Computer Systems Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year MEng
2025-26 entryYou will study in 91Ö±²¥ for the first three years of your course learning about the fields that are essential to computer systems, including mathematics, control systems, embedded systems and programming. In your fourth year you will have the opportunity to put into practice what you’ve learnt by working for a year in an engineering placement before returning to 91Ö±²¥ for your final year studying modules in specialist areas such as system design and security, intelligent systems.
Key details
- A Levels AAA
Other entry requirements - UCAS code 8M74
- 5 years / Full-time
- September start
- Accredited
- Find out the course fee
- Industry placement
Explore this course:
Course description
Why study this course?
92% of graduates from the department are in work or further education 15 months after completing their course. 91Ö±²¥-trained engineers are now working for companies including Rolls-Royce, Siemens and Airbus.
From foundations in programming, robotics and automation, to advanced topics such as deep learning and multi-agent systems.
Learn from people with research experience in the robotics industry and who specialise in programming, intelligent systems and cybersecurity.
Gain practical experience of computer software and hardware during your industrial placement with companies such as ARM, Siemens and Boeing, along with access to industry standard facilities including 3D CAD tools, 3D printers and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Study modules designed with our industry partners – spanning topics such as embedded systems and artificial intelligence, industrial control and advanced manufacturing.
Launch your career as an engineer with this five-year MEng in Computer Systems Engineering that brings together design, robotics and programming with a year-long industrial placement.
Informed by our world-leading research and designed in collaboration with our industry partners, this masters level course gives you the best start as a systems engineer.
You’ll complement new skills in computer software and hardware with a deep understanding of systems design. You’ll also use industry standard equipment to learn about state-of-the-art applications in infrastructure, medicine and aviation.
The first year gives you solid grounding in the theory of complex electro-mechanical systems. The second year focuses on core modules such as programming (including C++, Python and Java) and data modelling alongside a practical project – designing a system using 3D CAD tools, and building your designs in our iForge Makerspace.
Year three will see you combining specialist modules like intelligent systems and cybersecurity with a massive range of optional modules – chosen according to your personal passion and career aspirations.
Year four puts your academic study into context, as you gain work experience and improve your employability prospects with one of our industry partners.
This all builds to an advanced project in your final year, where you’ll work one-on-one with an academic, deepening your technical knowledge and developing your expertise in a range of engineering techniques.
This MEng course provides you with an extra year of study to develop strong skills in systems and an enhanced understanding to hit the ground running in your engineering career, plus a full year in industry to put your learning into practice.
This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the Institute of Measurement and Control and the Engineering Council UK.
Modules
A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.
Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:
UCAS code: 8M74
Years: 2023, 2024
- Digital and Embedded Systems
-
This module is intended to equip students with the core knowledge of 'how hardware works' in digital systems and introduce the concept of embedded systems using examples/case studies. The module covers introduction to embedded systems, number systems, boolean algebra, logic gates, logic expressions, combinational logic, A/D and D/A converters, computer systems and architectures. The content is delivered as a combination of lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions that provide students with a fundamental understanding of embedded systems and their applications.
10 credits - Group Control Project and Professional Skills
-
This module is intended to bring together core content from various Y1 modules in a substantial group design project. The group project involves controlling a mobile robot to navigate to a destination safely and smoothly. This robot is provided as a take-home kit for students to work on this project in their own time. This module also covers important skills needed in the workplace, such as project management and teamwork, as well as other crucial employability skills.
10 credits - Introduction to Systems Engineering & Software
-
Engineering applications are typically complex, so students also need to acquire proficiency in analytical problem solving and the ability to apply a systems engineering approach, as a systematic methodology to design and implementation. A group project will develop an understanding of the type of problem solving and systems engineering needed for the design and build of a computer-controlled system. Students will improve skills in communication, team working and reflective practices as a result of the group project. Engineering applications in manufacturing, aerospace, robotics, energy, finance, healthcare and a host of other areas are predominately computer based or computer controlled. In order to be able to create computer based and computer controlled applications, students need to acquire proficiency in relevant software and programming languages. In this module, labs and several individual assignments will build proficiency in creating C programs as solutions to engineering problems.
