A proud history of creating the future. Courses in Computing and Electrical & Electronic Engineering SCHOOL OF

(1)

School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate Prospectus

1

A proud

history of

creAting

the future

undergrAduAte prospectus

courses in computing And

electricAl & electronic

engineering

SCHOOL OF

electronics, electrical engineering

and computer science

(2)

Undergraduate Prospectus - School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

2

School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate ProspectusSchool of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate Prospectus

3

2

overview of the school, Queen’s And northern irelAnd

16

A yeAr in the life of the school

18

scholArships

22

courses offered - whAt’s the difference?

24

Business informAtion technology

28

computer gAmes development

32

computer science

36

computing And informAtion technology

40

electricAl And electronic engineering

44

softwAre engineering

48

softwAre And electronic systems engineering

52

course progression – options to trAnsfer

54

course content compAred

56

plAcements in industry – heAr from some of our students

58

did you know? how things work

62

student finAnce

64

internAtionAl students

70

how to Apply

72

useful mAps

76

useful links

contents

u

n

d

er

g

r

A

d

u

A

te

pr

o

g

r

A

m

es

fr o n t c o v er im A g e: A si m o B y h o n d A , t h e w o r ld ’s m o st A d v A n c ed h u m A n o id r o B o t

(3)

4

5

The School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering

and Computer Science (SEEECS) at Queen’s

University Belfast has been the launch-pad for

many an exceptional career.

Our graduates are in high demand by software

companies, the automotive and aeronautical industries, financial services, power companies and computer games developers to name but a few. On average, employment success rates for graduates from our School are greater than 80% after just six months, a statistic not bettered by many others.

Throughout this prospectus you’ll see many short articles by past students, detailing their current jobs and offering you a few tips to enhance your employability chances. Their roles vary from software programming in San Francisco to heading up a division of Microsoft in their Washington HQ; from engineering telescopes for the European Space Agency to managing the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Geneva.

Choosing to study at SEEECS is just the start of a great future for both you and the wider world of technology. We hope you enjoy reading this prospectus and find it entertaining, inspiring and informative.

If you need any further information check out our website www.qub.ac.uk/eeecs

welcome

to A greAt

future:

yours

School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate Prospectus

5

4

(4)

6

Undergraduate Prospectus - School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate ProspectusSchool of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate Prospectus

7

6

Queen’s university

BelfAst

A proud pAst And

An AmAzing future

Queen’s University Belfast is one of the most

exceptional universities in the UK. It is a

member of the Russell Group, a select band

of the top 20 research intensive academic

institutions.

As the ninth oldest University in the UK, we are rich with heritage. The University’s proud academic tradition stretches back over 160 years and today Queen’s influence far transcends its geographical location. We are a global force in research and results of the most recent national Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) identified areas of world-class achievement across all academic disciplines at Queen’s.

But we’re never complacent about our reputation and have recently invested over £250m in facilities in the past 5 years, more than any other UK university. This investment programme included the magnificent new £50 million McClay Library which opened in summer 2009. A landmark building, it is one of the finest university libraries in the world, housing 1.2 million volumes and 2,000 reader places.

But although we have a proud history and tradition, it is equally matched with our future vision and ambition. Queen’s is on a transformational journey that will bring us into the world’s Top 100 over the next five years. This global dimension is crucial to our future success. Our researchers already work closely with more than 250 universities around the world and we are committed to enhancing these links still further.

Queen’s is locAted in BelfAst And

when we sAy thAt we Are ‘in’, we

reAlly meAn it.

We are right at the heart of it and the ‘University Quarter’ is regarded as one of the coolest and happening of all the city centre’s areas. Immaculate lawns and red-brick quadrangles hint at a solid,

traditional past, but they closely neighbour artisan cafes and hipster venues. Our campus also borders Belfast’s superb Botantical Gardens and is within a two minute walk of the Ulster Museum, recently voted ‘Museum of the Year’ in a UK wide poll.

The development of our Elms Student Village and extensive refurbishment of the Students’ Union has helped to create one of the best student campuses in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Northern Ireland’s capital is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the UK. But although its regeneration continues at a furious pace it remains a compact and intimate urban experience. Home to just over a quarter of a million citizens it combines everything that is good about living in a capital city but without any of the intimidating travel or overwhelming crowd issues normally associated with them.

The city offers the highest number of restaurants per head in the UK, a thriving arts scene, an excellent shopping experience and an astonishing array of entertainment and cultural venues, from the Odyssey Arena to the Waterfront Hall to the Grand Opera House. It is also incredibly well connected to the rest of Ireland, UK and Europe. Other major British cities are within an hour’s flying time from Belfast’s two airports, both of which are quickly accessible from the University area.

These airports offer flights to many locations in Ireland and mainland Europe, as well as several direct services to North America. Dublin is two hours by train from Belfast and there are regular ferry services to Scotland and England. Belfast has undergone a transformation in recent years as it looks towards a new era of economic prosperity and cultural development which celebrates the innovation and creativity of its people. Queen’s University is central to this process.

turn to pAge 58 to find out.

do you know

how a car’s

electronic

stability control

works?

(5)

8

Undergraduate Prospectus - School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate ProspectusSchool of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - Undergraduate Prospectus

9

8

further

Afield

Northern Ireland provides a high quality of life

in a welcoming environment and the University

plays a pivotal role in its social, economic

and cultural development. This role has been

recognised by the Sunday Times, which

described Queen’s as “a casebook study of how

a university can help drive the regeneration of

the city and region in which it is located”.

