BEng (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering

Key details

BENG (HONS) COMPUTER SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

Start Year

2023

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Engineering

UCAS course code

HG65

Entry Requirements

ABB (specific subject requirements apply).

Duration (years)

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 course, 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 for you. You should also 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 should already 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.

About

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.

Your final year project will allow you to bring all of this work together to focus on a particular real-world problem.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

We have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (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.

You’ll be assessed by a combination of:

Examination (approximately 30%)
Demonstrations and Presentations (approximately 40%)
Written assignments (approximately 30%)

Structure

You will start by mastering the core material underpinning computer science. You’ll then specialise in the areas of computer systems engineering that interest you, structuring your degree to suit you.

In your first year, you’ll learn the fundamentals of computing science with an emphasis on programming. And you will study mathematical modules and learn how they will be relevant to your future work.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars and lab classes – lab and seminar classes reinforce and expand on the lecture material. And you will spend a substantial amount of your time carrying out practical coursework and projects.

You’ll use a variety of programming languages depending on the devices and application areas being focused on. Importantly, you will be working with the software and hardware development tools and practices used in the industry right now, building your experience in each year. When you graduate, you will have the technical ability to develop high quality software and hardware for a range of platforms.

Independent study

Alongside your formal learning, you will study independently to gain a deeper appreciation of specialist topics. You’ll build up to your final-year project, where you will explore a real-world topic or work on a problem in depth, under the supervision of a member of the faculty. This experience of developing working software and hardware to address real problems is highly valued by employers.

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Open Days

Assessment for Year 2

We have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (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. The balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there is a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.

You’ll be assessed by a combination of:

Examination (typically 30%)
Demonstrations and Presentations (typically 40%)
Written assignments (typically 30%)

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 architectures, networking and electronics.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

Independent study

September 2023 opportunities. Discover more

Open Days

Assessment for Year 3

We have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (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. 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.

You’ll be assessed by a combination of:

Examination (typically 20%)
Demonstrations and Presentations (typically 25%)
Project (30%)
Written assignments (typically 25%)

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 will receive one-on-one supervision from a faculty member. The project you choose will depend on your own interests and career aspirations.

You will also study advanced subjects, such as embedded devices, and choose from several optional modules, such as cyber security and audio and visual processing.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

Independent study

September 2023 opportunities. Discover more

Open Days

Assessment for Year 1

You’ll be assessed by a combination of:

Examination (approximately 30%)
Demonstrations and Presentations (approximately 40%)
Written assignments (approximately 30%)

Compulsory Modules

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

Code CMP-4013A

Credits 20

The complexity of Computer Based Systems, appropriate development approaches, and their inherent activities will be discussed using case studies and guest speakers where appropriate. Emphasis will be placed on the processes involved with systems requirements, creative designs, and careful development, in a professional manner, ensuring that issues such as project management, safety, security and data protection are taken into account. The module will include a number of modelling techniques to support the systems development process. These will be put into practise during the group exercise that will run throughout the semester. There are also opportunities for students to hone their transferable skills through literature searching, report writing, seminar discussions and presentations.

WEB-BASED PROGRAMMING

Code CMP-4011A

Credits 20

An understanding of the underlying mechanisms of the technologies used in the Internet and World Wide Web is essential for any Computing Science student. In this module you will be introduced to some of the tools and technologies used for web development. You will learn how to build an effective web application using the current industry standard Web technologies, including HTML, CSS and JavaScript. You will learn how to handle Web requests and implement backend server. In the latter part of the module you will master these technologies and undertake a practical approach to exploring them. You will also learn Web security issues along the way and able to apply good practices in your work.

COMPUTING PRINCIPLES

Code CMP-4002B

Credits 20

This module gives a theoretical and practical introduction to key sub-disciplines, and techniques in computing. Topics covered include identifying common patterns of computational organisation, computational building blocks in computer architecture, algorithmic complexity and evaluation. Though the majority of the topics covered are examined from a theoretical standpoint there are opportunities to build physical models to describe theoretical understanding e.g. design and construction of a finite state machine using a breadboard, LED’s, switches and Arduino micro-controller.

DATABASE SYSTEMS

Code CMP-4010B

Credits 20

This module is based on the relational model and will introduce you to important aspects of databases, database manipulation and database management systems. You will explore the tools and methods for database design and manipulation as well as the programming of database applications. You will use a modern relational database management system to gain practical experience. You will also develop programming experience using SQL, and using a high level programming language to write applications that access the database.

PROGRAMMING 1

Code CMP-4008Y

Credits 20

In taking this module you will gain a solid grounding in the essential features of object-oriented programming, using a modern programming language such as Java. The module is designed such that you are not expected to have previously studied programming, although it is recognised that many students taking the module will have done so in some measure.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTING A

Code CMP-4004Y

Credits 20

The module is designed to provide students who have not studied A level Mathematics with sufficient understanding of basic algebra to give them confidence to embark on the study of computing fundamentals. Various topics in discrete and continuous mathematics which are fundamental to Computer Science will be introduced to you.

MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTING B

Code CMP-4005Y

Credits 20

This module is aimed at students who have an A level grade C or above (or equivalent) in Mathematics. It will provide you with an introduction to the mathematics of counting and arrangements, a further development of the theory and practice of calculus, an introduction to linear algebra and its computing applications and a further development of the principles and computing applications of probability theory. In addition, matrices, 3D vectors are introduced, and complex numbers are studied.

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Open Days

Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. 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. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.

Assessment for Year 2

We have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (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. The balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there is a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.

You’ll be assessed by a combination of:

Examination (typically 30%)
Demonstrations and Presentations (typically 40%)
Written assignments (typically 30%)

Compulsory Modules

ARCHITECTURES AND OPERATING SYSTEMS

Code CMP-5013A

Credits 20

Study the organisation of system software and the underlying hardware architecture in modern computer systems. The role of concurrent operation of hardware and software components is emphasised throughout this module. Central concepts are reinforced by practical work in the laboratory. The architectures portion of the module focuses on the components of a processor, including the registers and data path, and you will explore concepts such as instruction fetch cycles, instruction decoding and memory addressing modes. The operating systems component focuses on how the system software manages the competing demands for the system hardware, including memory management and disc and processing scheduling.

ANALOGUE AND DIGITAL ELECTRONICS

Code CMP-5027A

Credits 20

This module gives a practical introduction to analogue and digital electronics. Topics covered include components such as op-amps, transistors, logic gates, flip-flops and registers. You will learn how to design circuits such as amplifiers, oscillators, modulators, combinational and sequential logic and state machines. Much of the time on the module will be spent doing practical work where you will simulate and then construct prototypes circuits of the designs and then test them using a range of lab equipment. You will also design and build your own Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

DATA STRUCTURES AND ALGORITHMS

Code CMP-5014B

Credits 20

This is a compulsory module for all computing students and builds on programming 2. The purpose of this module is to give the student a solid grounding in the design, analysis and implementation of algorithms and in the efficient implementation of a wide range of important data structures.

PROGRAMMING 2

Code CMP-5015A

Credits 20

This is a compulsory module for all computing students and is a continuation of programming 1. It contains greater breadth and depth and provides students with the range of skills needed for many of their subsequent modules. We introduce C in order to improve your low level understanding of how programming works. We recap Java and deepen your understanding of the language by teaching topics such as nested classes, enumeration, generics, reflection, collections and threaded programming. We also cover C++ and highlight the similarities and differences between languages.

EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

Code CMP-5045B

Credits 20

Embedded processors are at the core of a huge range of products e.g. smartphones, watches, cars, medical equipment, etc. As those devices are usually small in size, limited computing and battery resources, the development of embedded system software introduces design and security challenges for developers. This module brings together those fundamental concepts and skills related to the secure embedded software development process.

NETWORKS

Code CMP-5037B

Credits 20

This module explores how networks are designed to provide reliable, secure and fast delivery of data from one location to another. A layered approach is taken to simplify design with both the OSI 7-layer reference model and TCP/IP model studied. Many practical applications of networks are studied to put theory into context and this includes Voice over IP, network security and 4G and 5G networks. Lectures each week cover theory and examples or case studies, and are followed by laboratory sessions that involve practical implementation.

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Open Days

Important Information

Assessment for Year 3

We have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (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. 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.

You’ll be assessed by a combination of:

Examination (typically 20%)
Demonstrations and Presentations (typically 25%)
Project (30%)
Written assignments (typically 25%)

Compulsory Modules

COMPUTING PROJECT

Code CMP-6013Y

Credits 40

This module will give you experience of independent project work through the development of research and application involving a significant amount of computing science knowledge and skills, for example, in design/implementation of algorithms, software, or hardware systems. It will also provide, via the lecture programme, a primer on the law, ethical and professional behaviour, project management, reporting and other aspects of being a computer scientist. You will be allocated a supervisor and will be expected to work closely together on a mutually agreed project.

Optional A Modules

(40 credits)

MACHINE LEARNING

Code CMP-6002A

Credits 20

This module covers the core topics that dominate machine learning research: classification, clustering, and reinforcement learning. We describe a variety of classification algorithms (e.g. Neural Networks, Decision Trees and Deep Learning) and clustering algorithms (e.g. k-NN and PAM) and discuss the practical implications of their application to real world problems. We then introduce reinforcement learning and the Q-learning problem and describe its application to control problems such as maze solving.

