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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
South East Technological UniversityThe BSc (Hons) in Computer Science (Automotive & Automation Systems) at South East Technological University is a dynamic four-year honours degree that blends software engineering with cutting-edge automotive and automation technologies, preparing you for the future of smart vehicles and industrial systems. This programme is ideal for students who enjoy programming and want to create sophisticated embedded software for driver-assist features, automated manufacturing, and connected car technologies.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In the first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in core computing and scientific principles. You’ll learn programming through modules like Programming Fundamentals 1 and 2, explore hardware concepts in Computer Systems 1 and 2, and develop basic web skills in Website Development and Web App Development. Mathematics, physics, and an introduction to automotive software concepts prepare you for the technical challenges ahead.
Year 2
Year two takes you deeper into core computing concepts and real-world engineering practice. You’ll study Data Structures and Algorithms 1 and 2 to sharpen problem-solving skills, and explore Relational Databases, Software Engineering Practice, Computer Networks, and Applied Cryptology. Modules in Embedded Systems and Programmable Logic Controllers introduce you to the hardware-software interface crucial for automotive and automation applications.
Year 3
In year three, you’ll refine your software skills and gain professional experience. Advanced web and software modules, such as Web App Development 2, are complemented by optional modules like NoSQL Databases or Developer Operations. Professional Practice and opportunities for Industrial Placement provide real industry experience, and you may also choose to study abroad or earn additional professional certifications.
Year 4
Your final year focuses on specialisation and a major project. Key modules include The Connected Car, Automotive Software Development, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, and Distributed Systems. You will also complete a substantial two-semester project where you apply your knowledge to design and deliver real software solutions.
Focus Areas
Embedded systems, automotive software design, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), industrial automation, software engineering, networking, data mining, and mobile/distributed systems.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to design, develop, and test embedded and software systems for automotive and automation contexts, apply core computer science principles to real problems, integrate software with modern hardware platforms, and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This is a Level 8 Honours Bachelor’s degree awarded by South East Technological University under the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), ensuring recognition across Europe and beyond for mobility and employment.
Reputation (Employability)
SETU is recognised for producing highly employable graduates, with computing alumni in demand across Ireland and internationally. Many students secure employment or industry placements before their final year concludes, thanks to strong industry links and practical, project-based learning. The university is known for applied research and student engagement, supporting both career readiness and further study pathways.
At SETU, experiential learning is at the heart of the Automotive & Automation Systems programme, so you won’t just study theory—you’ll get hands-on experience with the tools and technologies used by professionals every day. Students gain practical skills through industry-standard software, dedicated laboratories, group projects, and opportunities for real-world work placements. You will also benefit from close links with industry partners and research groups, giving you a chance to see how classroom learning translates directly into career-ready abilities.
Some of the ways you’ll gain practical experience include:
Automotive Systems Laboratory: A dedicated lab equipped with hardware and professional tools used by automotive engineers, including AUTOSAR, Vector CANoe, DaVinci toolsets, CAN, FlexRay, and Automotive Ethernet.
Industry-standard Tools and Software: Work with embedded systems and development environments used by car manufacturers and automation companies.
Industrial Placement Opportunity: In your third year, take a placement with a company where you apply your automotive software skills in a professional setting.
Professional Practice and Projects: Modules like Professional Practice and the year-long Final Project give you structured opportunities to work on team projects, solve real-world problems, and showcase your technical and professional skills.
Study Abroad Exchange: Option to complete your industrial placement abroad, gaining experience in an international setting and exposure to automotive research projects.
Research Integration: Access to research groups such as the Automotive Control Group, working on areas like model-based development and advanced driver assistance systems.
Supportive Learning Environments: Access to computing and learning resource centres, fully supported libraries, and multi-disciplinary facilities that enhance your practical and project work throughout the programme.
Graduates from this programme go on to exciting careers designing and building the software that powers the next generation of smart cars and automated systems. Typical roles include Automotive Software Developer, Embedded Systems Developer in automation or robotics industries, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) Developer, and Systems Integration Specialist with major manufacturers and suppliers:
Career Support Services: SETU’s Careers Development Centre provides tailored help with CV preparation, interview practice, networking events, job fairs, and personalised career coaching to support students as they move into employment. These services are available throughout your studies and after graduation.
Employment Statistics: Computing graduates at the university have very strong employment outcomes, with a high percentage in work or further study within six months of completing their degree. Starting salaries for computing and IT roles in Ireland are competitive, reflecting strong demand for these skills.
University–Industry Partnerships: The programme works closely with leading automotive software suppliers in Ireland, the UK, and Germany. Students use the same industry-standard tools in the laboratories that major car manufacturers rely on, and these partnerships also help with placements and job opportunities.
Accreditation Value: This is a Level 8 Honours degree recognised on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, which supports graduate mobility across Europe and adds long-term professional credibility.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates leave with specialist skills in embedded systems, automotive software design, automation, and control engineering, making them highly employable in automotive, aerospace, industrial automation, robotics, and other software-driven industries.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this honours degree, students can continue their studies through postgraduate options such as a Master’s in computing or automotive systems. There are also opportunities for PhD research, which can lead to careers in advanced research, development leadership, or higher education.
Leaving Certificate applicants must have 2 subjects at H5, 4 subjects at O6 or H7, including English or Irish at O6/H7 and Mathematics at O3/H7.A minimum of 2 GCE A-Level subjects at Grade C and 4 GCSE subjects at Grade C is required; Applied A-Levels or vocational subjects are not accepted, and while GCSEs or O Levels may be used for matriculation, they do not carry points.An IB Diploma with a minimum of 24 points overall, including at least 12 points from Higher Level subjects and 9 points from Standard Level subjects, is required.English language requirements: IELTS Academic 5.5 (minimum 5 in each component), TOEFL CBT 196 (minimum 15 per section), TOEFL iBT 70 (minimum 15 per section), or TOEFL PBT 550Applicants must have Higher Secondary Certificate / Standard 12 (including ISC or Intermediate Examination) with a minimum average grade of 60%.Applicants must hold a USA High School Equivalency Diploma or GED with a minimum average grade of 60%, with SAT, ACT, or AP scores considered where available.Applicants must hold a Senior Secondary School Graduation Certificate from China with a minimum average grade of 60%.Automotive Software DeveloperEmbedded Systems Developer in the automation robotics and medical devices industriesSystem Integration Specialist with major car manufacturers and suppliersControl Systems Developer for motor sport teamsAdvanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) DeveloperProcess Control Software Developer for factory automation and robotic assembly linesSoftware Engineer in automotive technology firmsEmbedded Software TesterAutomotive Systems AnalystTechnical Support Engineer for automotive software toolsRobotics and Automation Technician
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