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. 

In addition to academic study you will spend a year in industry. You will gain valuable work experience and have the chance to build your professional skills and confidence. Relevant work experience is a great asset in today’s competitive job market. A year in industry will not only give you first-hand knowledge of the way in which your field operates, it will also greatly improve your chances of progressing within that sector as you gain valuable contacts and insight. 

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

ACCREDITATION

This course has been accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) for full CITP and partial CEng. Accreditation means that a candidate has fully or partially fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP).

PLACEMENT YEAR AND STUDY ABROAD

Your third year is spent working in industry where you will put your first two years of learning into practice. 

You will be expected to seek your own work placement. In the first two weeks of your second year you will be asked to write a CV and apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, it will also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you will require after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support while you are identifying and negotiating placement opportunities. 

During this year you will be supported by an industrial supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your industrial supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it is progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year. 

Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers. 

If you are unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year you will have the option to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a Year in Industry. 

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. 

CAREER DESTINATIONS

Examples of careers that you could enter include: 

• Embedded systems developer 

• Car engine management designer 

• Instrumentation and control engineer 

• Network analyst 

• Communication systems designer 

• Programmer