BSc Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Students in the Computer Science Robotics Lab

Undergraduate

BSc Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Robots and AI are the present and the future. Benefit from superb facilities on this hands-on course where you will learn to programme and construct robotic systems that can interact with the real world.

Key information

Study mode

Full-time

Course length

3 years

Typical offer

112 points

A Level grades: BBC

UCAS code

HI40

Choose an option

Start date

Course overview

Robots and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are transforming the way we live and work.

Driverless vehicles and pilotless drones are appearing on our roads and in our skies. Amazon’s automated warehouses are revolutionising the way businesses operate. Robots are being used instead of humans in hazardous areas. The world is ever-changing. And it needs skilled, hands-on people to keep it turning.

This multi-disciplinary course is a blend of both robotics and AI. You’ll get a solid background in computer science and programming, together with experience of the AI tools that are needed to give robots the ability to autonomously operate in the real world.

You’ll become an expert in Python, an industry-standard language used in many fields and especially in AI. From the very start, you’ll be working with real robots, learning how they work and how to program them. We don’t just focus on technology - you’ll also study the increasing impact of AI and robotics on everyone in society and the ethical dilemmas that come with such rapid and life-changing advances in technology. Throughout your studies, you’ll develop your professional skills and build a portfolio of work to show employers.

Here at Hull, we offer students the option of a guaranteed paid year in industry. This is a great opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in the workplace, learn industry skills and make yourself more employable after you graduate. Foundation year students would need to transfer to a BSc or MEng programme to take this option.

Hull is ranked in the top 5 universities in the country for research impact*. Our teaching is linked to our research in simulation, visualisation, dependable systems, robotics, 3D printing and mobile and distributed computing - meaning you’ll be at the forefront of developments in this rapidly growing field.

We provide a range of specialist facilities, including a dedicated robotics lab. Here you’ll get hands-on with DJI Drones, Turtlebot3 mobile robots and humanoids like Baxter, Nao and Pepper. And you’ll be able to digitally fabricate 3D models, prototypes and parts for your robotic systems in our robotics lab. In addition to our robotics hardware, we also have motion capture environments for drones and VR/AR and MR facilities in the Hull Immersive Visualisation Environment (HIVE) and high performance computing labs.

There are also a number of active student-led societies and a host of extracurricular opportunities - from hackathons to networking events with employers to help you enjoy your time at university.

Hear from our students and alumni

Computer Science

Reasons to choose Computer Science at Hull

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Six reasons to study Robotics and Artificial Intelligence at Hull

  1. Work with real robots right from the start
  2. Robotics lab with humanoid Baxter, Nao Robots and DJI drones
  3. Guaranteed paid industrial placement
  4. Top 5 in the UK for research impact*
  5. Top 20 for student satisfaction**
  6. Opportunity to work with professionals developing real-world robotic & AI solutions

What you'll study

The course consists of 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits, meaning you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more (e.g. 40 credits). In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120 credits.

First year modules

  • Core

    Programming Portfolio

    This module provides the required practical knowledge for Computer Science students to design, implement and test algorithms. The module uses lectures to deliver concepts, a practice lab to apply the programming concepts learnt by developing programs to solve problems. You will take part in hands-on practical assessments, which will enable you to acquire extensive programming skills in an industry standard programming language. We will support you whether you are new to programming or have existing skills.

  • Compulsory

    Algorithms and Data Structures

    Start to think like a computer (bleep bloop)! This module explores logic, data storage and algorithms with the use of practical demonstrations and activities. Operating in parallel with programming-focussed modules, we will develop a toolkit of key concepts from a theoretical (non-code) perspective, facilitating a better understanding of these fundamentals. Topics to expect include pseudocode, state machines, essential keywords, common data structures, sort algorithms and search algorithms. You will learn methods to analyse and compare algorithms and their constituent parts in order that you may better design, evaluate and develop effective, efficient and performant software solutions.

    Fundamentals of Robotics

    In this module, you'll explore all the fundamentals relevant to robotics. Starting from CAD designs to developing basic parts through 3D printing, using an interactive programming environment to control sensors. The Arduino platform will be used to program various sensors, integrating them together to develop a robotic system.

    Computational Thinking

    This module will enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the key mathematical underpinnings of computer science, to aid you in problem solving and programming. The development of your competence in logic, mathematics and statistics will also provide evidence of your numeracy and more advanced skills and is valued by employers.

