Undergraduate

Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Students examine a robot in the robotics lab
lecturer explaining something about robotics to student in the robotics lab
Two students adjust the workings of a robotic hand
A lecturer shaking hands with a robotic hand

Look around

Learn how to develop and program in our industry-standard Robotics Lab with humanoids, Nao robots and drones.
You’ll benefit from a package of opportunities including valuable industry insight, career support and real-world experience.
Gain tech experience that will help your CV stand out from the crowd by taking a year in industry as part of your degree.
You’ll learn the AI tools you need to create robots that can interact autonomously with the real world.
Robotics & AI are part of our present and our future. Gain the skills, knowledge and expertise you need to be a part of these fast-moving industries.
We’ve invested millions, so you’ll learn in cutting-edge facilities with high-performance workstations, gigabit networking, 3D printers, AR, VR & MR.
Students examine a robot in the robotics lab
lecturer explaining something about robotics to student in the robotics lab
Two students adjust the workings of a robotic hand
A lecturer shaking hands with a robotic hand
Robotics Laboratory
Computer Science, Robotics & AI - Robotics & Artificial Intelligence

Code

Duration

Mode

  • Standard course
  • With a foundation year
  • With a placement year
  • With a year abroad
  • Integrated masters
  • September 2024

Typical offer

What does this mean?

The world is ever changing. And it needs skilled, hands-on people to keep it turning. That’s where you come in.

Learn to programme and construct robotic systems that can interact with the real world on this hands-on course. You’ll discover how robots and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are transforming our lives. And access industry-standard facilities such as our robotics lab with DJI Drones, Turtlebot3 mobile robots and humanoids like Baxter, Nao and Pepper.

You can boost your CV by taking a placement year and gaining outstanding tech industry experience as a recognised part of your degree.

  • Work with real robots

    from day one

  • Robotics lab

    with humanoids, Nao robots & drones

  • Industry-standard facilities

    like our Superlab

  • Compete in events

    like the Microsoft Imagine Cup

  • Digitally fabricate

    3D models and prototypes

Swipe
Course overview
Module options

About this course

Robots and AI are the present and the future, transforming the way we live and work.

This course gives you a solid background in computer science and programming. You’ll gain experience of the AI tools that give robots the ability to autonomously operate in the real world. Develop advanced skills in Python, an industry-standard language. And study the increasing impact of AI and robotics on society.

Discover how robots work and how to program them in our robotics lab. Where you’ll also digitally fabricate 3D models and parts for your robotic systems. You’ll have access to our other industry-standard equipment too, including high-performance workstations, gigabit networking, a 3D immersive cube, motion capture, AR, VR and MR.

Benefit from our strong industry links with frequent talks by experts in the trade. And boost your skills in the real world by taking a placement year as part of your course.

Get involved with our extra-curricular opportunities and compete in international events like the Microsoft Imagine Cup. Or rise to the challenge of creating a computer game over a weekend in our Three Thing Game.

Scheduled study hours and how you’re assessed

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 is divided across the year varies and depends on the module you are studying.

How you'll be assessed depends on the course you study, and the modules you choose. You may be assessed through a mix of examinations, coursework, presentations and group projects.

Choose your modules

Each year, you’ll study modules worth a certain number of credits, and you need 120 credits per year. You'll usually study four 20 credit modules each year, as well as a longer 40 credit module. Some modules are compulsory, some are optional, so you can build a course that’s right for you.

Preparing for Learning in Higher Education

This module is designed to give you the best possible start to your university studies, making sure you have all the essential skills you need to succeed. Through lectures and workshops we will teach you how to write in an academic style, how to find quality sources, how to reference work, culminating in writing up a mini-research project.

Core•20 credits

Introduction to Computing

This module will promote and support your development of learning in Computer Science as you prepare for progression to the following year. It teaches fundamental computer programming techniques and knowledge and enhances wider conceptual awareness of the discipline.

Core•20 credits

Foundation in Data Analysis

Develop a strong foundation in data collection and analysis. This module will introduce you to qualitative and quantitative data and how to analyse it; the collection of primary and secondary data; the production of high quality graphics; and report writing.

Core•20 credits

Group Challenge (Sciences)

In a group, you'll formulate questions that can be tested by scientific investigations and take part in weekly workshops with academics.

Compulsory•20 credits

Foundation Mathematics A

You will study pure mathematics topics, including proof, algebra, trigonometry, differentiation, integration, exponentials, logarithms, sequences and series. The applied topic is probability and statistics.

Optional•20 credits

Foundation Mathematics B

This module extends the knowledge gained in the Foundation Mathematics A - pure mathematics topics. You will also study functions and vectors. The applied topic is mechanics.

Optional•20 credits

Foundation Mathematics 1

This module delivers core mathematics skills to build a solid basis for future studies. You will study the following topics: factors, multiples, indices, fractions and standard form; algebra, linear and quadratic equations; averages and spread; functions, exponentials and logarithms; and right angled triangles and trigonometry.

Optional•20 credits

Foundation Mathematics 2

This module delivers core mathematics skills to build a solid basis for future studies.You will study the following topics: polynomials; sequences and series; complex numbers and trigonometry; and differentiation and integration.

Optional•20 credits

The foundation year is made up of modules designed to provide you with the scientific knowledge and study skills you will need to be successful in your degree studies.
8 Modules

Programming Portfolio

Gain the practical knowledge 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.

Core•40 credits

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.

Compulsory•20 credits

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.

Compulsory•20 credits

Fundamentals of Robotics

In this module you will explore all the fundamentals relevant to robotics. This includes an interactive programming environment to control sensors and actuators of a mini robot. The Arduino platform will be used to program various sensors, integrating them together to develop a robotic system.

