Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)

Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) - BSc (Hons)

Integrate exploration of the latest advancements in the dynamic field of AI with hands-on implementation of state-of-the-art techniques to solve practical challenges. Our accredited BSc programme, influenced by industry trends and informed by research, combines a robust foundation in Computer Science with exploration of advanced topics in AI to prepare you for a career in an ever-evolving sector.

We are in the process of refreshing our curriculum for the 2025/26 academic year to reflect best practices and the latest advancements in academia. New course content and modules will be available on this course page in Autumn 2024.

Year of entry

2025 - for 2025 entry see here - for 2024 entry see here

Course type

Single Honours

Location

Keele University campus

Subject area / School

School of Computer Science and Mathematics

UCAS code

G410

Duration of study

3 years / 4 years with international or placement year

Enquire about this course Clearing vacancies and entry requirements 2024 Book an open day Chat to students

Why study Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) at Keele University?

Accredited by the British Computer Society - The Chartered Institute for IT

Gain recognition of your specialism in AI named in your degree title

Access a wide range of equipment including supercomputer facilities and a VR lab

Gain first-hand experience in industry with our Placement Year option

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Studying Computer Science at Keele

Hear from our students and staff – who share their personal experiences of what it's like to study Computer Science at Keele

View video transcript >

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Course overview

From powering human-like non-player characters in gaming to discovering patterns that could lead to new advancements in medicine, artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the industries with its applications and help in solving complex problems. Our Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) BSc will enable you to gain a sound academic grounding in the discipline of Computer Science, an understanding of the professional issues relevant to your future working life and specialist knowledge in AI - informed by our own research and industry trends.

Course structure

In your first year you will explore the fundamental concepts and techniques for modern, professional programming. From interaction design to computer animation and multimedia our modules are designed to bring everyone up to speed, regardless of the starting level of coding experience, and to provide a gentle introduction to the skills required for effective academic study.

In your second year you will learn advanced programming concepts that can be applied in areas such as games programming, artificial intelligence and cyber security. You will also explore the human aspect of Computer Science, thanks to the focus on user interaction and user interface design, software engineering methodologies (SCRUM, Agile) and cutting edge research in AI and machine learning. To complement and broaden your learning, you will also have the opportunity to choose optional modules in areas such as digital forensics.

Your final year will culminate with the opportunity to deep dive into research focused modules relating to the specialist area of Artificial Intelligence. You will discover modern approaches to AI including computational intelligence and nature-inspired algorithms, explore artificial neural networks, evolutionary computation, as well as covering adaptive behaviour in natural systems from the perspective of computational neuroscience. You will also spend time exploring current research topics and writing a novel final year project related to your specialism.

At Keele, you'll have a variety of opportunities to enhance your academic and professional development. Imagine broadening your horizons by studying abroad, learning a foreign language, or completing a work placement. See below for the specific opportunities available on this course.

Next steps

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Related courses

Accreditation and professional recognition

Accredited by the BCS - The Chartered Institute for IT

BCS - The Chartered Institute for IT is a professional body which accredits computing and IT courses in the UK.

The accreditation provides an indicator of quality to employers and offers a pathway to professional registrations such as CITP (Chartered IT Professional), CEng (Chartered Engineer), IEng (Incorporated Engineer) and RITTech (Registered IT Technician).

This accreditation is on the condition that a student must pass the final year project at 40% or above.

Teaching Excellence Framework GOLD

Keele University has been awarded the highest rating of gold in the teaching excellence framework (TEF), 2023. The TEF assessment identifies excellence in the educational experience and outcomes of our students, focusing on all undergraduate courses and students.

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"Studying at Keele has given me the confidence to take on challenges and step outside of my comfort zone. The small class sizes and constant support from staff has enabled me to take my learning to a deeper level and develop a wider skill set."

Cassidy, Computer Science

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Additional opportunities

Foundation year Learn a language Placement year International year Study abroad GCP Elective Pathways Explore more

There are a range of additional opportunities available when studying this course.
Please note, undertaking one may impact upon the availability of another.

Gain experience in industry

From a year working in industry to paid internships, summer research projects and practical modules, there are many opportunities embedded throughout the curriculum to develop and enhance your practical skills. Paid or voluntary experience in your area of interest will not only demonstrate your commitment and passion, but will also enable you to make meaningful connections by networking with experts in the field.

