BEng Computer Systems Engineering

Computer Systems Engineering at Warwick is specifically designed for students who don’t just want to learn theory—they want to build, create, and solve real-world problems with their hands. From day one, you’ll be immersed in world-class facilities, gaining practical experience with the same tools and technologies used by leading engineers in industry. This program is all about turning ideas into functional, cutting-edge systems.

Our approach is hands-on and integrated, connecting lecture-based learning directly to labs and project spaces. You’ll develop a deep, practical understanding of how hardware and software integrate by working on a progression of challenging, rewarding projects. This is where you truly learn the craft of engineering.

Specialist Software & Digital Tools
You’ll gain proficiency in industry-standard electronic design automation (EDA) tools like Xilinx Vivado for FPGA programming, alongside programming environments for C/C++ and Python, which are essential for embedded systems development.

Dedicated Laboratory Spaces
You will spend significant time in well-equipped Electrical and Electronic Engineering laboratories, purpose-built for designing and testing digital systems. These include oscilloscopes, signal generators, and soldering stations for prototyping your own PCBs.

Substantial Group & Individual Projects
The curriculum is built around project-based learning. A major highlight is the third-year individual project, where you’ll tackle a substantial piece of work from conception to completion, often involving the design and implementation of a complex computer system. You’ll also collaborate on group projects that mirror professional engineering teams.

Industry-Standard Hardware
Get hands-on with the actual hardware you’re designing for, including ARM-based microcontrollers and FPGA development boards, enabling you to create and test sophisticated digital logic designs.

Research-Led Facilities
The School of Engineering has strong links with research groups, and as you progress, you may have the opportunity to use more advanced facilities connected to research in areas like intelligent systems and high-performance computing.

Graduates of the University of Warwick’s BEng Computer Systems Engineering are highly employable, moving into roles such as systems architect, embedded systems engineer, automation specialist, network designer, and IoT solutions developer. Many alumni also pursue further study in artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, or related fields, or work in sectors including automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, and smart manufacturing.

Here’s how Warwick specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The program offers opportunities for an industrial placement year, enabling students to gain professional experience with leading engineering and technology firms. Teaching combines lectures, laboratory sessions, design projects, and individual research, with a strong emphasis on the integration of hardware and software systems. The University’s dedicated Student Opportunity and Careers team provides tailored engineering career guidance, industry placement support, and networking opportunities with global employers from the first year.

Industry Partnerships & Research:
The School of Engineering maintains strong industrial collaborations and state-of-the-art facilities, including the Digital Laboratory, robotics and automation suites, and embedded systems labs. Students benefit from research-led teaching in areas such as intelligent systems, real-time computing, machine learning applications, and secure hardware design. The program’s industry advisory board ensures curriculum relevance, with graduates highly valued for their systems thinking, analytical, and cross-disciplinary engineering skills.

Graduate Outcomes:
Students graduate with advanced expertise in digital systems design, embedded programming, network architectures, and project management, complemented by substantial practical experience through individual and group projects. These skills are in high demand across sectors implementing advanced digital transformation and Industry 4.0 technologies.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BEng at Warwick, you can progress to an integrated MEng program, pursue specialist MSc degrees in areas like autonomous systems or data science, or enter professional roles in systems design, technical consultancy, or research and development, supported by the department’s excellent industry relationships and research reputation.