Programm Course Name
MSc in Business AI (MBAI)
12-
MONTH DURATION (FULL-TIME) (with a maximum course duration of 1.5 yrears)
S$59,950
TUITION FEES (INCLUSIVE OF GST)
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax collected on behalf of the Singapore Government and will be charged at the prevailing rate
Application Closes
May (for August intake)
Pre-requisites
Bachelor's Degree
GMAT / GRE / SMU Admissions Test
TOEFL / IELTS (if the medium of instruction of your undergraduate studies was not in English)Working experience
1 to 5 years of work experience, all other candidates can also be considered depending on their motivation and previous experience
Quantitative or technical experience is preferred
About the Master of Science in Business AI (MBAI)
The SMU Master of Science in Business AI (MBAI) programme offers a cross-disciplined and practical innovation and entrepreneurship education through world-class faculty, regular engagement with thought-leading practitioners, a study stint abroad at a globally leading business school and practical innovation projects. It is designed to engage, challenge and grow Asia's next generation of innovation and entrepreneurial leaders.
Who Will Benefit From The Programme
- Professionals who want to use AI strategically
- Managers and aspiring leaders seeking AI literacy to drive business transformation.
- Career switchers aiming to enter the AI-enabled business landscape.
- Practitioners in marketing, finance, HR, operations, or strategy who want to apply AI in their functions.
- Consultants and analysts who need to translate AI insights into clear business recommendations.
- Future-ready leaders looking to manage change, influence stakeholders, and guide responsible AI adoption.
Why pursue the MBAI?
-
1
Pathway to AI-ready business leadership
Build strong foundations in business intelligence, responsible AI, and data-driven decision-making with no technical background required. Gain the competencies to lead transformation in an AI-driven economy.
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2
Strategy meets practical AI application
Learn to apply AI tools and insights across business functions through hands-on modules, real cases, storytelling with data, and a capstone project that bridges classroom learning with real-world execution.
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3
Globally relevant and industry-aligned
Develop the bilingual skillset today’s organisations value and become fluent in both business and AI. Graduates are prepared for roles in consulting, digital transformation, product management, analytics, and more.
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4
Learn from leading faculty and practitioners
Be guided by faculty and industry experts who teach the frontiers of AI-enabled business, equipping you with insight, confidence, and strategic capability to drive change.
Testimonials
Industries Master of Science in Business AI Graduates can work in
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Professional Services and Consulting -
Banking and Financial Services -
Data Analytics -
E-commerce -
Logistics -
Manufacturing -
FMCG -
Government
Programme Details
Programme Calendar
The Master of Science in Business AI programme is a 12-month programme offered on a full-time basis, with a maximum course duration of 1.5 years.
| Curriculum Structure | Total CU | August | November | January | April | July |
| 10 weeks | 5 weeks | 10 weeks | 10 weeks | 5 weeks | ||
| Foundation Courses | 3 | 1 CU | 1 CU | 1 CU | ||
| Core Courses | 6 | 3 CU | 3 CU | |||
| Electives | 5 | 1 CU | 3 CU | 1 CU | ||
| PGPD | 1 | 1 CU | ||||
Programme Information
The Master of Science in Business AI is a 12-month, full-time programme comprising 15 course units designed to build both AI literacy and strategic business capability. Students begin with three foundation modules that establish essential knowledge in decision intelligence, responsible AI management, and human–AI collaboration. This is followed by six core modules that apply AI across key business functions to equip students with a holistic, business-first understanding of AI’s impact.
To tailor their learning, students choose two programme electives in areas such as creative ideation, business storytelling, and AI-enabled people management, along with three open electives that may include courses from other SMU master’s programmes, a 10-week internship, or an SMU-X/capstone project. In addition, students complete postgraduate professional development workshops that enhance leadership and career readiness.
The programme blends classroom learning with real-world application, ensuring graduates are prepared to lead AI-driven transformation across industries.
Students will take a total of 15 course units (CU): 3 Foundation + 6 Core + 5 Electives + 1 PGPD.
