Is it worth doing a Msc Conversion course

I’m a philosophy student currently, graduating with a 2.1 from a russell group uni. I’m looking for a career change into ML with the ultimate goal being research, whether it be comp neuro, biology, or using it in sports. I’ve found a Msc conversion course (1 year with no CS background required) where, as the name suggests, they teach you AI and ML techniques and how to implement them in a a real world context. It also includes a 3 month dissertation project with the possibility of working with industry. I was speaking to a friend today who suggested I learn on my own and save the money. I couldn’t help but think a qualification is useful alongside a portfolio, rather than just a portfolio (which he suggested). Given my current situation, a beginner programmer looking for a way in, what do you think I do?