BEng Computer Engineering

The BEng in Computer Engineering at the University of Southampton is 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 world-class, purpose-built facilities, working on projects that prepare you for a seamless transition into industry.

The curriculum is built on an experiental leasrning philosophy, where your theoretical knowledge is immediately put to the test through hands-on experimentation and project work in our dedicated, cutting-edge 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 Cadence and Synopsys tools for integrated circuit (IC) design and electronic design automation (EDA), MATLAB and Simulink for system modelling and control design, and advanced programming environments for C, C++, and Python to develop embedded software.
• Specialist Laboratory Facilities: You'll have extensive access to our Tony Davies High Voltage Laboratory and our cleanroom complex for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and silicon fabrication. Our teaching labs are equipped with modern test and measurement equipment like oscilloscopes and logic analysers, alongside workstations for electronic design and simulation.
• 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 for rapid prototyping of intelligent systems.
• Electronics and Computer Science (ECS) Facilities: As part of a world-leading school, you'll benefit from facilities supported by extensive research activity. You may have opportunities to engage with research groups and utilise advanced equipment, applying cutting-edge research to your practical work.

Graduates of the University of Southampton's BEng Computer Engineering are highly employable, moving into roles such as embedded systems engineer, hardware design engineer, software developer, systems architect, and robotics specialist. Many alumni also pursue further study in computer science, electronic engineering, artificial intelligence, or related fields, or work in sectors including aerospace, telecommunications, automotive, and consumer electronics.

Here's how Southampton specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The program offers opportunities for an industrial placement year, allowing students to gain valuable professional experience with leading technology companies. You'll learn through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, team projects, and individual research, with a strong emphasis on practical engineering skills and the integration of hardware and software systems. The University's Career and Employability Service provides specialist support for engineering students, including placement assistance, career mentoring, and connections to a network of employer partners.

Industry Partnerships & Research:
The School of Electronics and Computer Science maintains strong industry connections and world-class facilities, including cleanrooms, embedded systems labs, and robotics research centres. Students benefit from research-led teaching in areas such as microprocessor systems, digital systems design, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The program's industrial advisory board ensures curriculum relevance, with graduates valued for their expertise in both electronic hardware and computer software development.

Graduate Outcomes:
Students graduate with advanced technical skills in circuit design, programming, systems architecture, and project management, complemented by practical experience from laboratory work and industry-relevant projects. These competencies are highly sought after in technology-driven industries.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BEng at Southampton, you can progress to an integrated MEng program, pursue specialist MSc degrees in areas like microelectronics systems or artificial intelligence, or enter professional roles in hardware design, systems engineering, or technical consultancy, supported by the program's strong industry links and research excellence.