Digital Systems and Computer Engineering BEng (Hons)

About the course

The digital world is innovative and exciting. A seamless interface between data entities, high bandwidth communication networks and high-performance computer systems are now commonplace. The knowledge and skill to design advanced digital systems, use sophisticated programming techniques, and deploy such systems are key attributes of the modern day computer engineer. This course enables you to gain skills appropriate to the design of both sophisticated embedded microprocessor systems and modern computer architectures. In microprocessor design you study topics such as real world interfacing using digital signal processing algorithms and techniques and intelligent control strategies employing neural network and fuzzy logic technology. In computer architecture you will study areas such as cache coherent systems, multilevel memory structures, super scalar architectures and media processors. These studies are underpinned by work on software specification, design and verification.

In your first year you will learn about digital fundamentals, computing concepts and the problem-solving tools that you will need as the course progresses. In your second year you will study 'embedded' real-time microprocessor systems, programmable logic devices and power control. In your final year the focus is on understanding more about the specialist technologies that are at the heart of today's advanced communication systems i.e. mobile communication concepts and computer networks, the design of high-speed analogue and digital electronics, radio frequency circuits, microprocessor topics, fuzzy logic and neural networks and digital signal processing. .

Why choose this course?

• This BEng Honours degree will give you a sound grasp of the fundamental principles of digital design and computer engineering;
• You will develop design and implementation skills of complex digital circuits and real-time programming as well as hardware-software co-design techniques used in large and modern computer systems and networks;
• You will have hands-on experience of microprocessor and system-on-chip development environments and tools including modern programmable devices with hundreds of thousands of programmable cells.
• If you would like more detailed information about what you will be studying on each year of this course, then go to 'Course structure' via the tab at the top of the page, and then click on the '- full details' link for each year of study. You will then see a description for each module.

Study routes

• Sandwich, 4 Years
• Full Time, 3 Years

Locations

• University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Careers

Technology companies around the world require design engineers so there are many exciting career paths open to you. Recent trends highlight strong demand for good integrated skills across the range of electronic hardware design and microprocessor software design. Your degree will also open up opportunities in system design, applications engineering, customer support and project management.

Teaching methods

Our enthusiastic staff are always looking for new ways to enhance your learning experience and over recent years, we have won national awards for our innovative teaching ideas. All of our courses include a significant practical element, which, together with tutorial sessions reinforce the theory delivered during lectures, and you have many opportunities to enhance your presentation skills ready for the workplace.

Work Placement

You have the opportunity to spend a year working either in a professional research environment or within industry. The practical experience you gain will be of tremendous benefit both when you resume your studies and when you embark on a career. Students have previously undertaken placements in organisations such as:

• Actaris
• Aeroflex
• BAA
• Rolls Royce

Professional Accreditations

Accredited for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Structure

Year 1

Core Modules

• Career Skills Development

  This module will ensure students are able to utilise the University system for PDP (Personal Development Planning using MAPS (My Active Planning System). Using the PDP processes each student will be able to record and update their own records which will aid monitoring their progress personally and academically. Support will be provided on tools, techniques and good practices through a Study Skills programme, MAPS and relating this to future professional development. The student will be assisted using the support detailed above through the first weeks of the academic year by academic staff. There will be further sessions in the second semester.

• Electronic Engineering Practice

  This module introduces students to the fundamental aspects of typical processes found in electrical and electronic engineering design and manufacture, mainly focused in the area of electronic circuit assembly and testing. In addition to practical exercises, students are introduced to the role of computer aids for electronic 'schematic capture' and electronic pcb layout and design. The module also aims to further develop the student's ability to use typical electronic laboratory hardware-based instrumentation. In general material is taught as far as possible by practical 'hands-on' exercises with the aim of developing not only an appreciation of the techniques involved, but also a basic level of skill in their use.

• Computer Programming for Electronics Engineers

  This module introduces the student to a variety of programming concepts and practices. Study topics include fundamental material such as number systems, functions and procedures and variables, constants and arrays. Also included is introductory material on more advanced concepts such as software design methodology. The module is taught both by lecture and practical exercises, with the practical work being largely centred on the use of a high level language such as 'C'.

• Digital Electronics & Computer Organisation

  'Digital Electronics and Computer Organisation' complements 'Electrical and Electronic Theory' by introducing students to digital electronic fundamentals. Common types of switching devices and logic gates are introduced as are common circuit implementations using them. Fundamental concepts such as binary number systems, binary arithmetic and Boolean logic are also covered, as are common logical and mathematical 'tools' used in the design of both combinational and sequential digital electronic systems. Finally, these and other topics are brought together in the context of computer and microprocessor systems, to introduce students to the fundamental digital organisation of items such as the CPU and memory.

