Computer Science with Data Science & Artificial Intelligence

Computer Science with Data Science & AI at UCD trains you to think like a scientist and build like an engineer. In the first two years, you will study a common curriculum alongside all other students on the Computer Science course, building a strong foundation in computer science and computational thinking, including data science, statistics and AI. From the Third Year, the focus shifts to the technologies driving the AI revolution: machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, and large-scale data engineering.

Information on all our courses including pathways, internships and careers information is available in the UCD Science Undergraduate Courses Brochure (PDF).

Computer Science with Data Science & Artificial Intelligence is one of the degree subjects available through the common entry Computer Science DN201 course.

This degree follows the same first two years as the BSc in Computer Science, which will give you an excellent foundation in computer science and mathematics. From the Third Year, the focus shifts to the technologies driving the AI revolution: machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, and large-scale data engineering. You’ll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard data science and AI tools including TensorFlow, PyTorch, Hadoop, and the full scientific Python stack. Specialised modules in areas like deep neural networks, recommender systems, and human-centred AI reflect the very latest advances in the field. The sample modules below illustrate the exciting journey ahead.

*Modules are subject to change each year and are not guaranteed by UCD.  

First Year

Introduction to Comp Architecture • Computer Programming • Functional Programming • Software Engineering Project • Foundations of Mathematics for Computer Science • Intro to Data Science and AI • Critical Thinking • Formal Foundations I

Second Year

Digital Systems • Databases and Information Systems • Object-Oriented Programming • Computer Networking • Software Engineering Project • Introduction to Operating Systems • Data Structures • Algorithms • Linear Algebra • Formal Foundations II

Third Year

Data Science in Python • Probability Theory • Introduction to Artificial Intelligence • Network Analysis • Information Visualisation • Programming for Big Data • Recommender Systems • Data Science in Practice

Fourth Year

Computer Science Project • Cloud Computing • Data Mining • Deep Learning • Human Centred AI • Generative AI: Language Models • Quantum Machine Learning

Timetables & Assessment

Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full-time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

Third and Fourth year students have the opportunity to study at Beijing University of Technology (BJUT) through the BeijingDublin International College (BDIC) which is a joint initiative between UCD and BJUT.

Data Science and AI graduates are among the most sought-after professionals in today’s workplace. UCD graduates work as machine learning engineers, AI researchers and data scientists with leading technology companies, including Google, Meta, Stripe and Amazon, as well as major consultancies such as Accenture and PwC. In a world shaped by AI, graduates can work across industries including fintech, healthcare, energy and green technologies, or pursue MSc or PhD study to deepen their expertise.

Students have the opportunity to undertake an 8-month industry placement in Third Year during the Spring and Summer Trimesters. The placement is worth 30 credits. Students who do not undertake the longer internship option also have the opportunity to complete a Professional Placement module worth 5 credits. This module provides students with an opportunity to undertake a placement in industry (6-10 weeks) in the summer following Third Year. Students in recent years have completed internships in Bank of America, Amazon, Stripe, HubSpot, SAP, Deloitte, AIB, Zurich, Optum and Viasat. Placements are secured on a competitive basis and are subject to change each year. 

More information about the internship module and application process.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET


• Open Learning Entry Route


• Mature Entry Route


• DARE Entry Route


• HEAR Entry Route


• University Access

UCD Science Office

You can contact the UCD Science Office in the following ways:

• Submit your query using our dedicated Contact Form.
• Drop into the office in the UCD O'Brien Centre for Science, Science East, Room E1.09. Our office opening hours are 10am to 4pm (during term time).

"The degree offered a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making it the perfect fit for my interests and career aspirations. I have been a member of various UCD societies such as NetSoc, Women@compsci, Food Society and many more. This has allowed me to develop leadership skills and form connections with students who share my interests. I completed my first internship with SAP during my third year. Additionally, after finishing my fourth year, I completed a summer internship with Intel."

Kalkidan, Graduate