Study abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity to experience and appreciate different cultural perspectives and to establish international networks. It also demonstrates your ability to embrace new experiences and enables you to immerse yourself in another culture whilst developing your independence and cultural awareness. We offer exchange opportunities with a wide variety of partner institutions.

Societies

We have a wealth of student-led societies which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society related to Computer Science is a great opportunity to continue to develop your computing, web design or multimedia skills away from your studies. This is another excellent way of demonstrating your genuine interest for the area and can be beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate roles. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded people, make friends and share interests with fellow students.

Entry requirements

The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don’t see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications. If you don't think you'll meet the entry requirements specified, you may be able to gain entry to this course via a Foundation Year.

Typical offer

Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.

A Level: BBB Subject specifics apply

BTEC: DDM Subject specifics apply

T Level: Merit Subject specifics apply

Please select your qualification from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information

A Level

BBB in three A levels

OR

BBC in three A levels including B in Maths or Computer Science

Contextual Offer: BCC in three A levels

OR

BCD in three A levels including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC Extended Diploma / National Extended Diploma

DDM

OR

DMM in any of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas / National Extended Diplomas: Engineering

Contextual Offer: DMM

OR

MMM in any of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas / National Extended Diplomas: Engineering

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC National Diploma / Diploma

Distinction and Distincton in any BTEC National Diploma / Diploma and C in one A Level

OR

Distinction and Merit in BTEC Diploma and B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma

Distinction in any BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and BC in two A Level

OR

Merit in any BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and BB in two A Levels including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

T Level

Merit in any T level

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

International Baccalaureate Diploma

555 in three Higher Levels or 30 points

OR

554 including 5 in Maths (any) or Computer Science or 29 points including 5 in Higher Level Maths (any) or Computer Science

Contextual Offer: 554 in three Higher Levels or 29 points

OR

543 including 5 in Maths (any), or Computer Science or 28 points including 5 in Higher Level Maths (any) or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, or 5 in IB Middle Years Maths, or 4 in IB Diploma Standard Level Maths (any), plus an English language qualification (see below)

International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme

We encourage applications with the IBCP but recognise that your combination of qualifications may differ depending on where you are studying.

If you are taking a BTEC National Diploma / Diploma with one or more Higher Levels, your offer will be similar to our BTEC + A level offer (see 'BTEC National Diploma / Diploma') but with an HL requirement of 6 for A, 5 for B, or 4 for C.

For any other combination, please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Access to HE Diploma

122 UCAS points in any Access to HE Diploma, including Distinction in at least 30 Level 3 credits.

OR

112 UCAS points in an Access to HE Diploma with Maths or Computer Science related content, including Distinction in at least 15 Level 3 credits. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice on whether your chosen course would qualify.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Welsh Baccalaureate / Bagloriaeth Cymru

The Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate is equivalent to one full A level at the same grade and can be included alongside 2 other A levels in a standard A level offer for this course (see A level). All subject specific requirements will still need to be met.

Scotland - Highers and Advanced Highers

BBBCC in five Highers, or CC in two Advanced Highers and CC in two Highers, or CCC in three Advanced Highers

OR

BCCCC in five Highers including Maths or Computer Science Higher, or CD in two Advanced Highers and CC in two Highers including Maths or Computer Science Higher or Advanced Higher, or CCD in three Advanced Highers including Maths or Computer Science Advanced Higher

You will also need: C in National 5 Maths, or C in Higher Maths (including as one of the Highers taken as part of your offer), or 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

If you have B or higher in the EPQ and are studying A levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.

Core Maths

If you have B or higher in Core Maths and are studying A levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.

Ireland - Leaving Certificate

H3, H3, H4, H4, H4, H4 in the Irish Leaving Certificate

OR

H3, H4, H4, H4, H4, H4 in the Irish Leaving Certificate, including H4 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: O4 / H6 in Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

China - Gaokao

73% in the Gaokao

OR

70% in the Gaokao including 70% in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 60% in Senior Secondary School or Gaokao Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

India - Standard XII

Average of 70% from four subjects in the ICSE, CBSE or Western Bengal Standard XII, or average of 75% from four subjects in any other Standard XII

OR

Average of 65% from four subjects, including 70% in Maths or Computer Science in the ICSE, CBSE or Western Bengal Standard XII, or average of 70% from four subjects including 75% in Maths or Computer Science in any other Standard XII

You will also need: 6 or C2 in Secondary School Examination Maths, or Pass in Standard XII Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Germany - Abitur

2.2 overall average in the Abitur

OR

2.4 overall average in the Abitur, including 12 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 10 in Maths in the Abitur, plus an English language qualification (see below)

France - Baccalaureate

13 in the French Baccalaureate / International Option Baccalaureate / Baccalauréat Français International.

