Infrastructure Engineering, Smart Systems and AI MSc

As infrastructure networks become increasingly connected and data-driven, engineers need new skills to tackle complex challenges. You'll learn how to use digital technologies, systems thinking and AI to improve infrastructure performance, support decision-making and deliver sustainable solutions in a practical, sustainable way. 

• Develop specialist skills in infrastructure health monitoring, smart systems, data engineering and AI
• Apply advanced computational and digital technologies to real-world infrastructure challenges
• Develop systems-thinking and data-driven approaches to infrastructure performance, resilience and risk
• Prepare for careers across consultancy, asset management, smart cities, transport, water and energy

Build on your engineering background with our Infrastructure Engineering, Smart Systems and AI MSc and develop expertise to support your journey towards becoming an ICE Chartered Infrastructure Engineer (CEng MICE). This professional route welcomes engineers from diverse disciplines, subject to ICE’s academic, experience and professional assessment requirements.

• Learn through engaging lectures that demonstrate how experts approach complex infrastructure challenges, helping you think critically and apply engineering concepts.
• Receive direct feedback from academics during seminars and tutorials, helping you deepen your understanding and develop analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Learn from industry professionals through guest lectures, real-world case studies and opportunities to undertake research projects with industry.
• Develop practical digital and analytical skills through infrastructure monitoring, data analysis, computational modelling and AI applications to real-world engineering problems.

Facilities and support

You'll benefit from access to world-class engineering facilities and digital research environments that support infrastructure monitoring, testing and modelling. Throughout your studies, you'll receive academic guidance from expert staff and dedicated support from your Personal Tutor.

National Buried Infrastruture Facility (NBIF)

NBIF is a unique facility that brings together research, innovation and education to investigate how structures, infrastructure and the ground interact, supporting the development of more resilient and sustainable built environments.

TRAIN rig

Explore the forces that shape transport design with our TRAIN rig, a specialist facility for advanced projects investugating vehicle aerodynamics.

Assessment

Assessment is through a combination of unseen and open-book examinations, problem-solving exercises, oral presentations, computer-based exercises and written reports. These methods assess both your technical knowledge and your ability to apply it to real-world infrastructure challenges.

You’ll receive regular feedback throughout the course, including verbal feedback during tutorials and practical sessions, and written feedback on coursework and examinations. Independent study forms an important part of the programme, allowing you to develop your knowledge, complete assessments and undertake your research project.

You’ll also have a Personal Tutor who can provide academic guidance and support throughout your studies.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

2027/28

Core modules

Optional modules

Select 20 credits from the following examples of options:

For students where a prepatroy bridge is necessary, the following must also be taken:

If you are unsure if you meet our entry requirements, you can also contact the admissions department to discuss whether your application would be considered.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL iBT taken before January 2026: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• TOEFL iBT taken from January 2026: 4.5 Overall with no less than 4.5 in any 2 skills and 4 in the other two skills
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2027 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities. We also offer advice and guidance on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent). If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Your careers toolkit

Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.

Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:

• Careers support services and Careers Network
• Work experience and placements
• Enterprise and entrepreneurship
• Alumni and employer connections
• Global opportunities and life experience
• Careers in the curriculum

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.