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Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence

Postgraduate coursework

Develop the specialist knowledge and skills necessary to design and develop software solutions that harness the latest advances in AI.

Key facts

Duration

2 years full-time or part-time equivalent. Depending on your professional experience and previous qualifications you may be eligible for credit which could reduce your course duration.

Key dates

Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2024 are closed.

Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2025 close 16 February 2025

Current Deakin Students

To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook

Course overview

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, many companies are looking to understand and harness this transformative technology. With Deakin’s Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence, you will acquire the specialised knowledge and skills essential for designing and developing software solutions that leverage the power of AI. Get ready to graduate as an in-demand professional worldwide. 

Embrace the future of digital disruption and embark on a journey that immerses you in the realms of AI technologies, deep learning, and reinforcement learning. Explore the application of these algorithms in computer vision and speech processing, paving the way for innovative solutions across diverse sectors. Better yet, experience practical learning that mirrors real-world scenarios, utilising state-of-the-art software, robotics, VR, and cyber-physical systems in our fully equipped labs and studios. 

Are you ready to lead the charge in the AI revolution? 

As an AI specialist, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including software engineers, data scientists, application developers, and business analysts, to ensure appropriate integration of AI into software solutions from a technical and human perspective. You will learn to apply advanced knowledge of AI to the research and evaluations of AI, while also exploring the complexities of introducing AI solutions in a human context, considering both ethical and engineering aspects. 

Our world-leading research in AI feeds directly into our classrooms, meaning you will be learning at the cutting-edge of industry expectations and capabilities. Graduate with the hands-on experience to confidently work on the design, development, and operation of AI-driven software solutions. 

Artificial intelligence is driving digital disruption across almost every sector, redefining the workforce, and creating global demand for skilled professionals. AI and machine learning specialists top the list of the fastest-growing jobs worldwide.* There are projected to be more than 200,000 roles (25.1% growth or 36,700 new jobs) for software and application programmers in Australia in the next 10 years.^With this significant projected job growth, now is the time to future-proof your career. By enrolling in our Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence, you position yourself at the forefront of this thriving field, equipped to drive innovation and shape the future of technology. 

*World Economic Forum, The Future of Jobs Report 2023.

^Jobs and Skills Australia, National Employment Projections 2023 to 2033. 

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Course information

Award granted
Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence
Year

2025 course information

Deakin code
S736
CRICOS code?
0100305 Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Level
Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition

The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9

Course structure

To complete the Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence, you will complete 8, 12 or 16 credit points, depending on your prior experience.

The course is structured in 4 parts:

  • Part A: Foundation information technology studies (4 credit points)
  • Part B: Fundamental artificial intelligence studies (4 credit points)
  • Part C: Mastery applied artificial intelligence studies (4 credit points)
  • Part D: Applied artificial intelligence capstone studies (4 credit points).

Depending upon prior qualifications and/or experience, you may receive credit towards parts A and B.

The 4 parts comprise the following: 

  • DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit point compulsory unit).
  • 15 credit points of core units
  • 1 credit point of level 7 SIT or MIS-coded elective unit

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.

15

Core units

1

Course elective unit

16

Total

Part A: Foundation Information Technology Studies

  • Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points)
  • Object-Oriented Development
  • Database Fundamentals
  • Software Requirements Analysis and Modelling
  • Web Technologies and Development
  • Part B: Fundamental Artificial Intelligence studies

  • Machine Learning
  • Mathematics for Artificial Intelligence
  • Engineering AI Solutions
  • Human Aligned Artificial Intelligence
  • Part C: Mastery Applied Artificial Intelligence studies

  • Deep Learning
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • Robotics, Computer Vision and Speech Processing
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Part D: Applied Artificial Intelligence Capstone studies

  • Professional Practice in Information Technology
  • Team Project (A) - Project Management and Practices
  • Team Project (B) - Execution and Delivery
  • Plus 1 level 7 SIT or MIS-coded elective (1 credit point)

    Intakes by location

    The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.

    Trimester 1 - March

    • Start date: March
    • Available at:
      • Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
      • Online

    Trimester 2 - July

    • Start date: July
    • Available at:
      • Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
      • Online

    Trimester 3 - November

    • Start date: November
    • Available at:
      • Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
      • Online

    Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.

