BSc (Hons) Applied Computing and Artificial Intelligence (Top Up)
Deep dive into AI, human-centred computing, machine learning, and cybersecurity in this final-year (top-up) degree. Gain hands-on experience, design usable interfaces, assess AI’s societal impact, and tackle real-world security challenges.
UK 2025
UK 2026 and beyond
International
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Typical offer:
Entry requirements -
Fees: £9,535 per year (UK)
Full details -
UCAS code: G406
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Course length: one year
Find out more -
Location:
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield
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Institute code: H36
Brand new School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building
Learn from leading researchers in the field of artificial intelligence
Work on hands-on projects such as cybersecurity testing and AI-driven solutions
Course overview
This BSc (Hons) Applied Computing and Artificial Intelligence (Top-Up) programme explores Artificial Intelligence (AI), human-centred computing, machine learning, and cybersecurity, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. You’ll apply machine learning techniques and neural networks for data analysis, explore AI methods, algorithms, and programming paradigms. Using human-computer interaction techniques, you’ll design intuitive interfaces and with a focus on Human-Centred AI, critically assess AI’s societal impact
The course also covers key cybersecurity challenges, equipping you with the skills to manage and implement security policies and solutions. Industry insights shape the curriculum, ensuring you develop expertise relevant to careers in AI, data science, cybersecurity, and software development.
This course is designed for students who have completed at least 240 credits at Levels 4 and 5, either within the University or elsewhere, including a minimum of 120 credits at Level 5. Applicants should also demonstrate that their previous studies and experience provide broad equivalence to the University’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science programme.
Why choose this course?
Industry-standard facilities: Study in Spectra, our new home for computing and engineering, equipped with industry-standard labs and software for AI, cybersecurity, and machine learning applications.
Real-world learning and assessments: Work on hands-on projects such as cybersecurity testing and AI-driven solutions. Assessments include coursework, presentations, teamwork, and technical challenges, preparing you for industry demands.
Co-curricular opportunities: Join Bold Hearts, our internationally recognised AI robotics team, or engage in projects such as AI chatbot development and data science research, expanding your practical experience and career prospects.
Your future career
Applied Computing and Artificial Intelligence Herts graduates are well-prepared for careers in the tech industry, equipped with highly sought-after programming, data analysis, and cybersecurity skills. An impressive 93% of Herts graduates are in employment or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes, 2021/22). Our strong industry partnerships provide valuable career opportunities, with alumni working at leading companies such as Microsoft, IBM, and Ocado.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Applied Computing and Artificial Intelligence (Top-Up) will be well-prepared for careers such as:
- Machine learning engineer
- cyber security analyst
- software developer
- human-computer interaction (HCI) specialist.
After completing Applied Computing and AI top-up degree, you’ll hold a versatile skill set that leads to career opportunities spanning various sectors.
See what recent graduates are up to
Hafsa Rahman
IT Application and System Support at Optoma Technology
University experience
Hafsa's time as a student at the University helped ready her for employment in many ways. Her Computer Science degree facilitated a broad spectrum of transferable skills, from teamwork and multitasking to time management and communication skills, which Hafsa believes were invaluable when job searching.
She says, 'The University organised job fairs where I had the opportunity to meet many top employers and had the chance to ask them many questions face to face.'
These practicable and social aspects of her studies exposed Hafsa to employers, presenting tangible links and networking opportunities that would be beneficial after graduating. She credits her time at Herts with helping her gain confidence as well as boosting her interview skills.
Hafsa advises current students looking to pursue a similar career path to ensure they thoroughly investigate what jobs are out there before graduating and identify what jobs they would excel in. She recommends looking out for graduate schemes and getting involved in as much professional experience as possible during university. Preparation is key and university study provides the skills, resources and opportunities to best prepare students for entering employment.
The future
Setting her sights on further development, Hafsa is planning to return to the University of Hertfordshire to do a part time MA in Computer Science, allowing her the flexibility to continue working full time.
What you'll study
This BSc (Hons) Applied Computing and Artificial Intelligence (Top-Up) is a one-year programme designed to explore the intersection of AI, human-centred computing, and cybersecurity. You will learn through a mix of lectures, smaller group tutorials, supervised practical labs, and self-study, including experiential learning.
The course is delivered on campus in full-time mode with one intake in September (Semester A). You will have approximately 12 hours of contact time per week, with assessments varying across practical work, timed tests, and coursework.
Throughout the year, you will develop a broad and applied skill set in AI-driven system design, usability engineering, and cybersecurity. The curriculum covers advanced AI principles, complex representation and search-based problem-solving techniques, and logical planning in uncertain environments. You will also explore the boundary between usability and security, conducting vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.
