Tracks: The course is divided into different tracks, each representing a specialist area within machine learning and machine intelligence: speech and language processing; computer vision & robotics; human-computer interaction; machine learning.
You select a track when you apply to the programme. The track will affect your module choices a little as you will take more modules in your specialist area. But the majority of the modules are shared across all tracks and are taken by the entire cohort. In addition, you will have flexibility through your optional core and elective modules to pick any module of interest. The track will also fix the area in which you do your project: you will select from projects within this area during the project allocation process.
Regardless of the track you take, students will spend the Michaelmas and Lent terms undertaking taught course modules. From the end of the Lent term through to the end of the course, students will conduct a substantial research project leading to a dissertation.
In each track, you will have to take a set of at least seven core modules. One module is roughly equivalent to a sixteen-lecture course; both full and part modules will be offered. The core modules will give students an introduction to the field as well as a good understanding of advanced techniques and will prepare them to carry out their research projects. One of the core modules -- the optional core module -- can be selected from a list giving a degree of flexibility.
Modules: In addition students take one elective module. This can be chosen from any MLMI MPhil module (including those which are not part of the core for your track, but which are offered in other tracks) or 4th year undergraduate course in the Department of Engineering (subject to capacity constraints). Elective module options are advertised to students at the beginning of the academic year.
More information about the course
Teaching methods: Modules will be taught via traditional lecture courses, some with associated practical classes. The course will emphasize coursework in several of the taught modules. Software projects aimed at implementing algorithms and modelling methods will be central to the practical modules and the research project.
Research Project: From the end of the Lent Term, students will undertake a research project leading to a dissertation and poster presentation.