Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

DSTI Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence is a master’s level programme built exclusively for seasoned professionals who aim to lead AI-driven transformations within their organisations. With over 500 hours of advanced instruction, it uniquely integrates rigorous scientific foundations, cutting-edge technical know-how, and strategic leadership development—an approach rarely found in executive education.

Unlike many short-term, surface-level or executive MBA courses, our programme immerses you in Data Science, AI, Data Engineering & Analytics, and Cyber Security. You will master the complexities of these fields while simultaneously strengthening your ability to guide teams, shape AI initiatives, and make high-impact decisions. A 4 to 6-month professional placement ensures that these skills are not only learned, but rigorously applied within real-world contexts.

DSTI stands apart thanks to its exceptional community and proven track record. We have guided hundreds of experienced professionals—from across the globe and various industries—into more influential roles at the intersection of technology and management. Our graduates carry DSTI’s reputation for depth, excellence, and adaptability into leadership positions worldwide, forging a renowned network that continuously shares best practices and insights.

Beyond expert instruction, you will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognised professional certifications, reinforcing your credentials as a forward-thinking leader in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Apply now to join this elite global community of executive professionals and vault your career to the forefront of AI innovation and growth opportunities.

DSTI Executive MSc in AI Hero
Features
Study Modes
Campus
Intake

All DSTI MSc programmes – Key Dates for the 2025 Entries

Spring 2025

Application deadlines for:

  1. International students: 1st February 2025
  2. EU students: 21st March 2025

Induction Days:

  1. Applied Data Analytics | Engineering | Science & AI
    28th March 2025
  2. Applied Cyber Security
    No Spring entry – see Autumn 2025
  3. Executive AI
    24th April 2025

Classes start dates:

  1. Applied Data Analytics | Engineering | Science & AI
    31st March 2025
  2. Applied Cyber Security
    No Spring entry – see Autumn 2025
  3. Executive AI
    25th April 2025

Autumn 2025

Application deadlines for:

  1. International students: 3rd August 2025
  2. EU students: 26th September 2025

Induction Days:

  1. Applied Data Analytics | Engineering | Science & AI
    3rd October 2025
  2. Applied Cyber Security
    17th October 2025
  3. Executive AI
    30th October 2025

Classes start dates:

  1. Applied Data Analytics | Engineering | Science & AI
    6th October 2025
  2. Applied Cyber Security
    20th October 2025
  3. Executive AI
    3rd November 2025

Please note that Self-Pace Online Course (SPOC) applicants are not subject to any particular application timeline

Accreditations

As a front-runner in data and AI in France, DSTI offers a Bachelor programme at RNCP level 6. Our MSc programmes hold a RNCP level 7 accreditation. DSTI is recognised under the 3IA Cote d’Azur Label for extensive AI content and proudly possesses Qualiopi RNQ certification, affirming the quality of our processes. Our Qualiopi certificate can be downloaded by clicking on this link.

Objectives of Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

Accelerate Career Advancement with AI Expertise

Prepare professionals with 4+ years of experience to transition into senior technical roles, combining their industry knowledge with advanced AI skills for accelerated career progression.

Develop Strategic AI Leadership Skills

Equip experienced professionals with the ability to oversee AI-driven projects from a technical and strategic perspective, enhancing decision-making across complex IT environments.

Master Advanced AI Technologies

Enable participants to gain proficiency in cutting-edge AI tools and technologies, ensuring they can implement and manage sophisticated AI solutions in real-world scenarios.

Integrate AI and Cyber Security for Industry Applications

Empower learners to understand and implement AI technologies alongside key cybersecurity principles, ensuring they can drive innovation while maintaining secure, scalable systems.

Programme Structure

DSTI Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence awards 120 ECTS. This includes 500 hours of classes (90 ECTS) covering comprehensive subjects across four teaching units specifically tailored for experienced professionals looking to enter the field of AI. The programme also features seminars, an AI Awareness day, and induction sessions. Finally, a professional experience (30 ECTS) lasting 4 to 6 months provides hands-on exposure to AI practices in a real-world setting. 

Programme Features

30-35

Years of average age range

70%

of International Students

4+

Hands-on projects

4

Professional Certifications Exams preparation

Study Modes

DSTI offers its Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence to professionals for their continuing and lifelong education, already master’s level graduated and with 4 to 5 years of professional experience.

The programme is accessible in two modes:

  1. Full-time, live, on campus or online, for those who can take a work break.
  2. Self-Paced Online Course (SPOC), for those working and studying on their personal time.
Full-Time Mode

For those of you taking a break from work and go back to school!

A compact and demanding schedule for accelerating your career progression.

On Campus or Online live.

