We live in the age of ‘any device, any time, anywhere’ computing. Technology, communications and consumer electronics are rapidly evolving, and computer systems are central to our everyday interaction, be it a large scale distributed system based on the internet or an embedded system in a consumer electronic device such as a mobile phone. The demand for expertise in these fields is also rapidly growing. The very nature of the technologies that underpin computer systems means that you need not only to understand state-of-the-art developments in hardware and software, but also to have developed the necessary skills and ability to design computer systems in every aspect of commerce and industry. Brunel’s course comprises four systemic themes: programming and software engineering; computer architecture and applications; data communications; digital electronic systems. You will develop skills, expertise and knowledge in the areas of computer hardware and architecture, computer software, digital electronics, communication networks, embedded systems and interfacing. The range of options available in later years of the programme will allow you to maintain breadth or to specialise, with a focus on computer hardware design, data communication networks or distributed computing. Recent graduates have gone on to work for prestigious companies including the BBC, Virgin Airways, Opodo, Philips, Siemens and a variety of design companies.

The growth in embedded electronic systems across all aspects of our lives is creating many new and exciting employment prospects across all areas of industry and business – and demand for engineers who are able to design computer systems remains high. Computer Systems Engineering graduates have excellent employment opportunities in such diverse fields as finance, leisure, media and marketing, as well as in all forms of engineering and computer industries.