Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) | BSc Hons
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Keele University's BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of AI principles, machine learning, data science, and natural language processing. Through a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, graduates are prepared for careers in AI engineering, data science, and other related fields. The program is accredited by the British Computer Society, ensuring its high quality and industry relevance.
Program Outline
The program covers a wide range of topics, including AI principles, machine learning, data science, and natural language processing. Students will learn how to develop and apply AI solutions to real-world problems.
Program Objectives:
- Develop a solid foundation in computer science: Students will gain a deep understanding of computer science fundamentals, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering.
- Master the principles of AI: Students will learn about the history of AI, different AI techniques, and how AI is used in various industries.
- Become proficient in machine learning: Students will develop a strong understanding of machine learning algorithms, including supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning.
- Develop data science skills: Students will learn how to collect, clean, and analyze data using data science tools and techniques.
- Gain hands-on experience: Students will have the opportunity to apply their AI and data science skills to real-world projects through coursework and research.
Program Description:
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) program is a three-year program with an optional fourth year for a placement or international experience. The program is structured to provide students with a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Year 1:
- Introduces fundamental concepts and techniques for programming.
- Covers interaction design, computer animation, and multimedia.
- Provides a gentle introduction to coding and the skills required for effective academic study.
Year 2:
- Advance programming concepts applicable in fields like AI, games programming, and cyber security.
- Explores the human aspect of computer science through modules focused on user interaction and UI design, software engineering methodologies, cutting-edge research in AI and machine learning.
- Offers optional modules in areas such as digital forensics.
Year 3:
- Deep dives into research-focused modules on AI.
- Explores modern approaches like computational intelligence and nature-inspired algorithms.
- Covers artificial neural networks, evolutionary computation, and adaptive behavior in natural systems from the perspective of computational neuroscience.
- Dedicates time to exploring current research topics and writing a novel final-year project related to AI specialization.
Year 4 (Optional):
- Students can opt for a year-long placement in industry, gaining valuable work experience.
- Alternatively, they can participate in an international exchange program, immersing themselves in different cultural perspectives while developing professional networks.
Assessment:
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning. These include:
- Coursework: Students will complete assignments, projects, and presentations throughout the program to demonstrate their understanding of course material.
- Examinations: Students will take written examinations at the end of each semester to assess their knowledge and comprehension of key concepts.
- Project work: Students will complete a significant project in their final year, applying their AI and data science skills to a real-world problem.
- Peer assessment: Students will have the opportunity to provide feedback on each other's work, developing their critical thinking and communication skills.
Teaching:
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified academics. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Seminars: Seminars provide an opportunity for students to discuss course material in more detail and ask questions.
- Practical classes: Practical classes give students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems.
- Guest lectures: Guest lectures from industry experts provide students with insights into the latest developments in AI and data science.
Careers:
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the field of AI and data science. Potential career paths include:
- AI engineer
- Data scientist
- Machine learning engineer
- Software engineer
- Research scientist
- Data analyst
- Business intelligence analyst
- Cyber security analyst
Other:
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) program is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), the Chartered Institute for IT. This accreditation recognizes the high quality of the program and ensures that graduates meet the professional standards required for employment in the IT industry. The program also offers students the opportunity to:
- Study abroad
- Gain industry experience through placements or internships
- Join student-led societies and clubs related to computer science
- Participate in hackathons and competitive programming challenges
Outline:
Year 1
- Compulsory Modules:
- Fundamentals of Computing
- Introduction to Programming
- Discrete Mathematics
- Systems and Architecture
- Communication, Confidence and Competence
- Introduction to Algorithms
- Object-Oriented Programming
- Optional Modules:
- Cybercrime
Year 2
- Compulsory Modules:
- Database Systems
- Web Technologies
- Fundamentals of Data Science
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Software Engineering
- Computational and Artificial Intelligence I
- Optional Modules:
- Individual Study Topic in Computer Science
- Computer Graphics and Animation
- Computer Game Development
- Digital Forensics
Year 3
- Compulsory Modules:
- Third Year Double Project - ISP
- Computational and Artificial Intelligence II
- Optional Modules:
- Software Development Management
- Games Computing
- Advanced Programming and Software Design
- Computing in Education
- Advanced Databases and Applications
- Communications and Networks
- Advanced Web Technologies
- Cyber Security
- Data Ethics and Security
- Machine Learning Applications
Facilities:
- Computational teaching takes place in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories (CSL) and the Colin Reeves Building, home to the School of Computer Science and Mathematics.
- Central Science Laboratories house world-class facilities.
- Transformational teaching in a space designed to encourage and enable collaborative and interdisciplinary working.
- During studies, access to a suite of facilities within the School of Computer Science and Mathematics, including:
- Seven computer laboratories (remote access available)
- A high-performance cluster of computers (used for research and projects)
- A dedicated gaming lab (The Overclockers Lab)
Research:
- Keele is at the forefront of research in AI, data science, and machine learning.
- Lecturers in Computer Science are internationally recognized leaders in research on various fields.
- Focus on research with the potential to create a significant impact on the computational understanding and engineering of complex systems, improve people's quality of life, and pave the way for world-leading innovations that improve the security, reliability, and quality of computing devices and services used in industry.
- Keele is also in the unique position of hosting the first living laboratory for energy-efficient technologies: the multi-million-pound Smart Energy Network Demonstrator (SEND).
- Expertise feeds into modules in the latter years of your degree.
- Research themes within our computer science division include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Human-Centred Computing
- Future Systems
- Theoretical Computer Science
Additional Points:
- The program is open to students with a strong academic background in mathematics and computer science.
- Students can choose to specialize in a particular area of AI, such as machine learning, data science, or natural language processing.
- The program is offered on a full-time basis.
- The program is taught in English.