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Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Understand the transformative power of data and AI. You’ll gain the skills and expertise to explore, innovate and communicate within this exciting field.
Course Overview
-
I200 -
L27 -
Headingley Campus Beckett Park -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
16 Sep 2024
What is data science?
Data science can predict global trends and help humans make better decisions. It’s the use of tools and techniques with data to build understanding to use in the real world. Data and data science is the driving force behind artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
Data science and Artificial Intelligence
AI is already changing the way we work, communicate and live life. This ‘technological wave’ requires specialist understanding, ethical consideration and deep appreciation of the social consequences and impact to our society. You’ll explore and build skills to lead and advise on how AI can work by improving process and accuracy, to permanently disrupting the way we do things.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Study data analysis techniques and key topics, from data management and analytics to machine learning, statistics and programming
- Learn to analyse data sets to create meaningful visualisations that can be used to deepen our understanding of any topic, from crime connections to business insight
- Develop your theoretical knowledge, practical skills and confidence to be able to convert data into valuable insights
- Gain an in-depth understanding of core data analysis techniques informed by knowledge of data principles and practical considerations
- Understand the techniques associated with AI and how they can be applied to projects
- Use open-source data and tools such as python and SQL, tableau and R and Matlab
- Learn how to identify data that will inform your investigation, ensure quality results, select the best analysis techniques for the task and choose impactful methods to get your message across
Springpod Subject Spotlights - try your course before you apply
We have partnered with Springpod, an online platform that provides immersive career and education opportunities, to bring you a Subject Spotlight video for our BSc (Hons) Data Science and Artificial Intelligence course. In this fascinating Subject Spotlight, Dr Jacqueline Campbell presents: The power of data science: AI, ethics and the future, a powerful investigation into the changing landscape of data science as a result of AI. Join Dr Jacqueline Campbell to explore the world of data science and how we can use data and AI to our advantage.
Put your learning into context
You’ll consider and evaluate the practical applications of your knowledge, such as how AI can be used within different areas as a ‘digital assistant’ or in advanced and innovative ways via Generated AI Technology (GAIT) using Large Language Models (LLMs) such as those used in ChatGPT. You’ll also understand the importance of ethics and data governance in your approach to data science and AI.
Work in an exciting field
There is a wealth of opportunity open to skilled data scientists. And you’ll graduate ready to take advantage of it. As a data scientist, you could work with some of the biggest names in industry to develop exciting experiences, or even help save lives through preventative healthcare.
Our graduates have gone on to work for a wide range of companies, including:
- NHS Digital
- Leeds City Council
- Asda
- The Open Data Institute
- Cap Gemini
- The Data Shed
- The Oakland Group
- Sky
- Yorkshire Building Society
- Yorkshire Water
- TPP UK
You’ll understand how to work with data to gain insights and create narratives. This skillset will make you an asset to any organisation or individual seeking to make evidence-based decisions. You’ll be able to apply your expertise to a wide range of areas including marketing channels, and scientific innovations such as smart houses.
Developing your skillset
You’ll be taught and assessed using a range of approaches that will enable you to develop a rounded skillset, including:
- Simulations
- Case studies
- Practical work
- Collaborations with industry
Tailoring your learning
In your third year, you’ll complete a year-long data science project drawing on theoretical principles to rigorously design investigations, analyse data and represent findings from data. Through considered selection of your project and client, you’ll be able to tailor your learning to your career aspirations.
Industry connections
Joining a research-led academic community will give you access to guest lectures. Industry events will broaden your experience and knowledge of the career pathways that will be open to you. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with industry experts to gain connections and an insight of the roles available within the field.
Join a society
The Data Science Society is a community of data enthusiasts committed to inclusivity and creating a thriving network for everyone passionate about data science. Their goal is to foster connections, nurture growth, and ensure that every member feels a genuine sense of belonging.
The Women in STEM Society believes in forming a community where networking isn't just a professional necessity but a chance to build lasting friendships. They hold regular meet-ups that aim to provide a welcoming space for women to connect, share experiences, and form a supportive network.
Why study data science and artificial intelligence at Leeds Beckett University?
