BSc Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (with integrated year in industry)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Aberystwyth University

Program Overview

 

The BSc Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (with Integrated Year in Industry) at Aberystwyth University is a four-year degree that combines foundational computer science education with specialized AI training and practical industry experience. This program is ideal for students eager to develop technical expertise in software development, machine learning, and robotics, while gaining valuable professional experience through a dedicated industrial placement year.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building the Foundations

In the first year, students are introduced to essential computing concepts and programming skills. Modules include:

  • Introduction to Computer Infrastructure (CS10220)

  • Introduction to Programming (CS12020)

  • Problems and Solutions (CS10720)

  • Programming Using an Object-Oriented Language (CS12320)

  • Study Skills for Computer Science (CS18120)

  • Web Development and Information Security (CS10120)

These courses lay the groundwork for understanding computer systems, programming languages, and web development, preparing students for more advanced topics in subsequent years.

Year 2: Diving Deeper into AI and Software Engineering

The second year focuses on enhancing problem-solving abilities and delving into artificial intelligence and software engineering principles. Key modules include:

  • Algorithm Design and Data Structures (CS21120)

  • Artificial Intelligence (CS26520)

  • Modelling Persistent Data (CS27020)

  • Software Engineering (CS22120)

Students will engage in developing algorithms, understanding AI methodologies, and applying software engineering practices to real-world scenarios.

Year 3: Industrial Placement Year

In the third year, students undertake a year-long industrial placement, gaining hands-on experience in the computing industry. This placement allows students to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting, enhancing their employability and providing insights into the practical aspects of computer science and AI.

Year 4: Specialization and Major Project

The final year allows students to specialize further and undertake a significant project. Core modules include:

  • Major Project (CS39440)

  • Professional Issues in the Computing Industry (CS38220)

  • Fundamentals of Machine Learning (CS36110)

  • Machine Learning (CS36220)

Students will complete a major project that demonstrates their ability to solve complex problems, while also exploring professional and ethical issues in the computing industry.


Focus Areas

Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Software Engineering, Robotics, Industrial Placement

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be proficient in programming, algorithm design, AI methodologies, software development processes, and possess practical industry experience.

Professional Alignment

The degree is accredited by the Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) on behalf of the Engineering Council, ensuring that the program meets professional standards and enhances career prospects.

Reputation

Aberystwyth University is recognized for its strong emphasis on employability and industry connections, providing students with opportunities to engage with real-world computing challenges.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

 

At Aberystwyth University, this program isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s designed to get you building, experimenting, and solving real problems from day one. You’ll have access to cutting-edge labs, collaborate on group projects, and even spend a full year in industry putting your skills into practice. The combination of hands-on experience, professional placements, and research opportunities means you’ll graduate confident, capable, and ready for the tech world.

Here’s how you’ll experience learning in action:

  • Integrated Year in Industry: Spend a full year working in a real-world computing environment, applying your knowledge to projects that matter, and making valuable industry connections. 

  • Specialized Labs:

    • Intelligent Systems Lab for robotics and autonomous systems.

    • Extended Reality Lab for virtual and augmented reality experiments.

    • Robotics Labs for indoor, outdoor, and even space robotics research. 

  • Research Groups: Work alongside experts in areas like Intelligent Robotics, Advanced Reasoning, Bioinformatics, and Computer Vision.

  • Hands-On Projects: Join initiatives like the Aberystwyth Experimental Planetary Rover (AEPR), developing technologies for space exploration. 

  • Student Clubs and Societies: Engage in group projects and competitions with the Robotics Club, Aber Sailbot Team, or the Community of Gamers. 

With these experiences, you won’t just learn about AI and computer science — you’ll live it, create it, and prepare yourself for a career where you can make a real impact.

Progression & Future Opportunities

 

Graduates from this program leave Aberystwyth with a strong mix of technical expertise and practical experience, ready to take on the fast-paced world of technology. Many go on to exciting careers as Software Developers, AI Engineers, Data Scientists, or Robotics Engineers, applying what they’ve learned in real-world settings. With the combination of academic knowledge and industry experience, you’ll be well-prepared to make an impact from day one.

Here’s how the university supports your career journey:

  • Careers and Employability Service: Personalised advice, CV workshops, interview preparation, and guidance on finding the right job.

  • Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with leading tech companies provide networking opportunities and pathways to employment.

  • Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute for IT (BCS), giving your qualifications extra professional credibility.

  • Graduate Outcomes: A high percentage of graduates secure jobs or further study shortly after graduation, with typical starting salaries ranging from £24,000–£35,000 depending on your chosen role.

Further Academic Progression:

If you want to continue your studies, Aberystwyth offers a range of postgraduate options:

  • MSc Artificial Intelligence – Dive deeper into AI techniques and applications.

  • MSc Advanced Computer Science – Explore specialized areas across computing.

  • PhD in Computer Science – Undertake research at the cutting edge of AI and computing.

These options allow you to specialise further, gain advanced expertise, and even contribute to groundbreaking research in your field.

Program Key Stats

£21,875
£9,535
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


94 %

Eligibility Criteria

CCC - BBB
3.0
26 - 30
75

NA
NA
6.0
88

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Software Developer
  • AI Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • Robotics Engineer
  • Machine Learning Specialist
  • Software Tester
  • Systems Analyst
  • Research Assistant in AI
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Web Developer
  • IT Consultant
  • Automation Engineer
  • Data Analyst
  • Artificial Intelligence Researcher

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