Program start date | Application deadline |
2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Artificial Intelligence BSc (Hons) top-up
Course Overview
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world. If you can see your future self working in this area, this course aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to help drive the ongoing digital revolution.
Year of Entry
2026
Location
Coventry University (Coventry)
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
1 year full-time
Course Code
G411
Start Date
September 2026
Course Overview
You will take specialist modules in arguably two of the most important emerging topics of computer science: artificial intelligence and security.
These are supplemented by an individual project in artificial intelligence, under the supervision of an academic member of staff.
- Master the practical skills and theoretical knowledge you need to develop AI-enhanced software solutions, which address demanding user expectations and complex customer requirements.
- Explore the areas of artificial intelligence and security, and learn how they continue to drive major changes in the domain of computer science.
- Learn the technical skills needed for a career in the computing industry. Upon successful completion, you may consider roles related to AI including AI expert, machine learning modeller, data scientist, human factor designer, Internet of Things programmer, or developer of autonomous cars.
Rated Gold Overall
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023
5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities
QS Stars University Ratings
Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)
QS Best Student Cities Index 2025
Why You Should Study This Course
You will benefit from:
- opportunities to participate in field trips and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects, allowing you to interact online with students from other universities abroad
- novel and engaging learning approaches that places you at the centre of your learning, such as flipped classrooms, interactive e-learning technology and research-inspired teaching
- guest speakers from industry professionals (subject to availability) to discuss their experience and offer advice on employability
- access to industry-standard facilities in the modern Sir Frank Whittle and Beatrice Shilling buildings
What You'll Study
You will take specialist modules in two of the most important emerging topics of computer science: artificial intelligence and security. These are supplemented by an individual project in artificial intelligence, under the supervision of an academic member of staff. Through your studies you should also develop important course-level transferable skills including both group and individual work, time management, written and verbal presentation to both experts and non-experts, and critical reflection of your own and others’ work.
Modules
- Security – 20 credits
- This module introduces you to the concepts and practical considerations of creating and evaluating secure computer systems. Systems will be analysed at both the application level and at the level of interconnected devices in architectures, such as client-server and cloud-based, with attention given to security-by-design, security legislation and regulation, and the associated products and services.
- Machine Learning and Related Applications – 20 credits
- This module represents an introduction to the wide field of machine learning. It will present fundamental concepts related to supervised and unsupervised learning methods, for example, linear regression, support vector machines, radial basis function, decision trees and random forests, clustering techniques and naïve Bayes classification models. You can expect to learn the basics behind these methods and be able to analyse the outcomes of applying various machine learning algorithms on a set of data, together with techniques of processing such data. Applications related to these concepts will also be covered.
- Project Management – 20 credits
- This module will provide you with a good understanding of key principles, concepts and theories in the field of project management. You should learn about key project management methodologies, practices and techniques and gain a good understanding of how they might be applied in real information technology and business contexts.
- Intelligent Agents – 20 credits
- The aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of knowledge-based systems and fundamental concepts in artificial intelligence.
- Artificial Neural Networks – 20 credits
- This module provides an introduction to the concepts used in neural networks and their application to solving real-world problems. The main topics covered in this module include biological motivations of neural networks, different approaches including the main supervised and unsupervised neural network architectures, static and temporal learning approaches, data collection and preparation methods for neural network learning, applications of neural networks, current trends and future developments.
- Individual Project in Artificial Intelligence – 20 credits
- The aim of this module is to provide an opportunity to research, design, implement and critically evaluate a functional or simulated system, object or concept, and to acquire further knowledge in the artificial intelligence area. To this end, you will undertake a substantial project in AI which will exercise the in-depth technical, problem-solving, creative and other skills, required of a professional practitioner. Successful completion of the project will require methodical planning, record keeping and self-management, as well as effective communication, execution and delivery of an agreed artefact. Support and guidance will be provided by a project supervisor who will be the primary point of contact during the module.
How You'll Learn
This course consists of six 20-credit modules (composed of 200 hours teaching each). We place an emphasis on activity-led learning, with comprehensive student support throughout.
You should benefit from access to a variety of study materials designed to provide you with the opportunity to understand and reflect on computing science, as well as develop established and research-inspired skills that could be applied to practical problems for a future career in AI.
Teaching Contact Hours
As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.
Teaching Hours:
Teaching hours vary each semester, year of study and due to module selection. During your top-up year you can expect 9-12 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.
Guided and Independent Study:
Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.
Online Learning:
As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.
Assessment
This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.
Assessment methods may include:
- formal examinations
- phase tests
- essays
- group work
- presentations
- reports
- projects
- coursework
- exams
- individual assignments.