Northern Ireland’s stunning scenery becomes apparent only a few short miles outside the city centre. Indeed, one 19th century travel writer once dubbed the city a ‘northern Rio’. Although only the size of Yorkshire or Connecticut, Northern Ireland has an astonishing variety of landscapes, cultural and leisure opportunities. Within 50 miles of the Queen’s campus you can climb a wild mountain, plunge into Atlantic surf, travel through mystical glens, visit some of the best golf courses in the world, indulge in superb fishing and water sports, and enjoy a cordon bleu meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Northern Ireland is, as one local author suggests, ‘a great country, pretending to be small’.

Photo Credit: National Trust - Chris Hill

Photo Credit: National Trust - Bernie Brown

Photo Credit: National Trust - Jill Jennings

(6)

10

11

welcome to An

eXceptionAl

future

At seeecs

Both

yours

And

ours

Since its foundation in 1845

Queen’s University Belfast has had

a long and distinguished tradition

of research and education. This

research led ethos is reflected in

the School by our involvement in

a number of high profile centres.

These include the Institute of

Electronics, Communications and

Information Technology (ECIT) and

the Centre for Secure Information

Technologies (CSIT).

Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science has consistently been one of the UK’s top research departments, with 60% of research undertaken

within the School judged to be either internationally excellent or world leading (2008 Research Assessment Exercise). In addition, the School is consistently in the top ten of The Guardian and The Times UK University League Tables. In this brochure you will find information on our undergraduate programmes:

• Business Information Technology • Computing and Information

Technology

• Computer Games Development • Computer Science

• Electrical and Electronic Engineering • Software and Electronic Systems

Engineering

• Software Engineering

Each course is designed to achieve a balance of academic sophistication and practical skills needed in an industrial and practical environment.

I hope you decide to enrol on one of our programmes and look forward to welcoming you to our School in the very near future.

Professor Stan Scott Head of School

11

10

do you know

how wind

turbines

work?

(7)

12

13

h

o

w

s

ee

ec

s

m

eA

su

r

es

u

p

Queen’s University’s School of Electronics,

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science is

among the top in the UK for these disciplines

in both research and teaching. As a result, the

School has attracted staff and students from

over 70 countries worldwide.

• Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Queen’s is ranked no 9 in the UK in University League Tables (Times 2012) and among the top 100 in the World (QS World Rankings)

• Queen’s is a member of the UK Power Academy, comprising the top 7 UK Universities for Electric Power Engineering

• The School is the location of the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) which is the UK Centre of Excellence for research in this area The School, which incorporates the Institute of Electronics, Communications and Information

Technology (ECIT – www.ecit.qub.ac.uk) and the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT – www.csit. qub.ac.uk) has an academic staff of over 50. It comprises almost 250 students undertaking PhD and Master’s programmes, 35 research fellows and nearly 1000 undergraduates across ten degree pathways. Amongst the School’s defining characteristics are its strong links with a wide range of industries in the form of collaborative projects and student placements. The curriculum is also heavily informed by industry representatives who sit on an advisory board within the School. Moreover, the School’s research is well supported by research grants from the EU, UK Research Councils and local government.

Teaching facilities in the Ashby Building have

recently undergone a complete refurbishment

at a cost of £2m. This provides an integrated

environment where students can work, learn,

socialise, and interact with staff as part of an

all-inclusive learning community.

Students in the School have access to extensive laboratory facilities distributed throughout the Ashby. There are dedicated teaching laboratories for Microelectronics, Electronics, Communications, Circuits, Instrumentation, Virtual Reality, Software Engineering, Power and Machines. Additional computer laboratories support Design and Innovation, Computing and CAD. Multi-million pound specialist laboratories augment these facilities including a virtual reality theatre, a virtual reality CAVE, extensive cleanroom facilities for microelectronics and nanoelectronics, a robotics laboratory, a renewable energy laboratory and unique equipment for carrying out high voltage work.

th

e

A

sh

B

y

B

u

il

d

in

g

ec

it

th

e

B

er

n

A

r

d

c

r

o

ss

lA

n

d

B

u

il

d

in

g

In the £40m ECIT building, within the NI Science

Park, students use state of the art facilities

for High Frequency Electronics, Stealth Radar,

Remote Sensing, Wearable Communications

and Advanced Telecommunications.

ECIT is also the home of one of the largest anechoic chambers in the UK.

The Bernard Crossland building has three

computer laboratories available exclusively

to all students enrolled on courses within the

School and a large study area on the top floor

designated for students.

Each laboratory is equipped with networked high-spec PCs, printers and all software required for undergraduate study.

12

plAcements in industry

All undergraduate programmes within the School offer a year’s paid placement in industry (optional in some cases). This is an important part of the programme, as students are able to gain invaluable hands-on experience related to their degree. Many students gain full-time employment with their placement companies on graduating. The School has links with over 500 companies both here and abroad to facilitate placements. Examples of companies where our students spend their placements include Microsoft, NIE, Liberty IT, Asidua, BT, NYSE, Citi and Bank of Scotland. Turn to page 56 to hear from some of our students about their placements.

uk power AcAdemy

Queen’s is also a member of the UK Power Academy, which comprises the top 7 UK universities for Electric Power Engineering. This offers a number of benefits for students, most notable of which is the opportunity to secure Power Academy Scholarships, whereby the students may be sponsored by some of the UK’s top companies including NIE, Siemens, Rolls-Royce, EON, National Grid etc. Each Scholarship is worth over £30K.

high employment rAte

Graduates of courses from the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science have a very high employment rate, with over 80% of graduates employed within graduate level jobs within 6 months of graduating.

