Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence MSci

4 Years On Campus Accelerated-bachelors Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

If you’re fascinated by how machines think, learn, and make decisions, Nottingham’s MSci Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence is the perfect fit. This four-year integrated master’s degree combines a solid foundation in computer science with specialist AI skills that prepare you to shape the future of technology — from smart robotics to data-driven innovation.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year builds the core skills every computer scientist needs. You’ll dive into modules like Programming and Algorithms, Computer Architecture, Databases and Interfaces, and Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence. You’ll get hands-on with coding, explore how computers process information, and take your first steps into the world of AI — understanding what makes machines “intelligent.”

Year 2:
In your second year, things get more exciting and practical. You’ll study Artificial Intelligence Methods, Algorithms, Data Structures and Efficiency, and Operating Systems and Concurrency, while also taking part in a Software Engineering Group Project. This is where you’ll start working in teams to design and build real software solutions, sharpening both your technical and collaborative skills.

Year 3:
Now you start to specialise. You’ll explore topics like Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Autonomous Robotic Systems, and Knowledge Representation and Reasoning. You’ll also study Computer Security and Professional Ethics in Computing — key knowledge for any modern technologist. By the end of this year, you’ll have the skills to understand, design, and improve intelligent systems that solve complex, real-world problems.

Year 4:
Your final year is where everything comes together. You’ll take on advanced modules such as Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures, Designing Intelligent Agents, and Data Science with Machine Learning. Alongside these, you’ll complete a major individual project — often based on your own interests — giving you the freedom to research, create, and innovate like a true computer scientist.

Focus areas:
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, intelligent systems, robotics, data science, advanced algorithms, human–AI interaction.

Learning outcomes:
You’ll graduate ready to design and build intelligent systems, apply AI theory to practical problems, lead software projects, and conduct research that pushes the boundaries of what technology can do.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), meeting the full academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Nottingham is consistently ranked among the UK’s top universities for Computer Science, and over 92% of graduates secure employment or further study within 15 months — with an average salary of £33,000.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Nottingham, you won’t just learn how computers think — you’ll get to make them think. From day one, you’ll apply your knowledge through hands-on projects, team challenges, and real-world programming tasks that mirror what professionals do in industry. The School of Computer Science on the beautiful Jubilee Campus is packed with cutting-edge labs, creative workspaces, and all the tools you’ll need to bring your ideas to life — whether you’re coding intelligent agents, training AI models, or building the next big app.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical, career-ready experience throughout your degree:

Specialist computer labs: Access more than 100 high-performance PCs running both Windows and Linux, plus an Apple Development Lab equipped with Macs for mobile and AR development.
Collaborative software projects: In Year 2, you’ll join a Software Engineering group project, designing, coding, and testing a complete software system as part of a professional-style team.
Individual AI research project: In your final year, you’ll take full ownership of a major research or programming project — often focused on machine learning, robotics, or intelligent systems — guided by expert academics.
Hands-on AI modules: Modules like Machine Learning, Autonomous Robotic Systems, and Designing Intelligent Agents include practical labs where you’ll train algorithms, program robots, and experiment with real AI tools.
Industry-standard software: You’ll gain experience with professional data science and AI platforms — from data-mining tools to deep-learning frameworks used by top tech companies.
Modern learning environment: You’ll study at the University’s award-winning Jubilee Campus, home to the School of Computer Science, collaborative study zones, and the Djanogly Learning Resource Centre — a cutting-edge library designed for digital learning and research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this degree go on to shape the future of technology — working as software engineers, data scientists, AI developers, and machine learning specialists in some of the world’s most innovative companies. Because you’ll graduate with a master’s-level qualification and real-world project experience, employers will see you as someone ready to lead the next wave of intelligent computing.

Here’s how Nottingham helps you get there:

The Careers and Employability Service is with you from your first year, offering one-to-one coaching, internship placements, and exclusive employer networking events — all designed to help you stand out in a competitive job market.
92.7% of graduates from the School of Computer Science are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation, earning an average salary of around £33,000.
You’ll benefit from the University’s strong industry links with major employers such as Capital One, Experian, IBM, and UniDays, as well as opportunities to connect with tech startups and research partners.
The degree is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) — a mark of quality recognised worldwide and a valuable step towards professional Chartered IT status.
Nottingham graduates are known for being adaptable, innovative, and ready to make an impact — with alumni going on to roles at BT, Sky, Games Workshop, and a range of cutting-edge AI companies.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re inspired to keep studying, your MSci gives you an excellent foundation for advanced research. Many students go on to pursue a PhD or further master’s research in areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, or data science — both at Nottingham and at top universities around the world. Your final-year project experience means you’ll already have the skills and confidence to take on original research that pushes the boundaries of technology.