If you want to learn about Artificial Intelligence there is now a course in Ireland

Ireland's first ever Masters in Artificial Intelligence is to be offered in the University of Limerick.

It has been established to respond to the demand from businesses for graduates with AI skills.

Artificial Intelligence is a gowing industry here, but there is a skills gap which has led to the creation of the first ever Irish Masters in AI.

CEO of Skillnets Paul Healy says they have been working with businesses to find out what they need.

Mr Healy said: "Employers within the tech sector are telling us to look at the trend that's coming our way.

"It has significant opportunities and it also brings risks and challenges. The national response is very much predicated on supplying the skills and talent."

The part-time course will run for two years mostly online with some workshops at the University of Limerick.

UL's Dr Ann Ledwith says they worked with Skillnets and the industry to ensure students get what they need as well.

She said: "We understand, for example, what is a reasonable workload for a student, what you need to do to keep students engaged. So it's a conversation."

Major tech companies like Google and IBM have also been involved in developing the course, and Prag Sharma from Citi says there are great opportunities.

He said: "It certainly looks like there will be lots of jobs available in this space, it is a hot topic, it is a growing area.

"It is where a lot of companies are investing in and it is likely to lead to more jobs and requirements for more people with this skill set."

The first 60 students will start the course this September and people can apply in late Spring and early Summer here.