BEng (Hons) Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering

This course is distinctive in that it teaches the theory of computer engineering and electronics coupled with the required hardware and software tools, computer simulation, laboratory practice, industrial placement and systems engineering approach to design, that enable graduates to be well equipped with desired skills sought after by employers and further to tackle complex engineering projects that are commonplace in our society. Students in this course will develop strong analytical thinking skills and learn empirical and experimental ways of learning.

The full time program consists of modules with a total credit value of 360 credits which are made up of 16 core modules of 20 points each and a final year project module of 40 points. Each year you need to complete 120 credits. The part-time course mode is delivered across 4 years. The breakdown of credits are: Year 1, 80 credits; Year 2, 100 credits; Year 3, 100 credits; Year 4, 80 credits. The part time course usually involves a full day of teaching per week, requiring attendance at the University on one day per week.

In the first year, the course introduces the science and engineering of computers, programming, electronics and digital systems with emphasis on theory, analysis and design. The second year focusses on core unit operations such as discrete mathematics, algorithms, computer architecture, electronics, networking and software design. The final year includes the individual project, in addition to a wide range of taught modules that allow students to focus on some of the more advanced areas of computing such as embedded systems and The Internet of Things, cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering. Your third year placement gives you the chance to further hone your skills by developing of real-world systems in professional environments (sandwich course).

Year 1

• Engineering mathematics and modelling
  This module consolidates the mathematical skills that underpin the BEng engineering degrees. It's specifically designed to cater for the wide differences in mathematical background of 1st year students, as well as to prepare you for the Advanced Engineering Mathematics and Modelling module that you'll take in the second year. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
• Object-oriented programming C++
  This module introduces the syntaxes and semantics of programming language C++ and teaches students the intellectual knowledge in programming principles and programming skills with Object Oriented Programming (OOP) techniques. The practical skills include C++ program design with OOP and the use of the compiling tools for editing, compiling, linking and executing programs in workshops. After learning this module, students can pursue other software engineering and advanced programming courses and use OOP techniques to solve simple engineering problems. This module aims to provide students with intermediate proficiency in the use of the C++ programming languages and further to write efficient OOP programs making use of data classes. Assessment methods: 100% coursework.
• Electrical circuit analysis
  This module is developed to provide students the knowledge of analysing DC and AC electrical circuits. It provides cornerstone skills required in the fields of electrical and electronic engineering, computer systems engineering and mechanical engineering. The course content covers electrical units, measuring instruments, series/parallel DC circuit analysis, storage elements analysis, AC waveforms, R, L, C, RL and RLC AC circuits with phasor analysis, electromagnetism, equivalent circuit of single phase transformer and three phase circuits including Star/Delta winding configurations and analysing the power in the balanced star/delta connected loads with symmetrical three phase supplies. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
• Electronic principles
  This module will help you develop your understanding of essential scientific principles for the study of engineering to degree level. It's designed to be accessible to students with a range of prior science specialisation. The module comprises two blocks of study. These will introduce the principles of measurement systems and units, thermal physics and mechanical and electrical principles. Assessment methods: 40% coursework, 60% exam.
• Digital logic design
  The module covers the fundamental theory for the design of and the practical uses of digital electronics in the two design domains of combinational logic design and sequential logic design. The process of developing digital logic design is modelled using Hardware Description Languages (HDL). The module studies hardware devices to build circuits for digital logic designs and tools to support the design and analysis of those circuits; these include standard logic gates and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA). The module covers common design blocks such as adders, encoders, comparators, data selectors, flip-flops, counters, registers. The module shows the design and implementation of full digital systems typically based around finite state machines from description in HDL to implementation using FPGA technology. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
• Design and practice
  This module will cover material design activities, team work, creative problem-solving, project management, sustainable development principles, personal development planning, report writing communication, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), employability and transferable skills. It's also a work-based module for part-time students, utilising the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) to provide supporting teaching material and assessments. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