3 Foundation Modules
- Responsible AI Management
- Data-Driven Decision
- Making with AI Human-AI Collaboration
6 Core Modules
- Marketing Intelligence and Personalisation Strategy
- Financial Intelligence with AI
- Financial Accounting with AI
- Data Storytelling and AI-Augmented Influencing
- Innovations and Operations in Intelligent Online Marketplaces
- Change Management with Disruptive AI
5 Elective Modules
2 Master of Science in Business AI Electives + 3 Open Electives
| Programme Electives |
|
| Open Electives |
|
Postgraduate Professional Development Workshops
Students are required to attend 4 full-day workshops by the end of the programme to fulfil 1 CU.
Events
How to Apply
Application Period
| INTAKE | APPLICATION DEADLINE |
|
August 2026 |
September 2025 to May 2026 All applications are based on rolling admissions. |
Please read the instructions carefully before completing your application. Supplementary instructions are given in each section of the application form. Once you have completed the form, we suggest you keep a copy for your records. Your application will only be processed when we have received all the documents and payment.
The Master of Science in Business AI programme is open to applicants from all academic backgrounds who aspire to lead in an AI-enabled business environment. Candidates must hold a recognised bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record, and while prior technical or quantitative experience is beneficial, it is not required, as the programme is designed for those seeking to apply AI strategically rather than develop technical AI systems.
Applicants must meet the programme’s AIQ requirement, which can be fulfilled through GMAT (≥600), GMAT Focus (≥595), GRE (≥312), or the SMU Admissions Test (≥55). English proficiency is expected, with IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90 as reference benchmarks. All candidates must submit a statement of purpose, two references, and will be invited for an admissions interview as part of the selection process.
- A good GMAT (try a GMAT mini quiz) / GRE (try a GRE mini quiz) / *SMU Admissions Test (SMUAT) score (click here to view the SMUAT Factsheet)
- A valid TOEFL / IELTS score is required if the medium of instruction of your undergraduate studies was not English. Valid for two years from the date of the test.
- An updated Resume
- Official academic transcripts of all educational institutions attended.
- 2 Personal Statements:
- Explain in approximately 500 words tell us (a) your motivation in taking up the MSc in Business AI (MBAI), and (b) in what ways you will contribute to learning in the classroom.
- In approximately 300 words, (i) provide an example of your involvement in creating something new: a business, a product or service, or a personal idea. Do include your role, reflections and the significance it has made. (ii) Describe a situation with the greatest ethical complexity that you have faced in your professional or academic life, and how your input helped resolve it.
- 2 Referee Reports - Submit 2 complete sets of referee details during the online process of applying for the MBAI. The application portal will automatically send an email to your referees for them to complete an online recommendation form once you have submitted the application.
- Copy of NRIC/FIN/Passport (in PDF or JPEG format).
- Any other supporting documents
* SMU graduates with cumulative GPAs of 3.0/4.0 or better, and graduates from local Autonomous Universities (NUS, NTU, SUSS, SUTD, SIT) with cumulative GPAs of 3.5/5.0 or better will not require a GMAT/GRE/SMU Admissions Test Score for admissions. An undergraduate GPA is valid for 5 years after graduation. Speak with your Admissions Manager to find out more.
Please note that meeting the above GPA academic criteria does not guarantee admission. Candidates may still be advised to submit GMAT/GRE/SMU Admissions Test scores to further strengthen their application.
After Submitting Your Application
The Admissions Team will follow up with your application within 3-5 working days. More information on how to practice and sit for the SMU Admissions Test will be provided during this time.
Important Notes:
- Verification of original documents is required upon matriculation into the programme. Failing to do so may result in applicants having to withdraw from the programme.
- If you have not taken the GMAT or GRE, you are encouraged to take the SMU Admissions Test. Alternatively, you may first submit your online application and arrange for the GMAT / GRE test to be taken as soon as possible. Do include the date of your test as well.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview within two weeks of the application.
Once you have submitted your application and have received the application number confirmation email, you can use the Applicant Self Service functions to check your application status or update your contact information.
Please refer to the Applicant's Self Service Guide.
Want to Know If You are Eligible for the Programme?
If you would like us to assess your suitability for the MBAI programme, please contact our Admissions Advisor and we will contact you within three working days.
