BCS Foundation Award - Machine learning

The term is becoming commonplace in organisations in every sector and now you can qualify your understanding of machine learning in this bitesize course: what it is; where and how it’s used; along with an introduction to the types of coding and algorithms involved.

Who is this for?

  • Candidates who need to develop their understanding of the more technical aspects of AI or gain insight into one of its component parts
  • Business professionals looking to transition their career into a role which encompasses AI
  • 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 and offers an essential technical education to support your next career move.

You’ll learn about:

  • what machine learning is
  • coding for machine learning
  • algorithms used in machine learning
  • machine learning in practice

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:

The syllabus includes training objectives, details of modules and learning hours, plus a recommended reading list:

Download our latest syllabus (PDF)
Download v1.0 syllabus (PDF)

Please note: there are two versions of this syllabus live: version 1.0 and the new version 1.1 which launched in September 2024. Both versions of the exam can be booked but please note the last date for booking version 1.0 is 25 April 2025. These exams must be sat by 29 May 2025. From 30 May 2025, version 1.1 will be the only version of the exam which can be sat.

How can I prepare for this award?

You can achieve this qualification through virtual or classroom training with a BCS-accredited training provider. As a guide, the estimated total qualification time for this award is 40 hours based around 16 hours of contact time, 23 hours of independent learning and a 30-minute summative assessment. Prices of exams start from £90 + VAT per award - though prices may vary depending on training provider.

Classroom

Virtually

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 ethics in machine learning, 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?

Build on your foundation learning and achieve the Foundation Certificate in AI by studying one award from each of the four key awards areas. Study eight awards across the four areas and you’ll achieve the Foundation Diploma in AI. Why not look at…

Data Awards

Learn how data enables AI to perform, how it’s cleaned, structured and stored - and specifically focusing on machine learning how to use data in the right way, work with security protocols and uphold good ethical practice.

Understanding data in your organisation

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