Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry

Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry at the University of Kent is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the design, development, and maintenance of complex computer systems. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving tech industry. Throughout the programme, students explore a wide range of topics including software engineering, hardware systems, computer architecture, embedded systems, networking, and cybersecurity. The course emphasizes the importance of real-world experience, offering students the opportunity to undertake a year-long placement in industry. This year in industry enables students to apply their academic learning in a professional environment, develop valuable industry contacts, and enhance their employability prospects after graduation. The curriculum is structured to provide a balanced mix of lectures, practical sessions, and project work, fostering both technical competence and problem-solving abilities. Students learn to work in team environments, communicate technical concepts effectively, and adapt quickly to technological change. The programme aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also innovative and adaptable, capable of contributing to advancements in computer systems engineering across various sectors including telecommunications, finance, healthcare, and more. Upon completion, students are well-prepared for careers in systems design, software development, network administration, and other roles that require a strong foundation in both hardware and software aspects of computer technology. The course is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that graduates meet industry standards and are recognized as capable professionals in the field of computer systems engineering.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Stage 1

You take the following compulsory modules:

• Introduction to Marketing
• Business Skills and Employability
• Global Business Environment
• Introduction to Business Modelling
• Microeconomics for Business
• Introduction to Management
• Introduction to Statistics for Business
• Financial Accounting, Reporting and Analysis

Stage 2 and 3

All students take the following compulsory modules in Stages 2 and 3:

• Branding
• Buyer Behaviour
• Digital Marketing Applications
• International Marketing
• Marketing Communications
• Marketing Management Project
• Marketing Research
• Marketing Strategy
• Business Ethics and Sustainable Management
• Corporate and Business Strategy
• Creativity, Innovation and Organisation
• Interactive Decision Modelling
• Operations Management

Your remaining modules are selected from a wide range available, including:

• Digital Marketing Strategy
• Introduction to Social Marketing
• New Product Development Marketing
• Contemporary Management Challenges
• Diversity in Organisations
• Enterprise
• Macroeconomics for Business
• Service Management
• Simulation Modelling

All students spend a year in industry, supported by a dedicated placement team and a programme designed to ensure that students gain experience in the functional areas and industries of their choice. For students taking one of the specialist pathways, our strategic partnerships provide opportunities for placements in specific areas.

The placement allows you to experience, first hand, many of the issues addressed in the taught programme and to use the tools, techniques and applications in a real business setting. It will become a vital component of your CV and will give you a distinct advantage over other business graduates.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

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; Mathematics grade C

• 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); The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• 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.

Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry at the University of Kent is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in computing, hardware, and software systems, combined with practical industry experience. The course integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on projects, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in rapidly evolving fields such as software development, hardware design, networking, and embedded systems. Throughout the degree, students explore core modules including programming, algorithms, computer architecture, digital systems, and systems security. A distinctive feature of this program is the Year in Industry, which provides students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, gain valuable professional skills, and build industry contacts. The placement year typically occurs after the second year and involves working with leading technology companies, startups, or research institutions. This practical experience enhances employability upon graduation and enables students to understand industry practices, project management, and collaborative working environments. The program also emphasizes innovative problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills, which are critical in the technology sector. Facilities available to students include modern laboratories equipped with the latest computing hardware and software, collaborative workspaces, and access to advanced simulation tools. The School of Engineering and Digital Arts at the University of Kent maintains strong links with industry partners, facilitating guest lectures, workshops, and placement opportunities. Graduates of the program often progress to careers in software engineering, hardware design, cybersecurity, network administration, or pursue postgraduate studies. The course is designed to be challenging yet rewarding, fostering independent thinking and lifelong learning. With a blend of academic rigor and practical exposure, this program prepares students to meet the demands of a digital economy and contribute effectively to technological innovations.