Self-Paced Online Course (SPOC)

SPOC is ideal for students balancing studies with regular jobs.

Studies through recorded lectures, and can be supplemented with live online sessions if available.

The course duration is flexible to the students’ needs.

Curriculum of Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

The Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence consists of 500 hours of classes and practical across four core teaching units (TUs) 

Data Science (125 hours)

The Data Science Teaching Unit the Executive MSc in AI programme forms the grounds for a solid understanding of the two branches of AI: statistical and connectionist (neural networks), supplements them with symbolic AI for hybrid systems, all by providing ample theory and applications.

This course covers the basic notions of Applied Mathematics required to study optimisation and then data science: calculus, linear algebra and complex numbers.

A course that introduces the fundamentals of descriptive statistics, probability theory, and their applications using R programming language for data analysis.

This course delves into the fundamental concepts of Perceptron’s layers, weights, biases, and hyperparameters, along with activation and cost functions, optimisation algorithms, and backpropagation. Students will learn the learning mechanism of Perceptron, its applications in classification and regression, and how to implement them in Python using TensorFlow.

This course provides an overview of data structures, cleaning and preparation techniques, Pandas, Matplotlib, Scikit-learn, OpenCV, Python and Flask, Keras, and Numpy for developing data-driven applications.

A course that provides an introduction to semantics in data, covering RDF and SPARQL for representing and querying web-rich data, RDFS and ontologies, and tracing data history using VOiD, DCAT, and PROV-O.

Data Engineering (125 hours)

The Data Engineering Teaching Unit the Executive MSc in AI programme provides all the experience on technologies and operational methodologies to endeavour a global understanding of data banks, flows and exchange in and between information systems.

Global approach to modelling – Design-independent analysis methodology and model – Formal and semi-algorithmic data model design methods.

Best practices for project management, being in waterfall cycle, agility or just-in-time. Study of PMBOK (Project Management Body Of Knowledge) and Agile (Scrum) approaches

A course that covers the fundamentals of relational databases, advanced SQL queries, stored procedures, triggers using T-SQL, dynamic SQL, and their applications with Microsoft SQL Server for data wrangling and manipulation.

A course that provides preparation for the Neo4j certification, covers graph-based problem modelling, and implementation with the Neo4j graph database for NoSQL data management.

A course that covers XML data flow, DTD and schemas, XSL transformations, JSON, and their transformations, and how to build efficient and scalable data pipelines.

Cyber Security & Cloud Engineering (125 hours)

The Cyber Security and Cloud Engineering Teaching Unit the Executive MSc in AI programme covers a unique level of expertise as well as a global vision of the necessary IT infrastructure and its security for running artificial intelligence powered information systems.

Introduction to the AWS cloud environment and services as well as preparation for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate certification 

Geopolitics of cybersecurity, range of cyber threats.

International communication networks and security.

Cyber security stakes of critical national infrastructures, operations and processes.

Critical infrastructures Research centres and critical corporates.

Media, social networks religious organisations and polling organisations.

Official and critical voting systems.

A course that covers topics such as system security design patterns, infrastructure security, data at rest and in-transit encryption, and code safety to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats.

This course covers the fundamentals of data engineering, focusing on Apache Spark, Kafka, and modern data platform components. It also introduces the Lambda and Kappa architectures and the concept of “anything as code,” including Infrastructure as Code and modern CI/CD practices.

Data Analytics (125 hours)

The Data Analytics Teaching Unit the Executive MSc in AI programme offers the decision-making support component, at an incredible level of know-how, crossing methodologies, techniques, technologies, compliance and a wide coverage of application domains.

A course that covers advanced Excel formulas, data visualisation techniques, PowerPivot, Solver, and Visual Basic for Application programming, and their applications for data analytics and machine learning.

A course that covers the preparation for the analysing Data with Microsoft BI (PL-300) certification and its applications in reporting and data visualisation.

Explore real-world applications of data analytics, using different tools and technologies, across the five principal analytics use-cases: customer knowledge, finance, industry, risk and web. 

A course that covers the preparation for the Microsoft Power Platform Functional Consultant (PL-200) certification, and its applications in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) data management.

The course covers the principles and frameworks of data privacy and security, including EU & USA regulations, GDPR, Safe Harbour & Successors, and the differences between common law and code law.

Professional Experience (4 to 6 months)

After completing the coursework, students will be required to demonstrate a professional experience lasting between 4 to 6 months. This could take the form of an internship, employment, or contracting, as long as the standard DSTI evaluation procedures are met. This practical phase enables students to apply their learning in a working environment. 

Certifications

Our curriculum enables students to prepare for many external professional certifications. One of which is necessary to graduate (Neo4J Certified Professional). One other certificate is highly recommended for employability but not mandatory for graduation. 