20 credits - Systems Engineering Mathematics I
-
This module contains the core mathematical competencies required by students for a systems engineering programme. This covers basic algebra and functions, elementary calculus (differentiation and integration), solution of low order differential equations, Taylor series and iterative methods, matrix algebra and simultaneous equations, vectors and complex numbers. The content is delivered within a systems engineering context. Student learning is encouraged by regular formative assessment and supportive resources.Â
20 credits - Modelling, Analysis and Control
-
This module will introduce principles of modelling of simple continuous dynamical systems. This module also introduces analysis of linear models. It includes a detailed analysis of the dynamical behaviour of 1st and 2nd order systems linking behaviour to physical parameters, e.g. Rise time, settling time, overshoot, steady-state. Damping and damping ratio and resonance. Frequency response is also discussed. We will introduce control and feedback as a topic by providing examples of open-loop and closedloop control, and undertake detailed analysis of linear models with a focus on 1st and 2nd order systems. Students are introduced to simple practical feedback mechanisms, including PID controllers and performance criteria such as offset, stability, poles and zeros. You will learn about the principles of how to use Laplace Transforms to solve linear differential equations, and for system representation, using transfer functions and block diagram algebra. You will also develop an appreciation of frequency-domain implications of system analysis through the use of Fourier series. MATLAB is used to reinforce the simulation and analysis of all module contents and coursework assignments.
20 credits - Physical Systems
-
This module will introduce students to the modelling and analysis of dynamic systems. Students will learn about the different types of physical systems based on real-world case-studies. This 20-credit year-long module is to be delivered over two semesters. In the autumn semester mechanical and electrical-mechanical systems will be introduced. In the second semester the mechanical theme will continue with rotational systems, and then introduce thermodynamic systems as well as flow systems. Students will gain an appreciation of the physics laws governing a variety of physical systems, the impact and interaction of various system components, as well as systematic methods for modelling and analysing such systems.Â
20 credits - Introduction to Electric and Electronic Circuits
-
This module introduces the concepts and analytical tools for predicting the behaviour of combinations of passive circuit elements, resistance, capacitance and inductance driven by ideal voltage and/or current sources which may be ac or dc sources. The ideas involved are important not only from the point of view of modelling real electronic circuits but also because many complicated processes in biology, medicine and mechanical engineering are themselves modelled by electric circuits. The passive ideas are extended to active electronic components; diodes, transistors and operational amplifiers and the circuits in which these devices are used. Transformers, magnetics and dc motors are also covered.
20 credits - Global Engineering Challenge Week
-
The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.
*The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.
Core modules:
- Control Systems Design and Analysis
-
This module gives a solid theoretical foundation for understanding feedback control system analysis, design and application and is suitable for general engineering students. This is supported by hardware laboratories, PC laboratory activities and coursework. Content covers standard analysis tools such as root-loci, Bode diagrams, Nyquist diagrams and z-transforms. The latter part of the course focuses on the design of common feedback strategies using these analysis tools and students will undertake indicative designs and reinforce learning through application to laboratory and hardware systems.Â
20 credits - Mechatronics
-
This unit covers methods to represent, analyse and design mechanical, electrical and computational systems and their integration into mechatronics systems. This module will enable students to design, analyse, develop and integrate mechatronic systems. The unit includes lectures on the principles of mechatronic systems, 2D/3D CAD design, sensors and instrumentation, actuation, digital data acquisition, signal pre-processing, hardware interfaces, microcontroller programming and peripherals; practicals on analysing mechatronic components; and project work on designing, developing and testing a mechatronic system.