PROGRAMME FEES
Application Fee* | Registration / Advance Tuition Fee* | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| S$100 (inclusive of GST) |
Amount payable upon acceptance to the programme. The registration fee covers matriculation, examination fees, orientation activities, library and computer account. | S$59,500 (inclusive of GST)
Fees are subject to change from year to year |
*All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. The Advance Tuition fee of S$5,000 will contribute to the first billing of the tuition fee. The remaining tuition fees would be billed thrice over the duration of the programme. The fees are due and payable within 30 days of the billing. The tuition fee does not include meals, air travel, travel insurance, living and accommodation expenses incurred for the overseas exchange. Singapore Management University reserves the right to alter tuition and other fees as deemed appropriate.
*Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax collected on behalf of the Singapore Government and will be charged at the prevailing rate.
Billing | Full-Time |
|---|---|
| S$5,000 | At Admission |
| Remaining Tuition Fees | Start of Programme |
| By the 4th Month | |
| By the 7th Month |
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Academic Excellence | Global Awareness | SMU-ASEAN | Leadership* | Impact on Asia* | Women in Business* | Community Impact*
* Denotes Scholarships that students can apply for upon admissions into the programme
These scholarships entail award amounts up to 30% of the tuition fee, with no bonds attached.
The Admissions Scholarship Committee will assess the following:
- Professional, personal, and academic achievements
- Evidence of making an entrepreneurial impact to business/society
- Interview Performance
- Recommendation from the Academic Director
The SMU Master of Science in Business AI will offer the Academic Excellence Award to high-quality candidates with exceptional academic performance. Awards are based on academic merit, final grades and admissions test score.
The SMU Master of Science in Business AI is committed to crafting a diverse and global academic environment that will contribute to the students’ personal and professional journey. The Global Awareness Award is awarded to individuals who will contribute to the classroom diversity and enrich the learning experience of students by way of cultural, personal or professional backgrounds.
The SMU-ASEAN Scholarships do not require any applications. Applicants who meet the criteria below will be considered. The award amounts range from S$5,000 to S$10,000 (inclusive of GST) with no bonds attached to the scholarships.
Eligibility criteria:
- Successful admission into the SMU MEI Programme
- Open to nationals of ASEAN member countries
The SMU Master of Science in Business AI recognises individuals with strong leadership capabilities who have exhibited outstanding leadership potential in their profession, organisation or community with the Leadership Scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate strong leadership capabilities or potential in personal and professional instances.
The Admissions Scholarship Committee will assess the following:
- Interview Performance
- Essay: “Please explain in 500 words why you consider yourself a leader"
- Leadership quality recognition such as:
- In the workplace: demonstrated career progression, line management progression, professional recognition such as awards, project success and team leadership
- Leadership qualities during student days: e.g. Chairperson of an interest group, class representation, etc.
- Attainment of any non-academic awards and scholarships.
The SMU Master of Science in Business AI is creating a significant impact in Singapore, extending now to Asia. We look forward to welcoming students who can demonstrate achievements in their professional, social and personal life that have created an impact on Asia, such as:
- Professional development or personal projects that have contributed positively to Asian regions or companies.
- Entrepreneurial projects with an Asian focus.
- Increased the awareness of Asia in other locations.
The Admissions Scholarship Committee will assess the following:
- Interview Performance
- Essay: “Please explain in 500 words the professional development, entrepreneurial or personal projects of an Asian focus, that have contributed positively to Asian regions or companies or have increased awareness of Asia in other locations."
- Impact: reach of impact, entrepreneurial projects, awards and helping the increased awareness of Asia will be taken into consideration.
The SMU Master of Science in Business AI aims to recognise exceptional women with the “Women in Business” Award, those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership capabilities or potential in their professional or personal endeavours.
Applicants must have successfully received an admissions offer.
The Admissions Scholarship Committee will assess the following:
- Interview Performance
- Essay: “Please explain in 500 words why you should be awarded with the Women in Business Scholarship”.
- Leadership quality recognition such as:
- In the workplace: demonstrated career progression, line management progression, professional recognition such as awards, project success and team leadership.
- Leadership qualities during student days: e.g. Chairperson of an interest group, class representation, etc.
- Attainment of any non-academic awards and scholarships.
