Introduction to Programming for Data Science and AI

Applications for this course have now closed.

This course will provide an introduction to the basic principles and concepts that underpin programming for data science and AI. It will make use of a high level programming language (i.e. Python) supporting control, data and procedural abstraction.

Through this course you will learn to analyse simple programs, incorporate standard control structures, write functions, arrays structures and I/O, as well as debugging simple programmes.

You will develop quantitative skills in the area of AI and Data Science to enable professional working in areas in which these topics are now being embedded.

The course will enable professionals to take a knowledgeable approach to their use of AI and data science.

Learning outcomes

After completing this course, students will be expected to be able to:

• demonstrate a critical understanding of the basic principles and concepts that underlie the procedural programming model.
• explain and make use of high-level programming language features that support control, data and procedural abstraction.
• implement, test and debug simple programs that use the features listed above.
• critically evaluate the suitability of certain tools and use them to summarise, present, and compress data.
• conceptually understand basic machine learning techniques, analyse their strengths and weaknesses, and implement them.

Our short courses are designed to be accessible to all. There are no specific entry requirements you need to meet, and you do not need a background in mathematics or computer science to be eligible for this course.

Module Outline

The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts of computer programming, exemplified using Python from the command line and IDEs, for data science and AI.

The syllabus will cover:

• Underlying principles of procedural programming
• Programming in a high-level procedural language
• Programming in Data Science and AI

The module will be delivered as a mix of face-to-face and online activities consisting of lectures and laboratories.

Participants will also need to carry out independent work such as practicing skills and reading in advance of lectures and labs.

Teaching schedule

Applications are now open for our January intake. See below for the planned teaching schedule (please note dates and times may be subject to change). Teaching will take place at our Colchester campus but lectures will be dual delivery so there is the opportunity to attend over zoom if this is more convenient. All lab sessions must be attended in person.

Assessment strategy

Assessment will be carried out in 2 parts:

• An assignment of programming exercises, worth 40% of your final mark.
• Final project in programming in data science and artificial intelligence, worth 60% of your final mark.

The course costs £2,310. This includes all lectures, labs and assessment costs, and access to university facilities such as the library, the Silberrad Student Centre and student support services.

Funding for this course can be applied for through Student Finance Higher Education Short Course Loans.

All applications for this course can be made online.
For further help or information, please contact ofs-shortcourses@essex.ac.uk