AUDIOVISUAL PROCESSING

Code CMP-6026A

Credits 20

This module explores how computers process audio and video signals. In the audio component, the focus is on understanding how humans produce speech and how this can be processed by computer for speech recognition and enhancement. Similarly, the visual component considers the human eye and camera, and how video is processed by computer. The theoretical material covered in lectures is reinforced with practical laboratory sessions. The module is coursework only and requires you to build a speech recogniser capable of recognising the names of students studying the module using both audio and visual speech information.

INTRODUCTION TO CYBER SECURITY

Code CMP-6044A

Credits 20

This module provides a broad understanding of the core topics and issues relating to the rapidly evolving world of cyber security. As security becomes an increasingly important part of our daily lives, then it is essential to develop an understanding of the theories of security and their application to the wider world. Introduction to Cyber Security covers topics including: the value of data and the role of security, of risk and threat modelling, human aspects of cyber security, social engineering, deception, and cyber and information warfare. The module prepares you with essential knowledge and understanding of cyber security and provides the tools for further study and research in specialist areas.

ADVANCED PROGRAMMING

Code CMP-6048A

Credits 20

The advanced programming module aims to take your understanding of programming languages beyond their mere application in real world apps. As such, the emphasis of the module is on the architecture of programming languages, classified into paradigms that include procedural, object-oriented and functional. In particular, the functional or “declarative” paradigm will be covered in depth. Another substantial part is on compilers and interpreters, i.e. programs that turn higher level programs into machine language or alternatively, transpilers, that translate to another established language. Code optimisation, high performance computing (HPC) and parallel programming concepts will be covered including applications of GPU programming using CUDA and OpenCL. Any General Purpose Language (GPL), old and new, may be used in lecture note examples. Applications of functional programming will adopt the F# functional programming language. IMPORTANT NOTE: This module does not cover web- or mobile app-based programming nor “advanced software engineering” concepts.

Optional B Modules

(40 credits)

SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

Code CMP-5012B

Credits 20

Software Engineering is one of the most essential skills for work in the software development industry. You will gain an understanding of the issues involved in designing and creating software systems from an industry perspective. You will be taught state of the art phased software development methodologies focusing on the activities of initial class model design to actual operational software systems. These activities are complemented with an introduction into software project management and development facilitation.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Code CMP-6040B

Credits 20

This module will introduce you to core techniques in Artificial Intelligence. Topics covered may include state space representation and search algorithms, knowledge representation, expert systems, Bayesian networks, Markov Models, Neural networks, Deep learning, and an Introduction to Robotics and Drone.

DEVELOPING SECURE SOFTWARE

Code CMP-6045B

Credits 20

This module provides a practical introduction to Cyber Security, focusing on methods, tools and techniques for delivering robust, usable and secure web-based software. Students will learn the importance of designing and developing secure software by evaluating a range of software security threats and vulnerabilities, then mitigating these potential impacts. The module also covers ethical hacking and structured approaches to security testing. Groups will be created in week 2 and you will then work as a small development team from weeks 2 to 12, with the module running like a standard industry development project. This will involve your team completing everything from early research of security vulnerabilities and threats through to full development of a secure and usable web-based software system.

UBIQUITOUS COMPUTING

Code CMP-6046B

Credits 20

In this module we will introduce the multifaceted topic of Ubiquitous Computing. You will learn about how computing power can be taken away from desktop computer setting and be applied anywhere. The module draws upon many other areas such as Signal Processing, Machine Learning, Human Computer Interaction, Internet of Things, Networks, and the use of hardware. This is a project and coursework orientated module with an emphasis on developing your own ideas to gain the skills needed to take the power of computing to be everywhere.

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

ABB including one A-Level in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve 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. Acceptable subjects are: Science, Design Surveying and Planning for Construction, Digital Production Design and Development, Digital Business Services, Digital Support Services.

BTEC

DDM acceptable in an IT, Engineering or Science-based subject, excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration.

Scottish highers

AAABB including Grade A in Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics.

Scottish highers advanced

BCC including Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics.

Irish leaving certificate

3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics.

Access course

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.

European Baccalaureate

75% overall including 7 in Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics.

International Baccalaureate

32 including HL5 in Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics.

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics at a minimum of Grade B or Grade 5 and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

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, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.

A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.

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.

Important note

Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.

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

Students for whom english is a 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):

IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry

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.

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:

Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA

Academic English at INTO UEA

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. 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.

Gap year

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.

September 2023 opportunities. Discover more

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Ask a Student

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University Taster Events

Come to one of our taster events and experience university life for yourself.

Hear from our students

Find out what it’s like to be a part of the School of Computing Sciences at UEA.

WATCH HERE >

What's included in your fees

Explore some of the benefits included as part of your UEA learning package.

FIND OUT MORE >

Course Reference Number: 6774701

BEng (Hons) COMPUTER SYSTEMS ENGINEERING