Queen’s computing

society (Qcs) and our

peer mentors organise

lots of social activities

as well as some serious

talks too!

(8)

14

15

more

reAsons

to choose

Queen’s

seeecs

The School’s research programme is structured

through seven internationally recognised

research clusters.

• Digital Communications • Energy and Intelligent Control • High Frequency Electronic Circuits

• High Performance and Distributed Computing • Knowledge and Data Engineering

• Speech, Image and Vision Systems • System-on-Chip Architectures

consistently

high

stAndArds

eXtensive

reseArch

progrAmmes

14

15

Queen’s is assessed regularly by the national Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). In April 2009 the QAA visited us to carry out an institutional audit resulting in Queen’s achieving the highest QAA grading possible.

As teaching quality is underpinned by research, it is reassuring to know that the School has an excellent reputation for research. The School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science is ranked among the top 20 in the UK for research. In the recent UK RAE (2008), 60% of research output in the School was judged to be ‘internationally excellent’ with 20-25% considered to be ‘world leading.’

(9)

16

17

THE INSTITUTE

oF ElECTRoNICS,

CommUNICATIoNS

ANd INFoRmATIoN

TECHNoloGy

(ECIT)

Four of the School’s seven research clusters are based at the £40 million Institute of Electronics Communications and Information Technology (ECIT). These cover research in electronic data security, image and speech processing, high performance computing, telecommunications software and antenna design for mobile communications. ECIT, which opened in 2004, is a specially designed 4000m2 building, located off campus and is the research flagship for the Northern Ireland Science Park (NISP - www.nisp.co.uk). ECIT has brought together research specialists in complementary fields of Electronics and Computer Science and has now established extensive global industrial and university research connections and collaborations.

CENTRE FoR SECURE

INFoRmATIoN

TECHNoloGIES

(CSIT)

The UK Centre of Excellence for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) is an EPSRC/ TSB Innovation and Knowledge centre and was established in 2009 with initial funding of £30 million. CSIT is committed to being a world-class Research and Innovation Centre in Secure Information Technologies, producing novel, disruptive high value systems solutions that strategically position the UK at the forefront of this critical and rapidly emerging sector. The Centre brings together research specialists in complementary fields such as data encryption, network security systems, wireless enabled security systems and intelligent video analysis.

r

es

eA

r

c

h

eX

c

el

le

n

c

e

17

16

turn to pAge 60 to find out.

do you

know what

is inside a

video games

console?

(10)

18

19

students come up with the

Biggest ideA!

A group of final year Business Information Technology students won the best overall business idea in the ‘What’s the Big Idea?’ competition for their student price comparison website, Student Patch.

Photo: Sean o'Kane and Niall mooney from Student Patch are presented with their winners cheque by Patricia mcNeill from Ormeau Business Park as Anton mcGonnell, also from Student Patch looks on. Student Patch partners not in the photograph are Conor mcCullaugh, Shaun mullen,Jason Wallace, James livingston, Richard Thompson.

chinese new yeAr celeBrAted

Students and staff in the School celebrated Chinese New Year with Chinese food and a display of Chinese Lion Dancing.

three students mAke

uk top 10!

Three students from the School made it through to the top ten of the UK Undergraduate of the Year competition. Caron Malone, an Electrical and Electronic Engineering student, was shortlisted in two categories, Systems and Electronics Undergraduate of the Year and Engineering Undergraduate of the Year. Craig McCarter and Paul Magee, both studying Computer Science, were shortlisted in the IT and Computer Science Undergraduate of the Year category.

‘first lAdies’ of engineering

Well done to five girls graduating from the MEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree this year who all achieved First Class Honours. They came in the top six in their class and, to cap it all, they had all secured engineering jobs before graduating!

Photo: Left to right are Karen Creighton, maria mcCullagh, Caron malone, Emma dalzell and Jenni Black.

A yeAr in the life of

the school …

The past year within the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Queen’s has been as busy as ever. Here are just some of the things our students got up to over the course of the year…

open dAys

The year began with the busy Open Days for potential students. Here one of the students attempts to ‘go back to the future’ in the Power Lab!

AsiduA scholArships AwArded

Belfast based global IT services company Asidua, expanded their successful Scholarship Programme for IT students, by awarding no less than four scholarships to first year students in the School. Each scholarship is worth over £20K.

Photo: Angela Canavan, Asidua Chief Operations Officer and Johnny Wylie, Human Resources in Asidua (centre) welcome dr lillian Greenwood (far left) and dr Philip Hanna (far right) from Queen’s University Belfast, along with Scholarship recipients (left to right) Alan Foster, Emma davidson, Victoria Potts and Christopher Kane, all from Queen’s University Belfast, to Asidua following their award to the Asidua Scholarship Programme for 2011.

students score hAtrick in

computer gAmes competition

Computer Science students from the School achieved major success in the national Games Fleadh in County Tipperary. Three teams picked up silverware in their respective competitions at Ireland’s largest computer and console games programming festival. The theme of the competition was based around the well known ‘Frogger’ game which was celebrating its thirtieth anniversary. All teams were required to develop a modern version of ‘Frogger’. One team received the award for Best in Visual Engineering and a second team got the award for Best in Game Design and the third team came runner up in the XNA Game Studio Ireland Challenge.

Photo: The winning students pictured with their mentor, Russell Kane, lecturer in the School.

students go gloBAl!

