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Data Science with Foundation Year at Sheffield Hallam University - UCAS

Course options

There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information. Course Summary

  • Design innovative systems using data science to address complex, real-world challenges.
  • Harness AI and data mining techniques to extract insights from large datasets.
  • Build practical skills in programming, cloud computing and automated data pipelines.
  • Collaborate with industry on applied projects using live datasets and business briefs.
  • Learn through real-world experiences, developing ethical, technical and sector-ready expertise.
You’ll gain deep knowledge of data science techniques, from predictive analytics to AI programming, and apply them across sectors such as health, finance, and tech. Taught by research-active staff, you’ll learn to develop cutting-edge systems and algorithms while understanding the ethical implications of data technologies. Real client projects, team-based challenges and a year-long placement opportunity prepare you for a career at the forefront of the data-driven economy. How You Learn At Sheffield Hallam, all our courses are designed to engage you with the world and challenge you to think in new ways. You’ll get to collaborate with others, and you’ll be taught in a supportive environment where you can thrive. In your first year, you’ll explore the mathematical foundations of data science and learn key programming languages such as Python, SAS and C#. These skills are applied in team projects, where you’ll solve real business problems with external clients. As you progress, you’ll learn tools for developing automated data pipelines and work with machine learning, cloud systems and AI frameworks. In your final year, you’ll create an independent data science project under academic supervision. Key Themes Throughout your studies, you’ll explore the mathematical and statistical principles that underpin data science and AI, learning to apply them through programming in widely used languages such as Python, C# and SAS. You'll gain expertise in cloud computing, automated data processing and ethical system design, supported by hands-on experience with tools like Azure, Tableau and Hadoop. As you progress, you’ll deepen your understanding of AI and machine learning techniques, learning how to build real-time data systems and deliver intelligent, business-driven insights. Commercial and academic tools are integrated throughout the course, preparing you to tackle real-world data challenges confidently across multiple industries. Course Support You will be supported in your learning journey towards highly skilled, graduate level employment through a number of key areas. These include:
  • Access to specialist personal, academic and career support services
  • Help from our Skills Centre with assignments and digital learning
  • Industry-led projects and simulated working environments
  • Peer mentoring and LinkedIn profile development
  • Employability workshops, career fairs and guest speakers
Applied Learning Opportunities Work Placements You’ll have the opportunity to complete a year-long placement between your second and third year. This is recognised as a gold standard for personal and professional development, allowing you to graduate with an Applied Professional Diploma. You’ll apply skills in areas like AI analysis, data engineering, cloud systems and consultancy. Previous students have worked at:
  • Intel
  • IBM
  • SN Systems
  • 3Squared
  • CSE Servelec
Live Projects In both your first and second years, you’ll work in teams on real projects from external clients, using live data to develop solutions. Past clients include Sheffield United FC, YES Energy Solutions and 4most. Networking Opportunities You’ll take part in career workshops, industry visits, employer talks and peer-networking events. You’ll also be supported to build a professional LinkedIn presence early in your course.

Modules

Module and assessment information for future years is displayed as currently validated and may be liable to change. When selecting electives, your choices will be subject to the core requirements of the course. As a result, selections may be limited to a choice between one of two or more specified electives in some instances. You will be able to complete a placement year as part of this course. See the modules table below for further information. Year 1 Compulsory Modules Engineering And Mathematics In Practice | Coursework (100%) Foundation Mathematics, Mechanics And Electronics 1 | Coursework (100%) Foundation Mathematics, Mechanics And Electronics 2 | Coursework (100%) Fundamentals Of Materials And Manufacturing | Practical (100%) Year 2 Compulsory Modules Applied Data Analysis | Coursework (100%) Essentials Of Data Science And Artificial Intelligence | Coursework (100%) Mathematical And Statistical Methods | Coursework (60%) , Exam (40%) Proof And Reasoning | Coursework (100%) Year 3 Compulsory Modules Algorithms And Data Structures | Coursework (100%) Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning 1 | Coursework (100%) Handling Data In Cloud Systems | Coursework (100%) Statistical Theory And Modelling | Coursework (100%) Year 4 Optional Modules Placement Year Final Year Compulsory Modules Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning 2 | Coursework (100%) Development Project | Coursework (40%) , Practical (60%) Ethics In Data Science And Ai | Practical (100%) Programming For Artificial Intelligence | Coursework (100%)

Assessment method

Coursework | Exam | Practical


How to apply

Application codes

Please select a course option – you will then see the application code you need to use to apply for the course.

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Foundation

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course

https://www.shu.ac.uk/courses/computing/bsc-honours-data-science-with-foundation-year/full-time

Additional entry requirements

Other

Please note that this information is subject to change without notice by Sheffield Hallam University.


English language requirements

TestGradeAdditional details
IELTS (Academic)6If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills, or equivalent.

If your English language skill is currently below IELTS 6.0 we recommend you consider a Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve an equivalent English score.

Please click the following link to find out more about English language requirements for this course

https://www.shu.ac.uk/courses/computing/bsc-honours-data-science-with-foundation-year/full-time


Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Undergraduate home tuition fees for 2026/27 are not yet confirmed. Please check our website for further details. Our tuition fee for UK students in 2025/26 is: • £9,535 per year (capped at maximum 20% of this during placement year) • Some foundation courses: £5,760 for the FY, then £9,535 per year Undergraduate international/EU tuition fee for 2026/27: • £18,000 per year (capped at maximum 20% of this during placement year) • Some health courses: £20,000 per year (includes £2,000 placement supplement) Fees may increase in subsequent years per Government or UKRI regulations. More information can be found in our terms and conditions under student fees regulations at www.shu.ac.uk/study-here/terms-and-conditions-and-student-regulations

Sponsorship information

Scholarships, discounts and bursaries may be available to students who study this course.

Data Science with Foundation Year at Sheffield Hallam University - UCAS