Computer Systems Engineering (BEng/MEng)
Computer Systems Engineering, in common with other engineering disciplines, is concerned with applying scientific principles to solve problems and advance the technological level of society. The Computer Systems Engineering degree schemes at Cardiff University are run jointly by the School of Engineering and the School of Computer Science. These unique degree schemes integrate hardware and software and are, therefore, distinctly different from a computer science or computer design degree. If you are interested in all aspects of a computer — from the electronics through to programming, practical applications and the role of computing in society — then these are ideal degree schemes for you.
Scheme Structure
We offer BEng and MEng schemes, with an industrial placement year for both which can be undertaken in the UK or overseas. We encourage candidates with potential for high achievement to follow our MEng schemes, providing a fast-track to attaining Chartered Engineer status with the IEE. All of our students follow a balanced scheme of study covering a wide range of subjects in Computer Systems Engineering. However, towards the latter stages of the degree, you can decide to specialise in one or more particular areas. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive yet highly flexible training programme, which can be tailored according to your strengths and interests. This flexibility enables you to match your skills to the requirements of your chosen future employment sector.
Scholarship & Prizes
A number of scholarships, some sponsored by industrial concerns, are available in open competition. Companies that support the awards vary from year to year, and have included Nortel/Cogent, Agilent Technologies, Newbridge Networks, European Electrical Steels, Allied Steel and Wire, Hyder and Bosch.
In addition to entrance scholarships, additional prizes are awarded in recognition of academic excellence at the end of each academic year.
Career Opportunities
The skills you will develop during the Computer Systems Engineering degree schemes are designed to bridge the gap between software systems and the real world. You will also acquire a wide range of sought-after generic skills (numeric, IT, communication and management skills) so your employment prospects are excellent, whether you choose to work in software development, telecommunications, medical instrumentation, manufacturing or the financial sector. The graduate employment rate is one of the highest of all degree courses and starting salaries average over £20,000 per year. As a computer systems engineer, you will be a high skilled professional in a challenging and financially lucrative career.
Accreditation
A key measure of the relevance of the Computer Systems Engineering degree schemes at Cardiff are their accreditation by two professional institutions, namely the Institute of Engineering Technology (IET) and the British Computer Society (BCS). They are, therefore, excellent degrees for those who want a wide choice of possible careers.
Admissions Tutor
Dr Richard Perks
Email: PerksRM@cardiff.ac.uk
International Students interested in this degree scheme should contact:
Dr Steve Bentley:
Email: BentleySP@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)29 20874411
Minimum Entry Requirements
For the BEng schemes A-level grades of at least BBB (280 points) are required, including A-level Mathematics.
For the MEng schemes A-level grades of at least ABB (320 points) are required, including at least a grade B in A-level Mathematics.
Places are limited to 30 per year on our Computer Systems Engineering schemes and competition is high. When offering places, the overriding issue is academic potential, irrespective of entry route.
UCAS Codes
- BEng full time 3 years (HG66)
- BEng sandwich 4 years (HGQ6)
- MEng full time 4 years (HG6K)
- MEng sandwich 5 years (HG6Q)
- MEng year in Europe 5 years (H209)
Year of Entry: 2007
See this course on the University's Coursefinder website.