Overview
The Computer Hardware and Software Engineering BEng (Hons) course at Coventry University aims to bridge the gap between electronics and software engineering knowledge.
According to Prospects, skills shortages in key areas of the UK’s digital economy have led to a demand for software and hardware engineers.
This course aims to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle challenges involved in the development of future technologies such as IoT, smart cities, autonomous car and green technologies.
Successful graduates of the course should be able to solve both electronics and software-related problems in areas such as electronic engineering, embedded systems, computer architecture and security, programming, mobile app development, machine learning, FPGA based design and system on chip design.
Currently fully accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)*, this course enables you to register with the Engineering Council as an Incorporated Engineer on successful completion (subject to additional costs). It provides a broad technical education in the hardware and software aspects of computer systems engineering and applications development.
This course is currently accredited by IET for the 2021/22 intake. If the accreditation of this course changes, we would seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.
Why Coventry University?
An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.
To ensure an optimised and continual student experience, the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via emerging online technologies and methods across all courses.
Global ready
An international outlook, with global opportunitiesEmployability
Career-ready graduates, with the skills to succeedTeaching Excellence
Taught by lecturers who are experts in their fieldCourse essentials
A degree which offers you more, at no extra costAccreditations and Professional Recognition
This course is accredited and recognised by the following bodies:
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) for the 2021/22 intake on behalf of the Engineering Council, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer. The full accreditation is scheduled for 2022/2023. We anticipate that our application for re-accreditation will be successful. If any changes occur with respect to our accreditation related to these courses, we will seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.
Our Facilities
Electrical Power Laboratory
Provides students with hands-on learning tools and test benches. Supports learning of the properties of electrical generation use, with the aim of training students in the maintenance and running of electrical machines.
Electronics Laboratories
Equipped with a range of test and measurement equipment, development boards for embedded electronics and a variety of interface applications such as GSM, Ethernet and numerous communications and motor solutions.
Sigma Centre
An award-winning Mathematics Support Centre which provides a wide range of learning resources in mathematics and statistics. Students can make use of drop-in sessions or one-to-one appointments.
Course information
If you are interested in working with new technology, this professionally accredited course* focuses on the engineering and integration of hardware and software systems. The course encourages you to think creatively and independently, and aims to prepare you to meet the challenges of the rapidly changing technological environment.
This course is specially designed to bridge the gap between electronics/hardware engineering and computer science/software engineering. The course covers most aspects of software while focusing on the advanced hardware design based on FPGA and system design based on microcontroller.
Course specification
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Modules
We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.
We are ranked as the 15th best University in the United Kingdom in The Guardian University Guide 2020.
In more detail...
Coventry has a long tradition of teaching computing and electronics with a strong emphasis on its applications in practical situations. We currently have extensive industry links, collaborating with a broad range of commercial partners, many of whom may offer competitive placement opportunities to our students, as well as site visits and guest lectures. Please note that placement opportunities and site visits may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability and meeting applicable visa requirements.
Meeting the educational requirements of the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC), the technical focus of the programme is intended to develop the practical skills expected of a professional computer system engineer or system administrator. As such, we concentrate on a number of core themes with an aim to develop a strong foundation of knowledge and expertise in: engineering mathematics; analogue and digital electronics; computer engineering, operating systems; computer networking and security and software engineering.
We adopt an innovative Activity-Led Learning (ALL) approach to learning, so you should have plenty of opportunities to engage in both individual and team work on practical engineering projects. In the first stage ‘systems project’ module, for example, we have previously implemented an electronic design, providing specific design, simulation, building and testing challenges.
The current teaching team have teaching experience in the Higher Education sector and/or industry experience, many of whom are currently active researchers with expertise in electronics and computing. This can help to keep teaching up-to-date, keeping you abreast of new developments and issues, as well as providing opportunities for collaborative research projects. For example, past students have worked on industry inspired research projects, such as the development of an Android application, VeriMaster Mobile, for producing ABB flow meter calibration and verification reports and development of a robotic operating system (ROS).
- Meets the full academic requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration upon successful completion of the course. Further details can be found on the IET website.
- Well-equipped dedicated electronics laboratory and CISCO laboratory, featuring electronic development and testing equipment, networking devices, associated tools and software.
