About this course
Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionise work, leisure and travel in ways we can only imagine. It has the potential to solve global health, social and environmental challenges. On this course, you’ll learn to design and build the AI programs and systems behind these exciting developments.
As a highly respected hub for AI research, you'll benefit from a range of specialist modules that few UK universities can match. You’ll also be taught by academics actively involved in the latest advances in AI.
Areas you’ll study include machine learning, computer vision, intelligent agents, game theory and robotics.
You’ll graduate with outstanding career prospects in one of today’s most exciting and rapidly evolving fields of computer science.
As part of your Masters you will:
learn how to design, build and deliver software programs and systems
study AI principles and practice at an advanced level
be taught by academic staff at the forefront of research
do an individual special project in year 3
take part in a group design project in year 4, working with an academic or industry customer
This course is accredited by the British Computer Society and by the Institution of Engineering and Technology.
Location and awarding body
The course location is Highfield campus in Southampton. The awarding body is University of Southampton.
Transfer between courses
You can transfer between our computer science and software engineering degrees at the end of year 1. If the course leader agrees, you may also transfer at other times and between other courses.
Entry requirements
A-levels
A*AA including mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
A*A*B including mathematics (minimum grade A*)
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 38 points overall, with 18 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in mathematics.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Applications where Higher Level subjects have been studied without the full Diploma, will also be considered on a case by case basis.
BTEC
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades A*A in A-levels including mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
D* in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades AA in A-levels including mathematics
We do not accept the BTEC National Extended Diploma
We do not accept the BTEC National Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC National Extended Diploma or the BTEC National Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
Other qualifications
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer:
AAA including mathematics (minimum grade A) and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
AAA including mathematics (minimum grade A)
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) offer
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) StatementPDF opens in a new window (PDF, 62.17 KB) for further information.
Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC (RQF) (reformed)
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades A*A in A-levels including mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
D* in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades AA in A-levels including mathematics
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC National Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE Diploma
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE Diploma additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
A1 A1 A1 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics at A1
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
H1 H1 H1 H2 H2 H2, to include mathematics at H1
Irish Leaving Certificate additional information
There are no additional requirements
Scottish Qualification offers
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF, 111.01 KB) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D2, D3, D3 in three Principal subjects including mathematics
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
There are no additional requirements
Welsh Baccalaureate
A*AA including mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
A*A from two A-levels including mathematics (minimum grade A), and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
or
A*A*B including mathematics (minimum grade A*)
or
A*A* from two A-levels including mathematics, and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
European Baccalaureate
85% overall including grade 9/10 in mathematics
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
English language requirements
All applicants must demonstrate they possess at least a minimum standard of English language proficiency. Applicants requiring a visa to study in the UK who do not offer GCSE English language (or GCSE English) at the required level will need to meet the following English language proficiency requirement. Find out more about the University’s English Language requirements.
Band B IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in all components
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We also accept other English language tests.
Non-academic entry requirements
There are no additional requirements
International qualifications
Find a list of accepted international qualifications listed by country.
This is a list of the international qualifications that are recognised by the University of Southampton. If you are not sure that your qualifications meet the requirements of this course please contact our Admissions Teams.
Other ways to qualify
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Course structure
This accredited course is designed to give you industry experience alongside our research-led teaching.
We encourage you to take summer work placements in an industry of your choice or even add a full year in industry to help you gain the experience you need for accreditation.
All our computer science degree courses share the same compulsory modules in years 1 and 2, making it easy to switch between them. In the third and fourth years, you can tailor your degree by choosing optional modules.
Year 1
You’ll study the logical and mathematical theory underpinning computer science. You’ll also gain an understanding of the fundamentals of computer hardware.
As an introduction to software engineering, you’ll cover data structures and algorithms. You’ll also look at the principles of programming, including using an object-oriented approach and software engineering processes.
You’ll apply your knowledge by working on practical projects. For example, you’ll build algorithms and data analysis tools, and develop software user interfaces.
Year 2
You’ll deepen your understanding of computer science by studying topics, such as artificial intelligence, communication protocols and the TCP/IP layered model.
A group project will give you first-hand experience of working in a team, and of the problems of communication and scale in software engineering.
Year 3
An individual project is a chance to explore in depth an area of AI that interests you, under the supervision of an academic who is doing work in that area. Recent topics include:
the use of machine learning to enhance the high street shopping experience
improving autonomous driving systems
You’ll take a compulsory module in engineering management and law. You’ll also specialise in artificial intelligence choosing options such as machine learning, simulation and advanced robotics.
You could also study a language, take modules from other disciplines such as psychology or chemistry, or choose from a range of innovative interdisciplinary modules.
Year 4
You’ll take part in a group design project. This involves working in a team for an industry or academic customer to solve a real-world problem. For example, previous students built an AI system for Ordnance Survey for a project entitled ‘learning from aerial imagery’.
Optional modules cover topics such as machine learning, computational finance and biologically inspired robots.
