Overview
Our Computer Systems Engineering (Artificial Intelligence) BEng degree is a forward-thinking programme designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required to design and develop both hardware and software for computer and Artificial Intelligence systems.
From the outset, you’ll be introduced to the foundations of computing and engineering, gaining a solid understanding of computer hardware, software, and artificial intelligence. You’ll study programming and computer architecture before progressing to more advanced technologies and devices. In your final year, you can tailor your learning by choosing specialist subjects such as AI systems, machine learning design tools, autonomous systems, and the Internet of Things.
You'll have access to modern technical facilities, including GPU-powered computers, electronics laboratories, and control laboratories—enabling you to bring your designs and experiments to life. Dedicated computer clusters offer industry-standard engineering software to support your studies.
Our BEng course can be completed in three years full-time, or four years with an optional placement year. We strongly encourage the placement year option. This experience provides valuable insight into the professional world and gives you a competitive edge with a year’s worth of real industry experience. Placement opportunities are available in leading technology and engineering companies across sectors such as computing, robotics, automation, manufacturing, and digital services.
"There is a strong collaboration culture [at Brunel]; everyone wants to help and support you, from students to staff alike. It’s a very inclusive and diverse culture, you just fit in." - Humam Jumaa
"My placement year has really helped me progress in terms of technical skills and areas of expertise" - Lorenzo Cucurachi
"Brunel helped me in developing the ability to take on a challenge, supported by a great mentor" - Anthony Bitar
"The Careers team at Brunel is amazing. They helped me a huge amount in presenting myself professionally in interviews and on my CV" - Mohammed Khan
"There is a strong collaboration culture [at Brunel]; everyone wants to help and support you, from students to staff alike. It’s a very inclusive and diverse culture, you just fit in." - Humam Jumaa
"My placement year has really helped me progress in terms of technical skills and areas of expertise" - Lorenzo Cucurachi
You can explore our campus and facilities for yourself by taking our virtual tour.
Course content
Brunel’s Computer Systems Engineering (Artificial Intelligence) course is designed to produce graduates who are creative, knowledgeable, professionally minded, and able to think with perspective. The programme equips students with the knowledge, understanding, and technical and cognitive skills needed to work and conduct research in computer systems engineering and artificial intelligence.
Focusing on embedded systems, computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and autonomous systems, the course prepares graduates to design, integrate, and develop cutting-edge technological solutions in computer engineering and AI. It offers a coherent and structured curriculum that fosters problem-solving abilities, professional growth, and transferable skills essential for success in the field.
The sandwich programme further enhances students’ understanding of the industry and supports both professional and personal development through real-world experience.
Compulsory
- Data and Information
This teaching module aims to provide students with an introduction to different kinds of data and the means by which it can be collected, stored, retrieved, analysed and then communicated in order to achieve the goal of satisfying user information needs.
- Digital Devices and Systems
Aim: To develop students’ understanding of the contemporary electronic and computer engineering professions, and their understanding of what being a Chartered Engineer involves. This includes developing student’s expertise in understanding and designing basic digital electronic systems.
- BE1609 - Engineering Practice
This module will develop essential skills required by students across all engineering disciplines, supporting their progression through higher education and into professional practice, with the aim of maximising employability. Skills development will be addressed in the following areas: problem solving; personal and professional development; career planning; basic engineering design; introductory project management; communication; working effectively in inclusive teams; and health, safety, and security.
- Engineering Systems and Energy
The module provides a grounding in concepts of measurement and uncertainty; to provide knowledge about applied physics relations that govern engineering systems within their boundaries and via their variables of interaction and to establish the ability to define system boundaries and apply relevant, simple models.
- Internet and Network Technologies
This module introduces the technological underpinnings of the internet and discussion of key internet working hardware and software technologies.
- Introduction to Electronic and Computer Systems
Students will study the basic principles of computer system architecture design and operation, and will become acquainted with main interpreted programming languages.
- Introductory Programming for Engineers
To provide students with basic level of programming competence while developing their analytical, practical and design skills.
- Mathematics for Computer Systems
The aim of this module is to develop students’ ability to understand and apply fundamental methods of engineering mathematics that are relevant to computer systems.
Compulsory
- Computer Architecture and Interfacing
This module aims to present a comprehensive introduction to the design philosophies, fundamental constructs and operational principles of sequential computer architecture, and to develop an understanding of computer architecture from an engineering perspective.
- Data Networks and Cybersecurity
This module aims to develop knowledge and understanding to successfully appreciate, create and manage different networks depending on the various needs of the hosting environment, and to develop knowledge and understanding of the fundamental issues and methods for maintenance of data security in servers and networks, and in particular of internet traffic.
- Digital Systems Design
Aim: To develop an understanding of digital systems from a hardware implementation perspective; to develop students’ appreciation of fundamental algorithms, roles, limitations of CAD tools used in digital systems design and their limitations; to give a practical insight into the design, implementation and testing of digital systems.
- Microcontroller Group Design Project
This module aims to reinforce and develop microcontroller based engineering design, personal and transferable skills appropriate to students' scheme of studies.
- EE2659 - Microcontroller Principles
During the module, students will develop an understanding of computer architecture from an engineering perspective. They will also develop the underlying knowledge and skills appropriate to today’s systems and interfacing including the study of microcontroller system design, circuits and transducers to which the microcontroller must interface, and the embedded system programming in assembly.
- Object Oriented Systems and Programming
This module aims to provide a foundation and understanding of the architecture, concepts and key issues involved in the design and development of object oriented software systems and applications, and to introduce the processes and techniques employed in their construction and to develop the necessary software skills to deliver such applications using modern high-level object oriented languages.
- Professional Practices and Business for Engineers
This module aims to develop understanding of the business aspects of engineering enterprise and the provision of value through enterprise operations, and to enhance student preparedness for work placement and employment.
- EE2652 - Sensors and Automation
This module aims to introduce the principles of sensors, computer control, and automation within engineering systems. Students will develop an understanding of sensor technologies and measurement principles alongside fundamental concepts of automation and control. The module also supports the development of practical skills in the analysis, design, and application of automated and computer-controlled systems relevant to modern engineering practice.
Compulsory
- Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Students will develop knowledge and skills in developing and applying artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, techniques, and methodologies.
- Individual Project
The project aims to provide students with the opportunity to design, execute, report and demonstrate a substantial individual project in a professional manner, and to further develop their communication, planning, time management, research and development skills and initiative.
- EE3635 - Embedded Systems
This module aims to develop students’ understanding of the engineering, scientific, and economic trade-offs involved in the design and implementation of embedded systems. It also provides familiarity with, and practical experience of, a range of architectural techniques and design methodologies, including their application and suitability for embedded platforms such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).
- Engineering Management and Quality Engineering
The module aims to develop understanding of managing key processes and projects in engineering with a specific focus on principles / techniques for managing the quality of engineering systems.
Optional
- EE3639 - Artificial Intelligence Systems
This module introduces the key concepts and principles underpinning artificial intelligence systems and develops the skills required to design, implement, and evaluate intelligent software applications. Students will explore intelligent processing techniques and gain hands-on experience through the application and implementation of AI systems, enabling them to solve engineering problems using data-driven and intelligent approaches.
- Autonomous Systems
This module aims to introduce students to the major technologies and abilities required to develop autonomous networks and autonomous vehicles and understand the dependence of autonomous systems on autonomous networks.
- Design of Internet of Things
This module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and methods with which IoT-enabled devices communicate and exchange, compute and visualise data gathered using the range of sensors and actuators available to them.
This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.
This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.
Please note that all modules are subject to change.
Careers and your future
A Computer Systems Engineering (Artificial Intelligence) degree from Brunel will equip you with the design, analytical, and creative skills needed to take a leading role in fast-evolving technological industries. As artificial intelligence continues to transform a wide range of sectors, this degree will prepare you to make meaningful contributions to its development and application.
Graduates will be well-positioned for careers in both general computer systems engineering and specialised AI engineering roles, focusing on the creation of functional AI systems across diverse domains. The degree also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue postgraduate or PhD study in artificial intelligence.
UK entry requirements
2026/7 entry
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.
Brunel University London is committed to raising the aspirations of our applicants and students. We will fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.
A minimum of five GCSEs are required, including GCSE Mathematics grade C or grade 4 and GCSE English Language grade C or grade 4 or GCSE English Literature grade B or grade 5.
Standard Offer: GCE A-level BBB including one of the following subjects; Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted).
Contextual Offer: GCE A-level BBB including one of the following subjects; Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted).
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: DDD in Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computing, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering
Contextual Offer: DDM in Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computing, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: DD in any subject and A level grade B in one of the following subjects Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted). OR
DD in Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computing, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering and A level grade B in any subject
Contextual Offer: DM in any subject and A level grade B in one of the following subjects Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted). OR
DM in Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computing, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering and A level grade B in any subject
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: D in any subject and A level grade BB in one of the following subjects Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted). OR
D in Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computing, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering and A level grade BB in any subject
Contextual Offer: M in any subject and A level grade BB in one of the following subjects Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted). OR
M in Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computing, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering and A level grade BB in any subject
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: International Baccalaureate Diploma 31 points, including 5 in one of the following Higher Level subjects; Maths ( Analysis and Approaches) / Maths (Applications and Interpretation), Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Design Technology.
Contextual Offer: International Baccalaureate Diploma 30 points, including 5 in one of the following Higher Level subjects; Maths ( Analysis and Approaches) / Maths (Applications and Interpretation), Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Design Technology.
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: Obtain a minimum of 128 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma Engineering, Engineering Science and Maths, Computing and IT, Information Technology with 45 credits at Level 3. All Maths and Science units must be Distinctions at level 3.
