BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) is a 3-4 year undergraduate degree that focuses on the development of modern, robust, and practical systems. The course strikes a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, heavily influenced by the wide research expertise of the academic staff.

Key Information

• UCAS code: G700
• Level: Undergraduate
• Delivery type: Full Time
• Degree qualification: BSc (Hons)
• Mode of delivery: On-Campus
• Duration: 3-4 years
• Location: Edinburgh
• Start date: September

Course Description

Studying AI will allow students to help shape the future, revolutionize industries, and solve complex problems. The course empowers students to understand and develop the next generation of software and tools. In the third year, students will engage in a year-long group project, collaborating to solve real-world problems. In the final year, students will pursue AI specialized courses and produce an extensive dissertation project in the AI area.

Course Content

The course content includes:

• Year 1: Programming, introduction to computer systems, databases, and discrete mathematics.
• Year 2: Software design, databases, internet, communications, and mobility, mathematics, and programming language design.
• Year 3: Artificial intelligence, graphics, operating systems, and more formal aspects of computing, including a group project.
• Year 4: Advanced topics and a major individual project.

Mandatory Courses

• Year 1:
  • Logic and Proof
  • Introduction to Interaction Design
  • Praxis
  • Software Development 1
  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Introduction to Computer Systems
  • Software Development 2
  • Web Design and Databases
• Year 2:
  • User-Centred Experimental Design
  • Programming Languages
  • Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Web Programming
  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Database Management Systems
  • Hardware-Software Interface
  • Introduction to Software Engineering
• Year 3:
  • Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Agents
  • Data Communications and Networking
  • Foundations 1
  • Software Engineering
  • Foundations 2
  • Language Processors
  • Operating Systems & Concurrency
  • Professional Development
• Year 4:
  • Research Methods & Requirements Engineering
  • Design & Implementation
  • Project Testing and Presentation

Optional Courses

• Year 4:
  • Biologically Inspired Computation
  • Computer Network Security
  • Data Mining and Machine Learning
  • Computer Graphics
  • Computer-aided Verification
  • Information Systems Methodologies
  • Intelligent Robotics
  • Rigorous Methods for Software Engineering
  • Statistical Modelling and Analysis
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Advanced Human Computer Interaction
  • Advanced Network Security
  • Big Data Management
  • Conversational Agents and Spoken Language Processing
  • Distributed and Parallel Technologies
  • Data Visualisation and Analytics
  • e-Commerce Technology
  • Games Programming
  • Digital Forensics

Entry Requirements

• Standard entry requirements:
  • Highers: ABBB (over two sittings), including Maths at B.
  • A-Levels: BBC, including Maths at B.
  • International Baccalaureate: 28 points, including Maths at Higher Level 5.
  • BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, in a relevant subject, including sufficient Maths.
  • HNC: B in graded unit, in a relevant subject, including sufficient Maths at SCQF Level 6.
  • HND: BB in graded units, in a relevant subject, including sufficient Maths at SCQF Level 6.
• Minimum entry requirements:
  • Highers: BBBC (over two sittings), including Maths at B.
  • A-Levels: BCC, including Maths at B.
  • International Baccalaureate: 28 points, including Maths at Higher Level 5.
  • BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, in a relevant subject, including sufficient Maths.
  • HNC: B in graded unit, in a relevant subject, including sufficient Maths at SCQF Level 6.
  • HND: BB in graded units, in a relevant subject, including sufficient Maths at SCQF Level 6.

English Language Requirements

• The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

Fees and Funding

• September 2026 intake tuition fees:
  • Scotland: Paid by SAAS
  • England / Wales / N Ireland / Rep of Ireland: ｣9,790
  • International: ｣25,808
• Scholarships and bursaries:
  • Heriot-Watt University Bursary (up to ｣3,100 per year)

Employability

• 83% of graduates are working 15 months after graduating.
• The average salary of graduates 15 months after graduating is ｣33,000.
• Potential career paths include information technology professionals.

Heriot-Watt University

---

Overview:

Heriot-Watt University is a research-focused institution with campuses in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai, and Malaysia, as well as an online presence. It is known for its career-focused degrees and strong links with industry. Heriot-Watt is highly regarded for its research, with a significant portion ranked world-leading and internationally excellent.

---

Services Offered:

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Heriot-Watt offers a diverse and international student community, with one-third of its Edinburgh Campus students coming from outside the UK. The university provides a range of facilities across its campuses, including healthcare, libraries, food and drink, sports centers, and more. Students can participate in clubs and activities, and the university offers accommodation options near its campuses.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Career-focused degrees:

Heriot-Watt is ranked first in Scotland for graduate employability and its graduates are first in the UK for CEO or MD roles.

Global reach:

The university has campuses across the UK, Dubai, and Malaysia, providing students with a truly international experience.

Strong research:

Heriot-Watt is valued for its pioneering research, which is informed by the global needs of business and industry.

Diverse student community:

The university boasts a diverse international student community, fostering a multicultural learning environment.

Beautiful campuses:

Heriot-Watt's campuses are located in stunning settings, offering students a unique and inspiring learning environment.

---

Academic Programs:

Heriot-Watt offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Engineering
• Life Sciences
• Mathematics
• Computer Sciences
• Physical Sciences
• Social Sciences and Business
• Art and Design
• Languages and Culture

---

Other:

Heriot-Watt is committed to sustainability and is actively working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The university also offers a personalized virtual experience through its online tour platform, allowing prospective students to explore its campuses virtually.