    Professional Development (Computer Science & AI)

    This module sets you up to grow your professional skills and awareness. You'll develop your appreciation of the challenges within the sector, and how technology can help to solve worldwide issues. You will begin a personal portfolio that you will add to over your degree and you will work as part of a team to produce a design prototype, demonstrating your personal professional development.

Second year modules

  • Compulsory

    Robotic Systems and Simulation

    Robots are a combination of electronic, mechanical and computer systems. This module focuses on the underlying science and technologies of structures, actuators and sensors which make up the component parts of all robots. You'll work on industry-standard robot simulation tools to safely model real-world robots and to simulate their dynamic behaviour in different scenarios.

    Electronics and Control for Robotics

    Robotic systems involve some element of electronics to make them operate. In this module, you’ll learn the basics of electronic circuits using a hands-on, applied approach. You’ll build simple circuits using a combination of discrete components and microcontrollers, and then learn the elements of control theory needed to allow these systems to operate dynamic systems in real time.

    Artificial Intelligence

    Learn about classical AI techniques – how to represent knowledge and how to use it to reason about the world. You’ll consider some of the important techniques such as logic programming, rule based reasoning, knowledge searching and pathfinding, and how to implement them in code and apply them to real-world problems.

    Microcontrollers, Sensors and Communications

    Robots are increasingly complex entities made up of many subsystems which must work together and communicate flawlessly and at high speed. Get a practical introduction to the options available and the tools and techniques needed to make multiple software and hardware systems integrate. You’ll examine the abilities of wired and wireless communication systems, learn where and when particular systems are appropriate, and implement examples.

    Applied Artificial Intelligence

    Artificial Intelligence has become the cornerstone for an increase of efficiency and productivity.  In this module you’ll be introduced to the fundamental tools of AI using a hands-on, applied approach. As a result, you will be able to begin analysing, validating and interpreting automated decision making.

Placement year modules

If you choose the variant of the programme with a guaranteed industrial placement, you’ll spend a full year in industry between your second and third years. You’ll still be a student, but you’ll be monitored, supervised and assessed by academic staff throughout your paid year in industry.

Final year modules

  • Optional (choose 1)

    Honours Stage Project (Robotics & AI)

    Your chance to spend a third of your study time working on a topic of interest to you, and producing something major as a result. You can design your own project, work with a member of staff to develop an idea, or choose one from a catalogue. Develop an AI program, do some research in virtual reality, or build a new robot butler using our state-of-the-art facilities. With regular support from a supervisor, you’ll learn to create, undertake, evaluate and report on a significant individual project which you’ll be proud to show off to an employer.

    Communicating and Teaching Computing

    This module enables you to undertake a placement in a school, college or other educational establishment where you can develop your practical teaching and communication skills, as well as extending your knowledge of the education process. These skills are valued by employers, whether you are interested in potentially going on to train or teach others or not. You will also have the opportunity to develop an educational project to demonstrate your skills in practice.

  • Compulsory

    Embedded Systems Development

    Explore the fundamental mechanisms of program execution on a processor and how different processor architectures affect the way that software is made to execute on a device. You'll create systems using low-level assembler before moving on to the creation of embedded solutions using a high-level programming language.

    Robotics and Automation

    Develop knowledge of the applications, modelling and analysis of industrial robots and their assembly. You'll explore key features of design and methods of controlling robotic devices.

    Computer Vision

    Computer vision is fundamental to intelligent systems ranging from advanced microscopes to access control systems and from autonomous robots to self-driving cars. You'll will develop expertise that are currently being used in real-world systems. This includes design and analysis of algorithms for image processing and computer vision as well as evaluation of various cutting-edge solutions in the context of emerging applications.

  • Optional (choose 1)

    Digital Disruption and Innovation

    Creating a viable technology start-up requires insight into technical development and what it takes to deliver your product. In this module, you will form an individual digital product business plan. Then, as a small production team, you will then select an idea to take forward to develop and present this a final product pitch.

    Machine Learning

    Machine learning comprises the theory and practice underlying recent advances in artificial intelligence and is a core requirement for anyone seeking to work in the AI or data analysis field. This module will introduce core algorithms in machine learning, including state-of-the-art deep learning models, and consider practical issues around complexity, optimisation and performance. You will learn to systematically compare algorithms and establish the mathematical foundations to implement your own. 