Year 2

• Discrete mathematics, data structures and algorithms
  This module introduces the syntaxes and semantics of programming language Java and teaches students the intellectual knowledge in programming principles and programming skills with Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) techniques. It emphasises in Object-oriented problem solving, design, and programming and introduces the data structures and computing algorithms including algorithm design and complexity. Further, this module introduces Discrete Mathematics and structures including concepts of algorithms, induction, recursion, proofs, topics from logic, set theory, combinatorics, graph theory. The practical skills include program design, algorithms and data structures expressed using the Java programming language and further the use of Mathematical Software for Discrete Mathematics. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
• Computer architecture and operating systems
  This module consists of two parts. The first part, Computer Architecture, provides the basic engineering foundations of detailed design and implementation of a digital computer system; designs for the CPU, I/O subsystems, and memory organizations; ALU design and computer arithmetic. Bus, memory organization and interrupt structures, control function implementation, pipelining, performance measurement and further Computer Organisation topics. The second part, Operating Systems, is designed to teach students about the role that the operating system has in computing. It also considers the applications in systems such as distributed, multimedia systems and the role that the OS has in supporting the functioning of these. Students will view the operating system from several vantage points. Assessment methods: 40% coursework, 60% exam.
• Data communications and computer networks
  This module concentrates on teaching students to understand the basics of data communications and networking, and the protocols used in the Internet in particular by using the protocol layering of the Internet and TCP/IP protocol suite. It starts with introducing data communications and defines their components and the types of data exchanged, and then moves on to introduces networks and defines their criteria and structures, discusses different types of networks and finally to discuss the internet’s architecture and protocols as well as other network architectures and wireless communication principles. The module further concentrates on the nature, special problems and current trends towards universal presence of mobile computing. Assessment methods: 40% coursework, 60% exam.
• Analogue electronics
  This module develops advanced techniques in analogue electronic design covering discrete (BJT / FET) and opamp related circuitry design, simulation, prototyping and testing. The aim of this module is to develop broad knowledge and experience in analogue circuit design from first principles and using SPICE related tools. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
• Embedded software design
  This module concentrates on teaching students to understand the basics of embedded systems hardware and software, and to develop the techniques in data acquisition and manipulation required for instrumentation and control applications. Embedded systems hardware and software design for rapid electronic prototyping will be covered. Further, it will solidify lectures with experimental assignment projects based on Arduino microcontroller kits. Specifically, the module will focus on practical interfacing, coding (in C/C++), signal acquisition, processing and display. There will be an independent open-brief project in the last part of the module intended to test the student’s embedded systems design and problem solving skills. Assessment methods: 100% coursework.
• Professional practice and team design project
  This is a skills-based module developing students' understanding of the design process within engineering, including factors that need to be taken into account in identifying and meeting requirements for new products, i.e. outcomes of processes; working within Regulatory, professional and Standards requirements; developing practical skills; working as part of a team; handling information; project planning and management; and report-writing and presentation skills. Assessment methods: 100% coursework.