20 credits - Signals, Systems, and Communications
-
Modern communication systems provide the backbone of the technological development that is driving the information age. The increase of data analytics, machine learning, and networked solutions pushes the trend towards an increasing use of digital communication systems as means of enabling reliable and efficient information exchange. The aim of the unit is to provide the fundamentals of signals, systems and communication systems. The mathematical principles of signal theory and systems theory will be applied within a communication theory context. The unit will provide the students with the tools to analyse and solve complex open-ended communication problems and to evaluate the technological constraints of the proposed solutions.
20 credits - Systems Engineering and Object Oriented Programming
-
Engineering applications in manufacturing, aerospace, robotics, energy, finance, healthcare and a host of other areas are predominantly computer based or computer controlled. In order to be able to create computer based and computer controlled applications, students need to acquire understanding of and proficiency in working across the systems engineering lifecycle. This module builds on the first year undergraduate learning objectives relevant to systems Engineering, to develop further students' skills in the design and development of computer based and software dominated systems. There will be an emphasis on the systems engineering lifecycle (requirements capture, architecture definition, sub-system design and testing, integration, implementation and validation) and project management. Students will use UML/SysML to model systems. C++ will be introduced for algorithmic problem solving. Quality, risk and reliability associated with engineering systems will be explored.
20 credits - Systems Engineering Mathematics II
-
This module provides an introduction to the use of analytical mathematical techniques and numerical methods and algorithms for subsequent higher level module studies and for solving a wide range of engineering problems as well. Students will develop their skills in the theory and application of core mathematics tools required for systems engineering and the application of these in system simulation and data based modelling. A brief summary of topics covered includes: complex variables and Fourier transforms, analysis of matrices and systems represented by matrices, optimisation of functions of many variables, probability, numerical integration techniques and data modelling and analysis. The module is embedded throughout with engineering examples using the mathematical techniques.
20 credits - Computer Problem Solving and Object Oriented Design
-
The first part of this module introduces basic concepts of computer programming, through an introduction to problem solving and the development of simple algorithms using the programming language Python. The module will stress the importance of good programming style and good code design and will introduce how an object-oriented approach can help to achieve these aims. The second part of this module introduces some of the fundamental principles of object oriented programming and software engineering using the Java Programming Language. In particular it covers the principles that underlie the structuring of software and introduces models of real-world systems. Techniques for developing sound programming techniques are introduced and applied.
20 credits - Engineering - You're Hired
-
The Faculty-wide Engineering - You're Hired Week is a compulsory part of the second year programme, and the week has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of about six, students will work in interdisciplinary teams on a real world problem over an intensive week-long project. The projects are based on problems provided by industrial partners, and students will come up with ideas to solve them and proposals for a project to develop these ideas further.
Core modules:
- State-Space Control Design
-
The aims of this modules are: to introduce state-space methods for the analysis and design of controllers for multivariable systems; to teach the use of analytical tools and methods for state-space control design; to demonstrate similarities between continuous and sampled data systems; and to extend the analysis to non-linear systems.
10 credits
Material to be covered includes: Structural properties (modal decomposition, controllability, observability, stability); design (pole assignment, observer design, separation principle, internal model principle, optimal control, LQG, reference tracking, integral control) of continuous systems and equivalents for sampled-data systems. - Digital Signal Processing
-
The aim is to introduce students to digital processing techniques, including sampling and analysis of digital signals, design of digital filers, and the introduction of digital image processing. Discrete signals and systems are studied, with an emphasis on the frequency-domain theory necessary for the analysis of discrete signals and design of digital filters. The concepts associated with digital images and some basic digital image processing operations are also covered.Â
10 credits - Intelligent Systems
-
This module will introduce students to the theme of intelligent systems with special applications to modelling, control, and pattern recognition. Although this technological area can be perceived as being broad, the focus will mainly be on Fuzzy Systems and on interesting synergies such as those between Fuzzy Systems and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), including the Neuro-Fuzzy architecture. This module should appeal to all students from engineering as well as from science backgrounds who wish to learn more about Artificial Intelligence and Machine-Learning related paradigms, and mostly, how may the related architectures be applied effectively to solve real-world problems, i.e. non-linear, noisy, and the ones that are characterised by uncertainties. This unit is also timely indeed, since knowledge transfer from human to machine and from machine to human and knowledge extraction from data (Big Data) are seen particularly, as vital components for a successful economy, healthy well-being, and clean environment. Finally, the module strikes the too-often difficult balance between theoretical foundations and examples of applications via weekly interactive lectures, laboratory experiments, video demonstrations, and problem solving.