Technologies in Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

Professors

Following are part of the faculty for Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence .

Hanna Abi Akl

Professor

Hanna Abi Akl is a scientist, author, and researcher in language, logic, and artificial intelligence, with expertise in language structure, understanding and generation, as well as symbolic and graph-based knowledge retrieval methods in AI. He currently serves as an NLP Researcher and Professor at DSTI School of Engineering.

Fabien Massol

Professor

Fabien Massol, Head of Business Development Security at Amadeus IT Group, possesses a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of security and Project Management.

Pr Fabien Gandon

Professor, Co-president of the Scientific Board

Fabien Gandon, a Research Director at INRIA and I3S Sophia Antipolis in France, specialises in Semantic Web, Ontologies, Knowledge Engineering and Modelling, Corporate Memories, and other areas in the field of informatics and computer science.

Resources for DSTI Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

AWS Academy, from which DSTI was one of the first French institutions to be accepted, provides higher education institutions with a ready-to-teach cloud computing curriculum that prepares students to pursue industry-recognised certifications and in-demand cloud jobs. AWS Academy curriculum helps educators stay at the forefront of AWS Cloud innovation so that they can equip students with the skills they need to get hired in one of the fastest-growing industries.

Again, as one of the first French institution members of the  Microsoft Learn for Educators (MSLE), DSTI faculty can easily integrate AI Skills, technical skills, and industry-trusted and verified credentials into their curriculum to set students up for real-world success.

Azure for Education offers students access to an impressive library of fully licensed Microsoft software, developer tools, and cloud resources, including a yearly $100 voucher. These resources are vital for learning and completing AI-related projects, leveraging the Microsoft cloud ecosystem.

O’Reilly is a comprehensive platform providing over 60,000 books, 30,000 hours of video, live events, and interactive labs on topics like cloud computing, software development, AI, and machine learning. It offers students extensive learning resources to deepen their knowledge in AI and related fields.

Students gain access to our partner Adaltas cloud-based cluster, which leverages Hadoop and Spark for processing large-scale data sets. This enterprise-grade cluster provides 24/7 availability, allowing students to experience real-world big data environments.

All students enrolled in the programme receive access to a SAS license. This software suite is essential for advanced analytics, business intelligence, and data management tasks, providing students with tools relevant to AI-based decision-making.

Through DSTI Learn, based on the latest Moodle LMS core, students can access their study materials, including notifications, course schedules, exams, live sessions, recorded lectures, and assignment submissions. This platform ensures students remain connected with their coursework anytime, anywhere.

DSTI offers a support system through Zendesk, allowing students to seek help for academic, career, or administrative queries. Students can also revisit past responses, ensuring continuous support throughout their studies.

DSTI students are provided with lifelong access to an alumni email account, along with Microsoft Windows and Office 365 licenses, enabling them to stay connected and use essential software for professional and personal use.

Careers

The Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence at DSTI is designed for experienced professionals looking to transition into high-level AI leadership roles. Graduates of this programme are well equipped to manage AI-driven projects, oversee teams, and integrate AI strategies into their organisations. This Executive MSc positions students for career advancement in all sectors.

Career Opportunities

Common Roles for Graduates:

  • Data / AI Team Leader: Manage a team of young data scientists, engineers, and analysts and interact with cyber security experts.
  • AI Project Manager: Lead AI implementation projects across various industries.
  • AI Strategy Consultant: Advise businesses on AI integration and innovation.
  • Head of Data and AI: Manage AI initiatives and data strategy at the organisational level.
  • AI Solutions Architect: Design and oversee the development of AI solutions tailored to business needs.
  • Chief Technology Officer (CTO): Guide the company’s technological direction, focusing on AI-driven transformations.

Our Alumni

97%

get a new job within 6 months.

20 to 30%

increase from their previous wages 18 months post-graduation.

100%

get management duties 18 to 24 months post-graduation.

70%

work in Europe.

Employers of our Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence alumni

  • Adaltas
  • Africa Prudential
  • Alvedoo
  • Ambrator Games
  • Axa France
  • Baobab Circle
  • Capgemini
  • Cloudreach
  • Content Square
  • Dashlane
  • Data Minded BV
  • Datakhi
  • Datasulting
  • EDF LAB Paris Saclay
  • Enel
  • Fenyx Consult
  • Foodwize
  • Google
  • Huawei Technologies Nigeria Ltd
  • Inetum
  • Infonomics Technology Services Limited
  • JSC
  • Lixo
  • Mercedes-Benz
  • Pelico
  • Statistisches Bundesamt Deutschland
  • Sterling
  • TTE World
  • Volt

Admissions

Admissions to the Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence are open to experienced professionals looking to advance their careers in AI leadership roles, with a focus on both technical expertise and strategic oversight.