    Other learning experiences

    You may choose to use one of your elective units to undertake an internship or participate in an overseas study tour to enhance your global awareness and experience.

    Mandatory student checks

    Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.

    Workload

    You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.

    Participation requirements

    Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.

    Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.

    Work experience

    You may have an opportunity to undertake a placement as part of your course. For more information, please visit deakin.edu.au/sebe/wil.

    Entry requirements

    Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum course entry requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.

    Depending on your professional experience and previous qualifications, you may commence this course with Recognition for Prior Learning credit and complete your course sooner.

    Academic requirements

    Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence - 8 credit points

    To be considered for admission to this degree (with 8 credit points of Recognition of Prior Learning applied~) you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:

    • completion of a graduate certificate or graduate diploma in a related^ discipline
    • completion of a bachelor honours degree in a related^ discipline
    • completion of a bachelor degree in a related* discipline, and at least two years' of relevant^ work experience (or part-time equivalent).

    Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence - 12 credit points

    To be considered for admission to this degree (with 4 credit points of Recognition of Prior Learning applied~) you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:

    • completion of a bachelor degree or higher in a related* discipline
    • completion of a bachelor degree or higher in any discipline and at least two years' relevant* work experience (or part-time equivalent).

    Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence - 16 credit points

    To be considered for admission to this degree you will need to meet the following criteria:

    • completion of a bachelor degree or higher in any discipline.

    *Related to the broad field of Information Technology.

    ^Related to the field of Artificial Intelligence which may be considered to include artificial intelligence, business intelligence, business analytics, computational mathematics and machine learning.

    ~ Credit for Recognition of Prior Learning will be considered on a case-by-case basis and may be granted to applicants based on prior studies and/or equivalent industry experience.

    English language proficiency requirements

    To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:

    Admissions information

    Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.

    Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.

    Recognition of prior learning

    The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning.

    You can refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.

    Fees and scholarships

    Fee information

    Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
    $32,600for 1 yr full-time - Full-fee paying place
    Learn more about fees and your options for paying.

    The available fee places for this course are detailed above. Not all courses at Deakin have Commonwealth supported places available. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.

    One year full-time study load is typically represented by eight credit points of study. Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for your course.  

    You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.  Learn more about fees and available payment options.

    FEE-HELP calculator

    What is FEE-HELP?

    FEE-HELP loans cover up to 100% of tuition fees for eligible students. By taking out a FEE-HELP loan, the government pays your tuition fees directly to Deakin, and the balance is repaid from your employment income - but only once you're earning over $54,435.

    Please note: fees shown by the calculator are indicative only and based on 2025 rates. Actual fees may vary. We advise confirming fees with Prospective Student Enquiries prior to enrolment.

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    • $* is the estimated full cost for a Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence (16 credit points), based on the 2025 fees.
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    *Disclaimer

    Deakin University (Deakin):

    • gives no warranty and accepts no responsibility for the currency, accuracy or the completeness of the information provided;
    • advises users that no reliance should be placed upon on the information provided, and;
    • instructs users that they should confirm the actual course fee with Prospective Student Enquiries prior to enrolment.

    This tool provides indicative information about the fees that will be payable in respect of courses and subjects offered to prospective students domiciled in Australia during the periods indicated.

    Please note that the fees shown by the calculator are indicative only and actual fees may vary. Users are advised to confirm the actual course fee with Prospective Student Enquiries prior to enrolment.

    The estimated course fee is based on the tuition fee costs applicable to a domestic full time student commencing the course in Trimester 1 and studying full time for the duration of the course but:

    • does not include non-tuition costs that may apply, such as Student Services and Amenities Fees (SSAF);
    • does not take into account any scholarships or bursaries awarded to the student (including the 10% Deakin alumni discount);
    • assumes the maximum number of units that need to be successfully completed actual number completed may be reduced if recognition of prior learning is granted;
    • assumes that no exceptional, or non-typical, circumstances apply to the proposed course of study;
    • assumes that the options that the user selects are appropriate for the course of study that they intend to undertake;
    • where fees are estimated for future years those fee will be subject to annual increases in accordance with increases in the cost of course delivery.