Contextual Offer: Obtain a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma Engineering, Engineering Science and Maths, Computing and IT, Information Technology with 45 credits at Level 3. All Maths and Science units must be Distinctions at level 3.
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Merit Overall in Digital Support Services or Digital Production, Design and Development. Alongside A level Maths grade C. Other T level subjects may be considered, please contact the admissions office for further information.
If your qualification isn't listed above, please contact the Admissions Office by emailing admissions@brunel.ac.uk or call +44 (0)1895 265265 to check whether it's accepted and to find out what a typical offer might be.
Brunel's committed to raising the aspirations of our applicants and students. We'll fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants, as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.
EU and International entry requirements
If you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you must prove knowledge of the English language so that we can issue you a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). To do this, you will need an IELTS for UKVI or Trinity SELT test pass gained from a test centre approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and on the Secure English Language Testing (SELT) list. This must have been taken and passed within two years from the date the CAS is made.
English language requirements
- IELTS: 6 (min 5.5 in all areas)
- Pearson: 59 (59 in all sub scores)
- BrunELT: 58% (min 55% in all areas)
- TOEFL: 77 (min R18, L17, S20, W17)
You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.
Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.
Fees and funding
2026/27 entry
UK
£9,535 full-time
£1,385 placement year
International
£21,795 full-time
£1,385 placement year
Fees quoted are per year and may be subject to an annual increase. Home undergraduate student fees are regulated and are currently capped at £9,535 per year; any changes will be subject to changes in government policy.
For the 2026/27 academic year, tuition fees for home students will be £9,790, subject to Parliamentary approval.
In England and Wales, tuition fees for home undergraduate students are subject to the Government fee cap. The Government has confirmed that this will be £9,790 for 2026/27 and £10,050 for 2027/28 (subject to Parliamentary approval).
From 2028 onwards, the fee cap is expected to rise annually in line with inflation. This means your tuition fees in future years may increase to reflect these changes.
International fees may change annually, by no more than 5% or RPI (Retail Price Index), whichever is the greater.
More information on any additional course-related costs.
See our fees and funding page for full details of undergraduate scholarships available to Brunel applicants.
Please refer to the scholarships pages to view discounts available to eligible EU undergraduate applicants.
Teaching and learning
For new students - Level 4:
Engineering Year 1 is common to all disciplines during term 1 (Chemical; Civil; Electronic and Electrical; Mechanical; Automotive and Aerospace Engineering), providing a broad educational base and opportunities for cross-disciplinary study. While much of the teaching will remain common to all disciplines during term 2, there will also be some opportunity for discipline-specific teaching activities. The BEng Computer Systems Engineering programme shares most modules with Engineering Year 1.
Lectures will be delivered using a variety of different methods. Some will be delivered live online or on-campus, while others will be pre-recorded and made available online for students to access prior to engaging in interactive in-person tutorials on campus. Some on-campus live lectures will be simultaneously livestreamed; all live lectures, whether delivered online or on-campus, will be recorded and made available for students to review after each lecture has taken place.
All lecture-based modules will be supported by regular (in most cases, weekly) tutorials or seminars that will all be held on campus, allowing students to work with both staff and other students on the practical application of what has been discussed during lectures.
Laboratory classes will be held on campus. You will have the opportunity to perform experiments and other hands-on practical activities in the College’s labs and workshop spaces. Small group project work will also be carried out in person on campus, supported by regular on-campus interactive discussion sessions (workshops).
You will need to come onto campus on most days to participate in all the teaching activities that make up Engineering Year 1.
The online digital assessment platform will be used for submitting written coursework. All exams will be run in-person on campus. Other forms of assessment, such as presentations, are also expected to be run on campus.
For returning and new students at Levels 5, 6 and 7:
All lecture-based modules will be held on campus, allowing you to work with both staff and other students on practical applications.
All laboratory classes will be held on campus. You will have the opportunity to perform experiments and other hands-on practical activities in the College’s labs and workshop spaces. Small group project work will also be carried out in person on campus, supported by regular on-campus interactive discussion sessions (workshops).
You will need to come onto campus on most days to participate in all the teaching activities
The online digital assessment platform will be used for submitting written coursework. All exams will be run in-person on campus. Other forms of assessment, such as presentations, are also expected to be run on campus.
Access to a laptop or desktop PC is required for joining online activities, completing coursework and digital exams, and a minimum specification can be found here.
We have computers available across campus for your use and laptop loan schemes to support you through your studies. You can find out more here.
Our computer systems engineering degrees are delivered by an expert team of multidisciplinary academic staff. Their teaching is research-led, so the newest technologies are fed into the course.
Study will combine lectures, seminars, small group tutorials, laboratory and workshop sessions, computer programming, self-study and project work.
Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.
Assessment and feedback
Your progress will be assessed via coursework assignments, presentations, technical and laboratory reports, exams and the final year major individual project.
Read our guide on how to avoid plagiarism in your assessments at Brunel.