© University of Kent - Contact | Feedback | Legal | Cookies
The University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NZ, T +44 (0)1227 764000
Computer Systems Engineering including a Foundation Year BEng (Hons)
This is a full-time single honours programme within the Computer Systems Engineering subject area.
Key facts
- Subject area: Computer Systems Engineering
- Award: BEng (Hons)
- Code: H614
- Location: Canterbury
- Honours: Single
- Mode of study: Full-time
- Duration: 4 years
- Start: 2013
- Year in industry: No
- Year abroad: No
- Institution(s): University of Kent
Overview
The range of uses for computers is increasing all the time - from smart phones and games consoles to aircraft flight control systems, super computers and global telecommunications.
This programme develops the skills and expertise needed to design computer systems, covering up-to-date detailed knowledge of computer hardware and software including electronics, communications systems and interface technologies.
We base our courses on leading-edge research, which is vital in a field that advances at such a fast pace. Our courses are designed with strong industrial input and therefore students graduate with excellent career prospects.
The School of Engineering and Digital Arts has always scored well in the National Student Survey, coming top three times in the last six years. We recently celebrated 25 years' continuous accreditation by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Modules
Stage 1
You take eight modules worth 15 credits each –120 credits overall.
Core modules- Computer Systems
- Digital Technologies
- Engineering Mathematics
- Engineering Analysis
- Introduction to Electronics
- Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming
- Robotics Project
- Web Applications
Stage 2
You take eight 15-credit modules.
Core modules- Computer Interfacing
- Digital Implementation
- Digital Signal Processing
- Further Object-Oriented Programming
- Image Analysis and Applications
- Electronic Instrumentation and Measurement Systems
- Microcomputer Engineering
- Operating Systems and Architecture
Stage 3
You take three 15-credit core modules, one 45-credit core project module and a choice of two 15-credit options.
Core modules- Digital Communications
- Digital Control
- Embedded Computer Systems
- Project
- Product Development
One from:
- Computer Security and Cryptography
- Digital Systems Design.
Stage 4
MEng only- Business Strategy
- Communication Networks (optional)
- Computer and Reconfigurable Architectures
- DSP and Digital TV (optional)
- Embedded Real-Time Operating Systems
- Fundamentals of Image Analysis and Biometrics (optional)
- Systems Group Project
Foundation
This programme is for students who do not have the qualifications needed for direct entry to Stage 1 of our degree programmes. It covers electronics, computing, physics and mathematics.
If you successfully complete the foundation year, you can go on to take either the Computer Systems Engineering programmes mentioned above or Electronics and Communications Engineering
Teaching and assessment
Teaching includes lectures, coursework and laboratory assignments, examples classes where you develop your problem-solving skills and regular staff 'surgeries'. Practical work is carried out in airconditioned laboratories, with state-of-the-art equipment and outstanding IT infrastructure.
Stage 1 modules are assessed by coursework and examination at the end of the year. Stage 2 and 3 modules, with the exception of the final-year project, are assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. All years include project work to replicate industrial practice and develop skills to maximise employability.
The year in industry is assessed by a written report and an interview that together count as 10% of your overall degree result.
Careers
If you choose to take our Year in Industry programme, you will gain practical work experience, while assessing possible future career options and making contacts in the industry. In addition to the technical skills you acquire on this programme, you also gain key transferable skills including the ability to present complex material in an accessible way, the ability to work independently and in a team, and the confidence to develop your own ideas.
Recently, our graduates have gone into the design of electronic and computer systems, software engineering, real-time industrial control systems and computer communications networks, in companies including BAE Systems, RAF, CISCO and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (MOD). Others have opted for further postgraduate study; for example, the MSc in Information Security and Biometrics or Embedded Systems and Instrumentation.
For more information on the services Kent provides to improve your employment prospects, visit www.kent.ac.uk/employability
Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Entry requirements
Passing the electronics pathway of the Kent IFP, with an overall mark of 60% or over, guarantees you entry onto the first year of these programmes.
Offer levels
DDD at A level, IB 24 points.
Required subjects
GCSE Mathematics and a science subject at grade C.
Further information
School
Enquiries:
T: +44 (0)1227 827272
Key Information Sets
The Key Information Set (KIS) data (right) is compiled by UNISTATS and draws from a variety of sources which includes the National Student Survey and the Higher Education Statistical Agency. The data for assessment and contact hours is compiled from the most populous modules (to the total of 120 credits for an academic session) for this particular degree programme. Depending on module selection, there may be some variation between the KIS data and an individual's experience. For further information on how the KIS data is compiled please see the UNISTATS website.
If you have any queries about a particular programme, please contact information@kent.ac.uk