Year 3

• Optional placement year

Year 4

• Computer systems and software engineering
  This module covers computer systems from database system to advance computer Architectures. It provides a co-ordinated and consistent coverage of theory, design and development of database systems. Then it focuses to the development of modern computer architectures for servers, workstations, hand-held devices, signal processing and embedded systems. Emphasis is given to design approaches and applications of Data-Level Parallelism in Vector, SIMD, and GPU Architectures. This module also provides students with a theoretical understanding and practical experience in software engineering. The module concentrates on the whole life-cycle of a software product, including: requirement analysis, software architecture and design, implementation, quality assurance, maintenance activities. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.
• Cybersecurity and cryptography
  This module provides a thorough discussion on cybersecurity and cryptography. It covers thoroughly computer security, network security, information security and mobile security. It discusses critical network security techniques, including the use of firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection, and enterprise-wide security policies. Network security is a major concern when designing and maintaining modern networks, which typically use open protocols and connect to public networks such as the Internet. Cryptographic algorithms in network protocols and network applications as well as the security of computers against intruders (e.g., hackers) and malicious software (e.g., viruses) are examined. Assessment methods: 40% coursework, 60% exam.
• Artificial intelligence and signal processing
  This module focuses on the signal processing in intelligent systems applications and consists of two parts. The first part, Artificial Intelligence, covers the history and contemporary development of artificial intelligence systems and looks forward to likely near-future developments. It will cover all the major techniques of problem description, knowledge representation and data searching that represent the current toolkit for developing intelligent applications. The second part, Signal Processing, encompass the following: need for and tradeoffs made when sampling and quantizing a signal, linear, time-invariant system properties, frequency as an analysis domain complementary to time, filter design and implementation, control system properties and applications. Assessment methods: 40% coursework, 60% exam.
• Embedded systems and the Internet of Things
  This module presents the nature and characteristics of embedded systems and the Internet of Things (IoT). It presents techniques for embedded applications, parallel input and output, serial communication, interfacing, interrupt handling, applications involving data acquisition, control, sensors, and actuators, embedded microcontrollers, implementation strategies for complex embedded systems. It is discussed advanced challenges in embedded systems design using contemporary practice; interrupt-driven, reactive, real-time, object-oriented and distributed client/server embedded systems. It is further discussed how IoT connects devices and various systems aiming to understand that it is a network of multiple connected physical objects, the things, involving myriad of applications. Assessment methods: 40% coursework, 60% exam.
• BEng project
  The individual major project requires students to plan, execute, review and report upon a major piece of technical work directly related to their degree discipline. In this regard, it provides students with the opportunity to develop a high degree of subject specific expertise. This module differentiates from others on the course taken due to the high degree of autonomous study expected. This flexibility should be seen as an opportunity to explore new areas of interest and to acquire new and often unexpected skills. The work undertaken within the project will require students to develop their own methodologies in advance of presenting solutions to the studied problem. Assessment methods: 100% coursework.

With computers now an essential part of our lives, the demand and opportunities for those who can design computer hardware and develop software applications, manage and service computer systems is only going to continue to grow. Our societies and utilities are driven and controlled by electronic and computer-based systems that could not function without large, professional hardware and software systems - put simply the world cannot function without computers.

Electronic and computer systems engineers work in most industries, including computing and computer programming, automobile, aerospace, telecommunications, networking and network security power production, manufacturing, transport, defence and electronics, embedded systems, health and medicine, research and development, educational sectors. You could design high-tech devices ranging from tiny integrated-circuit chips, to powerful systems that utilise those chips and efficient telecommunication systems.

Likely jobs for graduates include computer network administration under Windows and Unix/Linux, as well as software engineering and design using Java and C++. You could also work independently as a developer, tester or evaluator of any kind of hardware and software application. You'll be able to develop operating systems, compilers, computer games, business applications, computer programs, analyse data and constructing and managing computer systems. In short, you’ll be highly employable in a wide variety of sectors.

LSBU has an enviable reputation for employability and entrepreneurship. Our graduates find opportunities across the world and make an impact wherever they go. The combination of Engineering and LSBU’s focus on high quality teaching and skills development with a vocational drive is key to the success of our graduates. Study with us and doors will open as you embark on the journey that is your career. This course program ensures that graduates have the capacity to meet the needs of employers. This course is producing graduates who are prepared to move into employment with skills and expectations that benefit their employers.

Employability Service

We are University of the Year for Graduate Employment for the second year in a row - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018, 2019.

At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:

• An online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
• Our Careers Gym offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and finding work experience, as well as regular presentations from employers across a range of sectors.

Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.

The course is made up of several modules and each module is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical workshops, computing workshops, all of which amounts to directed teaching (classroom contact). There is a variance in the makeup of the number of hours dedicated to lectures, workshops, but the total number of study hours attracted by each module is dependent on the module weighting in credits. Typically, a 20-credit module, attracts 200 hours of learning which constitutes both directed learning and independent learning.

