BSc Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly important in addressing complex problems faced in many different aspects of our society, including economics, business, healthcare, medicine, education and agriculture. With recent developments in AI techniques and large-scale computing infrastructure, the exploitation of big data further pushes forward on all fronts. This rapid advance leads to a growing demand for students who can understand and exploit AI.

Our BSc Artificial Intelligence course aims to prepare you for meeting this demand. You will obtain a comprehensive perspective of the current developments, the needs and the potential of AI by learning about AI models, algorithms, and systems.

You'll be equipped with solid knowledge of computer science and will gain a strong understanding of theoretical and practical aspects in AI. You will also gain expertise that is in huge demand within the UK industry, and will be made competitive within a plethora of recruiting sectors in the country and beyond.

Throughout the course, you will study a range of topics such as:

• Computer science
• Artificial intelligence
• Data science
• Machine learning
• Natural language processing
• Computer vision
• Robotics

You'll also be able to take specialist modules in order to pursue your own interests and develop your knowledge in these areas. You are able to learn several programming languages and apply your knowledge across a range of AI applications.

Study abroad

Your education extends beyond the university campus. We support you in expanding your education through offering the opportunity to spend a year or a term studying abroad at one of our partner universities. The four-year version of our degree allows you to spend the third year abroad or employed on a placement abroad (see below).

Studying abroad allows you to experience other cultures and languages, to broaden your degree socially and academically, and to demonstrate to employers that you are adaptable and mature.

Placement year

Alternatively, you can spend your third year on a placement with an external organisation. This is usually focused around your course, and enables you to learn about a particular sector, company, or job role, apply your academic knowledge in a practical working environment, and receive inspiration for future career pathways.

Organisations our students have been placed with include ARM, Microsoft, Intel, Nestlé, British Aerospace, and the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, as well a range of SME software and hardware companies.

Our expert staff

Essex has a long-standing tradition of research into artificial intelligence. It was one of the first UK universities to house a central research activity in artificial intelligence in the Department of Computer Science (which has since become the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering).

Our research ranges from the theoretical modelling of decision making to the design and implementation of software systems deployed in the real world. The research our staff focus on includes building systems and doing theoretical research which model, support or nudge decision making of autonomous entities. In recent years we have attracted many highly active research staff and we are conducting world-leading research in areas such as evolutionary computation, brain-computer interfacing, intelligent inhabited environments, robotics, and financial forecasting.

Specialist facilities

We are one of the largest and best resourced computer science and electronic engineering schools in the UK. Our work is supported by extensive networked computer facilities and software aids, together with a wide range of test and instrumentation equipment.

• We have six laboratories that are exclusively for computer science and electronic engineering students. Three are open 24/7, and you have free access to the labs except when there is a scheduled practical class in progress.
• All computers run either Windows 10 or are dual boot with Linux.
• Software includes Java, Prolog, C++, Perl, Mysql, Matlab, DB2, Microsoft Office, Visual Studio, and Project.
• Students have access to CAD tools and simulators for chip design (Xilinx) and computer networks (OPNET).
• We also have specialist facilities for research into areas including non-invasive brain-computer interfaces, intelligent environments, robotics, optoelectronics, video, RF and MW, printed circuit milling, and semiconductors.

Your future

The course will give you transferable skills such as the ability to develop and present arguments, as well as the ability to work independently and in groups. With a skillset that combines both technical and analytical know-how from our School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, you will be able to find employment in very competitive institutions in a wide range of disciplines. Read more about computer science and electronic engineering career destinations here.

Clearing entry requirements

We currently have places available in Clearing across a range of our courses with most offers at BBC-CCD (112 – 88 UCAS tariff points) or equivalent. We consider each application individually and requirements may be lower for some of our courses, so please get in touch if your grades are below those outlined here.

English language requirements

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall, or specified score in another equivalent test that we accept.

Details of English language requirements, including UK Visas and Immigration minimum component scores, and the tests we accept for applicants who require a Student visa (excluding Nationals of Majority English Speaking Countries) can be found here

If we accept the English component of an international qualification then it will be included in the information given about the academic levels listed above for the relevant countries.

Please note that date restrictions may apply to some English language qualifications.

If you are an international student requiring a Student visa to study in the UK please see our immigration webpages for the latest Home Office guidance on English language qualifications.

What if my IELTS does not meet your requirements?

If you do not meet our IELTS requirements then you may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway that enables you to start your course without retaking IELTS.

Do I need to have achieved an acceptable English language qualification before I apply?

You don’t need to achieve the required level before making your application, but it will be one of the conditions of your offer.

What if the English language qualification I hold, or am taking, is not listed?

If you cannot find the qualification that you have achieved or are pending, then please contact Admissions on ugquery@essex.ac.uk for advice.

What are the requirements for second and final year entry?

Different requirements apply for second and final year entry, and specified component grades are also required for applicants who require a visa to study in the UK. Details of English language requirements, including UK Visas and Immigration minimum component scores, and the tests we accept for applicants who require a Student visa (excluding Nationals of Majority English Speaking Countries) can be found here

Additional Notes

If you’re an international student, but do not meet the English language or academic requirements for direct admission to this degree, you could prepare and gain entry through a pathway course. Find out more about opportunities available to you at the University of Essex International College

Course structure

Our research-led teaching is continually evolving to address the latest challenges and breakthroughs in the field. The following modules are based on the current course structure and may change in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision for you. We'll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities as described on our website and in line with your contract with us. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, we'll let our applicants and students know as soon as possible.

Placement

On a placement year you gain relevant work experience within an external business or organisation, giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market and providing you with key contacts within the industry. The rest of your course remains identical to the three-year degree.

Year abroad

On your year abroad, you have the opportunity to experience other cultures and languages, to broaden your degree socially and academically, and to demonstrate to employers that you are mature, adaptable, and organised. The rest of your course remains identical to the three-year degree.

Teaching

Lectures are the principal method of delivery for the concepts and principles involved in achieving the learning outcomes. You'll also be directed to read from textbooks, academic papers and material available on-line. Understanding is reinforced by means of exercise classes, discussion groups, laboratories, assignments and project work. Specialist knowledge is further developed during supervision of your final-year project. Undergraduate students in the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering typically attend a two-hour lecture and a two-hour lab for each 15 credit module.

Assessment

Modules on this course are assessed on the results of written examinations, together with continual assessments of practical work and coursework.