Students from the School received City & Guilds Senior Awards at Licentiateship level for skills and competencies gained during work placements at home and abroad.

(11)

20

21

scholArships

20

Typically, the number of jobs in the marketplace for SEEECS students far exceeds the number of

actual graduates leaving Queen’s each year. To try to encourage more potential employees a range

of companies have put together a range of very attractive scholarship packages, some of which are

worth over £25,000.

power AcAdemy scholArships

meng And Beng electricAl And

electronic engineering

The Power Academy offers scholarships to new students interested mainly in electrical power engineering. Queen’s is just one of 7 UK universities in the Power Academy, comprising the UK’s leading universities offering Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

There are 70 scholarships available across the 7 member universities each year. They provide financial support during the student’s studies and paid professional experience during a one-year placement with the company and during the summer vacations. Examples of companies involved in the Power Academy include NIE, Rolls Royce, EON, National Grid and Atkins. Each scholarship is worth over £25K.

Students apply to the Power Academy scholarship scheme once they have commenced the Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree at Queen’s. For further details on the Scheme, visit www.iet.org/ poweracademy

AsiduA scholArship

The Asidua Scholarship at Queen’s University (worth up to £25K) supports at least one student per year and is open to students entering the following courses: • MEng/BEng/BSc in Computer Science • MEng in Computer Games Development

• MEng/BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering • MEng/BEng in Software and Electronic Systems

Engineering

• MEng/BEng in Software Engineering

Subject to satisfactory exam results aligning with a degree classification of 2:1 or above and performance in class, the scholarship will offer support as follows: • £1,000 per year for each of the scheduled academic

years of the course

• At least eight weeks paid summer work between each academic year

• A guaranteed paid industrial placement in year three

• After completion of industrial placement, the opportunity for paid part-time work during the academic year – typically equating to 1 day per week (subject to course schedules);

• Following an application for a permanent position and subject to success at interview, in accordance with Fair Employment legislation, a permanent position with Asidua after graduation.

liBerty it scholArship

The Liberty IT Scholarship at Queen’s (worth

approximately £25K) supports one student per year and is open to students entering the following courses: • MEng/BEng/BSc in Computer Science • MEng/BEng in Software Engineering

Subject to satisfactory exam results and performance in class, the bursary offers scholarship support of £1K a year for each of the taught years of the course, and: • eight weeks paid summer work at the end of year one • a guaranteed paid industrial placement in year three • a permanent position with Liberty IT after

graduating.

nie scholArships

NIE supports at least one student per year on the MEng/ BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. These are in addition to the scholarships they provide through the Power Academy Scholarship Scheme above, and are of the same monetary value.

fg wilson/cAterpillAr scholArships

The FG Wilson/Caterpillar Scholarship at Queen’s supports a number of students in the first year of the MEng/BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree. The Scholarships consist of a bursary of £1K and the opportunity to spend a placement with the Company.

electric irelAnd scholArship

The Electric Ireland Scholarship at Queen’s normally supports one student per year on the MEng/BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree. The bursary offers scholarship support of £2,400 per year and a paid summer placement.

schrAder electronics scholArship

The Schrader Electronics Scholarship at Queen’s normally supports one student per year on the MEng/ BEng in Software and Electronic Systems Engineering degree. The Scholarship consists of a bursary and the opportunity to spend a placement with the Company.

Queen’s university scholArships

Queen’s University provides scholarships for students entering STEM degrees across the University. For further information, visit the Queen’s website www.qub.ac.uk

how to Apply for A scholArship

You may apply for the above scholarships on

commencing your course.

Full details will be provided by the School.

(12)

22

23

undergrAduAte

progrAmmes

23

22

Photo Cr

(13)

24

25

overall, it’s important to stress that Computing degrees are not like ICT. ICT teaches you how to

use computers, whereas a computing degree teaches you how to develop computing systems in

the first place… so they come before ICT!

computer science

developing tomorrow’s software today...

Computer Science is all about exploring how computers can be programmed to work in new and exciting ways. In particular, Computer Science deals with the theoretical foundations of information and computation alongside practical techniques for their implementation and application.

Students on the course will explore how this knowledge can be employed to tackle leading edge research problems in artificial intelligence, high performance computing, computer vision systems, etc. As programming and software development underpin Computer Science, students will share many modules with Software Engineering students. Graduates from this programme have rich employment opportunities as software professionals and can also undertake further study or research into Computer Science. If you are a logical thinker and enjoy solving problems, then this is an ideal degree for you.

softwAre engineering

For those who enjoy developing software...

Software is a fundamental part of today’s information society, controlling everything from the results which are displayed when you use a search engine, through to how video is streamed and rendered on your smartphone. This course is designed to equip graduates with the analytical, reasoning and practical skills they will need to design, develop and deploy software systems.

The programme teaches a range of programming languages (from Java, through C#.NET to C++) alongside specialised modules that permit students to focus on certain aspects of development, such as software design, verification, etc. Software development skills are essential to the technological evolution and advancement of most sectors within the economy. As a result, there is a very strong demand for software professionals. This is particularly true of Northern Ireland where job opportunities are truly excellent.

softwAre And electronic systems engineering

Combines hardware and software...

In modern life we are surrounded by electronic systems and devices and almost all of these rely on some degree of programmability. In some cases this is the form of firmware, deeply embedded in the device itself, for example the operating system of a smartphone or tablet. Likewise, almost all software systems including those that power the stock market and enable us to store our data in the ‘cloud’ require the support and functionality of electronic hardware, such as memory, displays and networking. Software and Electronic Systems Engineering is a unique degree programme that is all about the interaction between electronics and software, their interaction, design and development.

whAt’s the

difference?

not sure how some of our courses differ from eAch other? if so, reAd on...

computer gAmes development

developing games software...

