Computer Systems Engineering

UCAS code: H130

Here's what University of Sheffield says about its Computer Systems Engineering course.

Study mathematics, control, embedded systems and programming, then advance to system design, security and intelligent systems. Learn to design optimised hardware/software for computing, sensing, IoT, AI, telecoms and autonomous systems, with applied projects building career-ready skills.

Create the technologies that power modern life – from mobile phones and autonomous vehicles to smart infrastructure, medical systems and aviation. This degree combines electronics, computer engineering and systems design, giving you the knowledge and skills to shape the future of intelligent systems.

Designed with input from industry and informed by world-leading research, the course provides a strong foundation in electronics, computing and complex electro-mechanical systems, while developing hands-on expertise in programming, circuit design and intelligent systems engineering.

You’ll complement theory with practical experience, using industry standard hardware and software in facilities such as our Electronics and Control Lab, Teaching Cleanroom, Computer Labs, and iForge Makerspace. You’ll learn through lectures, tutorials, labs and projects, working individually and collaboratively.

In Year 1, you will develop essential knowledge and skills across areas such as systems modelling, computing and artificial intelligence, electronics and electromagnetics, while also gaining experience in teamwork and applied project work.

Year 2 builds on this foundation by deepening your understanding of design, control, communications, embedded technologies and hardware–software integration, supported by further studies in mathematics and electronics.

In the final year, you will undertake a substantial practical project and choose a specialist pathway aligned with your interests. Options include microelectronics, focusing on areas such as semiconductors, integrated systems, and signal processing; or software and artificial intelligence, where you will explore topics such as robotics, sensing, optimisation, and machine learning.

Our graduates are highly sought-after by leading companies such as ARM, Imagination, Jaguar Land Rover, Siemens, Rolls-Royce, Nissan, National Grid and BAE Systems, as well as consulting firms and global organisations. Whether your goal is industry, research, or entrepreneurship, this course equips you with the skills, experience and professional network to succeed in electronics, computing and intelligent systems engineering.

This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the Institute of Measurement and Control and the Engineering Council UK.

Why study this course?

• Learn from world-leading experts: Our academic staff are active researchers with industry partnerships across leading companies like Rolls-Royce, Siemens and Airbus. Their cutting-edge research in intelligent systems, cybersecurity, robotics and automation directly informs teaching, ensuring you gain knowledge at the forefront of the field.

• Integrated learning through projects and hands-on experience: From programming foundations to advanced topics like microelectronics, deep learning and multi-agent systems, you'll apply theory through project work, and hands-on access to industry standard facilities such as CAD tools, 3D printers, and dedicated Teaching Cleanroom in The Diamond building.

• A supportive and inclusive learning environment: You will benefit from dedicated facilities, expert technical staff, and over 1,000 study spaces in The Diamond building. The programme fosters inclusivity and collaboration, ensuring that every student – whatever their background – has the opportunity to excel and prepare for impactful roles in industry, research, or entrepreneurship.