10 credits - Group Project
-
This module provides students with the opportunity to work as a group on a substantial project of relevance to systems and control engineering. Students will gain practical experience of all aspects of the systems lifecycle, from problem formulation and requirements capture, through design and build activities, and subsequent verification and validation. Each project will have a synthetic customer and students must deliver within time and budget constraints. Students will have the opportunity to develop their communication skills in written and oral forms, including a practical demonstration of the system they have built. Students will also be encouraged to reflect on the individual and group contributions they are making.
30 credits - Systems Design and Security
-
This module provides a grounding in software systems design, highlighting security issues. Topics include: choice of software lifecycle, customer-developer interaction, requirements capture, information management, database design, functional design, design patterns, software architectures, user interfaces, data validation, software verification and testing. Security topics include: threats, countermeasures, policies and technologies. The lectures are complemented by an integrating team-project. This 20-credit unit prepares students to participate in the Software Hut (COM3420) in the Spring.
20 credits - Accounting and Law for Engineers
-
The module is designed to introduce engineering students to key areas of accounting and legal risk that engineers should be aware of in their working environment. The module will draw directly on practical issues of budgeting, assessing financial risks and making financial decisions in the context of engineering projects and/or product development. At the same time, the module will develop students' understanding of the legal aspects of entering into contracts for the development and delivery of engineering projects and products, and enhance their awareness of environmental regulation, liability for negligence, intellectual property rights and the importance of data protection. Through a series of parallel running lectures in the two disciplines, the module will provide a working knowledge of the two areas and how they impinge on engineering practice.
10 credits
Optional modules:
- System Identification
-
Modelling dynamical systems from first principles via Newton's, Kirchoff's or other known physical laws is often challenging and costly, requiring substantial expertise. An alternative is offered through 'system identification' that takes observations of inputs and outputs from physical systems and infers or estimates a dynamical model directly.
10 credits
This module introduces two main ways of thinking about the identification problem, the theoretical framework that underpins them and the algorithms that compute the model estimates. It uses synthetic and real problems to illustrate the process and shows how models can be validated for future use. - Space Systems Engineering
-
The module aims to introduce different mission types including communications, earth observation, weather, navigation, astronomy, scientific, interplanetary missions and space stations. Concepts of orbital motion such as Kepler Laws, Elliptic, Parabolic and Hyperbolic orbits are introduced. Hohmann orbit transfer, ground station visibility, launch windows are explained. The module provides an understanding of spacecraft sub-systems and control including attitude control and thermal control, as well as providing knowledge of propulsion systems for example chemical rockets, electric propulsion, nuclear rockets, and solar sails. Various concepts related to space environment are explored including, sun, solar wind, solar cycles, magnetosphere, magnetic storms, and geomagnetic indices. The module explains space weather phenomena and concepts. The module considers ground induced current and its effect on modern technological systems. Methodology that is used to forecast of space weather parameters are discussed.
10 credits - Robotics
-
The module aims to explore robotic systems, both historically and as an area of rapid contemporary development. Students will be introduced to the different types and applications of robotic systems. An emphasis is placed on modelling and simulation. Sensing and actuation is also covered, with a focus on control of robot manipulators. Students will be exposed to a wide range of practical applications of robotic systems, and encouraged to discuss and reflect on the implications of using robots (e.g. ethical considerations, safety, social and economic impacts).