This course has synergies with both Computer Science and Software Engineering and explores the development of software needed within the games sector. This encompasses how graphics hardware can be used to render 3D/2D scenes, how physics systems can be implemented within games, or how artificial intelligence techniques can produce naturalistic behaviour.

The programme contains limited exposure to game design theory with the focus very much on the programming aspects of game development. If you are concerned that this course may limit you to jobs in the games industry, don’t be! Given the strong programming focus of this degree, graduates can readily find employment within any area of software development.

computing And informAtion technology

A broader course covering software and much more...

This course explores a broad range of computing topics linking into a wide range of roles within the IT sector. Students learn about the fundamentals of computer programming with a specific emphasis on web-development alongside the key aspects of IT system administration and maintenance.

Graduates from the programme can apply these skills within a diverse range of companies, from banks, through hospitals, to traditional IT companies, to design, develop, administer, support and maintain core IT systems such as staff email systems, system back-up solutions, e-commerce websites, etc. This degree is suitable for someone who would like to gain broad exposure to IT systems as a means of keeping their options open.

Business informAtion technology

The fusion of business and IT...

This course explores the use and development of IT from a business perspective. Students learn how business processes can shape the development of IT systems and how IT systems can improve the effectiveness of business. Graduates from the degree have found employment within IT companies in business roles such as project managers and business analysts, as well as more client-facing roles such as marketing and operations.

Graduates may also become IT consultants, advising companies on how to use IT to enhance the effectiveness of their business processes. Because students study the fundamentals of business as part of the degree, they may also apply for general business jobs outside of the IT sector.

electricAl And electronic engineering

developing anything that uses batteries or electricity...

Put simply, electrical and electronic engineering involves designing the electrical component of anything that uses batteries or electricity. That includes anything from your smart phone, computer games hardware, security equipment and hospital equipment, to the controls in cars and aeroplanes, right through to electricity generation and distribution, to give just some examples.

It is one of the broadest engineering disciplines, as everything that uses power needs the input of an electrical and electronics engineer in its design. It is important to emphasise too that they actually create the products in the first place, they don’t fix them!

(14)

26

27

degree

BSc Honours in Business Information Technology

(UCAS Code: GN51)

entrAnce reQuirements

A-level:

ABB + GCSE Mathematics.

BTEC National diploma:

Any BTEC National Diploma with 12 Distinctions and 6 Merits + GCSE Mathematics.

BTEC Higher National diploma:

Those with good grades in a relevant Higher National Diploma will be considered individually on their own merits for entry to Stage 2.

Irish leaving Certificate:

B2B2B2B2B2B2/AB2B2B2B2 + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics.

AdditionAl informAtion for

IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.

speciAl feAtures

All students undertake a paid placement year in industry. The School has links with over 500 local, national and international organisations. Examples of companies where our students have spent their placements as part of this course include Microsoft, Fujitsu, Bank of Ireland, Bank of Scotland, Price Waterhouse Coopers, PA Consulting Group and Belfast City Council to name just a few.

Students have access to a wide range of computers (laboratories are equipped with several hundred PCs) and specialised software packages. The course emphasises the application of advanced Information Technology in a business environment. For example, students study both the enabling technology for e-Commerce and how that technology may be exploited for business advantage. A further key feature of the course is the active development of the students’ innovation and entrepreneurial skills.

Business

informAtion

technology

27

(15)

28

29

Business informAtion

technology

cAreers And further study

course content

stAge 1

Accounting for Non-specialists Introduction to Multimedia I Introduction to Multimedia II

Introductory Software Engineering and Project Management

Management Information Systems Principles of Management

stAge 2

Business Development

Business System Design & Evaluation Computer Programing for BIT Modelling and Managing Knowledge Principles of Management II

Professional Computing Practice Technology of e-commerce

stAge 3

BIT Project Business Analysis Business Ethics Business Strategy Changing Organisations Consumer Behaviour

Contemporary Issues in Management Database Systems

Electronic Business Information Policy

Information Systems in Organisations Multimedia Information Systems Public Sector Management

Software Development For The Web Supply Chain Management

Sustainable Management

professionAl eXperience

A range of modules builds progressively on each of these themes throughout the first two years. Students then undertake a full year’s paid placement, which is an opportunity both to put into practice the principles learned to date and to gain practical experience of the business world.

It is expected that students will gain a Licentiateship of the City & Guilds from this period of work experience. Students then take their final year modules, including a major individual innovation and entrepreneurship project, which pulls together many of the individual themes of the degree.

The four-year degree programme (three years plus a placement year) will involve development of the technical skills necessary to design and construct advanced IT systems for business applications. It is expected that graduates will be able to:

• Assume the role of manager in the contemporary, technology-driven business environment

• Exploit advanced IT to build and develop globally competitive businesses

• Develop and implement IT-enabled business systems for effective business operation

• Manage the introduction and use of IT in business, including the human factors

• Keep abreast of emerging technologies and their potential for business innovation

• Redesign existing business processes and implement new business initiatives

Much of the business in the 21st century will be done electronically and will exploit advanced information technologies such as the Internet and e-commerce. Leaders of technology-based organisations will therefore require a unique combination of abilities. The Business Information Technology programme aims to give students a sound knowledge of information technology fundamentals and their application in business and a firm foundation in management.

more thAn ever, there is A reAl need for skilled mAnAgers in the

contemporAry, technology-driven environment. those mAnAgers will

Be reQuired to hAve An understAnding of the fundAmentAl principles

of computer science, informAtion technology And mAnAgement with

An emphAsis on ApplicAtion of AdvAnced informAtion technology in

A Business environment.

on grAduAting with An honours degree And A yeAr’s eXperience,

students Are ABle to choose from A host of rewArding And

chAllenging cAreers in industry, commerce, educAtion And reseArch.

grAduAtes of this degree secure joBs in AreAs such As project

mAnAgement in it compAnies, it consultAncy, or generAl mAnAgement

positions.

