Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
Computer science and artificial intelligence together form one of the most significant and fast-moving areas of study available today. Computer science provides the theoretical and practical foundations: algorithms, data structures, programming languages, operating systems, software engineering and the mathematical principles that underpin computation. Artificial intelligence builds on those foundations to address the question of how machines can exhibit intelligent behaviour, using techniques in machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision, search and planning to create systems that can learn, reason and act in ways that were previously possible only for human minds.
This three-year full-time degree at the University of Surrey draws on forty years of internationally acclaimed AI research, with teaching from academics who have contributed to shaping the field. You will study the core areas of computer science alongside specialist AI content, developing both the software engineering skills needed to build real systems and the theoretical understanding needed to develop and evaluate AI methods. The programme also incorporates expertise in cybersecurity, which is increasingly essential as AI systems are deployed in high-stakes and large-scale environments where security and resilience are critical.
Graduates work in AI research and development, machine learning engineering, software development, data science, cybersecurity, robotics, natural language processing and a growing range of roles across technology companies, research organisations, finance, healthcare, defence and the public sector. The demand for people who understand both the computer science foundations and the specific techniques of artificial intelligence far exceeds supply in most employment markets, making this a degree with strong employment prospects. Further study at postgraduate level in AI, machine learning or computer science is a common route for those pursuing research or highly technical careers.