BSc (Hons) Computer Engineering course preparation

To help you feel prepared for your BSc (Hons) Computer Engineering studies, we’ve put together a list of key department contacts and how to connect with them, where you can expect to learn and other tips on how to prepare for your transition to university. Read on to find out more.

Prepare for university

We know that you’re aware that you’ll be putting in hard work to study for your course when you arrive. But it’s not just academic skills that you’ll be using once you’re here. And there are a few skills that you might want to start to build now so that you’re a pro when it comes to the start of your studies in September.

• Time management – you may have conflicting deadlines as well as other personal activities to consider. So you’ll want to make sure that you manage your time well so that you can do everything you’d like to do. But, there may be times when you can’t do it all but managing your time well will help you to prioritise which activities are necessary and which you have to miss out on.
• Critical thinking – it’s important to show your true understanding of the topics you cover in lectures. And for some of this, you’ll need to critique the work you’re studying in a professional, academic manner. You may already be completing tasks like this in your current studies, so university will be a chance to enhance these skills. Don’t be afraid to share your opinions.
• Teamwork – some modules may require you to work with others on your course to complete tasks and discuss analytical findings.
• Independent work – in contrary to the above, it’s also important to be able to work independently. The majority of your work will need to be submitted individually so it’s important to take ownership of your learning. And if there is something that you don’t understand, make sure to ask your tutor.
• Self-motivation – you’ll be encouraged to work more independently which means that you won’t have a teacher that chases you up to make sure you’ve completed a piece of work on time. So it’s important that you hold yourself accountable and make the decision to put the work in.

Useful resources:

Programming skills are essential for computer scientists. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to develop these skills, we’ll tackle the Python programming language in semester one.

New to coding? You probably have questions like ‘What tools do I need?’ or ‘How do I setup a programming environment?’ That’s no problem. There’s lots of help available. There is is an online tool that provides a ready-made Python coding environment that you can use for free: Google Collaboratory. Using the ‘Colab’, you can write and execute Python code in your web-browser. There are even tutorials available online that’ll help you to understand how the Colab works.

Other useful resources relevant to your studies:

• Follow updates in the tech industry via sites such as Tech Crunch, The Register, MIT News, Science Daily or WIRED.
• Get familiar with StackOverflow, the ‘go to’ site for programmers to seek help and ask technical questions.
• w3schools.com
• css-tricks.com
• wibit.net

Materials you may need:

It’s a good idea to wait until you start your course to buy any books or specific equipment as your tutor will be able to provide more details about what is essential. And our library may be able to provide you with reading materials. But there are a few things you may want to consider.

• Academic diary – a staple to help you with your time management as well as upcoming tasks in both your academic and personal life.
• Notepads and pens – some people prefer to do this digitally rather than on paper, whichever you prefer, make sure you have the resources to complete any notes you’d like to take. If you like to write on a physical notepad, consider an A5 size so that it’s easier to carry around.

And of course, anything else that you like to use for your academic studies, like highlighters, flashcards and folders.

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to all the facilities and equipment you’ll need. But, if you would like to purchase equipment before you start your studies, we’d recommend looking into pre-owned options. Items could include:

• Portable Hard Disk Drive. You can store your files online but if you wish, you can purchase a 500GB shock proof USB 3 portable self-powered hard disk drive (approx. £50 in 2022) will be sufficient and is invaluable for backing up your work.
• Computer. We have excellent computer labs that you will have full access to. But, if you would prefer to use your own machine we recommend one with the following specification:
  • 8GB RAM
  • 750GB HDD
  • Intel i5 (or equivalent AMD processor)
  • (15” Screen Desirable)

Before you arrive, check out our UniSkills workshops. These sessions are designed to help you to build the academic skills that you’ll use throughout your time with us and beyond. Keep an eye on your emails for more information.

Your department contact