Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

Course overview

Study Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at Aston University and be at the forefront of cutting edge science and engineering. On this programme you will not only develop a practical and technical skillset, but you'll also understand the theory of artificial intelligence and it's applications. Taught by world-leading experts within the field, in outstanding facilities, you will graduate with a wealth of knowledge and be fully prepared for an exciting career in the digital industry.

On this programme you will learn, collaborate and flourish through project based learning with students in other digital technology subject areas. This approach of learning mimics the real-life working world, where your career prospects will be enriched by working alongside people with different skill sets, view points and approaches. You will be able to tailor your learning throughout the four years and select your specialisms based on your own interests. This programme cuts across many modern digital areas such as machine learning, computer science, software engineering, robotics engineering, autonomous robotics and data science.

"The AI and Robotics degree at Aston University is a unique opportunity to study at the intersection of digital technologies under world-leading academics whilst interacting with ground-breaking companies. A degree in AI and Robotics will not only provide you the skills you need for the future, but also offers the opportunity for you to be a leader as the world progresses into a future defined by AI."

James Borg

Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

Lecturer

Why Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at Aston University?

Gold standard teaching

Aston University was awarded Gold- the highest possible rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)

Ranked 13th in the UK

For median earnings on average £33,200 in the first year after graduation (LEO, 2023)

World-Class Research

Benefit from learning at the forefront of cutting edge artificial intelligence and robotics research

Ranked 24th in the world

Aston University is ranked 24th in the world for reducing inequalities

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

A day in the life of a computer science student at Aston University

Follow BSc Computer Science student Sana as she shares a snippet of her day with us as a final-year student.

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

Course description

BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

You'll benefit on this BSc Artificial Intelligence and Robotics degree from a comprehensive overview of all things Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, with options to specialise in a multitude of areas.

What we will provide
World-class teaching in the UK’s second largest city, delivered by research active and highly experienced members who are not only experts in their fields but dedicated to helping you succeed. Use of state-of-the-art facilities, including modern computer labs, electrical engineering labs, drones, high quality robotics and access to Aston Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Application (ACAIRA).

We are an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry. To find out more, visit here.

Aston University no longer provides laptops to computer science students. All of our students will be required to purchase and use their own laptops throughout their learning journey with Aston.

What you will provide
For this programme we are looking for students who are eager to learn, with a creative and innovative mindset and a true passion in the future of all things digital. It is useful for students to have competency in mathematics, which underpins all engineering studies, but you will also prosper if you enjoy solving complex problems.

Our students will be required to purchase and use their own laptops throughout their learning journey with Aston.

What skills we teach
You will thrive by learning many skills on this BSc Artificial Intelligence and Robotics programme, from mastering a range of programming languages, such as Python, Java, HTML, PHP, C, R, C# and more. There will be a particular focus on mathematical underpinning of AI technologies, practical hands-on robotics building and development, whilst spotlighting a strong sense of philosophy, theory and ethics in AI. Along will the specialised skills you will benefit from learning 'Power Skills' with us, such as teamworking, team building, communication skills, entrepreneurship, sustainability, time management and project management.

Placement year
The compulsory placement year on this course will not only ensure you are ready to graduate with crucial real-world experience, it will also open doors for contacts in industry upon graduation. Our award-winning careers and placement team will help you find an exciting and relevant placement and support you during your year. As this is a new programme you will be the first students to complete placements for this subject, however previous students from our BSc Computer Science programme have gained experience with leading companies, such as IBM, 3M, Hewlett Packard, Corus and TNT.

Career prospects
You can anticipate a long a successful career within the digital technologies field upon graduation. Jobs in this sector are in high demand, as many businesses are growing their artificial intelligence teams to keep up with the advances in this area. Typical roles you can go on to secure upon completion of this course include Data Engineer, AI Engineer, AI Consultant, Robot Process Automation Developers, Business Analysts and Software Developers.

How you will learn

Our teaching methods are delivered in various manners such as 'flipped classroom' learning (where you will receive the lecture to watch before class and then meet in person to discuss and dissect), traditional lectures, practical hands-on lab work, quizzes, tutorials, industry and research led seminars and peer to peer learning.

It is important to us that our students are well supported within their studies. You will have a personal tutor throughout your syllabus to provide support and guidance, and dedicated programming support officers are available should you seek additional help. The Learning Development Centre is there to provide maths support, academic writing development, advice, and strategies for managing your studies. Lab technicians are also accessible for students in need.

Extracurricular activities:

You can join many different student societies and clubs, allowing you to mix with like minded people
Become a member of the 'Industry Club'. Where you'll gain access to hands-on industry experience, internships, and projects with tech companies. Helping you build your professional network from the get-go.
Engage with researchers on projects in ACAIRA (Aston Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Application) in your spare time
Let your creativity run wild in our Design Challenge, whilst you tackle real-world engineering problems and propose innovative solutions on industry set projects.
Join our Formula Student team where you will design, build, and race your very own formula-style car.