10 credits - Biomechatronics
-
There are a wide range of important healthcare challenges in the 21st Century, such as the aging population, stroke, paralysis and the loss of limbs, which can be treated using biomechatronic devices such as exoskeletons, active prosthetic limbs and brain computer interfaces.
10 credits
'Biomechatronics' describes the integration of the human body with engineered devices composed of electronic, mechanical and control components (mechatronics) for the purposes of
(i) emulating and replacing natural human function lost through disease or accident and/or
(ii) augmenting natural human function to generate superhuman abilities.
The biomechatronics module will cover the subject of biomechatronics in theory and practical application, and span the main core topics of: neural control, biomedical signals, sensors and actuators. - Machine Learning
-
Machine learning is a component of artificial intelligence that enables a computer to learn how to perform a task from data or simulations rather than being explicitly programmed for every possible scenario. Machine learning is currently being applied in a number of fields including finance, robotics and autonomous systems and bioinformatics and has experienced a huge growth in industry in recent years. This module introduces the key foundational elements of machine learning, including: regression, classification and reinforcement learning. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and labs, where there is an emphasis on practical implementation of different methods.
10 credits - Design of Medical Devices and Implants
-
The purpose of this module is for students to gain knowledge and experience in designing medical and assistive devices and implants, which underlines the role played by a Biomedical Engineer/Bioengineer. Topics include a survey of world health and clinical problems, the need for solutions in the developed, developing and underdeveloped countries; the principles of medical device and implant design; design parameters and specifications; design for an assistive product, engineering analysis; preclinical testing for safety and efficacy, risk/benefit ratio assessment, evaluation of clinical performance and design of clinical trials. Case studies and topical discussions are used to aid further understanding of specific topics.
10 credits - The Internet of Things
-
Low cost networked computers add eyes and ears (or sensors) and arms, legs and voices (or actuators) to the Internet. These devices are then connected to on-line 'brains' (using big data, machine learning and analytics in the cloud). This field is called the Internet of Things (IoT). Will the result be a 'world robot'?! No matter, in a world of many more devices than people, engineers who know how the new tech works and how to secure it will be in high demand. The COM3505 module covers the context and history of the IoT, the hardware, communications protocols and security systems it relies on, and the cloud-side analytics that make sense of the data produced. It gives practical hands-on experience of common IoT devices (sensors, actuators, microcontrollers), and look at a range of commercial platforms. Each student is given an ESP32 wifi microcontroller to keep and we program live IoT applications using that device. Students will have the opportunity to use the Diamond electronics lab and the iForge project space to complete their own IoT device with a range of hardware and capabilities. [Students should be competent programmers to take this course, be ok using Git and the command-line, and be aware that there are limited places available.]
10 credits - Antennas, Radar and Navigation
-
This module is about understanding the fundamentals and common applications of antennas and radar systems. The basic characteristics of some of the commonly used antennas, and antenna systems, will be examined in the context of practical design and application. The radar part of the module will introduce the basic concepts of radar and examine various types of commercial and military radar system in common use. The application of radar and other methods in airborne navigation and landing systems will be discussed. Throughout the module emphasis will be placed on 'first-order' analysis techniques in order to reduce the use of advanced mathematics.
10 credits - Reinforcement Learning
-
This module aims to teach students the theory and implementation of reinforcement learning. Topics include: Supervised learning: the backpropagation algorithm (as prerequisite for Deep reinforcement learning). Reinforcement Learning:Â Temporal Difference Learning (Q learning, SARSA), Deep Reinforcement Learning, Advanced Topics. As well as the material taught in class, students are expected to self-study relevant books and research articles and produce reports in research article styles.
10 credits
Core module:
- Year in Industry
-
The course enables students to spend, typically, their third year of a BEng or fourth year of an MEng working in a 'course relevant' role in industry. This provides them with wide ranging experiences and opportunities that put their academic studies into context and improve their skills and employability. Students will also benefit from experiencing the culture in industry, making contacts, and the placement will support them in their preparation for subsequent employment.