The SMU Master of Science in Business AI nurtures keen minds profoundly committed to leaving a positive impact on the community. The "Community Impact Award" recognises candidates who have contributed to society through outstanding community work (e.g. volunteerism, social and non-paid work, etc.) and through their actions, have impacted members of the community/society in a positive manner.
The Admissions Scholarship Committee will assess the following:
- Interview Performance
- Essay: “Please share an example of how you have impacted your greater community and what you think is the best way to serve society”.
- Impact of Community Work: frequency and reach. Awards and recognition will be considered.
Established in honour of Singapore's former Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew, this scholarship is synonymous with prestige and a commitment to serving Singapore. It recognises outstanding individuals with strong academic aptitude and the inclination to serve and contribute to the Singapore society at large.
Eligibility criteria:
- A Singapore citizen with at least a Second Upper Honours Degree or equivalent Degree
- Excellent track record of leadership and service within or beyond applicant's profession
Applicants who wish to pursue a Master's Programme in General Management should preferably have at least four years of working experience. Public Officers are required to submit their applications through Chief Executive Officers or Permanent Secretaries.
In addition to the one-off sum of S$10,000, private sector awardees will receive an annual allowance of S$50,000, while public sector awardees will receive S$10,000 if they are concurrently sponsored by their organisations.
For more information and application form/procedures, please click here.
- SkillsFuture Funding for Singapore Citizens. Click on this link for more details.
- The SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme provides Singapore Citizens aged 40 years and above the opportunity to receive the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) top up of $4,000. This credit is intended to offset out-of-pocket tuition fees, starting from Academic Year 2024/25 intake, commencing on or after 1 May 2024. Please visit https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/level-up-programme for further details.
Learn more and apply for the CIMB ASEAN Scholarship here.
SMU Alumni
SMU is committed to lifelong learning. Graduates from SMU undergraduate or postgraduate programmes are automatically eligible for an alumni discount of S$8,000 when applying to the MBAI programme.
Singapore Local Autonomous University
Graduates from the following local universities: National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), or Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT). are automatically eligible for an alumni discount of S$4,000 when applying to the MBAI programme.
Eligible candidates may receive exemptions for up to four credit units, with a discount of $3,000 awarded for each credit unit exempted.
SG/PR
Singaporean citizens and Permanent Residents are eligible for a one-time discount of S$5,000.
ASEAN Citizens
ASEAN citizens are eligible for a one-time discount of S$3,000.
(Brunei Darussalam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam)
Corporate Partner
Eligible company-sponsored candidates are eligible for a one-time discount of S$6,000.
Contact our admissions team to discuss your eligibility.
- The above discounts are applicable to students joining the programme from the January 2025 intake onwards.
- Each student is only eligible for one discount. Should a student qualify for more than one discount, only the higher discount will be applicable.
- The above tuition fee discount is deductable before Goods and Services Tax (GST).
- SMU reserves the right to change these exemptions at any point in time.
This loan carries a low interest rate of 3.02% p.a. For more information, please call 6333 7777.
For enquiry on this, please contact:
Yvonne Tan
Contact details: 9646 8808 / (65) 6661 2157
Email: Yvonnesg.tan@cimb.com
This study assistance loan carries an interest rate of 4.60% p.a. For more information please call 6333 0033.
The application must be with a joint applicant who is a Singaporean or Singapore PR.
For enquiry, please contact:
Cheong Yu Shan / Sandy Chenxu,
Direct Sales Management, Community Financial Services
DID: (65) 9691 5134 / 9221 5148
Email: yscheong@maybank.com.sg / wpchenxu@maybank.com.sg
For more information please call +65 6595 9723.
For more information，please call 1 800 363 3333.
SBI provides student loans exclusively for students from India who have secured admission in selected educational institutions for higher studies in Singapore. Your loan is secured against a Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC) issued by SBI branch in India, backed by mortgage of property or cash deposits in India.
For enquiry, please email: studentloan@sbising.com.
FAQ
FAQ
It is a one-year full-time programme that develops business leaders who understand AI technologies and can translate them into strategic, organisational, and operational impact—without training students to become engineers or data scientists.
It focuses on business-first, AI-literate leadership. Students learn how to use AI to make decisions, drive transformation, and manage change, not how to build models or code systems.
