Climate Change and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Entry requirements

Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (2:2 or above) in a mathematical/physical science or a closely related subject. Your degree can be in a mathematical, physical, computational science, engineering or related subject and you should have experience in programming. Prior knowledge of meteorology is not necessary.

Applicants should explain in their Statement of Interest why this particular course is suitable for them.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Help tackle the climate crisis, and gain expertise in a rapidly growing field of computer science, with our MSc Climate Change and Artificial Intelligence (AI) degree.

This course is suited to graduates from a wide range of disciplines – including science, technology, engineering and mathematical (STEM) subjects – who are looking for a postgraduate qualification that will help them stand out in the job market.

Choose the University of Reading

Reading is a leading university for climate science and environmental sustainability:

• ranked 4th in the UK for environmental and ethical performance (People and Planet University League, 2024/25)
• winner of the inaugural Times Higher Education (THE) award for Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Leadership, 2023
• recipient of a prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize for our world-leading research, teaching, stewardship and outreach on climate change
• ranked 5th in the world for Atmospheric Science. (Reading is 1st out of the UK universities ranked in the ShanghaiRanking 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects).
• named Sustainable University of the Year in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.

What you’ll learn

Artificial intelligence is growing rapidly, transforming how we collect and use data. It has the potential to help solve and understand complex global challenges, including the climate crisis.

Our Master’s in Climate Change and Artificial Intelligence (AI) addresses the growing demand for graduates with an understanding of both climate science and AI, together with the business acumen to deploy that understanding effectively.

You’ll gain a thorough understanding of:

• climate data science and climate modelling
• causality and decision-making in climate change
• good data management practices
• machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI)
• computing using the Python programming language.

Your studies will provide the knowledge and skills required for leadership roles in the IT industry and beyond. You’ll develop the ability to:

• describe the key concepts involved in climate change, including mitigation and impacts
• identify and explain sources of uncertainty in climate model simulations and empirical data, and apply these concepts to decision-making
• demonstrate when and how AI and machine learning can be used in climate change applications and services
• apply scientific methods to real-world problems and challenges
• conduct in-depth research in atmosphere, ocean and climate science.

The course will improve your understanding of climate data science and AI techniques, and prepare you for current – or future – managerial responsibilities.

• Read about Alpana Chandrashekar's experiences of MSc Climate Change and Artificial Intelligence at the University of Reading.

Information for international students