    Scholarship options

    A Deakin scholarship might change your life. If you've got something special to offer Deakin – or you just need the financial help to get you here – we may have a scholarship opportunity for you.

    Search or browse through our scholarships

    Postgraduate bursary

    If you’re a Deakin alumnus commencing a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible to receive a 10% reduction per unit on your enrolment fees.

    Learn more about the 10% Deakin alumni discount

    Apply now

    Apply directly to Deakin

    To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.

    Need more information on how to apply?

    For more information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage. If you're still having problems, please contact us for assistance.

    Pathways

    Pathways for students to enter the Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence are as follows:

    Pathway options will depend on your professional experience and previous qualifications.

    Alternative exits

    Contact information

    Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.

    Careers

    Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.

    Top 4 Australian university for computer science and engineering*

    Professionally accredited with the Australian Computer Society (ACS)

    AI and machine learning specialists top the list of fastest-growing jobs worldwide^

    Use the latest technology in our fully equipped computer labs and facilities

    Career outcomes

    With artificial intelligence estimated to contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030*, it's fast becoming the cornerstone to technological progress across industries. Businesses and organisations are increasingly recognising how AI can be harnessed to optimise their growth and operations. This means careers in AI are more exciting and varied than ever before. 

    Job opportunities are thriving everywhere from healthcare, to retail, to financial services, to transport and logistics – and they will only continue to grow as AI advances. Set yourself up with a career that holds an important place in the employment opportunities of tomorrow. 

    As a graduate, you will have the specialist knowledge to become a sought-after professional in a range of roles, including: 

    • AI technology software engineer
    • API integration expert
    • AI researcher
    • data scientist
    • language model trainer
    • prompt engineer
    • natural language processing engineer
    • AI product manager
    • AI ethicist
    • AI architect.

    *PwC’s Global Artificial Intelligence Study: Exploiting the AI Revolution. 

    Professional recognition

    The Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence is professionally accredited with the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

    Course learning outcomes

    Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.

    Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes Course Learning Outcomes
    Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities Develop an advanced and integrated knowledge of the technologies of artificial intelligence, including deep learning and reinforcement learning, with detailed knowledge of the application of AI algorithms across a range of domains and applications including computer vision and speech processing.

    Design, develop and implement software solutions that incorporate novel applications of artificial intelligence.

    Apply advanced knowledge of artificial intelligence to the research and evaluation of AI solutions and provision of specialist advice.

    Design artificial intelligence solutions that incorporate safe ethical decision making.

    Communication

    Communicate in professional and other context to inform, explain and drive sustainable innovation through artificial intelligence and to motivate and effect change by drawing upon advances in technology, future trends and industry standards, and by utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences including specialist and non-specialist clients, industry personnel and other stakeholders.

    Digital literacy

    Identify, evaluate, select and use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks, and tools from the field of artificial intelligence to generate, manage, process and share digital resources and justify digital tools selection to influence others.

    Critical thinking

    Questions assumptions and seeks to uncover inconsistencies and ambiguities in information and judgements, critically evaluates their sources and rationales, to inform and justify decision making in the field of artificial intelligence.

    Problem solving

    Apply expert, specialised cognitive, technical, and creative skills from artificial intelligence to understand requirements and design, implement, operate, and evaluate solutions to complex real-world and ill-defined computing problems.

    Self-management

    Apply reflective practice and work independently to apply knowledge and skills in a professional manner to complex situations and ongoing learning in the field of artificial intelligence with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility, and personal and professional accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner.

    Teamwork

    Work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary environments to achieve team goals, contributing advanced knowledge and skills from artificial intelligence to advance the teams objectives, employing effective teamwork practices and principles to cultivate creative thinking, interpersonal adeptness, leadership skills, and handle challenging discussions, while excelling in diverse professional, social, and cultural scenarios.

    Global citizenship

    Engage in professional and ethical behaviour in the field of artificial intelligence, with appreciation for the global context, and openly and respectfully collaborate with diverse communities and cultures.

     

    * Shanghai’s 2023 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects
    ^ World Economic Forum, The Future of Jobs Report 2023