DEGREE GUIDE

Artificial Intelligence

What do Artificial Intelligence degrees involve?

Artificial Intelligence degrees teach you how to design and develop intelligent systems that can learn, adapt, and solve complex problems. You will explore key areas such as machine learning, robotics, data science, neural networks, and computer vision. These courses help you develop strong programming, analytical, and problem-solving skills while understanding the ethical and societal impact of AI. You will also learn how to work with large datasets, train AI models, and apply AI to real-world challenges in industries like healthcare, finance, and technology. Many degrees offer hands-on projects, industry collaborations, and research opportunities, giving you the expertise to innovate in this fast-evolving field.

Example
Modules

Machine Learning: Explore how computers use data to recognise patterns, make predictions and improve over time without being directly programmed.

Neural Networks: Study how layered systems of interconnected nodes simulate brain function, powering applications like image recognition and speech analysis.

Natural Language Processing: Learn how machines analyse, understand and generate human language for tools like chatbots, translation and sentiment detection.

Common Degree Names

💼 Many courses offer a placement year in industry or research.
🌍 Study abroad is available at some universities.

BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)
BEng (Hons) Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
BSc (Hons) Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence and Psychology
MSci Artificial Intelligence
MEng Computing (Artificial Intelligence)

BSc and BEng are both common in this field. BSc focuses more on software and theory, while BEng may include robotics and systems engineering. MSci and MEng are four-year integrated Master’s degrees that include advanced AI study.

Level 3 (A-level / IB Diploma (HL) / Scottish Highers)

AI degrees teach you how to build intelligent systems that can learn, reason, and solve problems. Most courses are technically demanding and require strong mathematical and computational skills.

You'll need:

Maths – essential for all AI courses

Subjects that could strengthen your application:

Computer Science – strongly preferred for programming and algorithms
Further Maths or Statistics – valuable for theoretical or data-heavy courses
Physics – helpful for logic, modelling, and quantitative thinking

✨ Maths is essential. Adding Computer Science keeps the widest range of AI courses open for you. Evidence of coding experience (even self-taught) really helps.

Some universities welcome equivalent qualifications, such as:

BTEC Extended Diplomas in IT, Computing or Applied Science (ideally with substantial programming/maths units)
T-levels in Digital Production, Design & Development or Digital Business Services
International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) with an IT/computing pathway

✨ AI courses differ in emphasis (theory, software engineering, data science, robotics), so always check each university’s website for the exact subjects and entry criteria.

Level 2 Qualifications (GCSE / MYP / National 5)

Most courses ask for:

GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or equivalents such as National 5s or MYP

📘 GCSE Computer Science (or equivalent) is useful but not essential; strong Maths skills are particularly important.

💬 Interviews
Not usually required. Some programmes may invite you to an applicant day or brief discussion, especially for industry-linked or placement routes.

📝 Admissions Tests
There are no standard national tests for AI. A few universities may set a short coding or problem-solving task as part of selection.

💻 Portfolio / Projects
A formal portfolio isn’t required, but links to coding projects, GitHub work, apps, Kaggle notebooks, robotics or competition entries can strengthen your application.

If your qualifications don't match the usual entry requirements, there are some other possibilities.

🌱 Foundation Year in AI, Computing, or Data Science
Ideal if you’re missing required subjects (often Maths/Computer Science) or want additional preparation before the degree.

🎓 Access to HE Diploma (Computing, Science or Engineering)
Widely accepted when the course includes programming and maths/statistics units; universities usually look for strong results in quantitative modules.

💼 Level 3 Apprenticeships
Relevant options—such as Software Development Technician, IT Support, or Data Technician—can provide experience that supports later entry to an AI degree, especially when combined with further study.

Is this degree right for you?

Members can explore whether this degree fits who they are:

Skills you'd develop and whether they match your strengths
How this aligns with your interests, motivators and values
Career paths and where graduates end up

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Skills you would develop in an Artificial Intelligence degree

Programming & Computational Thinking: Gain expertise in coding, algorithms, and designing intelligent systems.
Analytical & Critical Thinking: Learn to interpret complex data and assess AI-driven solutions effectively.
Problem-Solving: Develop practical solutions to technical challenges involving machine learning and AI applications.
Digital Literacy & IT Skills: Use specialised software and digital tools crucial for AI development and deployment.
Research & Data Analysis: Master techniques to collect, process, and interpret large datasets essential for AI.
Technical & Practical Skills: Get hands-on experience building, testing, and refining artificial intelligence technologies.
Adaptability & Resilience: Keep pace with rapidly changing technologies and methodologies within the AI field.
Communication (Written, Verbal, Digital): Clearly convey technical concepts, results, and solutions to diverse audiences.
Attention to Detail: Ensure precision in programming, algorithm design, and data analysis tasks.
Sustainability & Ethical Awareness: Understand the ethical implications and sustainable practices related to AI development and its societal impacts.

Is this a good fit for you?

Use the tabs to explore the kind of person that this would be a good fit for. Do you share the Interests, Motivations and Values that people who thrive in this course tend to have? How does it compare to your Holland code?

Not sure what your Holland Code is? Want to get a better understanding of yourself to help you understand if this would fit you? Explore our pages on Self-Knowledge here.

Interests that would make an Artificial Intelligence degree a good match for you

Careers an Artificial Intelligence degree could lead you to