Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) MEng, BSc

Program Overview

The artificial intelligence degree at Leeds University equips students with core technical and problem-solving skills to tackle current and emerging challenges in the rapidly changing field of artificial intelligence. The program covers topics such as machine learning, deep learning, text analytics, and their applications in areas from vision to automated reasoning. Graduates are in high demand in a variety of sectors, including computing, healthcare, agritech, and government.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Artificial intelligence is one of the fastest developing areas of computer science. It is being used in exciting new ways to enhance and evolve computer games, web search, biometric systems and many other areas. Artificial intelligence is also being applied to important economic and societal issues in fields such as medicine, health, transport and smarter cities. Developments in artificial intelligence are radically changing the way that we interact with each other, process data and make decisions. From commerce to healthcare, from agritech to government – innovators in computer science and artificial intelligence and are often at the forefront of new technological developments and already creating the solutions of tomorrow. Computing touches every industry, everywhere, so computer scientists and artificial intelligence specialists are in demand in a variety of sectors. Studying a computer science with artificial intelligence degree at Leeds will equip you with the core technical and problem-solving skills to tackle current and emerging challenges in this fast-changing field. Alongside technical skills such as algorithm design, problem solving and practical programming, you'll develop a raft of vital workplace skills such as collaborative working and project management, as well as studying specialist artificial intelligence topics such as machine learning, deep learning, text analytics and their applications in areas from vision to automated reasoning. If you want to be challenged, to work in multidisciplinary teams, solve global and emerging challenges and have a portable and highly sought-after skill set then studying computer science is a great option. The topics you’ll study reflect the latest developments in computer science, equipping you with the key knowledge, skills and experience you need to begin your career in this highly valued profession. Experience expert teaching delivered by a programme team made up of academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of computing areas. Access excellent facilities including two custom-built teaching laboratories containing high-specification Linux machines and a range of collaborative and quiet study spaces. Gain invaluable life experience and advance your personal development with our exciting study abroad programmes, spanning across universities worldwide. Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining CompSoc, where you can meet like-minded peers and enjoy a variety of social, professional and academic events including Hackathons, community outreach and professional networking. CompSoc also hosts sports teams and academic support groups. Benefits of an integrated Masters Learn more about what an integrated Masters is and how it can benefit your studies and boost your career. AccreditationBritish Computing Society (BCS)Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students.The School of Computing at Leeds has a successful history of delivering courses accredited by the British Computing Society (BCS). Alongside, you'll also have opportunities to develop critical thinking and creative skills that'll transfer into your career once you graduate. Throughout this course, we work closely with you to develop personalised learning plans to ensure you are progressing towards the goal of becoming an outstanding computer science graduate ready to apply your skills. You'll study computing ethics as part of your course. This is taught using real-life case studies, with input from specialist ethicists as well as your tutors and lecturers. The team responsible for the ethics taught in computing has produced educational material used to stimulate debate in class about topics such as ethical hacking, open-source software and the use of personal data. Each academic year, you'll take a total of 120 credits. The course structure shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Course structureThe list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.Years 1 and 2 You'll learn about the core topics in computer science and how they can be applied in a variety of real-world scenarios. Through topics covered in years 1 and 2, you'll develop into a holistic computer scientist capable of problem identification, solution design, consideration of impact, implementation and evaluation. You'll work collaboratively with your fellow students in group projects and will have an opportunity to share your knowledge and experiences with students in different years. Year 1 compulsory modules Programming – 40 credits Programming involves the systematic design, development, testing and maintenance of computer programs and applications, utilising programming languages, algorithms and structured methodologies to create efficient and reliable software solutions. Covering foundational programming skills, data structures, algorithms and data modelling, you’ll acquire the fundamental knowledge needed to construct efficient and well-structured software. Through theoretical concepts and practical applications, you’ll develop proficiency in assembling and troubleshooting computer systems. This module lays the foundation of the mathematical and theoretical concepts in computer science. This module equips you with a set of core knowledge and skills that will enable you to view real-world problems algorithmically and apply rigorous mathematical approaches to solve them. Year 2 compulsory modules Software Engineering – 40 credits Software engineering involves the systematic design, development, testing and maintenance of computer programs and applications, utilising programming languages, algorithms and structured methodologies to create efficient and reliable software solutions. Through hands-on experiences, you’ll gain proficiency in contemporary software engineering practices whilst also developing an understanding of the subject. This module fosters practical experiences in engineering analysis and design, shedding light on the societal impact of engineering. It serves as a cornerstone, equipping you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the dynamic field of computer science. Beyond the Core: Advanced Hardware, Operating Systems and Parallelism – 40 credits Explore in more depth the foundations and intricacies of computer systems, focusing on the role of the operating system, network applications and network protocol. This module explores the purpose and role of operating systems and networks, allowing you to attribute feature and design decisions to performance and security characteristics. Throughout the module, emphasis is placed on the integration of operating systems and networking concepts, preparing you to navigate the landscape of contemporary IT environments. Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science II – 40 credits Build on the foundations of mathematical and theoretical concepts in computer science to develop the ideas into more complex application domains. You’ll further develop techniques and transferable skills in areas like problem solving that will help you tackle real-world challenges, applying mathematical approaches to solve them. Year 3 In your third year, you'll complete an individual project showcasing your accumulated skills and knowledge. You'll work with a member of academic staff to define, refine and complete a project related to your interests. You'll also study professionalism, innovation and enterprise ensuring you are well equipped to enter the workplace or continue your journey in education. If you decide to leave after this year, you’ll graduate with a Computer Science BSc degree. Compulsory modules Professional Innovation and Enterprise – 20 credits Gain a holistic understanding of professional conduct, legal considerations and ethical practices in the tech industry. Individual Project – 40 credits This individual project is the culmination of three years of computer science studies and provides the opportunity for you to demonstrate a mastery of the subject. You’ll engage in a comprehensive exploration of engineering analysis and design, honing your skills in problem formulation, solution development and critical evaluation. This module emphasises the practical application of computer science theories to solve complex, contemporary issues, fostering creativity and independent thinking. You’ll focus on a chosen problem, employing rigorous research methodologies and leveraging engineering techniques to propose innovative solutions. Artificial Intelligence – 20 credits Build hands-on experience with the design, implementation and evaluation of artificial intelligence systems, together with the underpinning theory. The module is divided into several topics addressing key areas of artificial intelligence. The topics will reflect research strengths in the School and prepare you to embark on projects within the artificial intelligence domain. High Performance Computing – 20 credits Take a comprehensive look at the architecture, storage and programming models integral to the world of advanced computing. You’ll cover both homogeneous and heterogeneous computing systems and explore developments in both hardware and modern programming schemes to program shared and distributed CPU, GPGPU and other accelerators. The module will also cover the role of high-performance computing in various application domains. Computer Graphics – 20 credits People interact with graphics daily. Computer graphics technology is ubiquitous in the modern world and is at the heart of computer games and film production. It is also extensively used in engineering, medicine and sciences. This module covers the core concepts of rendering. It starts with techniques to manipulate and create images and then moves on to techniques behind 3D graphics. It explains modern graphics APIs and how programmers can use these to interface with today's very powerful GPUs. You’ll build a small real-time 3D application from scratch as part of the module, allowing you to showcase your abilities. You'll work in groups through structured tasks to develop solutions incrementally approaching state-of-the-art implementations, simultaneously developing an appreciation of their power and efficacy. Distributed Systems – 20 credits This module provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices underlying the design and implementation of distributed computing systems. Explore the fundamentals of distributed systems architecture, cloud computing models and contemporary platforms/frameworks. You’ll gain insights into the challenges and solutions associated with distributed computing, preparing you to design scalable, resilient and efficient applications in today's dynamic computing landscape. Cyber Physical Systems – 20 credits Learn the engineering concepts underlying cyber-physical systems as a technology and as a subject of study. The module is focused on modelling, design and analysis of cyber-physical systems, which integrate computation, networking and physical processes. Algorithms and Complexity – 20 credits There are practically important computational problems that can be solved in principle, but there are no efficient algorithms known. This intractability is formalised in the theory of NP-completeness. To cope with such problems in practice, we have to compromise. This module considers two approaches – fixed parameter algorithms and approximation algorithms. Compilers Design and Optimisation – 20 credits Explore the art and science of building compilers and enhancing program efficiency. You’ll embark on a hands-on journey, constructing a compiler from the ground up. Through practical projects and theoretical insights, participants master the intricacies of translating high-level programming languages into executable code, while also implementing strategies to optimise the performance of the generated programs. By the end of this module, you’ll be equipped with essential skills for software development and system optimisation. Year 4 In year 4, you’ll deepen your understanding of artificial intelligence techniques. You'll learn about deep learning, machine learning, knowledge representation and reasoning, robotics, computer vision and text analytics. You’ll also complete a group project in the area of artificial intelligence. Working as part of a small team you'll be paired with an academic to tackle a problem related to your interests and the School of Computing’s research expertise. You'll also complete a research skills/seminar module where you'll develop your skills to engage with cutting edge academic literature. Compulsory modules Group Project – 45 credits You'll work as part of a group to define a problem and explore a solution. Emphasising teamwork, the module guides you through the development of a collective software project. You’ll engage in planning, coding and project management, gaining practical experience in a real-world, team-based setting. Research Seminar – 15 credits In this research-informed module, you'll embark on an intellectual journey, cultivating research skills and critical thinking. Through interactive seminars, you’ll refine your ability to critically evaluate existing literature, formulate research questions and design methodologically sound studies. This module nurtures a vibrant research community, with emphasis on collaboration and peer feedback throughout. This means, once you’ve completed the module, you’ll emerge with enhanced research skills, ready to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing discourse within your respective academic fields. Machine Learning – 15 credits This module covers the principal algorithms used in machine learning using a combination of practical and theoretical sessions. You’ll also use existing implementations of machine learning algorithms to explore data sets and build models. Deep Learning – 15 credits Discover the field of deep learning through a strongly integrative and state-of-the-art approach. In line with the use of AI in key sectors (e.g. You’ll gain hands-on experience in developing systems to address real-world problems and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop an AI system. Knowledge Representation and Reasoning – 15 credits Explore the logical foundations of knowledge representation, including key properties of formal systems such as soundness, completeness, expressiveness and tractability. Autonomous Systems and Robotics – 15 credits Explore artificial intelligence concepts, algorithms and methods that can be used by autonomous robots to control behaviour and sense their environment. You'll develop a theoretical understanding of fundamental concepts, as well as practical implementation of algorithms and methods on robot systems. Data Science – 15 credits Develop an understanding in the methods of analysis used to gain insights from complex data. The module covers the theoretical basis of a variety of approaches, placed into a practical context using different application domains. You’ll design and apply simple genetic algorithms, as well as interpreting the behaviour of algorithms based on the cooperative behaviour of distributed agents with no, or little, central control. You’ll also consider examples of cooperative phenomena in nature and the concepts of emergence and self-organisation. You’ll also develop solutions using open-source and commercial toolkits. Project work You'll develop your commercial and industrial awareness by completing real-world problem-solving project work, building up a portfolio of work to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in analysis, communication and teamwork to prospective employers. One-year optional work placement or study abroad During your course, you’ll be given the opportunity to advance your skill set and experience further. You can apply to either undertake a one-year work placement or study abroad for a year, choosing from a selection of universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.

