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*The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide, 2026
Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Unlock powerful insight to turn data into decisions. Learn how AI and data science can predict global trends, drive smarter analysis, and power change.
Course overview
-
I200 -
L27 -
Headingley Campus Beckett Park -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
21 Sep 2026
Data doesn't mean much on its own. What matters is what you can do with it. On this BSc Data Science & Artificial Intelligence degree, you'll learn how data and AI are used to answer questions, inform decisions, and solve significant challenges. You'll build the technical confidence to work with data, alongside the critical judgement needed to use it responsibly.
You'll work the way real data specialists do. Using large datasets and industry-relevant tools, you'll analyse complex information, uncover patterns, and use machine learning to predict trends and support decision-making. Ethical thinking and clear communication are embedded throughout your course, reflecting how data and AI are used in professional practice.
As part of this course, you'll:
- Learn core data science and AI techniques, including machine learning, statistics, and predictive modelling
- Master industry-standard tools such as Python, SQL, R, MATLAB, and data visualisation platforms
- Investigate the ethical, legal, and social issues surrounding AI and data use
- Apply your skills to real problems through projects, case studies, live datasets, and an optional year working in industry
- Develop the confidence to communicate complex insight to both technical and non-technical audiences
You'll graduate with the skills and confidence to thrive in a huge range of data and AI roles, ready to turn insight into impact - and shape what comes next.
See what it's like to study data science and AI at Leeds Beckett
We've partnered with Springpod to bring you an immersive subject spotlight video. Dr Jacqueline Campbell presents: The power of data science: AI, ethics, and the future, an engaging exploration of how AI is transforming the data landscape. Discover how data and AI are shaping industries, and how you can harness them to make an impact.
AI: built in, not bolted on
On this data science degree, AI isn't an afterthought. You'll explore how AI is being integrated into business operations, from digital assistants to advanced generative AI tools such as Large Language Models (LLMs) including ChatGPT and Google Gemini. We'll also cover the ethical, legal, and governance considerations essential for responsible AI use.
Gain in-demand expertise for a thriving career
From day one, you'll tackle authentic data tasks, building the technical expertise and transferable skills employers value - from data analysis and modelling to communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. In your final year, you'll choose an optional module and complete an extended data science project, tailoring your expertise to your interests and career goals.
Solve real problems
Go beyond the theory on this data science and AI course. You'll work with realistic datasets, take on industry-style challenges, and collaborate on projects that mirror professional practice.
Learn where digital innovation booms
Based at our City Campus in Leeds, you'll study in a thriving and ever-growing hub for digital, tech, and business. You'll benefit from regular guest lectures, industry events, and our extensive network of leading employers.
Why study the BSc Data Science & Artificial Intelligence course at Leeds Beckett University?
- Combine data science and AI into one degree, with equal focus on building strong data skills and learning to utilise AI responsibly and ethically
- Learn to communicate insight, not just numbers, so your work confidently influences decisions, strategy, and real outcomes
- Join a student society - like the Computing and Engineering Students' Community - to connect with peers who share your interests
- Tailor your learning to your ambitions - decide the direction for your final year project and select an optional module that fits your career goals
- Build industry experience through placements, internships, and a range of applied course projects in a fast-growing digital city
Explore videos and blogs
Subject Spotlight – The Power of Data Science - AI, Ethics and the Future with Dr Jackie Campbell Experience the sorts of things you’ll be studying on this course through a series of engaging and interactive mini-lecture episodes with our expert staff. Subject Spotlights are available on the Springpod website, are completely free and ready for you to start and complete in your own time.
BSc (Hons) Data Science and Artificial Intelligence - Q & A with Jackie Campbell Course Director Jackie explains what we mean by data science and offers insight into what careers are available after graduating.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
112
points required
If you’re unsure how to work out your UCAS points we have a UCAS Tariff Calculator which will do it for you. All you need to do is enter your qualifications and let the UCAS Tariff Calculator do the maths.
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Entry requirements
112
points required
UCAS Tariff Points: 112 points required.
(Minimum Minimum 72 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies.).