(16)

30

31

computer gAmes

development

degree

MEng Honours in:

Computer Games Development (4 years)

(UCAS Code: GG4P)

Computer Games Development with a Year in Industry (5 year sandwich)

(UCAS Code: GG46)

A-level:

AAB including Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Mathematics.

Irish leaving Certificate:

AB2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Mathematics or Physics + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics.

Please note: Computer Science, Computing Information Technology, Computer Games Development, and Software Engineering share a common core of modules in the first year so you may transfer between these courses at the end of first year, subject to meeting the normal progression requirements.

Students interested in transferring to the Computer Games Development degree from Software Engineering, Computer Science or Computing and Information Technology will be required to pass an additional Mathematics exam should they not hold an A–level in Mathematics or Physics (or an equivalent qualification).

AdditionAl informAtion for

speciAl feAtures

Major new research centres have been established in Electronics, Telecommunications and Information Technology, e-Science and in Sonic Arts. A number of modules on the course are closely linked to the research expertise of these centres and evolve and change rapidly to reflect some of the current, emerging and exciting developments in the field.

Students studying on this degree may apply for a scholarship provided by Asidua. Turn to page 19 to find out more.

(17)

32

33

computer gAmes

development

course content

The course is modular, with core modules defined in each year and pathways that allow an increasing degree of specialism as students progress from Stage 1 to Stage 4. Modules are combined across the stages to reflect the various themes within the degree.

stAge 1

Modules within this stage will include:

• Fundamentals of Programming and Algorithmic development

• Principles of Computer Architecture

• Theory and Development of Multimedia Systems • Introductory Software Engineering and Project

Management

stAge 2

Modules within this stage will explore: • Advanced C++ Programming

• Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis • Games Programming (using XNA)

• Networking Theory and Programming Practice • Principles of Software Engineering explored through

team-based game development

• Principles behind Game Theory and Game Creation • Professional Development

stAge 3

Modules within this stage will explore:

• 3D Game Engine Design and Development • 3D Graphics and Programming

• Agile and Component-based Software Development

• Artificial Intelligence

• Concurrent (multi-core) Programming • Real-time Physics Programming

• Advanced Topics in Software Engineering

yeAr of professionAl eXperience

Between Stage 3 and Stage 4 students undertake an optional full year’s paid industrial placement, the Year of Professional Experience. The placement year is an opportunity both to put into practice the principles learned to date in the course and gain practical experience in games design and development with an appropriate games development studio where possible. Students will receive assistance in obtaining a suitable placement.

stAge 4

In Stage 4 students develop specialism in games programming through the selection of research based modules and the completion of a games development research project. Based on current research strengths this would include:

• Adaptive and Self-learning • Advanced Algorithmic Analysis

• Advanced Computer Vision Techniques • Artificial Intelligence

• Distributed/parallel Programming • Embedded Software Systems • Reasoning Under Uncertainty

The computer games industry, spanning from consoles through PCs to mobile phones, has grown rapidly in recent years and is now a multi-billion pound global industry. The industry is still expanding and continually evolving and exploiting cutting-edge technologies as interfaces and new forms of gameplay are developed. Sound technical skills and creativity are essential for the development of a successful electronic game.

This prestigious integrated programme in Computer Games Development (including an optional placement year) will foster strong programming, content management and architectural design skills and provide students with a full development experience from concept through software design to final implementation in preparation for a development-oriented career in the industry. Additionally, the skills-set gained from the course also fully prepares graduates for a programming-oriented career within the wider software engineering industry.

cAreers And further study

on grAduAting with An meng degree (And A yeAr’s eXperience),

grAduAtes will Be ABle to tAke development joBs in the computer

gAmes industry or other computer-BAsed creAtive industries.

grAduAtes will Also Be fully eQuipped with A progrAmming-oriented

skill-set, which will Be highly AttrActive to softwAre development

positions within the wider softwAre engineering industry, not just

in gAming. in Addition, the course will eQuip grAduAtes to pursue

reseArch/further study in computer science And relAted disciplines.

(18)

34

35

computer

science

35

34

i studied At seeecs

nAme:

shAun o’neill

current joB:

progrAmmer, oBscurA digitAl,

sAn frAncisco

As Shaun is now based in San Francisco, we interviewed him for this edition of the SEEECS prospectus via Skype. You can find out how Skype works on page 61.

