BEng Computer Systems Engineering
Course overview
This BEng Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Essex looks at how computer systems work inside devices people use every day, like mobile phones and games consoles. The programme starts with a strong base in computer science and then moves to focus on systems engineering. Students will learn to write programmes in C, create embedded microprocessor systems, and understand how modern operating systems and the necessary computer parts work.
Learning will include standard classes (formal lectures), lots of hands-on work in the lab, and homework that is graded. The degree ends with a big, individual Capstone Project. This is where students use all their skills to create a final product or solution for a difficult problem. The course is officially approved by both the BCS and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Entry requirements
Candidates are usually required to submit an application that includes a personal statement where they discuss their motivation for applying to the course and any relevant information about their academic history or interests. A relevant academic or employer reference is often needed to support the application. Students may also upload a CV with their application to demonstrate any relevant work experience they have.
Grade Requirements:
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Applicants need to achieve A-levels at grades BBB to BBC, which is equivalent to 120–112 UCAS tariff points from at least two full A-levels.
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A GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics is also a required qualification. Equivalent qualifications, such as a BTEC or International Baccalaureate, are also accepted, provided they meet the minimum tariff point requirement.
English Proficiency:
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Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate their language ability by achieving an overall score of 6.0 in the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test.
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This score must include a minimum of 5.5 in each component (listening, reading, writing, and speaking). The University also accepts equivalent scores from other recognised English Language Tests.
Scholarships
Essex Preparation Programme Bursary
£250 cash bursary.
Up to £250Hong Kong Undergraduate Scholarship
The awards offered are a discount of £5,000 per year for a maximum of three years of full-time undergraduate study, up to a maximum of £15,000.
Up to £15,000International Baccalaureate Excellence Scholarship
If you're starting at Essex in 2026-27 and achieve academic excellence in your International Baccalaureate, we will offer you a scholarship of £2,000 for your first year of study.
Up to £2,000Performance Sports Scholarships and Bursaries
Tier 1 - Tuition fee discount up to 100%, Tier 2 - Cash bursary (of varying amounts), Tier 3 - Access to the above performance package benefits, with a value of up to £1,500.
The Always Essex Staff Discount Scholarship
33% discount of the first-year tuition fee (first two years for part-time study).
The International Undergraduate Scholarship
The award is offered as a £5,000 discount on your tuition fees for the first year of study in 2026-27 only.
Up to £5,000The Undergraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship
You may be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £5,000, for each year of study at Essex up to a maximum of 3 years.
Up to £5,000
Career opportunities
Graduates of BEng Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Essex have gone on to work for a wide range of high-profile companies, including:
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IBM
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Google
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BT
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Accenture
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Royal Bank of Scotland
Cost of study
The tuition fee for new International students starting the BEng Computer Systems Engineering at the University of Essex is £25,050 per year.
Admission
Admission to the undergraduate BEng course is managed through the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) system. We highly recommend that all applicants contact AHZ's trained counsellors for assistance with their application process.
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