A key component of the programme includes project teamwork, allowing you to apply your learning to real-world challenges. By the end of the course, you will be equipped with specialist knowledge and practical expertise in AI and computing, preparing you for careers in areas such as machine learning, cybersecurity, software development, and human-computer interaction.
What if I need support?
You’ll have a personal tutor to guide you throughout your course, all the way to graduation. If you need additional support during your time with us, rest assured that we’ve got you covered. For help with study skills, including referencing, essay writing and presentations, you’ll have access to our academic support services. You can attend workshops, 1-to-1 sessions and online tutorials. Both our LRCs run drop-in study skills sessions.
Where you'll study
Your main campus is College Lane, this is where the creative arts, science and health-related subjects are based. This means you’ll share the campus with future nurses, scientists, artists and more. You can use the common rooms to relax with friends, work out in the 24-hour gym or have a drink in our on-campus cafes. We also have restaurants for you to eat in or grab something on the go. Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.
Learn in our new state-of-the-art building called Spectra, where you’ll experience a range of experiential learning zones. You will have access to modelling, simulation and research labs, our Merlin Flight Simulator and automotive workshop (complete with electric vehicle facility), wind tunnel, welding bay and controls testing suite.
You will also benefit from our Academic Support Hub, which is aimed at helping you build your employability and academic skills. Plus, have access to industry mentors who will provide you with pastoral support, vocational guidance, and career progression opportunities.
Spectra also provides space to collaborate, with plenty of workshops, social and meeting spaces available. Even better, the building has been designed with the University’s net zero carbon target in mind, and forms part of our plan to replace or upgrade older sites that are energy inefficient.
Who you'll learn from
At Herts, you will be taught by highly qualified staff, many of whom are PhD or other advanced degree qualified, in addition to their significant research, teaching or professional experience. Many have backgrounds in industry and are actively engaged in cutting-edge research, keeping the course aligned with the latest advancements in areas like artificial intelligence, software development, and cybersecurity.
The teaching team uses real-world projects and industry case studies to enhance your learning, sharing insights gained through collaborations with organisations such as Apple, Microsoft, and BT. Guest lectures and workshops further enrich your learning, offering exposure to the latest trends and innovations. Together, the team ensures your education is dynamic, practical, and future-focused.
How we support our students
At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible.
We offer a range of support services, from childcare to counselling, ensuring that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying, having fun, and have the support you need.
Entry requirements
The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.
| Typical offer (UCAS points) | (enter tariff range) |
|---|---|
| Typical A Level offer | (enter range) |
| Typical IB offer | (enter range) |
| Typical BTEC offer | (enter range) |
| Typical T Level offer | (enter range) |
| GCSE | EG: Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/D Mathematics |
| Access courses | EG: An overall merit profile in 45 credits at Level 3. |
| Additional information | Find out more about our standard and contextual Undergraduate Entry Requirements. |
| English language | All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band. If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level. |
|---|---|
| Additional information | Find out more about International Entry Requirements. |
The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.
240 Credits from BTEC HND or foundation degree in computer studies or software engineering or equivalent qualification.
| English language | All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band. If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level. |
|---|---|
| Additional information | Find out more about International Entry Requirements. |
Ready to apply?
UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK
| Start date | Study type | Apply |
|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Full time | Apply via UCAS |
International and EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK
Apply through Clearing
Fees and funding
At Herts, we’re dedicated to providing world-class teaching supported by industry-level facilities and incredible social spaces. We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to higher education, and we strive to keep both our standard and additional costs as low as possible.
| Study type | Fees | |
|---|---|---|
| UK students | Full time | £9,535 for the 2025/2026 academic year |
| EU students | Full time | £15,965 for the 2025/2026 academic year |
| International students | Full time | £15,965 for the 2025/2026 academic year |
Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.
| Scholarships, grants and bursaries | Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship, grant or bursary to support your studies. |
|---|---|
| Disabled Students' Allowance | The Disabled Students’ Allowance can cover any study-related costs you have because of a mental health problem, long term illness or any other disability. |
| Student loans | Find out about securing a student loan, from how much you could be eligible for to when you need to start making repayments. |
| Accommodation costs | We offer a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget. |
| Additional course fees | Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet. |
More about the course
| Course fact sheets | |
|---|---|
| BSc (Hons) Applied Computing and Artificial Intelligence (Top Up) | Download PDF |
| Programme specifications | |
|---|---|
| BSc (Hons) Applied Computing and Artificial Intelligence (Top Up) | Download PDF |
| Additional information | |
|---|---|
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Applications open to international and EU students |
Yes |
Course length |
Full Time, 1 Years |
