Practice-Oriented Artificial Intelligence

But rather than delivering 'AI for x' experts for a fixed domain 'x', which might quickly lose its importance or utility, the Practice-Oriented Artificial Intelligence programme at University of Bristol will deliver experts with the flexibility to adapt to new domains over the course of their career. The PrO-AI CDT pulls together the University of Bristol's proven track record in AI (AI university of the year 2024) and cohort-based doctoral training, to deliver highly-trained AI innovators with the transferable skills to deliver societal impact across domains.

Career prospects

Graduates will have the sought-after skills to adapt quickly to a problem domain in science and research that they haven't worked in previously. They can become part of new and existing world-class research groups, as well as pursue highly rewarding careers in a variety of industries around the world.

Its industry partners cover a broad range of AI technologies and play different roles in enhancing the PrO-AI training programme. Current partners operate in the following industry sectors:

• Aerospace
• AI consultancy
• Cloud computing
• Data analytics
• Digital democracy
• Digital transformation
• General insurance
• Geo-mapping
• Global electronics
• Hardware design
• Home energy services
• IT solutions
• Mission-critical solutions
• Online coaching
• Pharmaceuticals
• Renewable energy
• Semiconductors
• Technology consultancy
• Volumetric VR

Programme Structure

Modules include:

• the main topics in data-driven AI, knowledge-intensive AI and human-AI interaction;
• human-centred and participatory methodologies to bring those AI techniques into practice;
• and the legal and ethical context that will help students to do so responsibly and, in a manner, beneficial to society.

Admission requirements

Academic requirements

• GPA: Upper Second Class

English requirements

• TOEFL iBT: 88
• PTE Academic: 67
• IELTS: 6.5

Other requirements

General requirements

• Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of an upper-second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• The CDT is primarily aimed at students with a first class degree in engineering or science and with strong programming skills, but applicants with suitable skills acquired in employment will also be considered. Applicants need to have prior knowledge and experience with selected contemporary AI techniques and demonstrate this in their application.

Fees and funding

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

• International (International tuition fees apply to students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the study country. In some regions, like the EU/EEA, or under certain agreements, students from partner countries may also pay domestic fees.): Non-residents — 51,920 AUD / year (≈ 27,500 GBP / year)
• Domestic (Tuition fee for the domestic students.): Citizens or residents — 9,640 AUD / year (≈ 5,106 GBP / year)

Additional Details

Home: part-time — £2,553 per year

Living costs

Bristol, United Kingdom: 1,416-2,379 AUD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Practice-Oriented Artificial Intelligence. Available scholarships include, but are not limited to: British Council scholarships for Women (Grant, various benefits, deadline not specified); Anne and Peggy Sleigh Bursaries (Grant, 2500 GBP, deadline not specified); GREAT Scholarships (Grant, 13000 GBP, deadline 10 Apr 2027); Sanctuary Scholarship (Grant, various benefits, deadline not specified); Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (Grant, various benefits, deadline 09 Dec 2026); Alumni discount (Grant, various benefits, deadline not specified); Bristol PhD Scholarships for Applicants of Black and mixed Black Heritage (Grant, various benefits, deadline not specified); Alumni Foundation Music Bursaries (Grant, 500 GBP, deadline 31 Jul 2027); Bristol Postgraduate Research Scholarships (Grant, 21805 GBP, deadline not specified); St Mary Redcliffe Choral Section Leaders (Grant, various benefits, deadline not specified); Chevening Scholarships (Grant, various benefits, deadline 06 Oct 2026); Graduation gown discount (Grant, 58 GBP, deadline not specified); Think Big Scholarships for international students (Grant, various benefits, deadline not specified); St Pauls Church Organ Scholarship (Grant, 1450 GBP, deadline not specified); Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (Grant, 1552 GBP, deadline not specified); Fulbright U.S. Student Program (Grant, various benefits, deadline 07 Oct 2026); ServiceScape Scholarship (Grant, 1000 USD, deadline 30 Nov 2026); ACES Scholarships (Grant, 3500 USD, deadline 15 Nov 2026); Erasmus+ - Grants for study mobility (Grant, various benefits, deadline not specified); Martingale Scholarship (Grant, various benefits, deadline 19 Oct 2026); Scholarships for PhD Students (Grant, 19000 GBP, deadline not specified); Boustany Astronomy PhD Scholarship (Grant, various benefits, deadline 28 Feb 2027); Amberscholar Scholarship (Grant, 6000 USD, deadline 31 Jan 2027); Voice Talent Online Scholarship (Grant, 1000 USD, deadline 01 Mar 2027); $1,500 Annual Video Contest Scholarship (Grant, 1000 USD, deadline 31 Oct 2026); Dream Chaser Scholarship (Grant, 1000 USD, deadline 13 Jan 2027); Commonwealth Shared Scholarship – University Bids (Grant, 22500 GBP, deadline not specified); Scholarship for students with disabilities (Grant, 3000 USD, deadline 31 Dec 2026); The Annual IELTS from 6 to 9 Scholarship (Grant, 1500 USD, deadline not specified); Tobacco Harm Reduction Scholarship Programme (Grant, 12000 USD, deadline 11 Jan 2027).