Computer systems are all around us from home entertainment packages and mobile phones through to car control systems, agriculture, retail, and complex communication networks. If you want to work in an industry that has the potential to improve everyday life and the society we live in, working and designing components that effect all aspects of society, our course aims to give you the skills you need for a career in this thriving industry sector.

During the course we’ll introduce you to a range of computer systems and you’ll investigate the nature of computer systems engineering. From desktop and workstation computers through to high performance computer systems, we aim to give you a thorough background in a wide range of areas. You’ll have the chance to find out what’s really involved in computer systems engineering.

If you’re hoping to be a computer systems engineer, potential employers will be looking for you to understand:

• Software programming techniques
• Computer systems architecture
• Electronics

This course focuses on these three core aspects to give you the chance to build your knowledge and skills.

You’ll be taught by professional engineers, many of whom have worked in the industry, and you can be confident that the course covers topics that the industry is looking for, as we regularly meet up with our Industry Advisory Panel to get their feedback.

We want to give you as much practical experience as possible. So after your second year, you’ll have the chance to go on a year-long placement to put your skills into practice.

The course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council. When you finish your studies, you could become registered as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng), which could be a feather in your cap when you’re looking for your first exciting role in the industry. The course could also lead on to you gaining Chartered Engineer (CEng) status following further study.

Placements

This course offers you the chance to undertake an optional placement in Year 3. This opportunity helps you to build on the knowledge and skills developed on the course. You will be employed by the company for 12 months, but the actual number of weeks worked will be dependent on the annual leave entitlement you are given in line with the placement company’s policy.

The placement year is a valuable tool that can enhance your employability and help you to develop as an individual. It is acknowledged that graduates with industry experience are generally much more attractive to employers.

Our Placement Unit will be on hand to support you in applying for and finding suitable placement opportunities. They will assist you with preparing your CV and with interview techniques. They'll also be in contact with you during your placement so that you'll be fully supported while you gain the experience that employers value so highly.

The Placement Unit team are regularly in contact with local and national companies. Previous students from this subject have spent their placement year at companies including Yell, and GE Energy. You can find more information on placements here.

Alternatively, if you are a student from within the UK, you could consider starting your own small business by applying for the Enterprise Placement Year in conjunction with the University’s Enterprise Team. You’ll have the opportunity to benefit from business advice, mentoring and networking sessions. Find out more information on the Enterprise Placement Year.

Your Career

Previous graduates from courses in this subject area have gone on to work in a variety of roles such as systems engineer, electronic design engineer, senior electronic engineer and senior metrology engineer in organisations including BAE Systems, Siemens, Dyson and Bentley Motors Ltd.**

Additionally, you may gain skills that are transferable to other industries and may be able to pursue a career that requires a good honours degree. You could go on to further study and the University has many options available for postgraduate study and research which may interest you.