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The Computer Systems Engineering, BEng (Hons) at Brunel University London is a three-year, full-time degree (with a four-year option including a placement year) delivered within the Faculty of Electronic and Electrical Engineering. The programme empowers students to design and implement both hardware and software systems. It integrates computing fundamentals with hands-on electronics, embedded systems, and microcontroller technology—supported by industry-standard labs and project-based learning. The degree is accredited by the IET, fulfilling academic requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1:
You begin with foundational modules essential to both engineering and software development. You’ll take Engineering Practice—developing teamwork, communication, and design project skills—while Engineering Systems and Energy 1 grounds you in applied physics and system modeling. Data and Information introduces data architecture and management, while Introductory Programming for Engineers provides programming and analytical skills. In Internet and Network Technologies, you explore networking fundamentals, while modules like Digital Devices and Systems, Introduction to Electronic and Computer Systems, and Mathematics for Computer Systems equip you with digital electronics, basic computer architecture, and engineering mathematics.
Year 2:
You move into systems-level topics, starting with Computer Architecture and Interfacing, where you study sequential architecture, system constructs, and low-level interfacing. Data Networks and Cyber Security explores network infrastructure and security principles. Object-Oriented Systems and Programming builds advanced software skills in modern languages. Sensors and Automation introduces control and sensing design, while Microcontroller Principles covers microcontroller architecture and embedded programming. Digital Systems Design offers practical digital circuit design using CAD tools, and the Microcontroller Group Design Project reinforces hands-on development and teamwork. Professional Practices and Business for Engineers ensures understanding of enterprise contexts and employability readiness.
Optional Placement Year:
You can extend your degree to four years by adding a placement year, typically between Years 2 and 3. During this industry placement, you gain real-world engineering experience—often paid—and apply your skills in sectors like computing, electronics, or automation. This placement is facilitated by Brunel’s strong industry ties and often leads to graduate job offers. Brunel's proximity to major engineering hubs, including the M4 corridor and central London, enhances access to top companies and career exposure.
Year 3:
In your final year, you’ll take Embedded Systems, learning architectural trade-offs and FPGA-based embedded design approaches. The Individual Project allows you to manage, design, and deliver a substantial piece of technical engineering work. Complementing this is Engineering Management and Quality Engineering, which covers leadership, project management, and quality systems. You’ll also select one or more optional modules based on your interests: Artificial Intelligence Systems, Autonomous Systems, Design of Internet of Things, and Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning—enabling specialisation in areas like intelligent systems, IoT, and AI.
Focus areas
Programming (object-oriented), embedded systems, microcontroller design, computer architecture, digital electronics, networks and cybersecurity, AI, autonomous and IoT technologies, lean engineering practices, and project leadership.
Learning outcomes
Graduates will be equipped to design and implement embedded and intelligent systems, develop and interface low-level and high-level software, analyse hardware/software interactions, and manage complex engineering projects with professional competence.
Professional alignment (accreditation)
The BEng is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), meeting academic standards for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) recognition.
Reputation (employability rankings)
Brunel University London boasts excellent employment outcomes—graduates earn on average £2,900 more than the university median. As a result of its close proximity to technology hubs and strong industry ties, the placement year often leads to graduate job offers. Employers of alumni include IBM, Intel, Microsoft, National Grid, and Siemens.
The BEng in Computer Systems Engineering at Brunel University London is specifically designed for students who are driven by practical problem-solving and want to apply their knowledge from the classroom to real, tangible systems from the very start. You'll be developing in-demand skills in our specialist labs, working on projects that prepare you for a seamless transition into industry, all while being based in London—the heart of the UK's tech sector.
The curriculum is built on a 'learn by doing' philosophy, where your theoretical knowledge is immediately put to the test through hands-on experimentation and project work in our dedicated spaces. This is where you move from understanding concepts to becoming a capable and confident engineer:
Industry-Standard Software & Tools: You will work with a suite of professional software, including MATLAB and Simulink for system modelling and simulation, Xilinx Vivado for FPGA design and synthesis, and advanced programming environments for C/C++ and Python to develop embedded and real-time software.