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
GCSEs
GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade 4 or above (Grade C for GCSEs taken before 2017) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy and Adult Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma
Pass overall with a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points.T Levels
Pass overall with a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points, including a C or above on the core.Scottish Awards
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade B or above.Irish Leaving Certificate
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 subjects at higher level of which at least 3 must be grade H3 or above.International baccalaureate
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
How we assess your application
At Leeds Beckett we look for students who demonstrate a good knowledge, curiosity and passion for your chosen course and would benefit from the University’s learning environment.We aim to give every student a fair chance to progress and succeed on their chosen course and we recognise that your grades may not always reflect your true potential. Therefore, when assessing your application, we will consider the following:
- Your completed qualifications (such as GCSEs, A Levels, and their equivalents).
- Your predicted grades in future examinations.
- Your personal statement.
Our offers
All our offers are made by trained professionals who are committed to making offers that are appropriate to each applicant, regardless of their background.* They have the discretion to vary the level of offer to ensure every student with the potential to succeed at Leeds Beckett receives an offer that is achievable for them. This could mean that you may receive an offer to study on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.  Your offer will be based on our belief that you are capable of benefiting from, and successfully completing, your course. We believe that it is people who think differently, independently, people with ‘unlike-minds' that make big things happen.*We operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we consider a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.
Our contextual admissions criteria are:
- Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website).
- Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).
- Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts.
- Declared as a care experienced on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).
Our place as an Anchor Institution
To further strengthen our position as a key provider of education and training for West Yorkshire we apply an Anchor Institution Policy in our admissions process. Students who apply to us from any of the five Local Authority areas in West Yorkshire (BD, HD, HX, LS, WF) may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points.Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade 4 in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
International baccalaureate
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
What you'll learn
Gain an understanding of data science, the various kinds of activity a Data Scientist performs and methods of analysis that allow people to gain insights from complex data. You’ll cover the theoretical basis of variety of approaches using different application domains.
Develop your mathematical knowledge and skills to understand the main statistical methods and machine learning algorithms used by data and computer scientists. This module explores topics such as linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and calculus. Upon completion, you'll be able to demonstrate accurate use of mathematical language and symbols. You'll also have an appreciation for the role of maths in creating models and algorithms, and understand how these relate to data analysis.
Develop your core understanding of many aspects of computer science. This will include software engineering, computer networking, digital media, AI, cloud computing, sustainable computing and big data.
Develop the skills needed to design and build effective database systems. This module introduces database modelling, development and implementation skills. This module equips you with database modelling and implementation, while exploring the organisational contexts in which databases are used. You'll consider ethical, professional, and data protection issues alongside practical development skills. By the end of the module, you'll be able to design and implement a database system to meet the needs of a simple business application.
Study data summaries and descriptive statistics, central tendency, variance, covariance, correlation, basic probability, probability distribution functions, sampling and hypothesis testing. You'll also be introduced to statistical programming for basic modelling to support data analysis skills.
Learn how to think like a programmer. This module introduces core programming concepts such as variables and data types, sequence, selection and iteration, basic algorithms, and structured programming. With a focus on traditional procedural type programming, you'll develop problem-solving skills by designing and implementing algorithms to address common computing challenges, building a strong foundation for further programming study.
What you'll learn
You will be introduced to a range of analytical methods frequently used in science, industry, and finance. You’ll understand the ideas behind the various techniques, in order to know how and when to use them. And you’ll learn to apply data analysis techniques and communicate findings in given scenarios.
Machine learning has become an important tool for data mining and analysis. In this module, you'll gain a solid understanding of how key machine learning techniques work and how to implement them effectively. While the module maintains a strong balance between theory and practice, it places greater emphasis on practical application whenever possible. By the end, you'll have a clear appreciation of the role of models in machine learning, along with key concepts such as learning techniques, feature extraction, sampling, and model evaluation.
Extend your database development skills by designing and building more advanced database applications. This module focuses on procedural and non-procedural database programming, reusable code, and appropriate constraints. Working from a case study, you'll identify requirements, design solutions, implement and test database systems. You'll collaborate as part of a data development team, applying organisational models, and demonstrate professional communication, ethical practice, and organisational models.
Develop your professional, technical, and entrepreneurial skills through collaborative project work. Working in small teams, you'll design, develop, and present a solution to a real or case-study-based problem, supported by specialist staff. You'll apply project management techniques and professional working practices while developing research, design, evaluation, and presentation skills. The module also explores the legal, social, ethical, and professional issues that are related to working in industry contexts.
