Artificial intelligence (AI) has expanded rapidly in recent years. Organizations are applying AI in a growing range of settings, and universities now offer AI degrees and related programs for students interested in this area of computer science.
An AI-related degree can help students develop skills for a variety of career paths. Because programs differ in their curricula and areas of emphasis, students should compare each university’s courses, research opportunities, and career support before deciding where to study.
Are you ready to study artificial intelligence? Choosing a country and university is an important step. Studying abroad can give you opportunities to explore how AI is researched, taught, and applied in different settings. Below are five countries to consider if you are planning to major in artificial intelligence.
Top Countries to Study Artificial Intelligence
1. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has an active AI ecosystem and has been developing a legal framework for self-driving vehicles. Automated-vehicle trials have taken place on UK roads since 2015, and the Automated Vehicles Act became law in 2024. The country’s AI sector spans fields including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and professional services.
UK universities offer science- and technology-related degree options, including AI programs. When comparing universities in the UK and AI schools in Europe, students should review the curriculum, research opportunities, facilities, and career support offered by each institution.
The University of Kent offers an MSc in Artificial Intelligence, while Liverpool Hope University offers a BSc in Artificial Intelligence.
2. United States of America
The United States is a major center for AI investment, company formation, and research. Stanford’s 2026 AI Index reports that US private AI investment reached $285.9 billion in 2025 and that 1,953 newly funded AI companies were created in the country that year.
Students considering universities in the USA can explore AI through standalone degrees, related computer science programs, and research areas. The available options vary by institution, so students should compare each program’s curriculum, research opportunities, and admissions requirements.
Carnegie Mellon University offers a bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence. At the University of California, Berkeley, the Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences department supports AI research across areas such as deep learning, planning, vision, robotics, speech, and natural language processing. Students can also explore other institutions in the United States.
3. China
China is a major center for AI research and development. Stanford’s 2026 AI Index reports that China leads in AI publication volume, citations, patent output, and industrial robot installations.
Students considering universities in China should review the degree level, curriculum, language of instruction, and admissions requirements for each program. These details can vary significantly by institution.
Tsinghua University offers a full-time Master of Engineering program in Artificial Intelligence through its Shenzhen International Graduate School. Huazhong University of Science and Technology has an Artificial Intelligence major through its School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation.
4. Japan
Japan has a strong robotics and AI-related technology ecosystem. The International Federation of Robotics reported that Japan remained the world’s second-largest market for industrial robots in 2024, with 44,500 units installed.
Students considering universities in Japan can explore AI through degree programs, university-wide education programs, research centers, and related computing fields. Prospective students should compare each program’s curriculum and language of instruction.
The University of Tokyo has a Next Generation Artificial Intelligence Research Center. The Institute of Science Tokyo (formerly Tokyo Institute of Technology) offers institute-wide data science and AI education programs. The Institute of Science Tokyo was formed in October 2024 through the merger of Tokyo Institute of Technology and Tokyo Medical and Dental University.
5. Ireland
Major technology companies, including Apple, Microsoft, and Dell Technologies, have significant operations in Ireland. Ireland also refreshed its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in 2024.
Ireland is an option for students seeking AI-related study in a technology-focused environment. Prospective students should compare each program’s curriculum, delivery mode, admissions requirements, and career support.
Dublin City University offers an MSc in Computing with an Artificial Intelligence major. Munster Technological University Cork offers an MSc in Artificial Intelligence, with a full-time option and a part-time online option. These are two institutions in Ireland to explore for graduate AI study.
We hope this article on the best countries to study artificial intelligence abroad was helpful. For more information about studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students!
