Artificial Intelligence BEng (Hons)

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
Software Development I
Year: 1

This module provides students of computing with an initial competence in the development of software through the medium of a modern programming language with facilities for both structured and object-oriented programming

Software Development II
Year: 1

This module is a direct follow-on to Software Development I. Students are introduced to more advanced features of both an algorithmic programming language and an object oriented language, and will be expected to acquire a higher level of competence in writing software.

Database Systems
Year: 1

The module covers the fundamental principles and theory of database design and provides practical experience in designing and developing database systems using a range of techniques, tools and technologies. It emphasises the important role of databases within an organisation and addresses the use of scalable and secure relational database management systems to facilitate the development of software systems involving large volumes of data and over the web.

Computer Hardware and Operating Systems
Year: 1

Differences in the internal structure and organisation of a computer lead to significant differences in performance and functionality, giving rise to an extraordinary range of computing devices, from hand-held computers to large-scale, high-performance machines. This module addresses the various options involved in designing a computer system, the range of design considerations, and the trade-offs involved in the design process.

Mathematics for Engineering I
Year: 1

This module provides students with a solid foundation in the fundamental topics in engineering mathematics. The material develops the student's competencies in the essential mathematics that forms an integral part of an undergraduate honours degree in engineering related disciplines.

Artificial Intelligence I
Year: 1

This module gives the students an understanding of the foundations, methodologies and technological applications of AI technologies, and will develop their ability to apply these to the design and implementation of AI models. The role of learning, problem solving, knowledge representation and reasoning within supervised learning within AI will be covered.

Year two
Computer Networks & Security
Year: 2

This module provides an in-depth study of computer, communications and networks. This module will introduce the concepts and principles of computer networks to guide the installation and maintenance of modern, high quality reliable networks. In addition, students will be given the opportunity to learn how to configure and test networks, deploy network based software applications and resolve network infrastructural problems. Students will have an in-depth knowledge of basic skills in networking, and an appreciation for emerging themes that could impact networking in the future

UX
Year: 2

This module builds on programming foundations covered in Year 1 and provides a foundation for the Web development modules in Year 2 and 4. In addition, it offers an appreciation of user factors in application design and provides students with the tools to specify and develop high quality user interfaces.

Object oriented Programming
Year: 2

This module builds on the programming foundations developed during year one and introduces students to the concepts of object-oriented design and programming. Students learn how to use OO concepts to design and implement software solution using the C++ programming language.

Algorithms and Data Structures
Year: 2

The module builds upon the expertise acquired in Year 1 software development. Students are introduced to the classic data structures and algorithms that are used to process them, the specification of methods and classes and the measurement of algorithm performance.

Mathematics for Engineering II
Year: 2

This module introduces students to the essential mathematics with appropriate numerical computing and programming required for embarking on further study in engineering or a related discipline. It develops the students mathematical skills required to solve problems that arise in the context of their undergraduate study. The module content is introduced in a pragmatic way and then related to real world problems, which enhances understanding and makes the concepts more meaningful and relevant for the student. The module also aims to generate in the student a spirit of mathematical investigation and discovery leading to the development of mathematical confidence. An introduction is given to MatLab, the multi-paradigm numerical computing environment and fourth-generation programming language; assessment in also partially completed in MatLab.

Professional Development
Year: 2

This module is designed to equip students with the appropriate research and transferable skills needed to secure employment within the Computing and Engineering domain.

The module prepares students for professional work by developing knowledge of the responsibilities and obligations of employees, employers and clients as determined by codes of professional conduct. Students will have the opportunity to practise the presentation of themselves in, for example, application forms, curriculum vitae, interview, elevator pitches and aptitude tests.

The module provides an underpinning foundation of research concepts, methods and techniques necessary for project development and delivery. The students employ research skills developed during the module to gather research from a variety of sources and critically review this literature. Embedded in all these activities is the reinforcement of the need for adhering to recognised ethical standards and taking a professional approach to employability.

Artificial Intelligence II
Year: 2

Year three
Professional Practice - Computing
Year: 3

This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study. This experience allows students to develop, refine and reflect on their key personal and professional skills. The placement should significantly support the development of the student's employability skills, preparation for final year and enhance their employability journey.

International Academic Studies
Year: 3

This module is optional

This module provides an opportunity to undertake an extended period of study outside the UK and Republic of Ireland. Students will develop an enhanced understanding of the academic discipline whilst generating educational and cultural networks.

Year four
Cyber Security
Year: 4

This module provides an in-depth study of secure computer systems. This module will introduce the concepts and principles of secure systems. In addition, students will be given the opportunity to learn how to configure and test application and network security, deploy secure network based software applications, configure cloud systems and resolve security problems. Students will have an in-depth knowledge of basic skills in security, and an appreciation for emerging themes that could impact secure systems in the future.

Intelligent Robotics
Year: 4

This level 6 module will present some of the sensing, perception, planning, learning, control, and movement generation principles necessary to design and program intelligent robots.

Computer Vision
Year: 4

This module provides a foundation in the concepts and techniques used in vision systems. Vision systems is a rapidly expanding field and, as such, has applications in areas such as medicine, biomedical sciences, factory automation, autonomous vehicle, facial recognition software and manufacturing. The module provides students with the opportunity of studying a subject area that is at the forefront of developing state-of-the-art advances in technology.

Final Year Project
Year: 4

Students are required to undertake a major project during the final year of the course. The module offers students an opportunity to develop a realistic and meaningful piece of work during their final year. This module allows a chosen subject area to be researched in depth and a solution developed as a consequence. Students will have the opportunity to integrate and apply the learning achieved from other modules in the course. The module runs during both semesters and allows students to develop a comprehensive approach to all aspects of working on a large project. The project encourages innovation and creative thinking in the development of the solution. It also develops the entrepreneurial mindset, which can influence the challenges undertaken and final decisions made.

Computational Intelligence Technology
Year: 4

Having completed this module the student will have an understanding of the computational intelligence research area. The module addresses both existing techniques used individually and in hybrid forms. The module also introduces the current research topics within this domain.