OR

12 in the French Baccalaureate/International Option Baccalaureate including 13 in Maths or Computer Science, or 12.5 in the Baccalauréat Français International including 12.5 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Hong Kong - Diploma

444 from two electives and one core subject in the HKDSE

OR

443 from two electives and one core subject in the HKDSE including 4 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 2 in HKDSE Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Spain - Bachillerato

Overall average of 7.4 in the Título de Bachillerato

OR

Overall average of 7.0 in the Título de Bachillerato including 8 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 5 in Graduado en Educación Secundaria (GES) Maths or 6 in Título de Bachiller Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Italy - Diploma di Esame di Stato

80% in the Esame di Stato

OR

75% in the Esame di Stato including 8 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 5 in Maths in the Diploma, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Cyprus - Apolytirion

18 / 86% in the Apolytirion

OR

17.5 / 83% in the Apolytirion including 18 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 14 in Maths in the Apolytirion, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Portugal

Overall average of 15.5 in a secondary certificate

OR

Overall average of 15 including 16 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 10 in secondary certificate Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Canada - Diploma

65% / BBBCC in five courses in the Grade 12 Diploma

OR

60% / BCCCC in five courses in the Grade 12 Diploma including 70% in Advanced Functions and 70% in Calculus and Vectors or Computer Science

You will also need: 50% in Grade 11 Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Kenya - KCSE / Diploma

We do not accept the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele

We may accept a two year Diploma. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

Nigeria - Senior School Certificate / OND

We do not accept the Senior School Certificate (WAEC or NECO) for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

We may accept an Ordinary National Diploma with GPA of 2.5 or a Merit / Lower Credit. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

USA - Advanced Placement

444 from three Advanced Placement subjects

OR

443 from three Advanced Placement subjects including Calculus (either) or Computer Science

You will also need: Grade C in Grade 12 High School Diploma Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Ghana

We do not accept the West African Senior School Certificate Examination for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

Sri Lanka - Advanced Level

BBB in three Advanced levels

OR

BBC including B in Combined Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: C in O-Level Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Malaysia - STPM

BBB in three Principal level subjects in the STPM

OR

BBC in three Principal level subjects in the STPM including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: C in SPM Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Pakistan - Secondary School Certificate

We do not accept the Secondary School Certificate for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

Singapore - A Levels (H2)

BBB in three H2 levels

OR

BBC in three H2 levels including B in Combined Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: C in O-Level Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

European Baccalaureate

72% overall

OR

70% overall with with 7 in Maths (5 period) or Computer Science (5 period)

You will also need: 6 in European Baccalaureate Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

NCUK

Pass NCUK Foundation Year with BBB and Grade C in EAP English Language module

OR

Pass NCUK Foundation Year with BBC including B in Mathematics or Computer Science and Grade C in EAP English Language module

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or international equivalent

Uganda - Advanced Certificate of Education

BBB in three Principal level subjects in the Advanced Certificate of Education

OR

BBC in three Principal level subjects in the Advanced Certificate of Education including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 6 in UACE or UCE Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Zimbabwe - Advanced Level GCE

BBB in three Advanced Level subjects

OR

BBC in three Advanced Level subjects including B in Pure Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or B in Maths O Level or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

English language requirements

All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group A.

Alternative and contextual offers

We're committed to ensuring equality of opportunity to all our applicants with the potential and motivation to succeed, regardless of background. That's why we operate a range of alternative offer schemes with clear eligibility criteria, including contextual offers, offers for those studying within the Keele region, and recognising a range of additional qualifications in your offer.

General information

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application.

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Central Science Laboratories

Develop your practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories

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"For my third year project, I created a Neuroevolutionary algorithm that could be used to predict the way a constituency would vote in a general election based on demographic data of the area such as age distribution, number of vehicles owned, and level of education. Being able to bring together all of the skills I had acquired throughout the course into an adventurous piece of work meant that to this day it is still one of my proudest achievements."

Liam, Computer Science

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"Keele's School of Computer Science and Mathematics helped me turn a freshly discovered interest in computing into a full-fledged passion for all things Computer Science. My course had the perfect combination of compelling subject matter and insightful lecturers which resulted in a genuine excitement for each tutorial, lecture & workshop. During my placement year, Keele supported me in my 15-month software engineering internship with IBM - a true industry leader - that then evolved into full-time employment following my final year of study."

