The University of Bath are dedicated to providing you with the necessary skills to build a career in the digital sphere. Candidates looking to successfully apply require quantitative skills, particularly algebra and calculus.
Computer Science online MSc
Our Computer Science online MSc is comparable to a conversion course, which can help you move into the digital economy. As such, it focuses on teaching you the principles of programming in general. These skills will encourage you to quickly independently learn your choice of programming languages in the future, as well as whilst on the course.
During the course, you will start with a general introduction to programming. By teaching you the principles of programming, the online MSc will enable you to pick up other languages which you find you need (whether that is within your day-to-day role, for the purposes of a professional project, or for fun). By covering the basics of programming logic and syntax, the course provides solid foundations from which you can teach yourself any programming language you choose.
Specifically, the Computer Science online MSc focusses in particular on C, Java, Python, Haskell, and SQL, since they are all programming languages that lend themselves well to different topics you will be studying throughout the course.
Learning the principles behind computer programming, and applying these skills to learning specific programming languages (including C, Java and SQL) helps you gain a skillset that enables you to effectively approach various new problems in a supportive environment.
It is worth noting that although the ability to pick up new programming languages is one of the most valuable skills you will emerge with, this course is designed for people with a passion for computer science. Programming is just one of the tools through which you will explore the field of Computer Science. Other skills which the online MSc fosters include:
- critical problem solving;
- general information technology/computing;
- numerical proficiency;
- critical thinking;
- communication (especially of technical ideas);
- recognising and designing efficient, ethical processes.
Artificial Intelligence online MSc
The Artificial Intelligence course comprises four phases. In the first phase, you will learn about the principles of programming, the mathematics and logical principles which underlie the development of AIs, and the history and foundations of AI techniques.
The second phase zooms out to look at high-level processes and practical considerations such as dealing with data and ethical responsibilities. You learn how to apply what you’ve covered in phase one and adapt your skills to different contexts. Depending on your profession, you may be able to apply these understandings to your current role.
In the third phase, you choose to specialise in either the technical development of AI, which uses a deep understanding of theory to implement cutting edge AI research, or the generalist route which looks at a more practical process-based approach with a greater focus on using existing AI libraries.
Finally, in the fourth phase you write your own original dissertation on a topic of your choice. This can be a work-related project.
When you cover programming in phase one, although it is as part of a general introduction, you learn specifically how to program when you’re working on developing an AI. The focus is squarely on the in-demand, invaluable programming skills students will need to design and build AIs.
Typically, problem solving involves multiple rounds of developing and applying hypotheses, fault isolation, troubleshooting, and optimisation based on the careful analysis of data. The course will cover how to create, train and optimise the algorithms in an original AI.
Just as important as the actual programming, however, are the related skills which knowing how to code teaches you. To create an AI, you must first develop a hypothesis around what that AI will do and how it will do it. The skills needed to debug a program are a good basis for the skills needed to methodically proof the concept or operations of an AI.
From early within the Artificial Intelligence online MSc, you will be doing programming and software engineering, using not just coding but also advanced problem-solving skills. Consequently, we ask that you demonstrate evidence of relevant quantitative skills (especially algebra and calculus) in your application to the online course.
Although programming experience is not an entry requirement, we suggest you do some preliminary exploration and practice to gain at least some exposure to programming before the course begins. This is particularly important because the degree moves at a fast pace and you will be expected to develop your programming ability quickly.
To learn more about computer science and AI design on the University of Bath’s Artificial Intelligence online MSc or Computer Science online MSc, you can contact our team by filling in the form below.
Taught by world-leading experts in both fields, these degrees are designed from the ground up to be delivered online, so you will not be required to attend campus. Both degrees equip you with in-demand skills that equip you for exciting and fulfilling careers.