Compulsory•20 credits

Computational Thinking

This module Computational thinking is essential for developing computer-based solutions. 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.

Compulsory• credits
5 Modules

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.

Core•40 credits

Artificial Intelligence for Computer Science

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.

Compulsory•20 credits

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.

Compulsory•20 credits

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.

Compulsory•20 credits

Data Analysis and Visualisation

Data analytics has rapidly become a part of all of our lives, and is an increasingly sought-after skill on the job market. In this module you'll learn the theoretical and practical skills to analyse any dataset independently, starting from exploratory analysis of a new dataset for hypothesis finding, over choosing and comparing different algorithms, and presenting and explaining your results quantitatively and visually. You will learn to train models of different complexity that can make predictions or uncover hidden patterns in data, making responsible and fair decisions that can help improve our lives.

Compulsory•20 credits
5 Modules

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.

Compulsory•20 credits

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.

Compulsory•20 credits

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.

Compulsory•40 credits

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.

Optional•40 credits

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.

Optional•40 credits

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.

Optional•20 credits

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. 

Optional•20 credits

Natural Language Processing

Natural language processing and large language models have become the cornerstone for an increase in efficiency and productivity. In this module, you’ll be introduced to the fundamental tools of NLP using a hands-on, applied approach. As a result, you will begin analysing, interpreting and generating natural language using AI.

Optional•20 credits
8 Modules

You will have the opportunity to apply to spend the third year studying overseas at one of our partner universities.

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.

Advanced Artificial intelligence

The advances made in computing technology and our understanding of intelligence through collaboration (collective or competitive) actions has led to a whole range of possibilities for Artificial Intelligence. Such techniques will be at the core of Autonomous (self-driving cars) and Digital Health.

Compulsory•20 credits

Autonomous Robots

In this module you will explore advanced techniques building autonomous robots and understand the complexities and interactions between computation and design of such systems.

Core•20 credits

Dependable Reactive Real-Time Systems

This module focuses the issues of real-time and dependable design and introduces you to the appropriate concepts and design methods. It focuses on the design of single systems and goes further to discuss specific challenges encountered today in the design of cooperative and multi-robot systems.

Core• credits

Robotic Systems and Artificial Intelligence

This module highlights the computing and development issues faced when creating new robotic solutions and discusses new research ideas which can be used to build solutions for existing problems. You will apply Artificial Intelligence techniques to build useful behaviour in robotic systems.

Core•20 credits
4 Modules

Playlist

Computer Science labs

Course highlight 2 mins

Dr Jamshed Iqbal

Course Overview 1 min

Why Comp Sci at Hull?

Student story 11 mins

Creating Positive Impact

Research Highlight 4 mins

Entry requirements

What do I need?

When it comes to applying to university, you'll need a certain number of UCAS points. Different qualifications and grades are worth a different amount of points. For this course, you'll need…

Use UCAS's calculator to work out your estimated points

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.

Have questions? Our admissions team will be happy to help.

What do I need?

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.

See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by the University of Hull.

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.

Fees & funding

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. 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:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (incl. travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want 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, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. 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:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (incl. travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want 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, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

Our academics

Our teaching is linked to our research in simulation, visualisation, dependable systems, robotics, 3D printing and mobile and distributed computing.

You’ll be at the forefront of developments in this rapidly growing field.

See more academics for this subject
Dr Jamshed Iqbal
Featured academic

Dr Jamshed Iqbal

Jamshed’s technical expertise, industrial research and teaching experience lay within the fields of robotics, mechatronics and control systems. He leads our Mechatronics and Robotics programme.
Dr Muhammad Khalid
Featured academic

Dr Muhammad Khalid

Muhammed previously worked on a project aimed at improving safety in agriculture utilising autonomous robotic systems. As well as robotics, his research interests include autonomous vehicles and AI-based decision making in IoT devices.

Take a look at our facilities

Robotics Lab

Our specialist robotics lab is used for robot development and programming activities. Interact with our DJI Drones, Turtlebot3 mobile robots and humanoids like Baxter, Nao and Pepper.

Hull Immersive Visualisation Environment (HIVE)

A 3D immersive cube with VR theatre, gigapixel wall facilities and wearable devices.

Turing Lab

Carry out high-end graphics and artificial intelligence work on the top-spec, state-of-the art PCs in our Turing Lab.

Superlab

Fully refurbished as part of a significant investment in high-performance workstations, servers and social spaces, our Superlab is also open to students outside of teaching hours.

See more in our virtual tour

Look around

Look around

Students using the Computer Science Turing Lab
students in the SuperLab Computer Suite
Robotics Laboratory
HIVE
Students using the Computer Science Turing Lab
students in the SuperLab Computer Suite
Baxter the Robot in Mechatronics Lab with Student Robert Ashton

Future prospects

The experience and technical expertise you’ll gain will put you in high demand when it’s time to enter the job market in this fast-moving industry. You’ll create a professional portfolio of work throughout your degree to demonstrate your skills to employers.

Robotics and AI touch upon almost every aspect of modern life, creating a variety of career opportunities. You could go on to develop the latest technology – from driverless cars to drones, space vehicles to automated production lines and technology-assisted clothing.

Graduate careers include robotics software developer, robotics and embedded software engineer, AI developer, simulation engineer, autonomous vehicles architect and R&D.

University of Hull Open Day

Your next steps

Like what you’ve seen? Then it’s time to apply.

The standard way to apply for this course is through UCAS. This will give you the chance to showcase your skill, qualities and passion for the subject, as well as providing your academic qualifications.

How to apply

Not ready to apply?

Visit our next Open Day, and see all that Hull has to offer for yourself. Talk to our lecturers about your subject, find out what university is really like from our current students, and take a tour of our beautiful campus and amazing facilities.

Book your place now

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All modules presented on this course page are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

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