I graduated with First Class Honours in Computer Science in 2010 and am currently working for the high end entertainment company, Obscura Digital. We’re a creative experiential agency working with blue chip clients like Nike, Kodak, Facebook, Heineken, NASA, Yahoo! and Coca Cola. I took a month’s placement here last summer and was lucky enough to land the job on the back of it. I’m currently on a Graduate Visa but fingers crossed I’ll get my full Green Card employment Visa soon. For a sixth former thinking of studying Computer Science at SEEECS I’d highly recommend teaching yourself a programming language before you start the course. Try to familiarise yourself with the C and C++ programming languages when on the course also. And when you’re there, try to line up a year’s placement as it will stand you in good stead at the end of your degree course. I did a sixth month placement with Microsoft and the same amount of time with SAP. And one last piece of advice – chose subject areas you are genuinely interested in, not ones you think are easier to get a higher mark in. Trust me, it will make your three or four years in SEEECS much more enjoyable.

degree

BSc Honours in:

Computer Science (4 year sandwich)

(UCAS Code: G400)

Mathematics and Computer Science (3 years)

(UCAS Code: GG41)

Physics and Computer Science (3 years)

(UCAS Code: GF43)

BEng Honours in Computer Science (4 year sandwich)

(UCAS Code: G404)

MEng Honours in Computer Science (4 years)

(UCAS Code: G402)

MEng Honours in Computer Science (5 year sandwich)

(UCAS Code: G405)

MSci Honours in Mathematics and Computer Science (4 years) (UCAS Code: GGK1)

BEng/BSc Single Honours

A-level:

BBB including GCE A-level Chemistry or Computing or ICT or Mathematics or Physics or Technology or Double Award Applied ICT + GCSE Mathematics.

A relevant computing, engineering or scientific BTEC National Diploma with 10 Distinctions and 8 Merits + GCSE Mathematics.

BTEC Higher National diploma:

Those with good grades in a relevant Higher National Diploma will be considered individually on their merits for entry to Stage 2.

Irish leaving Certificate:

B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics

mEng

A-level:

AAB including GCE A-level Chemistry or Computing or ICT or Mathematics or Physics or Technology or Double Award Applied ICT + GCSE Mathematics.

Irish leaving Certificate

AB2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics

mSci and BSc Joint Honours

See separate entries for mathematics and Physics on the Queen’s website www.qub.ac.uk

Please note: Computer Science, Computing Information Technology, Computer Games Development, and Software Engineering share a common core of modules in the first year so you may transfer between these courses at the end of first year, subject to meeting the normal progression requirements.

Students interested in transferring to the Computer Games Development degree from Software Engineering, Computer Science or Computing and Information Technology will be required to pass an additional Mathematics exam should they not hold an A–level in Mathematics or Physics (or an equivalent qualification).

AdditionAl informAtion for

speciAl feAtures

Due to the high demand for computer science graduates there are a number of scholarships available for students on this course. These include industry sponsored

scholarships provided by both Asidua and Liberty IT, each of which is worth up to £25,000. Both scholarships provide £1,000 for each academic year, a guaranteed industrial placement, an opportunity for additional part time work during the academic year and also a permanent position on graduation.

For further information on these and other scholarships available, turn to page 19.

(19)

36

37

computer science

course content

The Computer Science courses at Queen’s aim to teach the fundamental principles of Computer Science, together with the necessary skills, tools and techniques to enable our graduates to embark on careers as professional software engineers or to become suitably qualified to undertake research in Computer Science. The courses involve extensive practical work in the School’s laboratories.

stAge 1

• Computer Architecture • Fundamentals of Programming • Multimedia Design and Authoring • Programming Challenges

• Introduction of the Science of Computing • Introductory Software Engineering and Project

Management

These subjects provide a thorough introduction to programming and examine the structure and operations of computers.

stAge 2

• Advanced Programming using C# and C++ • Computation Theory

• Data Structures and Algorithms • Database Systems

• Networks and Communications • Professional Computing Practice • Software Engineering and Group Project • Database Systems

These subjects cover many aspects of Computer Science and Software Engineering and their applications.

A student taking Single Honours BEng/BSc is required to spend a year gaining professional experience in industry in a paid full-time post. Students are helped to obtain suitable places and the School has excellent links with over 500 local, national and international employers such as BT, Liberty, Asidua and Kainos in Belfast, IBM in England, Microsoft and Sun Microsystems in Dublin, Fujitsu in Japan and Siemens in Germany. It is expected that students will gain a Licentiateship of the City & Guilds from this period of work experience.

stAge 3

• Agile and Component-Based Programming • Artificial Intelligence

• Research Topics

• Concurrent Programming • Formal Methods

• Operating System Concepts • Design Principles and Patterns • Computer Science Project

These modules enable each student to pursue their own interests.

Please note: Computer Science, Computing Information Technology,Computer Games Development, and Software Engineering share a common core of modules in the first year so you may transfer between these courses at the end of first year, subject to meeting the normal progression requirements. Students who do not hold an A-level in Mathematics or Physics (or equivalent qualification) and wish to transfer to the Computer Games Development degree from Computer Science,Computing and Information Technology or Software Engineering need to pass an additional Mathematics exam.

meng

This is a four-year extended degree course. It has been established to provide a supply of particularly well-qualified graduates who will become industry leaders, and it will have an appropriate blend of knowledge and skills in Computer Science with business practice and management as well as skills in conducting state of art research.

Students have the option of undertaking a year gaining professional experience in industry. The first two years and much of Level 3 are common with the BSc/BEng course. Transfer from the BSc/BEng course to the MEng course is possible for selected students at the end of Level 2, subject to satisfactory performance. Modules undertaken in Stage 4 are:

stAge 4

• High Performance Computing • Algorithms: Analysis and Applications • Innovation and Entrepreneurship • Research Project

Computer Science is concerned with the specification, design, construction and use of computer systems. It embraces subject areas such as software engineering, hardware architecture and design, information systems, communications, graphics, simulation and modelling, artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction. Computer systems are often highly complex in nature and must be reliable in operation. Computer Science provides many of the concepts and approaches required.

cAreers And further study

on grAduAting with An honours degree And A yeAr’s eXperience,

students Are ABle to choose from A rAnge of rewArding And

chAllenging cAreers in industry, commerce, educAtion And reseArch.

the mAjority of grAduAtes tAke up posts AssociAted with softwAre

design And implementAtion. there Are currently over 200 softwAre

compAnies in northern irelAnd, so grAduAtes of this course Are

in pArticulArly high demAnd. some Also emBArk on mAnAgement,

AccountAncy And finAnce cAreers, while others go into teAching

And reseArch.