There is also an opportunity to study abroad for a semester.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Modules year 1
Core modules
You must study and pass these core modules in year 1:
Modules year 2
Compulsory modules
You must take the following compulsory modules in year 2:
- Distributed Systems and Networks
- Intelligent Systems
- Interaction Design
- Programming III
- Programming Language Concepts
- Software Engineering Group Project
- Theory of Computing
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 2:
Modules year 3
Core modules
You must study and pass these core modules in year 3:
Compulsory modules
You must take the following compulsory modules in year 3:
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 3:
- Advanced Computer Architecture
- Advanced Computer Networks
- Advanced Databases
- Cloud Application Development
- Computational Biology
- Computer Vision
- Cyber Security
- Foundations of Machine Learning
- Game Design and Development
- Machine Learning Technologies
- Real-Time Computing and Embedded Systems
- Robotic Systems
- Security of Cyber Physical Systems
- Social Computing Techniques
- Web Infrastructure
Modules year 4
Core modules
You must study and pass these core modules in year 4:
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 4:
- Advanced Machine Learning
- Advanced Topics in Human-Systems Interaction
- Algorithmic Game Theory
- Automated Code Generation
- Biologically Inspired Robotics
- Biometrics
- Computational Finance
- Cryptography
- Data Mining
- Data Visualisation
- Deep Learning
- Designing Usable and Accessible Technologies
- E-Business Strategy
- Evolution of Complexity
- Image Processing
- Individual Research Project
- Intelligent Agents
- Open Data Innovation
- Reinforcement and Online Learning
- Semantic Web Technologies
- Simulation Modelling for Computer Science
- Software Project Management and Secure Development
- Software Security
- The Science of Online Social Networks
- Web Architecture
- Web Development
- Wireless Networks
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Support for your studies
You'll have your own personal academic tutor assigned to you.
How you’ll spend your study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study, year by year:
Year 1
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 30%
- Independent study
- 70%
- Placement
- 0%
Year 2
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 29%
- Independent study
- 71%
- Placement
- 0%
Year 3
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 22%
- Independent study
- 78%
- Placement
- 0%
Year 4
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 23%
- Independent study
- 77%
- Placement
- 0%
Course leader
Nicholas Gibbins is the course leader.
How we’ll assess you
We’ll assess you using:
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown, year by year:
Year 1
- Written exam
- 54%
- Practical exam
- 9%
- Coursework
- 37%
Year 2
- Written exam
- 50%
- Practical exam
- 3%
- Coursework
- 47%
Year 3
- Written exam
- 16%
- Practical exam
- 0%
- Coursework
- 84%
Year 4
- Written exam
- 31%
- Practical exam
- 10%
- Coursework
- 59%
Careers
Most of our graduates go straight into computer science jobs in high-tech companies. Roles include software engineer, developer, machine learning engineer, computer vision engineer, AI analyst and data scientist. It is also a great foundation for further study at Masters degree or PhD level.
Thanks to an extensive combination of networks, mentors, societies and our own on-campus startup incubator, we also support aspiring entrepreneurs looking to build their enterprise skills.
Our Computer Science graduates have secured roles at organisations including:
Apple
Microsoft
Cisco
Audi
Google
IBM
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
A year in industry - sometimes known as a placement year or sandwich year - is a great opportunity for you to gain a competitive edge among graduate recruiters.
It shows that you can apply your academic skills and knowledge to the workplace, and helps you develop business and team-working skills. It also connects you with employers, adds value to your CV and can even launch your career in a new direction.
The year in industry is taken after year 2 or year 3 and is assessed by academics and industry experts.
During the year you’ll have ongoing support from the University’s ECS team. There are reduced fees while you are on placement and you’ll get a salary from the company for the year.
Fees, costs and funding
UK/EU fees
You'll pay £9,250 in tuition fees for the academic year 2020 to 2021. This fee might change for further years of your course.
International student fees
You’ll pay £21,580 each year. This fee will stay the same throughout your studies.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Extra costs you might have to pay
- Approved Calculators
- Printing and Photocopying Costs
- Textbooks
- Stationery
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
University life
The University offers a friendly, diverse and welcoming home for you while you study. You'll work, live and socialise with students from more than 130 countries.
Clubs, societies and facilities
Our campuses have:
cafes and restaurants
bars
health centres
banks
a post office
student shops
a hairdresser
Our sports facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, a gym with 140 fitness stations, squash courts, a bouldering wall, outdoor pitches and much more. There are over 80 sports clubs you could join, and activity classes including yoga and spin.
We have an internationally known theatre, concert hall, art gallery and cinema showing everything from mainstream blockbusters to international arthouse classics. You could perform at a gig, concert or show, take part in an exhibition or join a writers’ workshop. Find out more about arts and culture at Southampton.
Whatever your passion or community, you can find like-minded people at one of the Students’ Union clubs and societies. There are more than 200 to join, and social activities in every hall of residence.
Support while you study
We aim to help you deal with any problems you might come across, so you can make the most of your time at university. We offer support with:
mental health, learning difficulties and disability
money and accommodation
childcare
computers and IT
How to apply
When you apply use:
UCAS Course Code: G4GR
UCAS Institution Code: S27
What happens after you apply
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.