The University of the Philippines (UP) Cebu is set to make history this August with the launch of a Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence (MEng AI) programme, one of the first advanced AI graduate programmes in the country. This innovative offering, organised by the College of Engineering of UP Diliman and hosted in UP Cebu, marks a major milestone in the nation’s pursuit of technological advancement and AI competency.
According to the Office of the Vice President for Digital Transformation (OVPDx), the MEng AI programme aims to “equip students with the knowledge and practical experience to develop and deploy intelligent engineered systems.” By providing in-depth instruction and hands-on training in artificial intelligence, the programme is designed to prepare Filipino engineers for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital world.
A Comprehensive Curriculum for the AI Era
Students enrolled in the MEng AI programme will tackle a robust curriculum that covers essential foundations and advanced applications of artificial intelligence. Key subjects include Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence, Computational Linear Algebra for AI, Machine Learning, and Machine Learning Operations. Each course is crafted to help students master both theoretical principles and practical skills needed to build real-world AI systems.
The programme consists of 31 units required for graduation, which includes an applied capstone project to demonstrate the students’ mastery of concepts through tangible outcomes. For those enrolled full-time, the programme can be completed in two years, while part-time students can finish within three years, offering flexibility for working professionals eager to advance their expertise.
Applications Open for Future AI Leaders
Aspiring AI professionals should mark their calendars: the application deadline for the MEng AI programme is June 30, 2025. Applicants are expected to hold a Bachelor of Science degree with undergraduate coursework in differential and integral calculus, linear algebra, and statistics. In addition, proficiency in at least one programming language is required a crucial skill for tackling AI algorithms and software development.
By setting rigors entry requirements, UP Cebu ensures that admitted students are equipped with the foundational knowledge necessary to excel in this demanding programme.
A Response to the Growing Demand for AI Skills
The introduction of this master’s programme comes at a time when AI is increasingly seen as a critical driver of innovation and economic growth worldwide. From healthcare and agriculture to finance and transportation, artificial intelligence is transforming industries, and the Philippines is keen on ensuring its workforce can keep pace with these global trends.
The MEng AI programme reflects a proactive step towards building a talent pool that can lead AI initiatives in both local and international contexts. By training professionals who can conceptualise, design, and implement AI solutions, UP Cebu is positioning itself and the Philippines to be a competitive player in the AI revolution.
Strengthening the Nation’s Digital Future
UP Cebu’s programme underscores the University of the Philippines’ commitment to empowering the country through advanced education and research. With this move, the university is not only investing in individual students but also contributing to national development. A skilled workforce in artificial intelligence will be vital for the Philippines to harness emerging technologies and foster innovation that benefits society.
As OVPDx notes, the MEng AI programme’s emphasis on both knowledge and practical experience will produce graduates capable of “developing and deploying intelligent engineered systems,” an essential capability as industries increasingly adopt automation, big data analytics, and smart technologies.
A New Era for Philippine Education: UP Cebu’s MEng AI Program Sets the Standard for Advanced Tech Learning
The launch of the MEng AI programme at UP Cebu sets a precedent for other academic institutions in the country, highlighting the urgent need to modernise curricula and offer specialised programmes that match the demands of today’s digital economy. It also signals a promising future where Filipino engineers and scientists will have the expertise to not only use AI tools but also to drive the creation of new, innovative solutions for the country’s most pressing challenges.
With applications closing on June 30, 2025, aspiring AI professionals are encouraged to seize this opportunity to be part of the Philippines’ first wave of master’s graduates in artificial intelligence and to help shape the technological landscape of tomorrow.