Specialist Laboratory Facilities: You'll have extensive access to our Electrical and Electronic Engineering laboratories. These are equipped with modern test and measurement equipment like digital oscilloscopes, logic analysers, and spectrum analysers, alongside workstations for electronic design automation (EDA) and microcontroller programming.
Applied Group Projects: A core part of your experience will be team-based projects that mirror professional practice. This culminates in a substantial final-year individual project, where you'll tackle a significant engineering challenge from design to implementation, often using our specialised lab equipment to create a functional prototype.
Digital Systems & Embedded Hardware: Get hands-on with the hardware you're designing for, including FPGA development boards for creating custom digital circuits, ARM-based microcontrollers, and platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi for rapid prototyping of intelligent systems and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Professional Placement Opportunity: A major advantage at Brunel is the option to take a thick sandwich placement—a full year in industry between your second and final years. This allows you to apply your skills in a professional setting, gain invaluable experience, and build a network of industry contacts, significantly boosting your employability.
Graduates of Brunel University London's BEng Computer Systems Engineering are highly employable, moving into roles such as systems engineer, embedded systems developer, network designer, automation specialist, and hardware design engineer. Many alumni also pursue further study in computer science, electronic engineering, robotics, or related fields, or work in sectors including telecommunications, automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automation.
Here's how Brunel specifically supports your future:
Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The program offers a professional placement year option, providing valuable industrial experience with leading technology companies. You'll learn through a combination of lectures, laboratory practical sessions, design projects, and individual research, with a strong emphasis on practical skills in both hardware and software integration. The University's Professional Development Centre provides dedicated support including placement application assistance, CV workshops, and industry networking events from your first year of study.
Industry Partnerships & Research:
The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering has strong industry links and modern facilities, including electronics design labs, embedded systems laboratories, and networking suites. Students benefit from research-informed teaching in areas such as digital systems design, Internet of Things (IoT), communications engineering, and intelligent systems. The program maintains connections with technology sector employers, ensuring the curriculum develops the systems integration, programming, and electronic design skills that are valued across the industry.
Graduate Outcomes:
Students graduate with a solid foundation in digital electronics, software development, systems architecture, and project management, complemented by practical experience from laboratory work and design projects. These skills are highly sought after in various technology-driven industries.
Further Academic Progression:
After your BEng at Brunel, you can pursue a master's in specialised areas such as embedded systems or telecommunications, or enter professional roles in systems design, technical consultancy, or research and development, supported by the program's accreditation and industry connections.
UCAS Application • Official High School Transcripts • Personal Statement • Educational Resume • Letter of Recommendation by School TeacherEnglish test results: IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.5), TOEFL iBT: 77 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking).A Levels: AAB-BBB to include one of the following subjects; Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted).International Baccalaureate (IB): 30 points, including 5 in one of the following Higher Level subjects; Maths ( Analysis and Approaches) / Maths (Applications and Interpretation), Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Design Technology. GCSE English equivalent SL 5 or HL 4 and Mathematics SL 2 or HL 2.GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and MathematicsThe Year 12/Standard 12 Indian School Certificate: Pass Standard XII (CBSE, CISCE, Tamil Nadu & Maharastra Boards) with 72% from 5 subjects including grade 75% in subjects that require a grade A at A level or grade 70% in subjects that require grade B at A level. USA curriculum: High School Diploma with a minimum overall average of 3.0, with one of the following; 2 Advanced Placement (AP) with scoreS of 4,4 OR SAT with a minimum of 1240 OR ACT with a minimum of 26.Offers optional Industrial Placement. Tuition Fees: £1,385EngineerCommunications designerComputer hardware EngineerSoftware EngineerComputer system designerControl system designerEmbedded system designer
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