International Experience Opportunities
Students will have opportunities to participate in Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects. These opportunities provide you with valuable experience working with others from different cultures and countries, helping to develop your digital skills and your intercultural competency.
Entry Requirements
Typical entry requirements:
- UK
- International
You will need to have, or expected to achieve, a FHEA Level 5/SCQF Level 8 Foundation Degree (FD), DipHE, or HND in Computing. Successful completion of two years appropriate academic study in higher education.
Other Qualifications and Experience
Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.
Contextual Offers and Fair Access Scheme
If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme, you could automatically receive a contextual offer that may be up to 24 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme.
Fees and Funding
Student | Full-time | Part-time
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UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man | 2026/27 fees TBC
2025/26 fees: £9,535 per year | Not available
EU | 2026/27 fees TBC
2025/26 fees: £9,535 per year with EU Support Bursary**
2026/27 fees TBC
2025/26 fees: £19,850 per year without EU Support Bursary** | Not available
International | 2026/27 fees TBC
2025/26 fees: £19,850 per year | Not available
For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.
Facilities
Your studies will be centred in high-specification learning environments that benefit from extensive social learning facilities, well-appointed laboratories, industry-standard equipment, lecturing facilities and classrooms, facilitating our innovative teaching methods across a diverse suite of courses.
Networking, Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity Laboratories
Contains 84 workstations, equipped with Cisco networking equipment and a range of open-source security suites, on a secured network that allows students to practice offensive an defensive security techniques.
Digital Literacy Centre
The DLC provides a range of help and support for digital, programming, and IT skills. From programming to email etiquette, from Word and Excel to enhancing your Google-Fu, the DLC provides a range of online and in-person help and support. Students can make use of drop-in sessions or book one-to-one appointments online and face-to-face.
sigma Centre
The sigma centre provides a wide range of learning resources dedicated to mathematics and statistics. Students can make use of drop-in sessions or one-to-one appointments.
Careers and Opportunities
Upon successful completion of this course, you should be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge, understanding and critical analyse of key areas of artificial intelligence and security
- demonstrate the ability to identify, define and critically evaluate problems/scenarios, design and/or develop complex and secure systems solutions using appropriately justified tools and approaches
- critically apply the essential concepts, principles, and practices of the subject to less well-defined scenarios
- demonstrate professional skills, the ability to communicate technical information to non-technical audiences, document each stage of a project, plan, manage and organise your work both as an individual and as a team member, with minimum guidance
- demonstrate the ability to contribute to AI projects by applying appropriate professional practices of criticality, innovation, creativity, economics, legal, social, ethical, environmental, sustainability, health and safety, entrepreneurial and commercial considerations
- identify mechanisms to critically evaluate and review both your own work and others, and opportunities for continuing professional development and lifelong learning.
Successful graduates of this course should be in an excellent position to respond to future changes in the computing job market by having the skills and knowledge to gain AI jobs that do not exist yet or are just emerging. The transferable skills learned on this course could also equip you for a wide range of other careers.
Where Our Graduates Work
Career destinations for the successful graduates of this course could include machine learning, data science and software development domains. You may also opt to continue your studies at postgraduate level.
Further Study
Data Science and Computational Intelligence MSc
Computer Science MSc
Software Development MSc
Cyber Security MSc
How to Apply
UK students
Full-time students can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.
International students
International codes:
EECU178
How to apply
For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.
You can also download our International Guide which contains lots of useful information about our courses, accommodation, tips for travel and guidance on how to apply.
Overview:
- Founded in 1843 as the Coventry School of Design
- Received university status in 1992
- Over 30,000 students from over 150 countries
- Campuses in Coventry, London, and Scarborough
- Known for its focus on practical, industry-focused education
Student Life:
- Over 150 student clubs and societies
- Sports teams in various disciplines
- Student support services include counseling, mental health support, and disability support
- Campus facilities include a gym, swimming pool, and student union
Academics:
- Offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in a wide range of subjects
- Faculty with industry experience and research expertise
- Teaching methodologies include lectures, seminars, workshops, and project-based learning
- Academic support services include writing centers, math labs, and peer mentoring
- Unique academic programs include:
- Centre for Applied Science and Technology
- Centre for Business in Society
- Centre for Intelligent Systems
Top Reasons to Study Here:
- Ranked among the top 150 universities in the UK (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023)
- Excellent industry connections and partnerships
- Specialized facilities such as the National Transport Design Centre and the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing
- Notable alumni include:
- Sir Frank Whittle, inventor of the jet engine
- Sir David Attenborough, naturalist and broadcaster
- Sir Patrick Stewart, actor
Services:
- Counseling and mental health support
- Health center
- Accommodation services
- Library with over 1 million books and resources
- Technology support
- Career development services