Embedded computer systems are found in every part of modern life, from cameras and kitchen appliances to collision-avoidance systems in cars. This has created a surge in demand for highly skilled engineers who can program computers and deploy them in the implementation of hardware systems.
This course provides a solid grounding in the design and realisation of modern embedded systems with particular emphasis on robotic systems. The latter have, in recent years, become a fast-growing and exciting application area of embedded systems, and this course builds on more than two decades' of robotics experience within the Department.
By its very nature, robotics is a cross-disciplinary area with its roots in traditional engineering subjects such as electronic, electrical, computing, mechanical, networking and control. However, robotics also opens up new and fascinating areas of study such as computer vision and machine intelligence. Robotic systems find application in a broad range of sectors such as transport, logistics, military, manufacturing, emergency services, domestic assistance and healthcare.
Many employers today require their engineers to be multidisciplinary. Graduates from this course will have the breadth of creative and problem-solving skills required to efficiently combine software with hardware in the design of the next generation of embedded and robotic systems. You will also acquire the transferable and cognitive skills necessary for lifelong personal and professional development.
The course aims to provide an exciting, enjoyable and rewarding learning experience which will serve as a solid foundation for a professional engineering career, leading eventually to registration as a Chartered Engineer.
You will gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of electronics, mathematics and computing, along with the analytical skills to characterise, model and design circuits and systems. You will be encouraged to use initiative and confidence in approaching engineering problems, investigating solutions using a blend of analytical and practical skills. Project-based learning plays a large part in the course, with project modules highly valued by employers. These include a robotics systems project in Year 2, and an individual project of your choice in Year 3.
The course shares a common Year 1 with the Electronic Engineering BEng Honours degree, and if you wish you can transfer courses at the end of the common first year.
Teaching methods include lectures and seminars, laboratories and computer-aided engineering, group and individual projects, and online learning.
Assessments include formal exams, group work, written reports, and presentations and posters.