• Electrical and Electronic Theory

  This module aims to further student's knowledge and understanding of the fundamental concepts of electrical and electronic engineering systems. Topics are covered at introductory level and range from circuit theory and analysis to an introduction to electronic circuit design. Further coverage is provided of the fundamentals of common semiconductor materials and devices and circuit simulation tools and techniques. Although taught at introductory level, an analytical approach is adopted throughout in order to provide a firm base for later study.

• Introduction to Electronic Systems

  This module aims to introduce students to the fundamental concepts of electrical and electronic systems. Topics are covered at introductory level and are supported by accompanying laboratory-based investigations providing a hands-on introduction to test and measurement equipment. Lecture topics range from d.c. circuit theory and analysis to an introduction to electronic circuit design. Also covered are the fundamentals of common semiconductor materials and devices and an introduction to electronic circuit simulation using software based simulation tools. Although taught at introductory level, an analytical approach is adopted throughout in order to provide a firm foundation for studies during the second semester.

• Sustainable Business of Electronics

  This module will enable the student to gain an understanding of ethical, legal, social and environmental issues current in the electronics industry. This will be achieved through a combination of lectures by staff and external speakers from industry. Students will develop their team working and communication skills through the design and development of a product to meet customer needs. Finally, a typical example of a global electronics company is examined to give the student an understanding of the wider commercial issues implicit in this industry.

• Engineering Mathematics

  The module builds on from A-Level mathematics (or equivalent qualification) to provide mathematical techniques required for engineering. The module includes the manipulation and applications of elementary functions (trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential), complex numbers, Boolean algebra and the techniques of differentiation and integration for functions of one variable. Refer to the teaching plan for a more detailed description.

• Engineering Applications of Mathematics

  The module follows on from the module 4PAM1007 Engineering Mathematics to provide further mathematical techniques required for applications in Engineering disciplines. The module includes the techniques associated with the manipulation of matrices and vectors, evaluation of eigenvalues and eigenvectors, development of power series approximations of elementary mathematical functions, techniques for the solution of ordinary differential equations and the principles of probability and data handling. The mathematics material will be supported using a suitable software package, for example MATLAB, and will also be used to solve engineering problems. Refer to the teaching plan for a more detailed description.

Optional

Year 2

Core Modules

• Career Planning

  This module will encourage students to reflect on their career aspirations and review/plan for the development of appropriate skills necessary to realise these aspirations. Many students will specifically use this module to prepare for the optional professional placement year. Students who undertake the placement will work within industry or a commercial organisation that is able to provide an appropriate learning experience within an engineering environment. This placement must be of at least 48 weeks duration. To be eligible for placement students must have passed the progression requirements to level 6

• Electrical Engineering and Power Control

  The module introduces some electrical engineering topics such as fields and transmission lines that are applicable to various applications including power systems, communications and high speed digital logic. It also includes transformers for heavy current and light current applications together with small and large electric motors and techniques for controlling them. Three phase AC circuits and alternators/generators and are also analysed in the context of modern power generation. Although introductory the module assumes prior knowledge of electric circuit theory gained from earlier study and builds on this knowledge. Material is treated in an analytical way, supported and augmented by both practical work and by the use of relevant specialist computer simulations.

• Digital Design & Embedded Systems

  This module extends coverage of digital design into the area of microprocessor, microcontroller and programmable logic devices. The fundamental aspects of microprocessor system hardware design are covered, along with an introduction to programming in assembly language. The module also extends study of digital systems into field programmable logic devices and introduces the student to the modern computer based tools such as VHDL that are used in the programming of such devices.

• Electronic Communication Systems

  This module introduces the student to the fundamental concepts of electronic communications. Principles of modulation techniques are introduced along with study of relationships between them and typical channel properties. Also included in the module is further development of mathematical techniques relevant to communications and signal processing including discrete time mathematics. Theoretical study is supported by practical exercises and lab experiments and where appropriate, software based simulation tools.

• Real-time Systems & Programming

  This module extends knowledge of embedded systems in two main ways. Study of device programming is extended from high-level language techniques to assembly language techniques and to the relationship and interaction between them. Also covered is introductory material on both the hardware design and software issues of real-time systems, including an introduction to aspects such as handshake protocols, scheduling and context switching.

• Mini Projects (Digital Systems)

• Data Acquisition and Control Systems

  This module covers sensors and actuators in the context of how devices are interfaced rather than to how they are designed. Analogue circuits used for interfacing sensors and actuators are also studied, together with analogueto-digital and digital-to-analogue conversion. This module also introduces students to the concepts of linear closed loop control systems and the simulation of the dynamic performace using the Control Systems Toolbox in Matlab. Techniques include step response and frequency response methods to predict steady state and stability performance. Students will also be introduced to simple series controller design.