Jonah, Computer Science graduate

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Foundation year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Keele University is consistently ranked among the top universities for student satisfaction, and we have over 70 years' experience of teaching a foundation year to students. On the Keele Foundation Year, you'll study on campus, joining our undergraduate community from the outset, with access to all the facilities and support that you'd get as an undergraduate student at Keele.

The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.

The information within this page is for students wishing to start their studies in September. If you would like to start this course in January, please visit our January pages for further details.

Course content

Our Foundation Year allows you to develop your critical thinking, academic reading, writing, and communication study skills along with subject-specific knowledge and skills which will be invaluable in your academic studies and beyond. Upon meeting the progression criteria and successfully completing our Foundation Year, you will automatically progress into your Keele undergraduate degree with the confidence that you have the skills, and knowledge needed to successfully complete your course.

This Foundation Year is a two semester programme which provides a tailored pre-degree programme of study to better prepare you for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence). For example, Foundations of Computational Theory and Programming will introduce you to the key principles of computer science and programming, while Advancing Programming will allow you to hone these skills in an individual project, all of which will provide useful in your degree and professional career. Course content has been developed in collaboration with degree teaching teams, so that by the time you begin Year 1, you will be ready to excel at your studies, as the majority of our Foundation Year students do.

You will develop new, flexible and abstract ways of thinking, which will enable you to use logic to solve problem-based activities. You will be introduced to key principles such as Boolean algebra, error control coding and the development of the modern computer, while also beginning to develop your programming skills. In addition to subject-specific modules you will complete a skills module which underpins your ability to communicate data and information accurately. Semester Two continues to build on your understanding of these techniques, along with additional study skills. Your programming skills will be further developed while exploring new principles such as working for clients and designing interfaces.

Find out more about the Keele Foundation Year, including information about teaching and assessment methods by visiting the Foundation Year homepage.

Course structure

The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.

Semester one modules

FYO-00211	Foundations in Numerical and Quantitative Methods for Scientists	15 credits
FYO-00221	Foundations of Computational Theory and Programming	30 credits
FYO-00187	Academic Skills for Computer Scientists and Mathematicians	15 credits

Semester two modules

FYO-00233	Advancing Applied Maths and Computing - Making Decisions	15 credits
FYO-00225	Advancing Programming	15 credits
FYO-00235	Advancing Applied Maths and Computing - Logic, Codes & Cryptography	15 credits
FYO-00227	Advancing Computing: Client-Led Collaborative Design	15 credits

Entry requirements

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the likely offer or range of offers which would be made to candidates along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate’s application. Read more about our undergraduate entry requirements.

56 UCAS points including at least one Level 3 qualification (such as an A Level, BTEC, Access Course, or T Level).
Plus C in GCSE English / Level 2 Functional Skills English and C in GCSE Maths / Level 2 Functional Skills Maths.

How to apply

Applicants will need to apply for BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year (UCAS code G401) through UCAS at www.ucas.com.

Direct entry students

If you already have your qualifications, are not expecting any further results and only wish to apply to Keele, please contact the Admissions Office directly.

The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.

We also offer a January start for some of our Foundation Year courses. Adopting a blended learning approach, the January start is particularly useful for students wishing to return to education following time out of studying, or who are seeking a flexible approach to their Foundation Year studies. Our January start is available across most of our Science, Humanities, Social Science, Health and Business courses.

Whilst still being a full-time course, our blended delivery model combines live teaching sessions - both online and on-campus - with self-directed study, enabling you to predominantly study at a time that suits your lifestyle. You will benefit from weekly online taught sessions which encourage you to engage with your teachers and peers.

In addition to online study there will be a series of full study days that you will be required to attend throughout each semester. These sessions may include lab-based activities, group work, review of course and assessment materials studied online. They will emphasise opportunities for you to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your chosen route.

Please refer to the September start tab for more information about the entry requirements and what you will study. The modules that you will take on a January start Foundation Year will be similar to those for the September start, but on a compressed timescale and tailored to a blended learning approach (with the majority of learning taking place online).

For more information, including fees, the UCAS code for this course, how to apply, and how you will be taught, please visit our January Start Foundation Year webpage.

Our International Foundation Year is delivered on campus through Keele University International College (KUIC). Find out more about the International Foundation Year options on the KUIC website.

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