120 credits
Core modules:
- Cybersecurity for control systems
-
The increase of sensing, computing, and communication technologies on control systems is enabling a host of new applications and services but it also opens the door to cybersecurity threats. Realizing the promise of secure control systems requires the development of analysis tools and design guidelines that integrate security guarantees in the performance characterization of the control system. This module aims to lay the theoretical foundations for secure control system design problems while explicitly teaching students how to account for the operational and practical constraints posed by real control systems.
15 credits - Real-Time Embedded Systems
-
Many systems, for example; a control system, fault detection system or health monitoring system are required to work in real-time. Such systems can be developed and implemented using a CPU and external devices in an embedded system application/device to perform the desired tasks in the 'real' world. This module covers the hardware associated with building an embedded system and how the desired functionality and thus real-time operation of an embedded system can be realised through software/hardware.
15 credits - Advanced Project
-
This module provides the opportunity for you to undertake an advanced piece of project work on an individual basis. The project will enhance knowledge and skills, to an advanced level, in the following areas: critical evaluation of technical literature; project planning and management; deepening knowledge in one or more technical areas; initiative, creativity and stamina in solving problems; and developing the ability to convey technical information in both orally and in written forms.
45 credits
Optional modules:
- Optimal Control
-
The module teaches how to design optimal controllers. It starts by explaining the main ideas of infinite-dimensional optimization. In particular, it introduces the Calculus of Variations, a field of mathematics used to find maxima/minima of mappings defined on functions e.g. it allows you to find a trajectory corresponding to the minimum energy/fuel waste. This theory is then used to develop tools for designing optimal controllers. Namely, the maximum principle and dynamic programming are introduced. The module is supported by extensive examples and home assignments that will help you to learn how to apply all the covered techniques.
15 credits - Deep Learning
-
An important field within artificial intelligence is machine learning, which enables systems to learn from data rather than being explicitly programmed to solve a task. Conventional machine learning algorithms tend to rely on a human to carefully engineer and extract features to present to a machine learning algorithm, which can be time-consuming and difficult. A deep learning system, by contrast, takes raw data as input and learns to extract features automatically. This approach has led to significant improvements in processing images, video, speech and audio. Deep learning has also had an impact on the design of intelligent agents, giving rise to the area of deep reinforcement learning, which is where an agent learns in a reward-based framework. An example of deep reinforcement learning is where the Google DeepMind team designed an agent that learned to play Atari computer games to better-than-human-expert level.
15 credits - Machine Vision
-
The module gives knowledge of machine vision methods for a broad range of applications. It introduces you to image and video processing models and methods and provides you with skills on how to embed them in autonomous systems. You will be able to apply the acquired knowledge to both industrial and research areas.
15 credits - Rapid Control Prototyping
-
This module represents an opportunity for you to gain hands-on experience of designing and implementing advanced controllers upon a challenging, real-world control problem. Uniquely, you will be issued with your own, portable control hardware for the duration of the course. You will learn how to interface such a system to industry-standard software using a data acquisition device, before developing your own simulation models of the hardware. These models will be used to synthesise a feedback controller, and verified in simulation before being implemented upon the hardware. The resultant controller will then be refined in a cycle of rapid control prototyping.
15 credits - Advanced Control
-
The aim of this module is to provide you with an introduction to some of the advanced control techniques used in modern control engineering research and industrial applications. The module will cover both theory and practice, involving analysis and design.
