We recently hosted a live webinar moderated by Course Adviser Declan Tonks, featuring Dr Craig Webber, Programme Director for the online MA in Artificial Intelligence, and Leslie Carr, Professor in Computer Science and Co-Director of the Web Science Institute at the University of Southampton. They answered a wide range of questions about the University, the course, and how it’s designed for people from all backgrounds.
The conversation began with a fundamental question that many prospective students ask:
Why study AI at the University of Southampton?
Craig: Southampton has a long and respected history of excellence in computer science and interdisciplinary collaboration. What really sets us apart is how departments across the University come together to ensure a strong academic understanding of complex issues such as AI. We integrate expertise from law, social sciences, criminology, and computer science. AI is a subject that benefits hugely from this cross-disciplinary approach.
Leslie: That’s right. At Southampton, we have been studying the development of the internet and the web for decades. We co-founded the Web Science research discipline alongside MIT to examine how digital platforms affect society. This naturally led to our work in AI. Our experience in understanding the digital world informs how we teach AI today.
We lead the Responsible AI UK programme, a £30 million initiative that brings together institutions across the country to explore how AI can be developed in ways that benefit the economy, society, and individuals.
Our researchers advise national governments and international organisations such as the United Nations on how to develop and regulate AI throughout the world.
What’s the University of Southampton’s ranking?
Craig: We’re ranked 80th in the world and top 20 in the UK, depending on the publication. As a founding member of the Russell Group, we’re known for research excellence. Our students learn from the same academics who are conducting leading research in AI and related fields. That direct link between research and teaching is something we’re proud of.
Given how fast AI changes, how up to date is the MA in Artificial Intelligence content?
Leslie: The course content is built on established approaches but reflects current events, public discourse, and technological trends. It’s not static. We run weekly webinars live which allow us to introduce recent developments into the discussion. More importantly, we teach students how to process and evaluate new information critically, which is essential for working in a rapidly changing field like AI.
Craig: We use case studies taken directly from our own research. For example, Professor Pamela Ugwudike, who specialises in AI and policing, will be incorporating her world-renowned research into the learning materials on AI in justice . This means students are engaging with real issues that professionals are currently addressing.
Will this online MA cover technical tools such as RAG or LoRA?
Leslie: We don’t have modules dedicated to individual tools, as these change frequently and may be short-lived. Instead, our Generative AI module covers the principles behind technologies such as large language models, and how they are applied responsibly. This equips students to understand the broader trends and use them appropriately in different contexts.
If you’re interested in developing or fine-tuning AI models, our on-campus MSc in Artificial Intelligence would be a better fit. By contrast, this online MA is focused on the ethical, strategic, and applied use of AI, giving you an understanding of how AI is designed and constructed rather than the development skills needed to engineer AI algorithms.
Is this MA in Artificial Intelligence considered a STEM degree?
Leslie: Not in the traditional sense. This is an interdisciplinary course. While we introduce technical concepts, the primary focus is on the application of AI in real-world settings, including policy, business, ethics, and governance. It’s for people who need to understand how AI fits into their professional domain, rather than for those building the technology itself.
What makes this a conversion course?
Leslie: A conversion course allows students from any academic background to enter a new field. Most AI master’s degrees are MSc courses and require a background in computing or maths. This MA is open to those without a STEM background. Whether you studied humanities, social sciences, or arts, you will be supported to gain a deep understanding of AI and its uses.
Craig: As someone from a criminology background, I work with police officers who are introducing AI into custody procedures. These professionals are not writing code, but they do need to understand the ethical and legal implications of using AI responsibly. That is the kind of learner we’re supporting with this course.
Why choose this master’s degree over a short online course?
Declan: Short courses are helpful for learning individual skills quickly. However, they often lack the depth, academic rigour, and recognition that come with a master’s degree. A qualification from a Russell Group university like Southampton carries real weight with employers.
Leslie: This is about more than just knowledge. It’s about developing the skills to keep learning, to question assumptions, and to apply AI thoughtfully. A short course might teach you how to use a tool, but this course helps you understand the landscape and lead responsibly within it.
What are the different specialisations available?
Craig: All students study the core modules, then choose one of three pathways:
- Core AI, which focuses on foundational AI knowledge
- Digital Transformation, which looks at how AI is reshaping industries and organisations
- Criminal Justice, which explores AI in policing, legal systems, and policy
Each specialisation draws from research and real-world case studies. The content is presented in a way that is suitable for learners without prior technical experience.
What are some of the ethical and societal issues covered?
Craig: We examine a wide range of issues, including data privacy, misinformation, bias, mental health, and the role of AI in employment and criminal justice. For example, we discuss what happens when AI is used to raise children or influence decision-making in public services. These are urgent and complex questions.
Leslie: Some of these ethical issues have existed for years and will still be relevant 10 years from now. Questions about who owns our data, how AI affects creativity, and how we regulate its use will continue to evolve. We prepare students to think critically about these issues and contribute to policy, regulation, or responsible business practices.
What careers can this MA lead to?
Declan: This depends on your background and goals. Some students want to transition into policy or digital strategy. Others want to lead AI initiatives within their current organisation. Because the course focuses on understanding, governance, and ethical use of AI, it’s relevant across sectors. If you would like help identifying how this course fits into your career path, our course adviser team are happy to support you.
Thank you to our panelists for sharing your valuable insights into the course!
If you want to understand how AI can be applied ethically and effectively in your field, the online MA in Artificial Intelligence and pathway options at Southampton offer a flexible, accessible, and academically rigorous way to build your expertise.
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