Professionals, managers, and career switchers who want to gain AI literacy and apply it strategically across business functions such as marketing, finance, HR, operations, and strategy.
It is offered as a 12-month, full-time programme.
Graduates will be able to interpret AI-driven insights, lead AI initiatives, manage responsible AI adoption, design data-informed strategies, and influence stakeholders through data storytelling.
The curriculum includes 3 foundation courses, 6 core courses, 2 programme electives, 3 open electives, a 10-week internship or capstone option, and professional development workshops.
It delivers a balanced mix of managerial and technical content, emphasising strategic understanding of AI applications rather than deep programming or algorithm development.
No. The Master of Science in Business AI focuses on using AI for strategic decision-making and business transformation.
Students can choose electives in creativity, communication, and HR analytics, as well as open electives from other SMU master’s programmes. They may complete a 10-week internship or an industry-focused capstone project.
Students typically attend four 3-hour seminar classes per week, leaving the rest of their time flexible for group meetings and self-study. The curriculum structure is highly practical: beyond AI foundational and core modules, students have terms for open electives, an internship, and/or a capstone project designed to solve real-world industry problems.
Yes. The capstone practicum includes direct engagement with industry experts, and internships provide real-world exposure to AI-enabled business environments.
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree, a competitive AIQ/GMAT/GRE score, strong English proficiency, a statement of purpose, references, and a successful interview.
No. The programme accepts applicants from any discipline and does not require prior technical training—though quantitative awareness is helpful.
Applicants should meet at least one of the following: GMAT ≥ 600, GMAT Focus ≥ 595, GRE ≥ 312, or SMU Admissions Test ≥ 55.
1 - 5 years of work experience is preferred. However, candidates with **no experience** can apply if they possess strong motivation and demonstrate a keen interest in the field of business AI, which should be clearly reflected in their application and interview.
Applicants must submit the following documents: a completed online application form, a copy of their NRIC/passport, a bachelor's degree certificate and transcript, a competitive GMAT/GRE/AIQ score report, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), a comprehensive resume/CV, a statement of purpose (essay), and two letters of recommendation.
Yes. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an admissions interview.
Yes. The Master of Science in Business AI offers a range of scholarships recognising academic excellence, leadership, global awareness, community impact, and diversity. Awards may cover up to 25% of tuition fees and come with no bonds attached.
Yes. Eligible Singapore Citizens may use SkillsFuture funding, including the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) top-up for those aged 40 and above. Additional tuition fee discounts are available for SMU alumni, local autonomous university graduates, Singapore Citizens/PRs, ASEAN citizens, and corporate-sponsored candidates.
Please refer to the section 'Scholarships and Financial Aid' under Admissions here for more information.
Yes. International students may apply for external scholarships and education loans, including the CIMB ASEAN Scholarship and bank education loans offered by CIMB, Maybank, OCBC, RHB, POSB, and SBI (for Indian students).
Yes. Applicants may be considered for multiple scholarships; however, only one scholarship or tuition fee discount will be awarded, typically the highest applicable amount.
| Type of Expense | Amount |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | S$700-2000 (Inclusive of GST) |
| Food | S$450-750 (Inclusive of GST) |
| Transport | S$150-300 (Inclusive of GST) |
| Miscellaneous (Phone, recreation, etc) | S$500-1500 (Inclusive of GST) |
*These figures are to be used as a guide as expenditures will vary depending on personal spending habits.
SMU's dedicated career services team will actively help you prepare for internships and career opportunities in Singapore and beyond.
Typical roles include AI Strategy Manager, Business Intelligence Manager, Product Manager (AI/Data), Digital Transformation Lead, HR Analytics Manager, and Financial/Marketing Intelligence Analyst.
Yes. Students may undertake a 10-week full-time internship as part of their elective requirements.
Career counselling and workshops will be provided to MBAI students. SMU’s career services are designed to improve our students’ chances of securing their desired employment upon completion of the programme. Our MBAI students will also have access to our career counsellor who will assist with their post-graduation placement through guidance and advice. The internship component is also expected to improve the employability of our students by providing opportunities for early exposure to the work environment of Singapore.
Consulting, finance, technology, e-commerce, public sector, logistics, and analytics-driven industries seeking business professionals fluent in AI.
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