15 credits
Different control techniques and applications may be covered in different years. In all cases, the basic principles and concepts of a particular control technique will be introduced, and comparisons and contrasts will be made with other techniques. Subsequently, the design, analysis and implementation of advanced controllers or control laws will be covered, starting from the requirements of the basic control problem for the application at hand (i.e. stability in the presence of constraints; disturbance and noise rejection). Controller design will be illustrated by industrially-relevant case studies. - Mobile Robotics and Autonomous Systems
-
Robotics and autonomous systems are having an increasing impact on society and the way we live. From advanced manufacturing and surgical robots to unmanned aerial systems and driverless cars, this exciting area is presenting increasing technological challenges. This module provides you with the advanced knowledge and understanding to apply control and systems engineering concepts to the closely related disciplines of robotics and autonomous systems. The module covers theoretical and technical analysis, and design aspects of mobile and manipulator robots with reference to their applications. The module further covers advanced techniques in autonomous decision making for robots and autonomous vehicles.
15 credits - Advanced Space Systems and Space Weather
-
The module provides you with an understanding of the concept advanced space systems, within the context of space weather and processes in the geo-space that can have hazardous effects on modern ground based and space based technological systems. It covers knowledge about susceptibility of services such as power supply, communications, transportation and navigation to space weather events, and introduces methodologies for space weather forecast based on systems engineering approaches from first principles. The module also provides knowledge of the requirements for transferring forecasting models into operational tools for space weather forecasting, before covering how space weather forecasting can assist in mitigating adverse effects of space weather.
15 credits - Agent-Based Modelling and Multi-Agent Systems
-
This module introduces multi-agent systems and agent-based modelling. It will motivate the many diverse types of complex adaptive system that can be represented and simulated by these approaches (including engineering applications, artificial intelligence and socio-technical systems). The module introduces a set of key theories, methods and tools in the domain of multi-agent systems and agent-based models. You will gain experience of implementing agent-based simulations in state-of-the-art software, building on your experience in object-oriented programming and agile software development methods.
15 credits - Optimisation: Theory, algorithms and applications
-
This unit provides detailed presentations on the use of numerical optimisation and search methods for a wide range of engineering problems. Traditional approaches drawn from Operations Research will be enhanced by topics based on recent developments in heuristic methods, such as evolutionary computing, e.g. genetic algorithms and swarm intelligence.
15 credits - Data Modelling and Machine Intelligence
-
All of our lives are affected by machine intelligence and data models - Google is a very visible example. But if you are a victim of identity theft, if you want a loan to buy a house or if you want to pass through immigration at an airport, a model derived from data using some form of machine learning technique will be involved.
15 credits
Engineers increasingly look to machine intelligence techniques such as neural networks and other machine learning methods to solve problems that are not amenable to conventional analysis e.g. by application of Newton's and Kirchhoff's laws, and other physical principles. Instead they use measurements of system variables to compute a model of the process that can then be used in design, analysis and forecasting. System identification is a specific example of data modelling.
We will look at the underlying principles of machine learning, the advantages and limitations of the various approaches and effective ways of applying them with the aim of making you a competent practitioner. - 3D Computer Graphics
-
This module is an introduction to the techniques used in modern 3D computer graphics. It deals with fundamental techniques that are the basis of work in a range of industries, e.g. entertainment and computer-aided design. Both basic and advanced topics concerned with the production of images of abstract 3D objects are covered, including: 3D representations and manipulations in graphics, light reflection models, realism techniques such as shadows and textures, ray tracing and 3D animation. Students should be aware that there are limited places available on this course.
15 credits - Testing and verification in safety-critical systems
-
This module provides an introduction to the processes and problems of building complex software such as for use in aerospace applications. Topics covered can be split into four major groups: safety, specification languages, concepts of software engineering, different methods of software testing. A substantial amount of time will be spent on the ideas of software testing and specific testing techniques.
15 credits
1. Safety includes software and systems safety, methods of performing hazard analysis, human factors and the IEC 61508 standard.
2. Specification languages such as Statecharts.
3. Software engineering concepts focus on the software lifecycle, safe language subsets, software testing and maintenance.
4. The software testing part is concerned with advanced approaches to generating software tests.Students should be aware that there are limited places available on this course.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
You'll learn through a combination of lectures, practical labs and tutorials and independent study. By the end of your first year you'll have learnt the full range of core foundations for control and systems engineering, as well as broader engineering skills. Our teaching is based on a systematic and structured approach to support your learning.
