BEng (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Engineering
- UCAS Course Code
- HG65
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
How do everyday items like cars, mobile phones, games consoles and washing machines work? How can we use computer science to control equipment and machinery in the food and oil industries? On this BEng in Computer Systems Engineering, you’ll master computer science and discover how to apply it to hardware – such as embedded devices, networks and electronics.
If you have an interest in computing, whether it’s through building your own hardware or writing your own code, this course is designed for you. You will be passionate about the contribution computing can and does make to humanity, in everything from arts, culture and entertainment, to business, health, communications, and society as a whole. And you will follow the exciting developments of the field in the press and on blogs and be excited about contributing your own ideas and creativity to this always-evolving sector.
This degree is highly practical, allowing you to combine your interest in computing science with hardware-based subjects such as electronics, embedded devices and networking. Crucially, it will give you the flexibility to deepen your knowledge in specialised areas or explore a broader range of subjects.
You’ll start by mastering computer programming using various languages and on different platforms, giving you a solid grounding in software. You’ll build on this by focusing on hardware – including looking at computer architectures and networks, not just in PCs but in a range of devices. Underpinning this will be the practical study of electronics, and you’ll develop your skills in circuit design and construction too. You will also have options to take subjects such as cyber security and audio and visual processing.
Accreditations
This course has been accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) for full CITP. Accreditation means that a candidate has fully or partially fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP).
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll learn the fundamentals of computing science with an emphasis on programming concepts. And you will study mathematical modules and learn how they will be relevant to your future work.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
We teach a variety of programming or scripting languages including Java, SQL, HTML, CSS and JavaScript. You’ll be working with the software development tools and practices used in the industry right now, getting up to speed with the system development and database principles, gaining computing mathematics fundamental knowledge, practicing employability skills and building your programming experience this year. Teaching methods include team-based learning and hands-on practices
You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars and lab classes – where the lab and seminar classes reinforce and expand on the lecture materials. Alongside your formal learning, you’ll study independently to gain a deeper appreciation of specialist topics.
Assessment
Your first year will have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These may include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and in-class tests (closed and/or time-limited assessment). They combine theoretical understanding with practical application and are designed to test the range of skills and competencies required for the learning outcomes of each module. Additionally, there is a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll continue to study core topics in computing science, and also look at areas of computer hardware such as architecture, networking and electronics.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Depending on your interests and career aspirations, you’ll have a range of optional modules to choose from, all of which represent the School’s current research and strengths. You will gain core knowledge and hands-on experiences of your chosen subjects.
Assessment
Similar to your first year, you will have a mixture of individual and group assessments. The balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there is a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll complete an independent project, focusing on a specialist area of computer systems engineering in more depth. For this, you’ll write a report on your work, develop the software and present it; this will give you the opportunity to develop academic writing and communication skills. You’ll also receive one-on-one supervision from a faculty member. The project you choose will depend on your own interests and career aspirations – for example, you could link it with the work you did during your industrial placement.
You’ll also study advanced subjects, such as embedded devices, and choose from several optional modules, such as cyber security and audio and visual processing.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Your final year will give you the opportunity to focus on specific areas of computer science through a piece of independent research. You’ll work on an individual project, which will involve developing high quality solutions (including working software) for real problems – a skill that is highly valued by employers. You’ll explore a topic or work on a problem in depth, under the supervision of a member of the faculty.
Assessment
In your final year, again, you’ll have a mixture of individual and group assessments. Similarly to your second year, the balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there is an individual project which is assessed through a combination of written work and demonstration or presentation.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking and General Studies not accepted. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Accepted subjects: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, Digital Production, Design and Development, Digital Business Services, Digital Support Services, Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing.
- BTEC
- Extended Diploma: DDM in IT, Engineering or Science based subject OR DDM plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level - BBC (specific subject requirements apply)
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma - DMM (specific subject requirements apply)
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB including grade A in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2 plus 3 subjects at H3, including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Mathematics, Computing, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 points including HL5 in Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics Grade B or Grade 5 or above at GCSE, and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study: International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM in IT, Engineering or Science based subject OR DDM plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Diploma: DD in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus B at A-level OR DD plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Business, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Extended Certificate: D in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus BB at A-Level OR D plus BB at A-Level including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Not accepted: Public Services, Uniformed Services or Business Administration.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Computing Science with a Foundation Year
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
International Foundation in Business Economics Society and Culture
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
As a graduate in Computer Systems Engineering, you can move on to a broad range of exciting careers or on to further study. With your knowledge of hardware you’ll be well suited for the more practical side of computing or careers in embedded computing and electronics.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
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Embedded systems developer
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Car engine management designer
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Instrumentation and control engineer
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Network analyst
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Communication systems designer
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Programmer
Discover more on our Careers webpages.