Further, teaching and learning in this programme ensures that graduates have the capacity to meet the needs of employers behaving as an agent of change, producing graduates who are prepared to move into employment with skills and expectations that benefit their employers. Graduates must be able to keep abreast with changes, and a key requirement of this programme is equipping students with the mechanisms for achieving this. Lifelong learning is considered in this programme, which can foster such attitudes with novel approaches to teaching and learning that continually question and challenge situations and by highlighting opportunities for advances. Final year modules, including the project, can challenge students by exercises that seek to explore new avenues.

Each module has two main assessment components, usually, the Examination and the Coursework.  Each module may have several assessment subcomponents; these may consist of assignments, mini tests, quizzes, essays, laboratory reports, logbooks and examinations of various kinds such as Phase tests. The assessment components for each module are specifically defined and kept up to date in the current Module Guides. To pass a module, students must obtain an overall module mark of no less than 40% and a minimum threshold mark of 30% in each component. The weighting of each component in calculating the overall module mark is given in the Module Guide, and the module leader will often cover the details of this at the beginning of the module.

All students are allocated to a personal tutor – coordinated by the Senior Personal Tutor, as part of Personal Development Plan (PDP). Personal tutoring is embedded in a first year module where students are given the opportunity to learn about the aspects of personal tutoring on their courses. Personal tutoring open surgeries are bookable on demand.

To be considered for entry to the first year of this course applicants will be required to have the following qualifications:

Full-time/Part-time students

• A Level BBB including Mathematics and/or Physical Sciences (120 UCAS points) or;
• BTEC National Diploma DDM, including Level 3 Mathematics (128 UCAS points) or;
• EAL Technical Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies, D, including Further Engineering Mathematics; Electronic and Computer Principles and other options relevant to Electronics and Computer Engineering or;
• Access to HE qualifications with distinctions in 24 credits and merits in 21 credits, with at least 3 distinctions in Mathematics and 3 merits in Physical Science subjects (D24 + M21 totalling to 122 UCAS points) or;
• Equivalent level 3 qualifications worth 120 UCAS points and including Mathematics
• Applicants must hold 5 GCSEs A-C including Maths and English or equivalent (reformed GCSEs grade 4 or above) or;
• We welcome qualifications from around the world. English language qualifications for international students: IELTS score of 6.0 or Cambridge Proficiency or Advanced Grade C, and a Mathematics qualification equivalent to reformed GCSE grade 4 or above, as assessed by UK NARIC

Accredited Prior Learning/Transfer Credit

Applicants may be considered for entry to the second year of the course with the following qualifications.  Applicants will normally be interviewed and may be required to sit a Mathematics test to ensure their preparedness for direct entry.

Full-time/Part-time students

• BTEC Higher National Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering or a closely related subject or;
• DipHE in a directly relevant subject or;
• Transfer of 120 Level 4 credits from a directly equivalent degree course and with the approval of the director of that course or;
• An overseas qualification assessed by UK NARIC as equivalent to at least BTEC HND in a closely related subject and an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.

Applicants may be considered for entry to the third year of the part-time course with the following qualifications and will be interviewed to ensure their preparedness for direct entry

Part-time students

• Foundation Degree (FdEng) in a directly-related subject, or;
• Exceptional performance on the part-time HND in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at London South Bank University with the recommendation of its course director

Applicants may be considered for entry to the final year of the full-time course only under the above circumstances and will be interviewed to ensure their preparedness for direct entry.

Full-time students

• Transfer from another IET-accredited course with the approval of the director of that course

Direct entry to the final year of the part-time course is not possible.

Accredited Prior Experiential Learning

APEL may be taken into account in determining the entry requirements for candidates with relevant work experience but cannot replace the requirement for formal qualifications in Mathematics.

For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.

Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by reading the UKCISA regulations.

See our Tuition Fees Regulations (PDF File 201 KB) and Refund Policy (PDF File 775 KB).

Possible fee changes

The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.

The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees in line with the RPIX measure of inflation up to 4 per cent.

Scholarships

We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on our scholarships page.

The individual fee for this course is shown above. For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for postgraduate students.

See our Tuition Fees Regulations (PDF File 201 KB) and Refund Policy (PDF File 775 KB).

We have a range of PhD Scholarships available in partnership with businesses and organisations; read notices of PhD studentships.