Gain experience and an appreciation of the aspects of programming for data science, specifically to support a data analytics project and techniques used with the data analytics.
Develop an appreciation for the different roles that data and information play within organisational environments. This module equips you with the techniques to take a project from initial requirements gathering through to final evaluation. You'll deepen your understanding of data governance and the role of technology and data within it. Upon competition, you'll be able to identify what clients and users need from an information system and clearly describe those needs using people-focused methods and techniques.
What you'll learn
Advanced machine learning has proven to be an important tool for data mining and analysis. In this module, you'll build on your understanding from Machine Learning Techniques for AI, looking at how advanced machine learning techniques work and how to implement them effectively. Ultimately, you'll be able to carry out complete learning tasks from start to finish on real problems, such as text and image processing, and similar areas.
Take a practical and strategic approach to advanced data and database development. This module focuses on modelling, design, and programming strategies for modern database applications. You'll explore solutions across different stages of database projects, including ETL processes and end-user reporting. By the end, you'll design high-quality, reusable, and performant code while considering team collaboration and professional practice.
Develop a product, ideally for a client external to the course team. You will research the requirements for the product, synthesise information, ideas and practices to create a design and then implement the product. You’ll then evaluate both the product and your own performance throughout the process.
Explore how and why data practices need to include insights into the technical, organisational, and social aspects of the environments in which data systems operate.
Option modules may include
This module equips you with a solid understanding of mobile systems and the challenges of developing for resource-constrained devices. You'll investigate the architectures, platforms, and development techniques used to create efficient, high-performing mobile applications. By the end of the module, you'll be able to approach complex software issues systematically with creativity and precision, demonstrating originality and systematic problem-solving in your solutions.
This module introduces modern image and video processing techniques and their applications in embedded and intelligent systems. You'll explore key concepts in digital image and video processing and learn to apply techniques such as image filtering, denoising, enhancement, and restoration. Upon completion, you'll be able to critically apply tools and methods for extracting information from multimedia data, including surveillance imagery.
This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘placement’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree and will extend the length of your course by an additional year.
Students who choose the placement route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.
Fees and funding
£9,790
UK
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee, which is yet to be confirmed.
£16,840
International 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2526.Fees and funding
£9,790
For students entering in 2026
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee, which is yet to be confirmed.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Placement locations and experiences will vary throughout the course. You'll need to pay for any additional travel or dual accommodation costs.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,840
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2526.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Placement locations and experiences will vary throughout the course. You'll need to pay for any additional travel or dual accommodation costs.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
As data and AI continue to influence how organisations operate, demand for skilled data professionals is growing across every sector. This degree prepares you for roles where insight, analysis, and decision-making matter, combining strong technical abilities with the confidence to apply your skills to real-world challenges.
You could work in areas spanning technology, healthcare, finance, sport, retail, media, public services, and more. Typical roles Leeds Beckett graduates go into, include:
- Data scientist
- AI or machine learning engineer
- Data analyst or insight analyst
- Business intelligence analyst
- Technology or digital consultant
Our graduates have gone on to work with a variety of reputable companies, reflecting the value of studying BSc Data Science & Artificial Intelligence at Leeds Beckett. Notable employers include Google, NHS Digital, Leeds City Council, Asda, the Open Data Institute, Capgemini, the Oakland Group, Sky, Yorkshire Building Society, Yorkshire Water, and TPP UK.
On our data science and AI course, students start with the data - understanding the importance, potential, insight, and influence a powerful data story can have. They learn cutting-edge analytical techniques to develop the data from exploratory analysis to advanced predictive models and artificial intelligence. This learning is supported via real projects and the input and opportunity to work alongside the data community here in Leeds, who are keen to meet and engage with our students.
Dr Jacqueline Campbell
Course Director
Dr Jacqueline Campbell
Course Director / School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing
Dr Jackie Campbell is currently Course Director for the UG and PG Data Science courses. Jackie graduated in Mathematics from Cardiff University before working in the technology industry progressing from graduate roles to senior database consultancy roles.
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
We’re ranked in the Top 10 universities in the UK for job prospects
(Student Crowd, 2025 - the only awards based entirely on student reviews).
Find out why...
Student life
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