Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) with a Year in Industry BSc

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Royal Holloway University of London

Program Overview

This four-year degree is perfect for anyone fascinated by Artificial Intelligence and how it shapes the world around us. You’ll gain a solid grounding in computer science while also spending a year working in industry, giving you hands-on experience that makes your CV stand out.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: You’ll start by learning the essentials of computing, including programming, mathematics for computer science, and understanding computer systems. Practical lab sessions help you put theory into action from the very beginning.

Year 2: This year builds on your foundation with topics like data structures, algorithms, software engineering, and databases. You’ll also get your first taste of AI with modules on artificial intelligence principles and machine learning, setting the stage for more advanced study.

Year 3 (Year in Industry): Instead of lectures, you’ll step into the real world with a placement in the tech industry. It’s a chance to apply your skills, gain professional experience, and see how AI works in practice.

Year 4: Back at university, you’ll dive into advanced AI topics like deep learning, natural language processing, and robotics. You’ll also complete a major project, giving you the freedom to explore an AI area that excites you the most.

Focus Areas

AI fundamentals, machine learning, robotics, natural language processing, software engineering, data structures, algorithms.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the degree, you’ll be confident in programming, problem-solving, and AI techniques, with real-world experience from your industry placement and a substantial individual AI project under your belt.

Professional Alignment

Accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) and the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education (EQANIE).

Reputation

Royal Holloway is known for producing highly employable graduates, many of whom go on to work at leading tech companies worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Royal Holloway, learning goes beyond lectures and textbooks. From day one, you’ll get hands-on experience with real-world projects, cutting-edge tools, and industry-standard software, giving you the skills employers are looking for. The program is designed so that by the time you graduate, you’ve not only learned AI concepts but also applied them in practical settings, from group projects to industry placements.

Here’s how you’ll gain that experience:

Year in Industry: Spend a full year working with a tech company, applying your AI and computer science knowledge in real-world scenarios and boosting your employability.
Specialized AI Labs: Work in state-of-the-art laboratories, including the Centre for Reliable Machine Learning, with access to advanced computing facilities for research and development.
Collaborative Projects: Take part in group projects that mimic real industry challenges, helping you build teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Professional Software Tools: Use industry-standard software and programming languages to develop AI applications and solutions.
Research Opportunities: Join ongoing research initiatives in AI, exploring areas like machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics.
Workshops and Seminars: Learn from industry experts and guest speakers who bring the latest trends and practices straight to you.

With these opportunities, you’ll graduate not just with knowledge, but with practical skills, confidence, and a professional edge in the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BSc Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) with a Year in Industry at Royal Holloway leave university ready to take on exciting roles in the tech world. With your skills in AI, machine learning, and software development, you could become an AI Developer, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, or Software Engineer. The combination of strong academic learning and real-world industry experience gives you a real edge in today’s competitive job market.

Here’s how Royal Holloway supports your career journey:

Industry Placement Year: Get hands-on experience with leading tech companies, applying your knowledge in real-world projects and building professional connections.
Dedicated Careers Service: Benefit from tailored career advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation specific to the tech sector.
Employment Outcomes: Royal Holloway Computer Science graduates have an excellent track record of moving straight into relevant tech roles after graduation.
University–Industry Partnerships: Work with companies like Microsoft, IBM, Disney, and Apple through placements, workshops, and project collaborations.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) and EQANIE, giving your degree extra professional recognition.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are fully prepared either to start their careers immediately or continue into further study.

Further Academic Progression:

After finishing this degree, you can take your studies further:

Postgraduate Study: Move on to a Master’s in AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, or other specialized areas.
Research Opportunities: Pursue a PhD in AI or related fields to contribute to cutting-edge technology.
Professional Certifications: Gain extra qualifications in specific software, technologies, or methodologies to boost your career prospects.

With these pathways, you’ll have the flexibility to either dive straight into the tech industry or continue developing your expertise at an advanced academic level.