Software and Electronic Systems Engineering (sandwich)

The BSc in Software and Electronic Systems Engineering (Sandwich) at Queen's University Belfast offers students a comprehensive and industry-focused education in the fields of software development, electronic systems, and engineering principles. This academically rigorous program is designed to equip students with the technical skills, practical experience, and theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving technology sector. The course combines core concepts of software engineering, embedded systems, digital electronics, and hardware design, providing a multidisciplinary approach that prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in electronics, software development, telecommunications, and embedded systems industries.

Throughout the program, students engage with hands-on laboratory work, industry projects, and collaborative assignments that foster problem-solving and innovation. The curriculum covers essential topics such as programming languages, system architecture, digital design, robotics, and IoT (Internet of Things), ensuring learners gain expertise in designing, developing, and managing complex electronic and software systems. The sandwich element of the course typically involves a year spent gaining practical industrial experience through placements or internships, allowing students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional skills, and build valuable industry contacts.

Queen's University Belfast maintains strong links with local, national, and international industry partners, enhancing the employability of graduates upon completion. The program’s emphasis on both theoretical understanding and practical application ensures that students are prepared for roles in software engineering, electronic systems design, system integration, and technical consultancy. Graduates of this program often progress to careers in sectors such as aerospace, healthcare technology, automotive electronics, and telecommunications, or may choose to undertake further study at postgraduate level.

Overall, the Bachelor’s in Software and Electronic Systems Engineering (Sandwich) at Queen’s University Belfast aims to produce highly skilled, innovative, and adaptable engineers ready to meet the technological challenges of tomorrow’s digital world. The vibrant campus environment, combined with state-of-the-art laboratories and strong industry connections, makes this program an excellent choice for aspiring engineers seeking a comprehensive education that bridges software and electronic systems disciplines.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

BEng

This degree requires three years of full-time study plus an optional sandwich year in industry. This professional experience year is usually taken after Stage 2 and students may gain a Licentiateship of the City & Guilds from this period of work. Transfer from the BEng degree to the MEng degree is possible subject to satisfactory performance.

Stage 1

Circuits and Communications
Design Projects
Electronic Circuits and Devices
Embedded Systems
Mathematics
Object-oriented Programming

Stage 2

Data Structures and Algorithms, or Software Engineering and Project
Design Projects
Embedded Systems
Mathematics
plus two optional modules

Stage 3

Individual Project
Professional Studies
Four optional modules with specialist modules available such as Connected Health, Computer Vision and Pervasive Systems

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

BEng

• A-level BBB including Mathematics and either a Science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Design/Technology, Electronics, Geography, ICT or Physics) or Double Award Applied Science.
• BTEC Extended Diploma A relevant BTEC Extended Diploma with 10 Distinctions and 8 Merits. Distinctions will be required in stipulated relevant units.
• Higher National Diploma Those with good grades in a relevant Higher National Diploma will be considered on their individual merits for entry to Stage 2.
• Irish Leaving Certificate B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Mathematics and a Science subject (see list under A-level requirements).

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 Queen's University Belfast.

The Bachelor of Engineering (Sandwich) in Software and Electronic Systems Engineering at Queen's University Belfast is a four-year undergraduate program designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the fields of software development, electronic systems, and embedded systems engineering. The "sandwich" status of the program indicates that it includes an industrial placement or sandwich year, typically undertaken between the second and third years, providing students with valuable work experience in industry settings. This integrated approach aims to enhance employability and ensure that graduates are well-prepared for careers in rapidly evolving technology sectors.

The curriculum covers core areas such as digital systems design, microprocessors, embedded systems, software engineering, signal processing, and telecommunications. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, projects, and industry placements, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical understanding. The program also emphasizes design, research methods, and teamwork, preparing students for collaborative work environments and problem-solving challenges in software and hardware development.

Queen's University Belfast has state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities for electronics, robotics, and computing, which support the practical components of the program. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects, competitive engineering challenges, and industry partnerships, all of which contribute to an enriched learning experience. The program is accredited by relevant engineering bodies, ensuring that graduates meet professional standards and are eligible for Chartered Engineer status after fulfilling additional requirements.

Graduates of this program have career opportunities across a range of sectors including embedded systems, telecommunications, aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics. They may work as embedded systems engineers, software developers, systems designers, or in research and development roles. The program also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in engineering or related disciplines. Overall, this program aims to produce versatile engineers equipped with the skills needed to innovate and lead in the fields of software and electronic systems.

(Please note that the above text is composed based on typical features of similar programs at Queen's University Belfast and general information, as official specific details about the "software and electronic systems engineering (sandwich)" program are limited.)