What you will learn

First year

During the first year you will receive a complete education in digital technologies, dip your toes with an introduction to AI and data science, discover the world of digital systems, internet applications and databases, mathematics and probability, programming, and soft skills such as team working. A design project collaborating with students from other subject areas will broaden your skillset and perspective of working.

Second year

The core of your second year will involve further development in AI and robotics, exploring human machine interaction, you'll learn through a team project in collaboration with industry, machine learning, ethics and sustainability, object orientated programming and finally study data structures and algorithms. There is an opportunity to specialise in optional modules of either mathematics and data science, embedded systems and robot control or software engineering.

Placement year

Your year in industry during your degree will help you gain invaluable practical experience in a real work environment giving you a huge boost to future career prospects. Our award winning careers and placements team will support you to find paid, professional placement in the field you will one day thrive within.

Final year

You will cover cutting edge and ground-breaking current topics in AI and Robotics final year, a significant proportion of time will be dedicated to your individual project based on your preferences and passions. There are lots of options to specialise in such as advanced robotics, data science, deep learning and technologies that underpin AI such as ChatGPT. You will also have opportunities to further specialise in computer science and software engineering.

Facilities

Aston University campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern computer labs, collaborative spaces, and access to our recent £1.3 million refurbished electronics labs. We have dedicated lab officers and laptop support technicians available to all students.

Students are required to purchase their own laptops which they will use throughout their learning journey with Aston.

We have a range of high-spec gadgets such as Augmented and Virtual Reality headsets, drones, raspberry pi, a Driving Simulator and AI Robots.

Course objectives

Provide students with a comprehensive and foundational understanding of the core principles, theories, and techniques in artificial intelligence and robotics, laying the groundwork for advanced study and practical application.
Develop practical skills through hands-on experience with state-of-the-art tools, technologies, and platforms in artificial intelligence and robotics
Engender an interdisciplinary approach by integrating knowledge from computer science, engineering, mathematics, and other relevant fields. This aims to produce well-rounded graduates who can appreciate and apply diverse perspectives to problem-solving in artificial intelligence and robotics, preparing them for collaborative work environments and addressing complex challenges.
Instil a strong sense of ethics and responsibility in the development and deployment of artificial intelligence and robotic systems. Emphasise the importance of considering societal and environmental impact, and ethical considerations in AI and robotics projects. This aim ensures that graduates are not only technically skilled but also capable of contributing to the responsible advancement of these technologies.
Cultivate a research-oriented mindset by providing opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects and contribute to advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics. This aim prepares students for postgraduate study and careers in research and development, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning within the field.

Modules

Modules and Learning Outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Introductory Mathematics for Engineering, Digital, and Physical Sciences	15
Introductory Programming for Digital Science	15
Fundamentals of Digital Systems	15
Foundations of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science	15
Internet Applications and Databases	15
Probability	15
Interdisciplinary Design Project	15
Power Skills	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Explain the basic principles of artificial intelligence.
Know the correct use of mathematical language and formalism in mathematical thinking and logical processes.
Use a range of mathematical skills and techniques for problem formulation and solution.
Work effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary team, contributing to several roles throughout a software development lifecycle
Use critical and computational thinking to analyse and solve computing problems and evaluate solutions.
Describe the purposes and general organisation of a computer system and the principles of computer hardware architecture.
Construct and deploy effective internet applications incorporating a server-side database.
Evaluate and interpret data using industry-standard methods and communicate information effectively to ensure data-driven approaches to decision-making in solving complex problems.
Use sustainable development strategies that reflect a deep understanding of the Circular Economy, Net-Zero strategies,
Design and Systems Thinking, and Global Social Responsibility and lead to solutions that are ethically sound and globally relevant.
Employ integrated problem-solving skills to analyse challenging and multifaceted problems considering professional, social, and ethical contexts.

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Data Structures, Algorithms and Object-Oriented Programming	15
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Robotics	15
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Team Project	15
Human Machine Interaction	15
Introduction to Machine Learning	15
Ethics, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainability	15

Select 30 credits from the following optional modules

Module Title	Credits
Linear Algebra	15
Software Engineering	15
Embedded Systems and C	15
Robot Control	15
Differential Equations and Methods	15
Business and Enterprise Computing	15
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Develop computer-based systems utilising appropriate algorithms and data structures.
Demonstrate a critical understanding of the prevailing paradigms within the fields of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
Describe essential facts, concepts, principles, and theories relating to modern Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
Work effectively as a member of a team recognising the different roles within a team and different ways of organising teams.
Demonstrate proficiency in other fields associated to Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
Interpret, explain, and apply Artificial Intelligence and Robotics algorithms from both mathematical and computational perspectives.
Exhibit a working knowledge of the legal, social, ethical and professional issues involved in the exploitation of Artificial Intelligences and be guided by the adoption of appropriate professional, ethical and legal practices
Apply a variety of programming languages, software tools and environments

