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 30 hours based around 29 hours of independent learning (if at a training provider, we recommend 8 hours of contact time, plus 21 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…

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 the role of ethics in the responsible use of AI

Machine learning and other AI techniques Awards

Big data, patterns, smart products, robotics, automation, knowledge-based systems and more - a firm understanding of these aspects, their role and how they affect business, products and services is crucial. Learn which techniques are required to help businesses make the right decisions, and how they need to be implemented to be successful.

Knowledge-based systems

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