Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry

The BSc in Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry at the University of Kent is an innovative undergraduate programme designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of modern computer systems, hardware, software, and networking, combined with practical industry experience. This course provides a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for a competitive job market in technology and engineering sectors. Over the duration of the programme, students explore core areas such as computer architecture, embedded systems, software development, systems integration, cybersecurity, and networking protocols, ensuring they gain a deep understanding of how complex computing systems are designed, implemented, and maintained.

A key feature of this course is the Year in Industry, which typically occurs after the second year of study. During this placement, students work in a professional environment related to computer systems engineering, gaining invaluable industry experience, developing professional skills, and applying their academic knowledge to real-world projects. This year often enhances employability prospects significantly, providing students with a competitive edge upon graduation. Throughout their placement, students receive support from both the university and their placement employer, ensuring a mutually beneficial experience.

The programme is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, with opportunities for students to participate in collaborative projects, laboratory work, and research activities. The curriculum also emphasizes emerging technologies such as cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence, reflecting the evolving landscape of computer systems. Students are encouraged to work on industry-related projects, which helps them to develop practical skills in designing, testing, and troubleshooting complex systems.

Course assessments include examinations, coursework, project work, and presentations, enabling students to demonstrate their understanding across a variety of formats. The facilities provided by the University of Kent, including dedicated computer labs and advanced software platforms, support hands-on learning and experimentation. Graduates of this programme graduate with a solid foundation in computer systems engineering, complemented by practical experience gained during their industrial placement, making them well-prepared for careers in software development, systems analysis, network engineering, cybersecurity, and related fields, or for further academic study.

The BSc in Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry at the University of Kent offers a dynamic, industry-focused education that aims to produce highly employable graduates capable of innovating and leading in the field of computer systems. The programme is ideal for students passionate about technology, eager to develop their technical expertise, and interested in gaining real-world experience to kick-start their careers in a fast-paced and ever-changing industry.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 14860 Year (Non-EEA)

• Total Kent credits: 360
• Total ECTS credits: 180

• Total Kent credits: 360
• Total ECTS credits: 180

• English

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

CO320 - Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming

CO322 - Foundations of Computing I

CO323 - Databases and the Web

CO324 - Computer Systems

CO328 - Human Computer Interaction

CO329 - Computer Applications

CO333 - Applications Project

CO334 - People and Computing

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

CO520 - Further Object-Oriented Programming

CO532 - Database Systems

CO539 - Web Development

CO544 - Networking

CO546 - Information Systems Analysis

CO547 - Agile Software Development

CO548 - Software Engineering Process

CO655 - Software Project

Year in industry

There are year in industry options on all of our programmes. The School of Computing’s dedicated Placement Team help you find a placement and support you during the year. Our students go to a wide range of companies, including IBM, Intel and Thomson Reuters, or overseas to employers in locations including Amsterdam, Hong Kong and the USA.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

• A level:ABB
• GCSE:C in Mathematics
• Access to HE Diploma:The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma):Distinction, Distinction, Merit International Baccalaureate:34 points overall or 16 at HL including Mathematics 4 at HL or SL

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

The BSc Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry at the University of Kent is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a robust understanding of computer systems, networks, software engineering, and hardware design. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in various technology sectors. The inclusion of a year in industry offers students valuable real-world experience, enhancing employability upon graduation. Throughout the program, students explore core areas such as programming languages, systems architecture, networking, cybersecurity, and database management, ensuring a well-rounded education in computing. The course structure is modular, allowing students to tailor their learning to their interests and career goals, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories. The university emphasizes a strong foundation in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills, which are vital in the technology industry. During the industrial year, students typically undertake placements in relevant organizations, working on projects that can range from developing software solutions to optimizing network infrastructure. This year in industry not only provides practical experience but also helps students build professional networks and gain insight into industry standards and practices. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for roles such as software developer, systems analyst, network engineer, cybersecurity specialist, and hardware designer. The University of Kent’s strong links with industry partners and a focus on applied learning ensure that students are equipped with the skills needed in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Overall, this program offers a challenging and rewarding educational experience, combining academic rigour with industry relevance to foster the next generation of computer systems engineers.