Eligibility for Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

To qualify for the Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence, applicants must meet the following conditions:

Candidates must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognised institution. While there are no specific field restrictions, applicants generally come from backgrounds in science, technology, or social sciences/humanities. Those from social sciences/humanities should have some exposure to scientific methods, particularly in the use of statistics, in fields such as (but not limited to) economics, finance, sociology, linguistics, and related areas.

Applicants should have 4 to 5 years of professional experience, ideally in roles related or connected to science and/or technology. Applicants with managerial (including junior management) positions are particularly sought after.

DSTI offers two methods for prospective students to showcase their academic qualifications. While applicants are required to submit only one type of academic record from the options provided, presenting evidence of additional qualifications from the list below may improve their chances of being admitted. In any case, proof of a Master’s degree is mandatory.

Option 1: standard admission test + Master’s Degree Certificate

To maintain the high standards of our application process, we place importance on scores from standardised tests. For the GRE, candidates should aim for a minimum score of 155 in the quantitative section with a total score near 300. For the GMAT, a minimum score of 42 is expected, with an overall score above 600.

Option 2: DSTI Online Entry Exam + Master’s Degree Certificate

If the above criteria cannot be met, applicants may opt to take the online DSTI Entry Exam from home. All that is required is a computer and a stable internet connection. The exam consists of two sections: Mathematics and IT.

Since the programme is taught entirely in English, students must have a B2 level of proficiency in English. This will be assessed during the admissions interview. Additionally, applicants may submit scores from recognised English proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL to strengthen their application.

IT Requirements

Students at DSTI should have a Windows PC laptop, with these minimum specs:

At least Intel Core i5 (or AMD equivalent).

8GB as the absolute minimum, but 16GB highly recommended.

Minimum 512GB, 1TB recommended. SSD required.

NVIDIA preferred, but not essential.

Your PC must be able to run the main latest Windows version (currently: Windows 11).

DSTI will provide a Windows Education (eq. to Enterprise edition) key when classes start.

Don’t purchase MS Office 365: DSTI will provide a full product license when classes start.

Admission Process for Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

The admission process at the DSTI School of Engineering is a thorough and structured procedure, ensuring that all qualified candidates have the opportunity to apply for this programme.

Begin by exploring our Executive MSc and other available programmes to find the one that aligns with your career goals. Book an online information meeting with our admissions team for advice on the curriculum and to discuss tuition fees.

The application process is completed online. You will be required to submit key documents such as your ID, CV, and a cover letter, which will be used to assess your eligibility.

After an initial review of your application, DSTI will invite eligible applicants to submit additional documents. You may provide the required documents under one of the following options:

Option 1: Standardised test scores and degree certificate

Option 2: DSTI Online Entry Exam and degree certificate

Candidates who progress further will be invited to a 20-minute interview to assess their fit for the programme, confirm their motivation, and evaluate their proficiency in English.

Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive an official admission decision via email. For more details on the process, please consult our comprehensive admission guidelines.

Tuition Fees for Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence

Book One on One Online Meeting with DSTI

At DSTI, we provide one-on-one online meetings with prospective students. Here we answer all their questions regarding our Applied Bachelors and Applied MSc courses.

Join DSTI's Weekly Online Group Meetings (English)

At DSTI, we organize online group meetings where we share valuable information about our selection of Applied Bachelors and Applied MSc courses in data and AI.

Join DSTI's Weekly Online Group Meetings (in French)

DSTI organizes online group meetings to provide information about our range of Applied Bachelor and Applied MSc programs in data and AI.

Open House Sessions at DSTI Paris Campus

Every Wednesday from 2PM to 6PM CEST, DSTI’s Paris Campus hosts an open day for all, no appointment necessary. Inquiries regarding admission, courses or other related topics are welcomed. We are delighted to provide answers to your questions.

Tuition Fees for Applied MSc programmes

Fees are valid for the Autumn 24 and Spring 25 intake.Applied MSc in Data AnalyticsApplied MSc in Data Engineering for Artificial IntelligenceApplied MSc in Data Science & Artificial IntelligenceApplied MSc in Cyber Security
Total Tuition Fees18,700€18,700€18,700€25,000€
Yearly Tuition Fees9,350€9,350€9,350€12,500€

*No tuition fees for the students in apprenticeship mode.

Tuition Fees for Executive MSc programmes

Fees are valid for the Autumn 24 and Spring 25 intake.Executive MSc in Artificial Intelligence
Total Tuition Fees18,700€

Want a career in data and AI? Download the DSTI’ Applied MSc in Data Engineering for AI Curriculum to find out how!