BSc (Hons) AI and Data Science

From day one, you’ll be learning by doing—whether it’s in our computing labs or working with real-world data sets—so you build the skills that really matter. You’ll get hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, guided by lecturers whose research and connections with industry directly shape what you study. Alongside technical skills, you’ll benefit from employer events, networking with alumni and professionals, and a careers service offering CV support, mock interviews, psychometric practice, and more. This means you’re not just learning theory—you’re applying it in real-world situations. Let’s take a closer look at some of the programme’s standout features:

Optional Industrial Placement (Sandwich Year): After Year 3, you can choose a one-year, credit-bearing placement, giving you the chance to apply your skills in a real workplace and develop professional experience and communication skills.

Group Project Module: In Year 3, you’ll work on a core group project with your peers, simulating real industry teamwork while tackling practical tasks in AI and data science.

Hands-on Computing and Practical Labs: Starting from Year 1’s “Fundamentals of Computer Systems” and “Practical Computing” modules to advanced cloud, IoT, and machine learning coursework, you’ll spend plenty of time in labs using real hardware, microcontrollers, and datasets.

Specialised Software Ecosystems & Tools: Across modules like Programming, Advanced Data Science, Machine Learning, Cloud Platform Development, IoT, and Big Data, you’ll explore a wide range of tools and platforms—AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Bayesian methods, neural networks, Markov chain Monte Carlo, and more.

Lectures, Seminars, Simulations & Flipped Classrooms: You’ll enjoy a mix of teaching styles—lectures, seminars, practical sessions, simulations, group work, and flipped classrooms—delivered both in person and online as needed.

Careers Support & Industry Events: Our Careers Advisers are there year-round, helping you with CVs, cover letters, interview practice, aptitude tests, and access to a company directory. Employer events, alumni meetings, and talks from industry experts help you make valuable connections.

Research-Informed Curriculum: The programme is designed based on the latest research and industry feedback, from Year 1 foundations to Year 4’s Machine Learning and Honours Project, ensuring what you learn is current and relevant to employers.

Library & Virtual Learning Environment (GCU Learn): You’ll have full access to GCU’s library and online platform, GCU Learn, for research, assignments, module guidance, and all your learning resources.

Graduates from this degree often move into exciting roles such as Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, or Data Analyst, bringing highly sought-after skills in AI and data science to the table. Glasgow Caledonian University is proud to consistently rank among the top universities in Scotland for graduate employment, with 92% of its graduates either working or continuing their studies within 15 months of finishing their degree.

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

University support for employment:
From day one, you’ll have access to opportunities that connect you directly with employers. This includes industry-focused events, work placements, and academic–industry collaborations built right into your course. GCU’s Careers Service is also on hand to provide tailored guidance, such as CV workshops, one-to-one feedback sessions, and advice on how to market yourself effectively to future employers.

Employment stats and salary figures:

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

• Computer Science graduates: On average, earn around £30,000 within 15 months of graduating, with typical salaries ranging from £25,000 to £37,000.

• Programme-specific data: Median salaries for graduates start at approximately £25,000 after 15 months, rising to £27,500 after three years, and £31,500 after five years.

University–industry partnerships:
Your learning is informed by direct input from industry, ensuring that the skills you develop are exactly what employers are looking for. You’ll also have regular networking opportunities with alumni and professionals, helping you stay up to date with current trends and potential career paths.

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

Graduation outcomes:

• 92% of GCU graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months, higher than the Scottish average.

• 78% of graduates secure highly skilled roles.

• Graduate satisfaction is strong: 87% find their work meaningful, 78% feel it aligns with their future goals, and 73% report they are using the skills learned during their studies.