You could do a degree in a subject like:

• artificial intelligence (AI)
• software engineering
• computer science
• data science
• mathematics

Some employers may also look for a postgraduate qualification in a related subject like machine learning.

You could sign up to do a free UCAS Subject Spotlight to learn more about AI and machine learning.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You could apply to do an apprenticeship, for example:

• Machine Learning Engineer Level 6 (non-degree) Apprenticeship
• Artificial Intelligence Data Specialist Level 7 (non-degree) Apprenticeship
• Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship

These apprenticeships are equivalent to degree and postgraduate level study and take around 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

You'll need:

• maths knowledge
• analytical thinking skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• the ability to write computer programs
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• knowledge of systems analysis and development
• persistence and determination
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers work in many different parts of the economy.

For example in healthcare, you might develop screening tools to detect disease, while in manufacturing you could program robotic systems to learn new ways to improve production.

Generally, as an AI engineer, you'll:

• work with businesses to understand the problems they want to solve
• develop machine learning models and algorithms
• run tests on prototypes and analyse data to make improvements
• find and fix problems or 'bugs'
• assess the risks associated with new machine learning programs
• work as part of a team to roll out AI solutions
• stay up to date with the latest advancements in AI

You could work in an office, at a client's business or remotely.