BEng Systems Engineering

The BEng Systems Engineering at the University of Exeter gives students the opportunity to apply engineering theory through practical projects, laboratory work, field visits, and industry-inspired challenges from the start of the programme. Students learn how to design, analyse, and manage complex engineering systems while developing technical, analytical, and project management skills. Supported by specialist facilities and research-led teaching, the programme provides valuable hands-on experience that prepares graduates for a wide range of engineering careers.

Students build practical expertise through specialist facilities, collaborative projects, and real-world engineering experiences:

• Complete hands-on engineering challenge projects every year, applying systems engineering principles to real-world problems while strengthening teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.

• Work on individual and group engineering projects, gaining experience in systems integration, engineering design, modelling, and project management.

• Use specialist engineering laboratories where students carry out practical experiments, testing, and engineering investigations using professional equipment.

• Access the Electrical Power Systems Laboratory, which allows students to explore electrical networks, energy systems, and power engineering through advanced simulation and testing facilities.

• Develop technical skills using specialist engineering software and digital tools for system modelling, engineering simulation, renewable energy analysis, and engineering design.

• Take part in field visits to renewable energy facilities, including wind farms, solar energy installations, hydroelectric sites, and other engineering locations to see how engineering systems operate in practice.

• Visit an off-grid field centre in Exmoor during the first year to investigate renewable energy solutions for remote communities and develop practical engineering recommendations.

• Participate in advanced field-based projects during the final year, working with communities in locations such as the Channel Islands, Scottish islands, or Ireland to explore sustainable energy solutions.

• Learn in a research-led environment with access to specialist facilities including the Renewable Engineering Energy Facility (REEF), the Science and Engineering Research Support Facility (SERSF), and the Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI).

• Work on projects connected to current engineering research and industry, giving valuable insight into real engineering challenges and professional practice.

• Gain professional experience through an optional work placement, allowing students to apply their engineering knowledge in an industrial setting and develop workplace skills before graduation.

The BEng Systems Engineering at the University of Exeter prepares graduates to tackle complex engineering challenges by combining expertise in systems integration, engineering design, risk management, and project delivery. Graduates are well suited to careers as Systems Engineers, Systems Architects, Technical Project Managers, and Mechatronics Engineers, with opportunities across industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, telecommunications, manufacturing, and advanced technology.

The programme combines practical experience, industry-focused learning, and professional development to help students build the skills needed for long-term career success:

• The University of Exeter Careers Service offers one-to-one careers advice, employer networking events, CV and interview support, mentoring, and access to the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award, helping students develop the skills employers are looking for.

• Students can gain valuable workplace experience through the programme's optional work placement, while practical engineering projects and industry-focused learning help them apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

• 96% of Engineering graduates from the University of Exeter were in employment or further study 15 months after graduation, according to the HESA Graduate Outcomes survey.

• The programme has been developed in collaboration with industry and is aligned with the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) Systems Engineering Professional framework, supporting students towards Associate Systems Engineering Professional (ASEP) certification.

• Graduates develop highly transferable skills in systems integration, engineering design, systems modelling, project management, risk analysis, reliability engineering, and interdisciplinary problem-solving, making them attractive to employers across a wide range of engineering sectors.

• Exeter Engineering works closely with organisations across areas including renewable energy, manufacturing, civil engineering, engineering management, materials, and environmental engineering, giving students exposure to current industry challenges and research.

• Graduates are well prepared for careers in aerospace, automotive, energy, telecommunications, manufacturing, engineering consultancy, and other technology-driven industries where systems engineering expertise is in high demand.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BEng Systems Engineering, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in systems engineering, engineering management, renewable energy, robotics, artificial intelligence, control engineering, or other advanced engineering disciplines. Students interested in research can also progress to doctoral study, specialising in areas such as complex systems, sustainable engineering, emerging technologies, or interdisciplinary engineering research.