Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence: Foundations
7.5 credits
Master’s level
Autumn Term 2025
About the course
This course is an introduction to central philosophical issues about the foundations of artificial intelligence. It focuses on questions like: What is intelligence? How will the intelligence of artificial systems be different from ours? Will they be capable of thinking? Can artificial systems be conscious? What is the difference between symbolic reasoning machines and connectionist networks? How does deep learning work? Should we try to mimic the human mind when developing intelligent machines? When (if ever) will superintelligent machines occur? And what are the philosophical implications of simulating our own minds in machines? The main focus will be on foundational texts from philosophy and the study of artificial intelligence.
Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence: Foundations, 7.5 credits
Autumn Term 2025
The information below is only for exchange students
Starts
3 November 2025
Ends
18 January 2026
Study location
Umeå
Language
English
Type of studies
Daytime,
50%
Required Knowledge
90 ECTS credits in philosophy, cognitive science, computer science, informatics, psychology, linguistics, mathematics, biology, or equivalent, or a Degree encompassing at least 180 ECTS credits, or equivalent (previous higher education studies in at least one of the subjects listed is highly recommended). Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.
Selection
Students applying for courses within a double degree exchange agreement, within the departments own agreements will be given first priority. Then will in turn candidates within the departments own agreements, faculty agreements, central exchangeagreements and other departmental agreements be selected.
Application code
UMU-A1712
Application
This application round is only intended for nominated exchange students. Information about deadlines can be found in the e-mail instruction that nominated students receive.
Notification of admission will be sent in end of May.
