Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

Edinburgh Napier University's BSc (Hons) in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) equips students with a comprehensive understanding of computing practices and the theoretical and practical aspects of AI. The program focuses on developing core Computer Science skills and specialization in areas like Natural Language Processing and Deep Learning, preparing graduates for careers in AI Engineering, Machine Learning, Data Science, and Software Development.

Program Outline

BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) - Edinburgh Napier University

Degree Overview:

This program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of computing tools, techniques, and practices across a wide range of applications. It focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications. The degree is designed to equip students with core skills in Computer Science and specialist skills in areas such as Natural Language Processing and Deep Learning.

Objectives:

• Gain a full understanding of computing tools, techniques, and practices.
• Develop core skills in Computer Science.
• Acquire specialist skills in areas like Natural Language Processing and Deep Learning.

Outline:

Year 1 (Stage 1):

• Foundations of Software Design and Development: This module introduces students to the fundamentals of software design and development, covering topics such as programming concepts, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering principles.
• Foundation Mathematics: This module covers essential mathematical concepts and techniques relevant to computer science, such as algebra, calculus, and discrete mathematics.
• Programming Fundamentals: This module introduces students to programming concepts and techniques, using a specific programming language.
• Human Computer Interaction: This module explores the principles of human-computer interaction, covering topics such as user interface design, usability testing, and accessibility.

Year 2 (Stage 2):

• Object Oriented Software Development: This module builds upon the foundations of software development, introducing object-oriented programming concepts and techniques.
• Computer Systems: This module delves deeper into computer systems, covering topics such as operating system internals, memory management, and file systems.
• Operating Systems: This module provides a comprehensive understanding of operating systems, including their architecture, functions, and management.
• Database Systems: This module introduces students to database concepts, including data modeling, database design, and query languages.
• Software Engineering Methods: This module covers software engineering methodologies and practices, such as requirements analysis, design patterns, and software testing.
• Algorithms and Data Structures: This module explores fundamental algorithms and data structures, covering topics such as sorting, searching, and graph algorithms.
• Computer Graphics (option): This module introduces students to the principles of computer graphics, covering topics such as 2D and 3D graphics, rendering, and animation.
• Mobile Applications Development (option): This module focuses on the development of mobile applications, covering topics such as platform-specific development tools, user interface design, and mobile app architecture.
• SET08101 Web Technologies (option): This module explores web technologies, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and server-side programming languages.

Year 3 (Stage 3):

• Data Analytics: This module introduces students to data analytics techniques, covering topics such as data visualization, statistical analysis, and machine learning.
• Artificial Intelligence: This module provides a comprehensive introduction to artificial intelligence, covering topics such as search, knowledge representation, machine learning, and natural language processing.
• Group Project: This module allows students to work in teams on a real-world project, applying their knowledge and skills to solve a specific problem.
• Computing in Contemporary Society: This module explores the social, ethical, and economic implications of computing technologies.
• Physics Based Animation (option): This module focuses on the use of physics principles in animation, covering topics such as motion simulation, collision detection, and character animation.
• Advanced Web Technologies (option): This module delves deeper into web technologies, covering topics such as web security, web services, and cloud computing.
• Software Engineering (option): This module explores advanced software engineering concepts and practices, such as agile development, software architecture, and software quality assurance.
• Fundamentals of Parallel Systems (option): This module introduces students to the principles of parallel computing, covering topics such as parallel programming models, parallel algorithms, and distributed systems.
• Sensing Systems for Mobile Applications (option): This module explores the use of sensors in mobile applications, covering topics such as sensor data acquisition, processing, and analysis.
• Advanced Databases (option): This module covers advanced database concepts and techniques, such as database security, distributed databases, and NoSQL databases.
• Professional Practice (option): This module focuses on professional skills relevant to the computing industry, such as communication, teamwork, and project management.

Year 4 (Stage 4):

• Honours Project: This module allows students to undertake an independent research project, applying their knowledge and skills to a specific area of interest.
• Applied Machine Learning: This module focuses on the practical application of machine learning algorithms to real-world problems.
• Multi-Agent Systems: This module introduces students to the concepts and techniques of multi-agent systems, covering topics such as agent communication, coordination, and negotiation.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Practical assessments: These assessments evaluate students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills to practical problems.
• Development reports: These reports require students to document their design and development processes for software projects.
• Academic essays: These essays assess students' critical thinking and writing skills.
• Exams: These exams test students' understanding of key concepts and theories.

Teaching:

• Lectures and tutorials: The program utilizes a combination of lectures and tutorials to deliver course content.
• World-leading scientists: The modules are taught by internationally recognized experts in their respective fields.
• Specialist facilities: Students have access to high-speed computers and essential software in specialist facilities.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue a variety of careers in the rapidly growing field of Artificial Intelligence. Some potential career paths include:

• AI Engineer: Design, develop, and deploy AI solutions to solve real-world problems.
• Machine Learning Engineer: Develop and train machine learning models for various applications.
• AI Researcher: Conduct research and development in the field of AI.
• Software Developer: Develop software applications that incorporate AI components.

Other:

• Work Placement: A year-long Work Based Learning module is available for this program, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience working with a company of their choice.
• Study Abroad: International study opportunities are available, providing students with the chance to develop global citizenship and broaden their perspectives.
• Placement Preparation Sessions: Students attend timetabled sessions in their second year to prepare for placements, including CV writing, cover letter writing, and interview preparation.
• Student Futures Placement Coordinator: A dedicated coordinator provides support to students with their placement applications and approvals.
• Group Project or Professional Internship Module: Students who do not undertake the year-long placement can choose to complete a group project or a professional internship module in their third year.

Disclaimer:

The study modules mentioned above are indicative only and may be subject to change.

Tuition fees for 2024/25 | Students from | 2024/25 | 2025/26 | |---|---|---| | Scotland | £1,820 | tba | | England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland | £9,250 | tba | | Overseas and EU | £19,340 | tba |

• Students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland will be invoiced the tuition fees for 3 years of their 4 years of study.
• EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be liable to pay the Overseas fee rate.