Assessment:

You'll be assessed using a variety of methods which are chosen to emulate real-life tasks or activities you are likely to encounter in a graduate career. This may include time-constrained assessments, laboratory practicals, reports, problem-solving worksheets, projects and presentations. Where possible, assessment is designed to be contemporary with recent events and developments in computer science – making them interesting and relevant. This combination allows you to become comfortable with the style of assessment and allows us to provide targeted additional support where it is required. Your work will be assessed by a member of academic staff who’ll provide feedback on what you did well, areas of improvement and stretch goals. This feedback may be in written or verbal form. Our assessment approach is designed to be inclusive by default, however, we also make reasonable adjustments where required.

Teaching:

In the School of Computing, you'll be part of a large and welcoming learning community where academic staff and your fellow students work collaboratively together. Our expert academic staff bring a wealth of industrial and research experience meaning you'll have awareness of the forefront of developments when you graduate. To help you benefit from our expertise, you'll be engaged in a mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars and practical labs, complemented by online learning resources and project-based learning. This mix of activities will develop you into a flexible and agile learner, suitable for keeping up with the fast pace of development in graduate careers. The approach is inclusive by design, and you'll be supported to develop the skills to best benefit from each type of activity. You'll be assigned to an academic personal tutor who will mentor you throughout your studies at Leeds. Specialist facilities You’ll study in the Sir William Henry Bragg Building which offers a wealth of facilities to support your learning. In addition, the Sir William Henry Bragg Building houses our state-of-the-art research laboratories which are used by our internationally leading researchers and postgraduate students – and are available to students as part of their final year individual project. There's also a number of social and collaborative study spaces which are available for you to use whenever the building is open. Whether you require a quiet place to work, or you thrive being in a busy stimulating environment there is a space suitable for you. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus. Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2024, High Fliers Research.From start-ups to international organisations and non-governmental organisations, the computing industry is always looking for computer science graduates to realise the next opportunity.Our graduates find employment across a range of sectors including:Non-governmental organisationsGovernment agenciesEducationMediaGamingTechnologyConsultanciesFinance (& Finance Technologies)Public AuthorityRetailResearch & DevelopmentCareers supportAt Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Through the School of Computing’s extensive set of industrial contacts, you'll have the opportunity to network with local, national and international companies. The School has close links with regional employers who focus their recruitment efforts on the School. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. You'll be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability Team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers. The University of Leeds and the South-West Jiaotong University have established a Joint School in Chengdu, China. This course offers you the chance to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year between years 2 and 3 which will extend your studies by 12 months. Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title which demonstrates your added experience to future employers. A placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You’ll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector. It will also help you to stand out in a competitive graduate jobs market and improve your chances of securing the career you want. Benefits of a work placement year: 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas Build industry contacts within your chosen field Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry Improve your employability If you decide to undertake a placement year, this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you'll be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers. Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed: Arm HP inc UK GlaxoSmithKline Research & Development UK Research & Innovation Apple Microsoft Amazon PwC Find out more about Industrial placements.