BSc (Hons) Computer Engineering course preparation
To help you feel prepared for your university studies, we’ve gathered together a range of course related activities including suggested reading, useful websites and some great things to do right now. Open the links below to find out more:
Suggested reading
You will be given lots of information about which textbooks to read and introduced to the University Library, as well as the many ebooks we have for you to access, when you begin your studies in September.
In the meantime, there are a couple of suggested books you might like to read before starting your degree if you can. We don’t recommend rushing out to buy texts before you arrive but if you can pick some up second hand, borrow from a library or access online.
We suggest:
- New Perspective on Computer Concepts 2016: Introductory ISBN-13 978-1305387751
- Foundations of Computer Science ISBN-13: 978-1408088418
- Java for Everyone (2nd Edition) ISBN 13: 978 – 1118063316
Additionally, here are some books you may find interesting:
- Hello World – By Hannah Fry
- Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions – by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths
- New Thinking – Book by Dagogo Altraide
Suggested materials
Throughout your studies you will have access to absolutely all of the facilities and equipment you will need, however some students like to purchase equipment before they start their studies. If you would like to purchase any of this equipment before you start your studies, we recommend looking into pre-owned options.
- Portable Hard Disk Drive – Whilst you can store files online, we strongly recommend that you purchase a 500GB shock proof USB 3 portable self-powered hard disk drive (approx. £50) which will be invaluable, especially for multimedia work.
- Computer – We have excellent computer labs, but for those who prefer the independence of using their own machines we recommend a machine which has the following specification:
- 8GB RAM
- 750GB HDD
- Intel i5 (or equivalent AMD processor)
- (15” Screen Desirable)
Useful websites
You can start to learn how to programme in Python through this free course .
You can also use the WIRED website to catch up on the latest developments in computing.
Explore the current tech job market on IT Jobs Watch and join a developer community on DZone.
Other useful websites include:
Things to do now
Here are a couple of ideas for you to try some Computer Engineering related fun:
- Start to tackle a programming language, we recommend learning Python which you can do through the mobile app Solo Learn
- Explore the area of computing you’re interested in via books, blogs and websites
- Develop your own app ideas and explore the tech used to create them
As in all specialised fields of sciences, Computer Engineering students benefit from basic skills in reading and writing documents along with skills in maths that will be useful in solving problems and programming. Although not essential, making sure you have basic reading and writing skills will help when you need to read moderately technical articles during your studies.
Meet your programme leader:
Additional ways to prepare
Preparing to start
This session examines how to make a successful transition to university. From planning your results day, accommodation and commuting tips, extra support available to you and general advice on uni life.
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Find out more about who you are
The following information provides an insight into what to expect when coming to university along with some good advice on how to navigate some of the potential challenges you may face.
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