Many items in common use today are the result of a complex design and manufacturing process that brings together a range of basic technologies. A high proportion of these products have computers embedded within them, and the design process has had to take account of the integration of hardware and software. The effective and efficient use of computer-based systems is progressively becoming a key requirement in products ranging from consumer items to aircraft and power stations.
Computer systems engineering is the true integration of electronics and computing disciplines. It encompasses the specification, design, manufacture and support of products which employ a computing engine. To be effective in this field, engineers need wide technical knowledge, good analytical skills, creativity, the ability to innovate, an awareness of market and business needs, and the capability to communicate effectively with both technically literate and non-technical people.
Structure
Subjects studied during the first year provide the hardware and software essentials and lay the foundations for developing an integrated systems approach. The second year takes these basic studies further, with a strong emphasis on the integration of hardware and software, including such topics as computer networks and interfacing. The final year provides opportunities for specialisation and includes a substantial computer systems engineering project – on networked multi-process application development, for example. The course involves a significant amount of laboratory and group project work.
Computer Systems Engineering is offered in the following pathways:
| Honours degree programmes |
Code |
Short form |
Institution code |
Duration |
| BEng Computer Systems Engineering |
H600 |
BEng/CSE |
H72 |
3 years |
| BEng Computer Systems Engineering (with
foundation year) |
H601 |
BEng/CSE4 |
H72 |
4 years |
What is the foundation route?
In addition to our standard three-year BSc programme and the four-year degrees in Computer Science with Industrial Experience or Study Abroad, we also offer a four-year programme in which the standard three years of study follow a preliminary foundation year. Studies during that year include mathematical topics, introductory information technology and programming, and a choice of options in science and technologies.
The on-campus foundation year is an integral part of four-year degree programmes throughout which you are registered as a student of the University, with full access to campus facilities, accommodation and funding entitlements.
The programmes are designed to provide a route into degree-level study of computing for applicants who do not offer qualifications suitable for direct entry but who nevertheless demonstrate the potential for success.