- Regular free to attend expert guest lectures, which have previously covered topics such as 3D printer PCB design by RS Component, embedded development with ARM processors by ST Microelectronics and system security by IET members (subject to availability).
Our main study themes are:
- Analogue and digital electronics: Aims to develop your capability to produce useful practical designs in the technology area of analogue and digital electronics. You will be required to conceive and simulate your own practical computer circuit designs. Topics covered include semiconductor diodes and their application in power supplies, bipolar junction transistors in single-stage amplifiers, and field effect transistors. Digital topics include the realisation of logic gates, design of small and medium scale combinational functions and the use of flip-flops in sequential logic.
- Embedded System and hardware design: Embedded system design modules combine both electronic and programming knowledge for practical solutions to real life problems. Advanced hardware design modules are taught in third year covering the topic of FPGA based system design and System on Chip design.
- Software engineering: Aims to develop problem solving skills for task-oriented problems consistent with the conventions of the Unified Modelling Language (UML). Programs will be implemented using a block structured programming compatible language within an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). You should develop the skills required to design, develop, test and implement object-oriented (OO) computer programs pertaining to engineering problems. You will be exposed to mobile app development, machine learning and security modules in your final year.
- Operating systems, security and networks: We look at computer communications, mainly in the context of local and wide area networks, together with systems architecture from the user’s point of view. You should analyse the issues and constraints involved in modern computer operating systems (OS), network communications, services, performance level and associated security, covering concepts such as processes, memory management, drivers and file systems. We examine the interactions between the OS and system hardware and devices, alongside those security issues of relevance to the Operating System. There will be particular focus on Linux and Unix, but you will explore the main features of Windows and Mac OSX as well. Network configuration and management will include LAN and WAN design, with network monitoring within the context of ethical and legal issues.
This course can be studied full-time over three or four years with a sandwich year being taken between the second and third years of study.
Your personal tutor will aim to meet with you weekly during the first academic year and assist with your transition to studying at Coventry University.
You’ll have access to modern teaching and learning facilities and a well-equipped specialist library, which houses technical books, print and graphic services, and a variety of learning spaces.
The highly practical nature of the course enables you the opportunity to work with staff on real-world problems from industry, commerce and research groups, mirroring the work you may be subject to in professional practice. This means that while this course should enable you to learn about the technical content of your degree, the hardware and software projects also aim to develop professional skills including: problem analysis and design; project, task and time management; risk assessment; team work and leadership; technical report and bench assessment; troubleshooting and more. For example, past students have tackled data recovery with Coventry University’s research group in System Security and Digital Forensics.
UK field trips and industry visits* are organised from time to time to try to enhance the student learning experience. Previous students have visited Bletchley Park, the home of British codebreaking and a birthplace of modern information technology, for computing history and inspiration, and British Telecommunications (BT) for communications technology.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
How you’ll be assessed This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending on the module. Assessment methods include formal examinations, coursework, tests, portfolios, practical or project work, group work, demonstrations, presentations and posters.
The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.
On successful completion, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: communications, computer systems and computer networking; digital electronics, microcomputers, computer systems hardware; operating systems, network security and software; mathematical principles necessary to underpin the discipline; management of engineering including social, environmental, economic, legal and ethical topics.
- Solve engineering problems employing a system approach.
- Design software and hardware for application specific purpose.
- Design computer systems and networks.
- Search and evaluate information sources.
- Adopt a holistic approach to using computer hardware and software technology in a commercial context.
- Use electrical and electronic test equipment in experimental work.
- Implement and test software solution.
- Simulate computer systems and protocols.
- Apply computer technology, software tools and quantitative methods.
- Configure and connect electronic and computer systems.
Actual teaching contact hours will vary depending on the level of study and the requirements of a particular semester. In a typical week your contact hours will be divided amongst personal tutorials and small group teaching; medium group teaching (e.g. seminars, tutorial sessions, lab sessions and workshops); and large group teaching (lectures). In addition, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study each week depending on the demands of individual modules.
The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 18 contact hours per week in the first and second years dropping to around 16 contact hours per week in the final year as you become a more independent learner.
Computer technology is an international business, so we encourage a global perspective throughout our teaching.
If you opt for a sandwich year, you have the opportunity to spend a period of time abroad* for part of your studies; we have student exchange links with universities in 20 countries around the world and we will support you in trying to find a work placement abroad. We have had past students secure international placements in, for example, Austria and France.
