Doctor of Philosophy in Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence at University of Cambridge

Programme overview

This PhD in Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence will train the next generation of AI researchers, technologists, and leaders in the development of human-centred, human-compatible, responsible and socially and globally beneficial AI technologies. The course offers research training in areas such as fundamental human-level AI, social and interactive AI, cognitive AI, creative AI, health and global AI, and responsible AI. Students will be educated in an interdisciplinary environment where they can get access to expertise not only in the technical but also human, ethical, applied and industrial aspects of AI.

Faculty: School of the Humanities and Social Sciences | Department: Institute for Technology and Humanity | Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 4-7 years part-time | Study mode: full-time | Intake: October 2027 | Location: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The interdisciplinary nature of human-inspired AI means that the programme will also involve working closely also with other units of the University, including co-supervision arrangements, access to research seminars, and access to facilities. The thesis should not exceed 60,000 words including footnotes, tables and equations, but excluding appendices, bibliography, photographs and diagrams.

Career pathways

The course addresses the broader need for experts equipped to develop more responsible and human-centred AI as academia, industry, government and non-profit sectors increasingly recruit AI specialists and is a logical next step for students moving through AI-related master’s programmes and wishing to specialise in human-inspired AI.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a First class Honours Degree. Applicants must have a first-class honours degree or equivalent; a master’s level degree (or equivalent work experience or qualifications) is highly desirable. We accept students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, but applicants should demonstrate significant relevant preparation for the computational, mathematical, and programming aspects of their research. English language: IELTS (Academic) 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each element. International applicants needing a visa require ATAS clearance after an offer.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,208 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

International applicants: GBP 33,876 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 4-7 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/iethpdhii/apply

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