BCS Foundation Award - Smart products, robotics and automation

Robots stepped out of sci-fi and into real life a long time ago… build your core knowledge of how and where they’re being used, the level of maintenance they require, and their potential for the workplace in the years ahead.

Who is this for?

  • Digital professionals looking to build their technical knowledge in AI and machine learning, with a focus on individual components
  • Candidates who need to understand the interaction between humans and automated systems with a view to developing or implementing AI solutions
  • IT professionals who are transitioning to a career in 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 a very accessible introduction to the technology that’s shaping the future.

You’ll learn about:

  • the use of robots and automation in the workplace
  • identifying, creating and maintaining automation
  • the future of robots

Download our latest syllabus (PDF)

This award contributes 4 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 40 hours based around 39.5 hours of independent learning (if at a training provider, we recommend 8 hours of contact time, plus 31.5 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.

Data visualisation

Ethics Awards

AI’s ability to learn, replicate and predict means it will have a considerable impact on society and our environment if we don’t approach it ethically, sustainably and with clear governance. This set of awards explores the impact of decision-making and is vital learning for any forward-thinking IT professional.

Understanding ethical principles in the IT profession

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