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Postgraduate Study

Teaching

The taught elements include the core module “Introduction to the Ethics of AI, Data and Algorithms” and eight elective modules, covering specialist topics. These topics vary year by year, reflecting the current research expertise of staff. Students should attend the core module plus at least four elective modules. Additionally, after the taught components of the course are completed, there are work-in-progress seminars, where students present and discuss their individual dissertation research.

For their supervised research, students work individually with domain experts to produce three pieces of written work: two Research Essays and a Dissertation.

In addition, students are encouraged to integrate themselves into the research culture of CFI by attending research seminars, reading groups, conferences and other events at the Centre, as well as other lectures, seminars and events relevant to their interests within the Institute and the wider University.

One to one supervision

Students can expect 10 hours of one-on-one supervision.

The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding supervision.

Seminars & classes

Students will receive at least 36 hours of taught seminars per year (12 for the core module, 6 hours per elective module) and approximately 24 hours of student-led work in progress seminars per year.

Lectures

Students are encouraged to attend lectures, research seminars and reading groups relevant to their interests.

Taught/Research Balance
Equal Taught/Research

Feedback

Students receive marks and examiners' reports for each piece of assessed written work as well as their assessed work-in-progress presentation. They also receive termly reports from their Academic Advisor.

Assessment

Thesis / Dissertation

Students submit a dissertation of up to 12,000 words at the end of Easter Term on a topic picked in consultation with their supervisor. The Dissertation accounts for 50 per cent of the final mark for the course. A viva is not normally required but may be requested by the Examiners.

Other

Assessment will be through a range of formats which may include coursework, written and oral examinations, posters, presentations and projects.

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Key Information


Michaelmas 2027
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
Dec. 8, 2026
Course starts
Oct. 1, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Funding Deadlines
Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 8, 2026
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 14, 2026

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2027, Lent 2028 and Easter 2028.

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