• Project Management and Product Development

  To achieve and maintain market position the manufacturing industry must develop profitable and competitive products in time, to quality and within budget. This requires the functions of the company to be organised to achieve common objectives. This module examines the organisational aspects of product development from definition through design to manufacture. The team issues and techniques of project management are addressed as applicable to the product development process and in general terms. The project management content is taught first in order to support the product development content.

• Further Engineering Mathematics

  The module follows on from the mathematics modules at Level 4 to provide further mathematical techniques required for applications in Engineering disciplines. The module includes numerical methods for ordinary differential equations, Laplace transforms, Fourier series, line and double integrals, as well as s using a suitable software applications package to solve engineering problems. Emphasis is put on techniques and applications rather than complete mathematical rigour.

Optional

• Career Planning

  This module will encourage students to reflect on their career aspirations and review/plan for the development of appropriate skills necessary to realise these aspirations. Many students will specifically use this module to prepare for the optional professional placement year. Students who undertake the placement will work within industry or a commercial organisation that is able to provide an appropriate learning experience within an engineering environment. This placement must be of at least 48 weeks duration. To be eligible for placement students must have passed the progression requirements to level 6

• Electrical Engineering and Power Control

  The module introduces some electrical engineering topics such as fields and transmission lines that are applicable to various applications including power systems, communications and high speed digital logic. It also includes transformers for heavy current and light current applications together with small and large electric motors and techniques for controlling them. Three phase AC circuits and alternators/generators and are also analysed in the context of modern power generation. Although introductory the module assumes prior knowledge of electric circuit theory gained from earlier study and builds on this knowledge. Material is treated in an analytical way, supported and augmented by both practical work and by the use of relevant specialist computer simulations.

• Digital Design & Embedded Systems

  This module extends coverage of digital design into the area of microprocessor, microcontroller and programmable logic devices. The fundamental aspects of microprocessor system hardware design are covered, along with an introduction to programming in assembly language. The module also extends study of digital systems into field programmable logic devices and introduces the student to the modern computer based tools such as VHDL that are used in the programming of such devices.

• Electronic Communication Systems

  This module introduces the student to the fundamental concepts of electronic communications. Principles of modulation techniques are introduced along with study of relationships between them and typical channel properties. Also included in the module is further development of mathematical techniques relevant to communications and signal processing including discrete time mathematics. Theoretical study is supported by practical exercises and lab experiments and where appropriate, software based simulation tools.

• Real-time Systems & Programming

  This module extends knowledge of embedded systems in two main ways. Study of device programming is extended from high-level language techniques to assembly language techniques and to the relationship and interaction between them. Also covered is introductory material on both the hardware design and software issues of real-time systems, including an introduction to aspects such as handshake protocols, scheduling and context switching.

• Mini Projects (Digital Systems)

• Data Acquisition and Control Systems

  This module covers sensors and actuators in the context of how devices are interfaced rather than to how they are designed. Analogue circuits used for interfacing sensors and actuators are also studied, together with analogueto-digital and digital-to-analogue conversion. This module also introduces students to the concepts of linear closed loop control systems and the simulation of the dynamic performace using the Control Systems Toolbox in Matlab. Techniques include step response and frequency response methods to predict steady state and stability performance. Students will also be introduced to simple series controller design.

• Project Management and Product Development

  To achieve and maintain market position the manufacturing industry must develop profitable and competitive products in time, to quality and within budget. This requires the functions of the company to be organised to achieve common objectives. This module examines the organisational aspects of product development from definition through design to manufacture. The team issues and techniques of project management are addressed as applicable to the product development process and in general terms. The project management content is taught first in order to support the product development content.

• Further Engineering Mathematics

  The module follows on from the mathematics modules at Level 4 to provide further mathematical techniques required for applications in Engineering disciplines. The module includes numerical methods for ordinary differential equations, Laplace transforms, Fourier series, line and double integrals, as well as s using a suitable software applications package to solve engineering problems. Emphasis is put on techniques and applications rather than complete mathematical rigour.

Year 3

Core Modules

• Industrial Placement

  The optional professional placement year is undertaken between the second and final years of study. Students undertake the placement within a commercial organisation that is able to provide an appropriate learning experience within an engineering environment. The placement must be of at least 48 weeks duration though many students will complete a year or more at the company. To be eligible for placement students must have achieved sufficient credit at Levels 4 and 5 to be able to enter the final year upon completion of the placement. While the faculty/school actively supports the placements process ultimately it is the placement company that will select students, normally through an interview process. During the placement a member of the academic staff will be assigned to the student as a tutor and will monitor the student's progress during the placement period.