Placement year modules

If you opt for an integrated placement year, you will spend your third year on placement. You will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module Title	Credits
Integrated Placement Year	120

Placement year outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

Develop an understanding of business and the relevant commercial environment and/or intercultural study and their role within it.
Gain knowledge of key aspects of good practice relevant to industry and/or intercultural study context.
Develop new knowledge and understanding appropriate to the industrial, business, study or research sector related to degree programme.
Communicate effectively in a variety of ways in a professional and industrial environment and/or in an intercultural study context.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Individual Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Project	45
Current Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics	15

Select 30 - 60 credits from the following optional modules

Module Title	Credits
Multi-Agent Systems	15
Data Mining	15
Computational Intelligence	15
Autonomous Robotics and Navigation	15
Adaptive and Intelligent Robotic Systems	15
Natural Language Processing	15
Deep Learning	15
Optimisation	15

Select up to 30 credits from the following optional modules

Module Title	Credits
Software Testing	15
Big Data Technologies (Advanced Database Systems and GIS)	15
Game Development	15
Multimedia Information Retrieval	15
Image and Video Processing	15
Advanced Embedded Systems	15
Total	120

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to capacity, staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.

Final Year Outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Synthesize and deploy interdisciplinary knowledge in the assessment and/or creation of novel Artificial Intelligence techniques and applications.
Apply knowledge of ethical Artificial Intelligence research practices in the creation of Artificial Intelligence research proposals and the creation of Artificial Intelligence artefacts.
Critically evaluate the opportunities, implications, and applications of cutting-edge techniques within the fields of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, and other related fields.
Work independently to tackle substantial practical problems with limited guidance.
Demonstrate qualities and general transferable skills that will be useful in a wide range of situations: these include problem-solving, working with others, effective information management and information retrieval skills, numeracy in both understanding and presenting cases involving a quantitative dimension, communication skills in electronic as well as written and oral form to a range of audiences and planning self-learning and improving performance as the foundation for on-going professional development.
Integrate and apply knowledge and methods from a variety of sources to identify, analyse, and communicate advanced concepts from Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and other related fields.
Deploy appropriate theory, practices and tools for the specification, design, and evaluation of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics techniques, and techniques from other related fields.
Select, and apply at an advanced level, appropriate programming languages, software tools and development environments for the development of computer-based applications, systems, and models

Entry requirements

A Levels
ABB, to include A level Maths at minimum grade A
BBB, to include A level Maths at minimum grade B (with an EPQ or Core Maths* at grade B)
BBC, to include A level Maths at minimum grade B (contextual offer)

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Math.
Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (any subject): DDM plus 1 A-Level in Mathematics at minimum grade B
National Diploma and Diploma (any subject): DM plus 1 A-level in Mathematics at minimum grade A
Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM plus 2 A-levels grade AB including Mathematics at minimum grade A
National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (any subject): M plus 2 A-level grade AB including Mathematics at minimum grade A
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted
The Level 3 Extended Diploma and Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering is not accepted, please see our foundation programme for an alternative route.

32 overall points with 6, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects including a 6 in Higher Level Mathematics and grade 5 in Standard Level English.

30 Distinctions and 15 Merits at Level 3 including at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Mathematics at Distinction

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and the whole application is reviewed which includes previous and predicted qualifications, any experience, references and motivation.

T Levels are not currently accepted as an entry requirement for this course.

You may be able to access this course via our foundation programme route.

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement, you will also need to have achieved:

GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4 or above.

Non-standard qualifications

Degree

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent Level 3) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second-year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space in that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second-year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have successfully passed (or be expected to pass) your first year with 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university with very similar module content.

The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,250
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£21,500
During placement year:	£2,500

For Sandwich courses the placement fee is £1250 for Home/UK students and £2,500 for International students. For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies. For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

You will be assessed through a range of methods to ensure gather a thorough view of your understandings. We assess students on this programme with online quizzes, lab and practical assessments, reports and coursework, teamwork presentations, projects, research proposals and a small amount of exams.

Career prospects

Digital technologies, AI and robotics encompass almost every aspect of our modern lives, making tech graduates high in demand. AI is believed to potentially boost the global economy by 7%*, with tech already being produced in many areas including helping doctors identify breast cancers and develop new antibiotics.

Career prospects for graduates on this course can include roles in data engineering, AI engineering, consultation positions, robot process automation developers, business analysts and software developers.

* BBC report 1st November 2023

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

How will a placement year benefit me?

The optional placement year gives you invaluable practical experience and enhancing your career prospects through a paid professional placement in the UK or abroad. We think that the knowledge you gain through your studies are best applied to real life and the most effective way to do this is by working in a company. As well as the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, you’ll also gain invaluable communication and team skills.

We have excellent links with industry and will help to arrange this placement for you.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham