Course overview
This course is designed to offer both a general understanding of computer science as well as specialist skills in artificial intelligence. In addition to fundamental computer science classes and laboratories, the course covers topics including expert systems, intelligent agents, the history and philosophy of artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, neural networks, heuristic optimisation and other intelligent systems.
This course is designed to produce high-quality graduates who show independent thought, flexibility and maturity, and who command a sound technical knowledge of the broad aspects of computer science and artificial intelligence. You will gain an appreciation of current practice in both computer science and in artificial intelligence that can be applied immediately after graduation, as well in foundational aspects of the disciplines that will be of lasting value as technology changes over time. You will also be exposed to research-level topics, particularly in artificial intelligence, that will allow you to appreciate, and perhaps participate in, future developments in the field.
Year one
You will be introduced to the key concepts and tools underpinning modern computer science with artificial intelligence. You will learn how to program in Java, study the architecture and applications of computer systems and will be introduced to the areas of artificial intelligence that you will focus on in later years. You will also select one module from a list of options; among the current options are modules on software systems and web programming and scripting.
Year two
In this year you will consolidate what you have learnt so far by taking part in a group project accompanied by a course of lectures. At the same time, you will study artificial intelligence and programming in greater depth and meet other new core computing topics. In addition, you will choose one optional module from a wide range of topics.
Year three
In your final year, whilst selecting the majority of your modules from an extensive list of options, you will undertake modules in Designing Intelligent Agents, Knowledge Representation and Reasoning, and Systems and Real-Time Programming. The other compulsory module this year is the individual project, which has a major artificial intelligence focus. You will agree a project in discussion with your supervisor and may select a topic from a list proposed by a member of staff or propose an idea of your own.
The University of Nottingham carries out world-leading research in artificial intelligence and there will be a wide range of exciting projects available. You will select the remainder of your modules from an extensive list of options, including at least four modules from a list of specialist artificial intelligence topics including Computer Vision, Decision Support Methodologies and Neural Networks.
Year four
In your final year you will undertake an individual or group project. The rest of your course will be made up from up to eight optional modules.
Entry requirements
A levels: AAB including A level science subject (maths or computing preferred) or GCSE maths grade B or above.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 87 (no less than 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking)
Alternative qualifications
For details please see the alternative qualifications page.
Foundation Year - a foundation year is available for this course.
Skills and careers
You will graduate with: general knowledge and understanding of computers and computer science; specialised knowledge of theoretical and practical aspects of artificial intelligence; an understanding of a variety of approaches, techniques and tools needed to solve the different types of problem encountered in computer science in general and artificial intelligence in particular; and an understanding of the professional, legal, and ethical aspects of the discipline. The MSci will allow you to engage with cutting-edge research in Artificial Intelligence and computer science.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2009/10 graduates of the School of Computer Science was £24,091.43.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.