Laboratory and professional skills are strongly integrated within the taught modules, and you'll undertake your laboratory work in our award-winning Diamond building, using the latest equipment and technologies.
Our academic and research staff are world leaders in the study of robotics, signal processing and intelligent systems. The teaching you will receive is based on the latest thinking and we regularly introduce new modules in response to current developments in research and demands in the careers market.
Assessment
You will be assessed by a combination of exams and tests, coursework and practical work. The proportions for each will vary depending on the modules you choose.
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access 91Ö±²¥, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAA
including Maths and a science
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- AAB, including Maths and a science + B in a relevant EPQ; AAB including Maths and a science + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
- International Baccalaureate
- 36, with 6 in Higher Level Maths and a science
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
- BTEC Diploma
- DD in Engineering or Applied Science + A in A Level Maths
- T Level
- Distinction in the relevant T Level, including grade A in the core component + B in A Level Maths
- Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers
- AAABB + AA in Maths and a science
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- A + AA in Maths and a science
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction and 6 at Merit
-
Relevant T Level subjects include: Maintenance, Installation & Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing; Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing & Control; Digital Production, Design & Development; or Design & Development for Engineering & Manufacturing
-
Science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electronics, Engineering, Further Maths, Physics, or Technology
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAB
including Maths and a science
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- AAB, including Maths and a science + B in a relevant EPQ; AAB including Maths and a science + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
- International Baccalaureate
- 34, with 6, 5 (in any order) in Higher Level Maths and a science
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
- BTEC Diploma
- DD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
- T Level
- Distinction in the relevant T Level, including grade A in the core component + B in A Level Maths
- Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers
- AABBB + AB in Maths and a science
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + AA in Maths and a science
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
-
Relevant T Level subjects include: Maintenance, Installation & Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing; Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing & Control; Digital Production, Design & Development; or Design & Development for Engineering & Manufacturing
-
Science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electronics, Engineering, Further Maths, Physics, or Technology
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.
Graduate careers
School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Our courses prepare you for a career where you'll apply your creative problem-solving skills and your understanding of engineering principles to the real world, while working in multidisciplinary teams. These transferable skills can be applied in many sectors across the breadth of engineering and beyond.
During your degree you'll have plenty of opportunities to enhance your employability. You can choose to go on a placement in industry, either during the summer or as a year in industry. Or you could consider studying abroad, either for a full year, or as part of a summer school.
We also have extracurricular projects where you can work with other engineering and science students to design and build rockets, submersible robots, autonomous payloads for satellites, rovers and more. You could also take part in a scheme for undergraduates where you work on research projects with academics over the summer period.
Graduates from all of our courses are highly employable and work all over the world for companies such as Arup, Rolls-Royce, Boeing, Jaguar Land Rover, Thales and IBM. They go on to become professional engineers in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, power generation and sustainable energy.
School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
The National Student Survey 2021
Graduate Outcomes 2020
We are home to the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre and have research contracts with major institutions like the European Space Agency, as well as our many academic and industrial partners. These connections mean our teaching is based on the latest thinking.
Facilities
Our facilities include a robotics and automation lab and a control and power systems laboratory, as well as a state-of-the-art electronics and control lab in the Diamond.
University rankings
Number one in the Russell Group
National Student Survey 2024 (based on aggregate responses)
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year and best for Student Life
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024
Number one Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union
StudentCrowd 2024 University Awards
A top 20 university targeted by employers
The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report
A top-100 university: 12th in the UK and 98th in the world
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
Student profiles
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Additional funding
Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering scholarships
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what 91Ö±²¥ has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
Contact us
- Telephone
- +44 114 222 5382
- study@sheffield.ac.uk
The awarding body for this course is the University of 91Ö±²¥.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read and the .
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.