Optional

Year 4

Core Modules

• Digital Signal Processing

  This module introduces the student to modern concepts of digital signal processing. Material covered includes typical theoretical concepts as well as an introduction to typical hardware implementations. The theoretical study is supported by practical work using typical software tools for simulating DSP techniques as well as practical work in implementing simple algorithms on selected digital signal processors

• Intelligent Systems and Robotics

  The 'Intelligent systems and robotics' module is designed to extend students' knowledge of control principles into systems based on the use of fuzzy logic and neural networks. Although introduced and developed in the context of control, with particular reference to robotic control, the fundamental concepts of the topics are covered in sufficient depth to provide the student with a basis for understanding their use in other applications.

• Microelectronics & VLSI

  This module aims to extend students' knowledge of analogue and digital electronics into the area of integrated circuit design. Material is biased toward advanced high-speed analogue and digital IC technologies and circuits. The module also covers the way in which these concepts are used in the design of integrated analogue circuits and digital 'systems on chip'. Although treated in an analytical way, learning is supported by the use of modern relevant software design and simulation tools.

• Mobile & Digital Communication Networks

  This module covers two related topic areas. These are mobile and cellular radio, and data communications networks. Each topic is covered primarily at systems level and initially separately. In particular, the data communications material studied has wide application within digital communications generally. However the module also addresses the interaction and relationships between the two areas in the context of modern mobile communications

• Operating Systems and Object Oriented Programming

• Computer Architecture

  This module aims to extent students' knowledge of microprocessor based systems to include modern PC type architectures and specialised processors. Material is largely systems-oriented but includes study of, for example acceleration mechanisms such as pipelines and caches. Some programming is included, mainly in the context of specialised instruction set devices.

• Individual Project

  The major project in the fourth year of study can take several forms ranging from design oriented work to investigative work. The project title and topic are chosen to provide intellectual challenge appropriate to an honours programme of study. The student is expected to firstly identify and elucidate the problems, then to plan and execute a relevant programme of work. Assessment is ongoing through the project via an individual supervisor, culminating with a comprehensive report of work done. Students would normally be expected to register their interest in the area of work, but are encouraged to suggest their own projects where appropriate.

• Careers Portfolio

  This module will help students identify the employability skills necessary to enter their chosen profession. They will be required to develop a portfolio that evidences the following employability skills relevant for their chosen profession, from a combination of employment experience and academic modules. Skills include; Self Management and Development, Team Working, Communicating, Specialist Technologies, Professional Awareness and Problem Solving/Creativity.

Optional

• Digital Signal Processing

  This module introduces the student to modern concepts of digital signal processing. Material covered includes typical theoretical concepts as well as an introduction to typical hardware implementations. The theoretical study is supported by practical work using typical software tools for simulating DSP techniques as well as practical work in implementing simple algorithms on selected digital signal processors

• Intelligent Systems and Robotics

  The 'Intelligent systems and robotics' module is designed to extend students' knowledge of control principles into systems based on the use of fuzzy logic and neural networks. Although introduced and developed in the context of control, with particular reference to robotic control, the fundamental concepts of the topics are covered in sufficient depth to provide the student with a basis for understanding their use in other applications.

• Microelectronics & VLSI

  This module aims to extend students' knowledge of analogue and digital electronics into the area of integrated circuit design. Material is biased toward advanced high-speed analogue and digital IC technologies and circuits. The module also covers the way in which these concepts are used in the design of integrated analogue circuits and digital 'systems on chip'. Although treated in an analytical way, learning is supported by the use of modern relevant software design and simulation tools.

• Mobile & Digital Communication Networks

  This module covers two related topic areas. These are mobile and cellular radio, and data communications networks. Each topic is covered primarily at systems level and initially separately. In particular, the data communications material studied has wide application within digital communications generally. However the module also addresses the interaction and relationships between the two areas in the context of modern mobile communications

• Computer Architecture

  This module aims to extent students' knowledge of microprocessor based systems to include modern PC type architectures and specialised processors. Material is largely systems-oriented but includes study of, for example acceleration mechanisms such as pipelines and caches. Some programming is included, mainly in the context of specialised instruction set devices.

• Individual Project

  The major project in the fourth year of study can take several forms ranging from design oriented work to investigative work. The project title and topic are chosen to provide intellectual challenge appropriate to an honours programme of study. The student is expected to firstly identify and elucidate the problems, then to plan and execute a relevant programme of work. Assessment is ongoing through the project via an individual supervisor, culminating with a comprehensive report of work done. Students would normally be expected to register their interest in the area of work, but are encouraged to suggest their own projects where appropriate.

Fees & funding

Fees 2013

UK/EU Students

Full time: £8,500 for the 2013 academic year

International Students

Full time: £10,000 for the 2013 academic year

Discounts are available for International students if payment is made in full at registration

View detailed information about tuition fees

Scholarships

• National Scholarship Programme

Find out more about scholarships for UK/EU and international students

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

How to apply