Artificial intelligence (AI) engineer

You could do a degree in a subject like:

• artificial intelligence (AI)
• software engineering
• computer science
• data science
• mathematics

Some employers may also look for a postgraduate qualification in a related subject like machine learning.

You could sign up to do a free UCAS Subject Spotlight to learn more about AI and machine learning.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You could apply to do an apprenticeship, for example:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation Practitioner Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Machine Learning Engineer Level 6 (non-degree) Apprenticeship
• Artificial Intelligence Data Specialist Level 7 (non-degree) Apprenticeship
• Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship

These apprenticeships are equivalent to university level study and take around 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• apprenticeship levels|https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/about-apprenticeships#UnderstandingApprenticeshiplevelsandqualifications
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Career Tips

It will be helpful if you have knowledge and experience of computer programming languages, such as Python, SQL or JavaScript.

You might be able to apply to do a Skills Bootcamp in AI or machine learning.

Skills Bootcamps are flexible courses that last up to 16 weeks. You should check specific entry requirements with the course provider.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You could join The Society for the Study of Artificial Intelligence and Simulation of Behaviour (AISB) for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further Information

You can keep up to date with new technological advances and industry information from:

• The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
• The Alan Turing Institute

Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers work in many different parts of the economy.

For example in healthcare, you might develop screening tools to detect disease, while in manufacturing you could program robotic systems to learn new ways to improve production.

Generally, as an AI engineer, you'll:

• work with businesses to understand the problems they want to solve
• develop machine learning models and algorithms
• run tests on prototypes and analyse data to make improvements
• find and fix problems or 'bugs'
• assess the risks associated with new machine learning programs
• work as part of a team to roll out AI solutions
• stay up to date with the latest advancements in AI

You could work in an office, at a client's business or remotely.