BCS Foundation Award - Knowledge-based systems

Get to know about knowledge-based systems: what they are; how they work; how they complement machine learning; and how they deal with uncertainty, so you’re able to recognise when and where they add value.

Who is this for?

  • Digital professionals who need to build their technical knowledge in AI or gain insight into an individual component
  • Candidates aiming to move into a career working with artificial intelligence
  • Individuals with an interest in AI and a background in science, engineering, knowledge engineering, finance, education or IT services

Entry requirements

There are no pre-requisites for entry to the exam.

What will I learn?

This award sits within the Machine learning and other AI techniques area of the AI Foundation Pathway offering you core knowledge and a defined progression route to a technical career in AI.

Learning includes:

  • an introduction to knowledge-based systems
  • rules of knowledge-based systems
  • case-based reasoning
  • uncertainty
  • the inference engine

Download our latest syllabus (PDF)

This award contributes 5 credits towards the:

  • Foundation Certificate in AI (total credits required: 20)
  • Foundation Diploma in AI (total credits required: 36)

Other Machine learning and other AI techniques awards in the IA Foundation Pathway include:

How do I take the exam?

Training and exam (recommended)

Take this course with one of our accredited training providers.

How long will it take?

Classroom courses normally last one day.

Where can I study?

The training provider will be able to advise you, but typical options include:

  • At an approved provider near you
  • At your computer via e-learning or web conference learning

How much does it cost?

Prices for courses vary depending on your chosen training provider, country and course format.

Find a provider

Exam only (self study)

Ideal if you’re self-motivated and already know something about AI and related areas, although we do recommend a training provider for this course.

How do I book an exam?

Call +44 (0)1793 417417 to book your exam.

How long will it take?

As a guide, the estimated total qualification time for this award is 50 hours based around 49.5 hours of independent learning (if at a training provider, we recommend 16 hours of contact time, plus 33.5 hours of independent learning) and a 30-minute summative assessment.

Where do I sit my exam?

If you’re studying for this qualification without a training provider you can sit this exam directly with BCS online.

How much does it cost?

UK price: £65 + £35 for exam remote proctor + VAT.
International prices may vary by region, please check international pricing via our Customer Service team.

Contact us on +44 (0)1793 417417

What's next?

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This qualification is not regulated by the following United Kingdom Regulators - Ofqual, Qualifications Wales, CCEA Regulation or SQA.