Your application is then reviewed by a member of staff. If successful, you will receive a formal offer letter outlining any necessary entry criteria you will need to meet. You'll then be asked to confirm your acceptance of this offer.

If you require a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for your visa, details will be sent by email once all conditions of the offer have been met.

Throughout the admissions process we will keep you updated with key information via email. We also provide opportunities to interact with faculty and staff online.

Find us on Facebook  and keep up-to-date with news and events at Henley or ask us a question. In addition, you can speak to a current student, our students are always happy to share their Henley experience.

Chat to our students

Our students and alumni are always keen to share their Henley experience. Whether you are a prospective applicant or already applied to a Masters programme at Henley Business School. You can ask questions to a current student by clicking the “Chat to our students” button below.

When contacting one of our students, please introduce yourself and the Masters programme you have applied for.

Speak to a current student

Contact us

If you have any questions, please contact us by email at postgraduate@henley.ac.uk or by phone on +44 (0)118 378 7593.