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

How you'll study

Throughout your degree, you’re expected to study for 1,200 hours per year. That’s based on 200 hours per 20 credit module. And it includes scheduled hours, time spent on placement and independent study. How this time’s divided among each of these varies each year and depends on the course and modules you study.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

37%
63%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

50%
50%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

100%
  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

If you’re enrolled on a full-time programme of study, you’ll be expected to complete about 40 hours of academic work each week.

How you’ll learn

Indicative assessment proportions

23%
10%
67%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Martin Davies Mechatronics and Robotics

"Robotics is the future, so it felt like the perfect course for me."

Mechatronics and robotics

Placement year

Gain real world skills by opting to spend a year on placement in industry - with support from our award-winning careers team.

More about guaranteed placements
Students in the Computer Science Robotics Lab

Facilities

Get access to the latest industry-standard facilities, from high performance cloud computing systems and 3D projection to VR and humanoid robots.

Computer Science Facilities

Entry requirements

Typical offer

  • A level grades BBC

  • BTEC grades DMM

  • Points required 112

Work out your estimated points

Don't meet our requirements?

We offer a Foundation Year to boost your skills and knowledge – it’s a great way to make your way into higher education.

Switch to the foundation year

Points can be from any qualifications on the UCAS tariff, but must include at least 80 points from

  • A levels
  • BTEC Subsidiary Diploma, Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • OCR Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma, Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • CACHE Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • Irish Leaving Certificate
  • Scottish Highers
  • Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma
  • or a combination of appropriate Level 3 qualifications
  • Applicants should have an A level in Maths at Grade C or above.

UCAS has changed the way that qualifications earn points under the Tariff system. Please click here to work out your estimated points and to find out more about how the University of Hull considers qualifications.

Alternative qualifications

  • IB Diploma: 28 points including 5 in HL Maths
  • Pass Access to HE Diploma overall with a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points including a minimum of 18 credits at Merit in Maths
  • BTEC L3 Extended Diploma: Engineering including merit in Maths for Engineers and Further Maths for Engineers
  • BTEC L3 National Extended Diploma: Engineering including Merit in Calculus and Further Engineering Mathematics units
  • OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma: Engineering including Merit in Maths for Engineers and Applied Mathematics for Engineering units

Worried you don’t quite meet our entry requirements?

We consider experience and qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match the combinations above.

But it’s not just about the grades – we’ll look at your whole application. We want to know what makes you tick, and about your previous experience, so make sure that you complete your personal statement.

If you have any questions, our admissions team will be happy to help.

Don't meet our requirements?

We offer a Foundation Year to boost your skills and knowledge – it’s a great way to make your way into higher education.

Switch to the foundation year

If you require a student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

This course requires academic IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill. See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by this University.

If your English currently does not reach the University's required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses.

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Our lecturers

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Take a tour of the facilities

Take a 360-degree look at our robotics lab where you'll work with humanoid Baxter and Nao robots.

Explore the virtual tour

Fees and funding

UK

£9,250 per year*

EU/International

£18,300 per year

International applicants may need to pay a tuition fee deposit before the start of the course. Visit our tuition fee deposit page for more information.

*The amount you pay may increase each year, in line with inflation - but capped to the Retail Price Index (RPI).

The fees shown are for 2023 entry. The fees for 2024 have not yet been confirmed and may increase.

UK students can take out a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of their course and a maintenance loan of up to £9,978 to cover living costs.

Substantial discounts are available for International students.  

More information on fees can be found in the Money section of our website.

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme (including registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examination).

There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make. The list below has some examples, and any extra costs will vary.

  • Books (you’ll have access to books from your module reading lists in the library, but you may want to buy your own copies)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (including travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (including travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want to buy your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel and food – to name just a few. 

An affordable city for students

From bills, to meals, to pints – you’ll find that your money goes a lot further in Hull.

Your future prospects

  • Robotics software developer
  • Robotics and embedded software engineer
  • AI developer
  • Simulation Engineer
  • Autonomous Vehicles Architect
  • R&D Professional

You’ll find robotics and AI in almost every aspect of modern life, creating a wealth of career opportunities for graduates. You could help to develop the latest technology – from driverless cars to drones, space vehicles to automated production lines and technology-assisted clothing.

Open Day at University of Hull

Ready to apply?

You can apply for this course through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

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* Research Excellence Framework 2014 (REF 2014)

** National Student Survey (NSS) 2022, HEIs only.