Overview

This programme, offered at Manchester Metropolitan University, introduces students to the fast-moving fields of artificial intelligence and data science, building the technical and analytical capability needed to turn raw data into meaningful insight. The integrated foundation year first develops core skills in mathematics, computing and communication, preparing students without a direct route in for the demands of degree-level study before they progress into three years of specialist training.

What You'll Learn

• Foundational numeracy, research methods and academic communication skills alongside an introduction to engineering and computing thinking

• Programming and computational thinking fundamentals

• Core data science principles, including how data is collected, curated and managed

• The building blocks of artificial intelligence and how intelligent systems are designed

• Applied statistics and methods for analysing and interpreting large datasets

• Data engineering techniques for handling and structuring data at scale

• The societal implications of AI and how these technologies affect people and organisations

• Collaborative team-based projects, culminating in an independent final year project

Learning Outcomes

On completing the course, students will be able to apply statistical and computational methods to extract insight from complex datasets, supporting evidence-based decision-making. They will understand how AI systems are built and deployed, and be able to critically evaluate their design, performance and broader impact on society. Graduates will have the technical grounding to manage data throughout its lifecycle, from acquisition through to analysis, while also developing the teamwork, project management and communication skills built through sustained group and individual work. Together, these outcomes prepare students to approach real-world problems with the analytical rigour and technical fluency expected in AI and data-driven roles.