We have previously organised a number of international field trips* for our students. For example, three groups of our past students and a team of staff members have attended the annual European Embedded Digital Signal Processing (eDSP) group project events three years running and worked with local staff and students in Lithuania, France and Germany. We have also previously undertaken three separate visits to China; we visited the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology (USST) in Shanghai, Jiang Su SAS-Tech Auto Industrial Company in Taicang City and worked with Chinese staff and students on an embedded system development project, experiencing Chinese culture throughout the visits.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Global ready
Did you know we help more students travel internationally than any other UK university according to data from the experts in higher education data and analysis, HESA?
In 2018/19, we were able to provide a total of 5,469 experiences abroad that lasted at least five days.
Much of this travel is made possible through our Global Leaders Programme, which enables students to prepare for the challenges of the global employment market, as well as strengthening and developing their broader personal and professional skills.
Explore our international experiences1st for
international experiences
Sending more students overseas than any other UK uni 2016/17
5,469
Student experiences
The number of student trips abroad for at least 5 days in 2018/19
12,000
and counting
The number of students we’ve helped travel internationally since 2016
12
global programmes
As well as trips, we offer other opportunities like language courses
Entry Requirements
Tuition Fees
We pride ourselves on offering competitive tuition fees which we review on an annual basis and offer a wide range of scholarships to support students with their studies. Course fees are calculated on the basis of what it costs to teach each course and we aim for total financial transparency.
For more information, please visit our Finance pages.
Course essentials at no extra cost
We're committed to communicating study costs clearly to make sure you're not faced with having to make any unexpected payments.
This is why our ‘Flying Start’ package provides you with a few course essentials. Your full-time fee for an undergraduate degree will cover the following:
UK field trips
Any mandatory site visits and trips within the United Kingdom.Key material
This can include core textbooks, software and equipment.Laser prints
1,000 A4 sides of black and white laser printing credits per year.Optional year
Pay no tuition fees for optional work placements or study abroad trips.Course essentials - additional costs: This course may incur additional costs associated with any field trips, placements or work experience, study abroad opportunities or any other opportunity (whether required or optional), which could include (but is not limited to) travel, accommodation, activities and visas. This course may incur additional costs associated with any equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire.
EU student fees
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year remain eligible for the same fees as home students and the same financial support. Financial support comes from Student Finance England, and covers undergraduate and postgraduate study for the duration of their course, providing they meet the residency requirement.
For tuition fee loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland for the three years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that three year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
For maintenance loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the UK and Islands for the five years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that five year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
Career prospects
Graduate Immigration Route visa
Based on current information from the UK Government, international students whose study extends beyond summer 2021 may be eligible for a visa under the UK Government’s Graduate Immigration Route, which will enable students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two (2) years. Check the most up to date guidance available to check your eligibility and any updates from the UK Government before making an application or enrolment decision.
Engineering remains one of the most in-demand jobs in the UK, with a particular shortage of Power System Engineers, Control Engineers and Protection Engineers. However, opportunities exist throughout the world for highly trained professionals who combine computing and engineering skills.
The course focuses on computer hardware-software design and integration, giving you the opportunity to gain substantial practical experience which aims to support you in demonstrating your capabilities to future employers. Course content is regularly reviewed to reflect what is relevant and in demand in the industry. We seek external feedback from the External Examiner and a current group of professionals and subject experts from industry, universities and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) through the IET accreditation process.
Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university’s Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.
90%
Where our graduates work
Previous graduates from the course have gone into predominately industry roles in diverse range of industries, for example, JLR, GE and National Grid, Jaguar Land Rover, Blackberry, IBM, DSTL – Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Advanced Electronics Company, Ultra Electronics Sonar Systems, PX Group and more. Some choose to progress to further study of an MSc or PhD.
What our alumni say
The employability and placement team has been with me at every step of the way, from supporting me with my original applications to the point of getting an internship and beyond. My placement advisor has been of continuous support in helping me improve my CV, making me aware of the placement process and even performing mock interviews. When I was looking for a job the employability and placement team was there to patiently discuss which one would best suit my career growth.
Disclaimer
By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2020/21 Contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.
The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation. Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance from time to time.
For International students the tuition fee that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For international students, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation.
