BSc (Hons) AI and Data Science

From day one, students dive into practical environments—from computing labs to real-world data sets—to build the skills that matter most. You'll have access to industry-standard tools and guided by lecturers whose research and collaborations directly inform what you study. Alongside your technical training, you’ll benefit from employer events, networking with alumni and industrial experts, and a careers service equipped with CV builders, mock interviews, psychometric practice, and more. These elements mean you're not just learning theory—you’re applying it in dynamic, real-world contexts. Now, let me guide you through some of the standout features:

Here’s what the programme offers in terms of facilities, tools, and experiential opportunities:

• Optional Industrial Placement (Sandwich Year): You can opt for a one-year, credit-rated placement after Year 3 to apply your skills in a workplace environment, building real-world competence and communication in professional contexts. 

• Group Project Module: In Year 3, there’s a core group project where you’ll collaborate with peers—mirroring industry teamwork—on realistic tasks in AI and data science.

• Hands-on Computing and Practical Labs: From Year 1’s “Fundamentals of Computer Systems” and “Practical Computing” modules to later cloud, IoT, and ML coursework, you’ll regularly work in labs using real hardware, microcontrollers, and datasets. 

• Specialised Software Ecosystems & Tools: Modules like Programming, Advanced Data Science, Machine Learning, Cloud Platform Development, IoT, and Big Data introduce you to ecosystems and tools across languages and platforms—e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Bayesian methods, neural networks, Markov chain Monte Carlo, and more. 

• Lectures, Seminars, Simulations & Flipped Classrooms: You’ll experience a mix of teaching methods—lectures, seminars, practical sessions, simulations, groupwork, and flipped classrooms—both in person and online as appropriate. 

• Careers Support & Industry Events: The School’s Careers Advisers support you year-round with interactive tools like interview simulators, CV and cover-letter builders, aptitude test practice, and a company directory. Employer events and meetings with alumni and industry experts broaden your awareness and help you build connections. 

• Research-Informed Curriculum: The structure of the programme—from Years 1 foundations through Year 4’s Machine Learning and Honours Project—is designed based on academic research and ongoing industrial feedback, meaning the content is current and employer-relevant. 

• Library & Virtual Learning Environment (GCU Learn): Resources, programme details, and learning materials are supported through GCU’s library and their online platform—GCU Learn—for assignments, module guidance and research. 

Graduates from this degree often step into roles such as Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, or Data Analyst, equipped with highly relevant AI and data science skills. Glasgow Caledonian University consistently ranks at the top in Scotland for graduate employment, with 92% of its graduates in work or further study within 15 months. 

Here’s how GCU supports your career progression and ensures you’re in demand:

• University services that help students to employ (specific information):
  You'll benefit from employer events, work placements, and academic–industry collaboration built right into the course structure. Additionally, GCU’s Careers Service offers tailored guidance, including CV workshops and one-to-one feedback to help students market themselves effectively.

• Employment stats and salary figures:

  • GCU-wide performance: 92% of graduates are in employment or further study 15 months after graduation—well above the sector average.

  • Computer Science graduates earn an average salary of £30,000 15 months post-graduation; with a typical range of £25k–£37k.

  • Programme-specific data: Median salaries are approximately £25,000 at 15 months, rising to £27,500 at 3 years, and £31,500 at 5 years

• ​University–industry partnerships (specific):
  The curriculum is shaped directly by feedback from industry, with regular networking events featuring alumni and professionals to expand your awareness of current trends and opportunities.

• Long-term accreditation value:
  The programme is accredited by the Chartered Institute for IT (BCS), meaning your degree meets professional standards valued by employers across the tech sector.

• Graduation outcomes:
  92% of GCU graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months—higher than the Scottish average—and 78% are in highly skilled roles. Graduates report high satisfaction: 87% find their work meaningful, 78% say it aligns with their future goals, and 73% feel they’re using skills learned during their studies