BCS Foundation Award - Understanding data in your organisation

Get a clear understanding around data and how it’s used in your business, from the terminology, general principles and data management approaches to data lifecycle, architecture, quality and security - as well as the role of data in AI and machine learning.

Who is this for?

  • Anyone who works in a data role or area of the business that manages data such as marketing, accounts or customer service
  • Digital professionals who are transitioning to a role working in AI or machine learning
  • Candidates who want to develop their digital knowledge and enhance their credentials and value to the organisation
  • Anyone who wants to know more about industry’s dependence on data and the relationship between data and machine learning

Entry requirements

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

What will I learn?

This award sits within the Data area of the AI Foundation Pathway, providing a valuable overview to the field and a vital education for practitioners in every sector.

You’ll learn about:

  • types of data
  • the data lifecycle
  • structured and unstructured data
  • data architecture
  • data analytics
  • data quality
  • data compliance and audit

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 Data 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.