- Top 30 in the UK for Computer Science and Information Systems*
- Connect with professionals - through industry site visits, guest lectures and an experienced course team
- Develop an in-demand data science and AI graduate skillset
- Get hands-on - with fantastic placement opportunities, summer internships or final year real-life projects
- Develop industry experience - with our sandwich year option
*2024 Guardian Subject League Tables
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.
BSc Data Science - Course Director view BSc Data Science Course Director, Dr Jackie Campbell, explains why this course is unique.
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 applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
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.
Our commitment to help every student succeed
Leeds Beckett University is committed to ensuring that every student with the potential to succeed at our University is able to do so regardless of their background. For this reason we operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we take into account a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria will be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff (above).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).
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 C 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.
Teaching & 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 mathematical knowledge and skills that are needed to understand main statistical methods and machine learning algorithm used by data/computer scientists. You’ll cover topics such as linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and calculus.
Develop your skills in report writing and presenting as you enhance your understanding of many aspects of computer science, including software engineering, computer networking, digital media, AI, cloud computing, sustainable computing and big data.
Discover the stages involved in the development of database systems and acquire database modelling and implementation skills. You will also examine the ethical and professional issues associated with the database development process.
Study data summaries and descriptive statistics, central tendency, variance, covariance, correlation, basic probability, probability distribution functions, sampling and hypothesis testing. You will also be introduced to statistical programming for basic modelling to support data analysis skills.
You will be introduced to the fundamentals of computer programming, including variables and data types, understanding sequence, selection and iteration, basic algorithms, and structured programming and reuse.
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 proved to be an important tool for data mining and analysis. Develop a solid understanding of the inner mechanism of the machine, learning techniques and how to implement them.
Develop your experience of designing and implementing databases and learn to apply database application development skills and programming to build robust applications.
Further your professional and entrepreneurial skills by working within a small group to design, develop and present a solution to a real or case-study based problem.
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.
Gain an understanding of the different roles of data with a business. You will consider the data lifecycle and uses this a basis for a data related project. Data bias and data governance are crucial to data collection and maintenance – explore these topics in depth and learn how technology can support and inform data governance including the GDPR.
What you'll learn
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.
Option modules may include
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.
Gain a solid understanding of advanced machine learning techniques and its applications. You will implement the different advanced algorithms using your language of choice.
Take a practical perspective on the domain of data and database development and management. You will seek to justify and implement appropriate modelling, design and programming strategies that satisfy the requirements associated with a range of modern data/database applications.
Develop an understanding of major digital security threats, the various steps attackers undertake (either as part of a sanctioned security audit or malicious attack), the security mechanisms that can be applied to defend systems from attack, and ethical and social issues surrounding digital security. You will also develop practical skills for ethical hacking and prevention.
This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ 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, typically making your course four years in total.
Students who choose the sandwich 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 & Funding hellooo
£9,250
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £1385.
£16,000
International 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2400.Fees & Funding
£9,250
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £1385.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 and you will 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.
£16,000
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2400.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 and you will 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.
Top 30
in the UK for Computer Science and Information Systems
Moving on up
Leeds Beckett climbs 40 places in the Complete University Guide 2024
Your future in our hands
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
Data is a key asset of any organisation, and your ability to analyse and create meaningful visualisations from data sets will be in demand across a range of industries including healthcare, finance and retail. Your strong thinking, analytical and communication skills, and your understanding of how data is essential in AI development, will be valuable in fields such as software development, digital marketing and project management. You’ll have the expertise for roles such as:
- Data scientist
- Data analyst
- Data strategist
- Data engineer
- Data governance officer
- AI specialist
You'll also have the skills and knowledge for a range of analyst roles including: business analyst, information analyst, insight analyst, marketing analyst and sports analyst. Our graduates have gone on to work for a companies including Google, NHS Digital, the Open Data Institute, Cap Gemini, the Data Shed, the Oakland Group, Sky and TPP UK.
On our data science 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 strong 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.
Paul Doney
Head of Subject / School Of Built Environment, Engineering And Computing
Paul is the Head of Subject for Computing and has more than 20 years of experience working in HE. Paul is an active researcher with interest in persuasive technology.
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.
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
Your Beckett experience
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed.
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