Record applications for university computing courses ‘sparked by rise of AI’

Experts have suggested the rise of artificial intelligence as a mainstream topic of discussion has boosted interest in the technology.

BCS said its analysis of the latest Ucas data found students had applied for computing courses in record numbers this year (PA) (PA Archive)

The popularity of computing degrees is growing faster than any other course, according to new figures.

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, said its analysis of the latest Ucas data found students had applied for computing courses in record numbers this year.

It said it believes the increase in applications could be attributed to the rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning as mainstream topics, with technology such as the AI chatbots of ChatGPT and Google’s Bard making headlines in recent weeks.