Overview
Artificial intelligence now sits at the forefront of technological innovation, powering everything from driverless vehicles and drones to healthcare advances and space exploration. The BSc Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) at Royal Holloway, University of London gives students hands-on experience from day one, building the skills to design, test and improve intelligent systems while exploring advanced topics such as machine learning and information security. Students gain access to the Centre for Reliable Machine Learning, where respected researchers have developed many of the principles driving current AI development, applying their research to solve genuine problems for industry partners. Teaching takes place in well-equipped labs alongside unique facilities such as the Omnidrome Research and Innovation Centre, with further real-world experience available through the department's own software company, CodeGroovers, or an optional summer research placement. The course also carries a strong track record for award-winning teaching, with staff recognised for innovation in software engineering education and practices distinguished by the British Computer Society. The course suits students who want a genuine grounding in both core computer science and specialist AI development, graduating ready to apply technical knowledge alongside workplace skills such as teamwork and collaboration. It particularly suits those aiming for careers at the cutting edge of AI, with the option to add a year in industry.
What You'll Learn
Object-oriented programming, covering program basics, data structures, algorithms and coding best practices
Internet services, web development technologies and the fundamental principles of network security
Mathematical structures and methods underpinning computer science, including linear algebra, probability and statistics
Software design and engineering, including Agile and Waterfall methodologies and industry-standard tools
Databases, algorithms and complexity, and the design and analysis of efficient data structures
Symbolic artificial intelligence, including first-order logic, knowledge representation and computational reasoning
Optional advanced modules such as machine learning, deep learning and intelligent agents and multi-agent systems
A substantial final-year project applying the technical knowledge and AI skills built throughout the degree
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to apply core computer science principles alongside specialist artificial intelligence knowledge to design, implement, test and maintain intelligent software systems. They will be equipped to analyse and solve complex problems with creativity, suggesting cost-effective and efficient solutions using techniques from symbolic AI through to machine learning and deep learning. Through hands-on laboratory work, industry-facing projects and a substantial final-year project, students will develop the technical foresight to translate emerging AI innovations into new programming solutions. Graduates will leave with strong transferable skills in teamwork, critical thinking, data handling and communication, well prepared for careers spanning software analysis, algorithm design, engineering consultancy, healthcare technology, research and the wider AI and technology sector.

Royal Holloway, University of London