Software Engineering with a Foundation Year BEng MEng
Program Overview
The program includes a foundation year that covers essential math, physics, and engineering fundamentals, and a core curriculum that focuses on software design, development, and testing. Students can pursue either a BEng or MEng degree, with the latter offering more in-depth study and specialization in areas like software testing, cybersecurity, and software for mobile devices. The program is accredited by the British Computer Society and features industry-standard tools, guest lectures from industry professionals, and a student-run software development organization.
Program Outline
Software Engineering with a Foundation Year BEng MEng
Degree Overview:
This program is designed for students who want to study software engineering but lack the necessary scientific or mathematical background for standard entry requirements. The foundation year provides a solid grounding in the fundamentals of maths, physics, and engineering, preparing students for the main degree. The BEng degree focuses on the fundamentals of software engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence. It teaches students state-of-the-art software design and programming technologies, as well as essential professional skills like project management, teamwork, and customer interaction. The MEng degree offers a more in-depth and advanced study of software engineering, including specialist modules on software testing and analysis, and optional modules covering topics like software re-engineering, cybersecurity, and software for mobile devices.
Objectives:
- To equip students with a comprehensive understanding of software engineering principles and practices.
- To develop students' skills in software design, development, and testing.
- To foster students' ability to work effectively in teams and manage projects.
- To provide students with a strong foundation in computer science and artificial intelligence.
- To prepare students for successful careers in the software engineering industry.
Outline:
Foundation Year:
- Foundations of Physics with Computing: Introduces essential concepts in mechanics and electronics in the context of computer science.
- Further Foundation Mathematics: Covers advanced principles of algebra, geometry, and calculus.
- Foundation Core and Enhanced Mathematics: Builds on A-level maths curriculum, covering topics in pure maths, statistics, probability, and numerical methods.
Year 1 Onwards (BEng/MEng):
- Modules: A selection of modules are available each year, including:
- Software Engineering Fundamentals
- Object-Oriented Programming
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Computer Networks
- Operating Systems
- Artificial Intelligence
- Software Testing and Analysis (MEng only)
- Software Re-engineering (MEng optional)
- Cybersecurity (MEng optional)
- Software for Mobile Devices (MEng optional)
Assessment:
- Assessment Methods: A combination of exams, tests, coursework, and practical work.
- Assessment Criteria: Varies depending on the modules chosen.
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods: Lectures, practical sessions, tutorials, seminars, and independent study.
- Faculty: Dedicated teaching staff with expertise in software engineering and computer science.
- Unique Approaches:
- Industry-standard tools: Used in teaching to prepare students for real-world applications.
- Guest lectures: From industry professionals, including representatives from Microsoft, Google, GitHub, IBM, and ARM.
- Genesys Solutions: A student-run software development organization where students can pitch, develop, and market startup ideas.
- The Diamond: A state-of-the-art hub with dedicated computer labs, virtual reality facilities, high-spec graphics PCs, a robot arena, media editing suites, and video and podcast recording studios.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths:
- IT Consultant
- Software Engineer
- Software Developer
- Project Manager
- Data Scientist
- Opportunities: Graduates work for companies like Amazon, ARM, BT, Bank of America & BofA Securities, Goldman Sachs, Google, IBM, Microsoft, and Plusnet.
- Research: The University of Sheffield is a world-leading research institution in computer science, with research areas including artificial intelligence, text engineering, and cybersecurity. This research shapes and inspires the curriculum, ensuring students receive a cutting-edge education.
- Facilities: Students have access to a wide range of facilities, including dedicated computer labs, a robotics arena, virtual reality facilities, and high-spec graphics computers.
- Student Life: The department is a vibrant and supportive community, offering opportunities for extracurricular activities.
Please use 2024-25 information as a guide. £9,250Home students 2024 annual tuition fee £29,110Overseas students 2024 annual tuition fee