36

37

i studied At seeecs

nAme:

jonAthAn cAves

current joB:

principAl softwAre engineer,

microsoft corporAtion

I graduated from SEEECS with a degree in Computer

Science in 1987. I now work at Microsoft’s HQ in

Redmond, Washington.

(20)

38

39

computing And

informAtion

technology

38

39

degree

BSc Honours in Computing and Information Technology

(UCAS Code: GG45)

A-level:

ABB + GCSE Mathematics OR BBB including any computing, mathematical or scientific subject + GCSE Mathematics.

A non-relevant BTEC National Diploma with 12 Distinctions and 6 Merits + GCSE Mathematics.

oR

A relevant computing, engineering or scientific BTEC National Diploma with 10 Distinctions and 8 Merits + GCSE Mathematics.

BTEC Higher National diploma:

Those with good grades in a relevant Higher National Diploma will be considered individually on their merits for entry to Stage 2.

Irish leaving Certificate

B2B2B2B2B2B2/AB2B2B2B2 + Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics

oR

B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in any computing, mathematical or scientific subject + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics.

Please note that Computer Science, Computing Information Technology, Software Engineering and Computer Games Development share a common core of modules in the first year. Students may therefore transfer between these courses at the end of first year, subject to meeting the normal progression requirements.

Students interested in transferring to the Computer Games Development degree from either Computer Science, Software Engineering or Computing and Information Technology will be required to pass an additional Mathematics exam should they not hold an A-level in Mathematics or Physics (or equivalent qualification).

AdditionAl informAtion for

speciAl feAtures

All students undertake a paid placement year in industry. The School has links with over 500 local, national and international organisations. Examples of companies where our students have spent their placements include Microsoft, Kainos, Bank of Ireland, Bank of Scotland and Belfast City Council to name just a few.

(21)

40

41

computing And informAtion

technology

course content

The course aims to teach the necessary skills, tools and techniques to enable our graduates to embark on careers as IT professionals in a wide variety of roles. The course involves extensive practical work in the School’s computer laboratories.

stAge 1

• Computing Architecture • Fundamentals of Programming • Introduction to Multimedia I • Introduction to Multimedia II

• Introduction to the Science of Computing • Programming Challenges

stAge 2

• Human Computer Interaction and Team Working • Networks and Communications

• Professional Computing Practice • Programming Challenges

• Software Development for the Web • System Administration & Maintenance • Technology of e-commerce

stAge 3

• Database Systems • Database Technology • Information Systems Security • IT Enterprise Project

• Multimedia Information Systems

• NET Web Development using Agile Methods • Operating System Concepts

Please note: Computing Information Technology, Computer Science, Computer Games Development, and Software Engineering share a common core of modules in the first year so you may transfer between these courses at the end of first year, subject to meeting the normal progression requirements. Students who do not hold an A-level in Mathematics or Physics (or equivalent qualification) and wish to transfer to the Computer Games Development degree from Computer Science, Computing and Information Technology or Software Engineering need to pass an additional Mathematics exam.

The Computing and Information Technology programme aims to give students a sound knowledge of information technology fundamentals and their application. This degree is ideal for students who are interested in all aspects of IT and embraces subject areas such programming, web development, database design, interface design, infrastructure specification, maintenance and administration, hardware architecture and operating systems. Software development on this programme has more of a web-based focus than the Computer Science degree.

The four-year degree programme (three years plus a placement year) will involve development of the applied computing, interpersonal, communication and IT skills necessary to develop, select, deliver, manage and maintain cutting-edge IT infrastructures and advanced IT systems.

cAreers And further study

typicAl roles for An it professionAl include design of it

Architectures, integrAtion of softwAre And hArdwAre products with

orgAnisAtionAl needs And infrAstructure network AdministrAtion

And security, design And implementAtion of dynAmic weBsites And

development of multimediA resources, mAintenAnce, upgrAde And

repAir of computer Assets And support of it users.

(22)

42

43

electricAl And

electronic

engineering

42

43

degree

BEng Honours in:

Electrical and Electronic Engineering (3 years)

(UCAS Code: H600)

Electrical and Electronic Engineering (4 year sandwich)

(UCAS Code: H604)

MEng Honours in:

Electrical and Electronic Engineering (4 years)

(UCAS Code: H602)

Electrical and Electronic Engineering (5 year sandwich)

(UCAS Code: H605)

BEng

A-level:

BBB including Mathematics and at least one from Physics (preferred), Biology, Chemistry, Design/Technology, Electronics, Further Mathematics or Double Award Applied Science.

Note: applicants not offering Physics at A-level should have a minimum of a grade C in GCSE Physics or Double Award Science.

A relevant BTEC National Diploma with 10 Distinctions and 8 Merits. Distinctions will be required in stipulated relevant units.

Higher National diploma:

Those with good grades in a relevant Higher National Diploma will be considered on their individual merits for entry to Stage 2.

Irish leaving Certificate:

B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Mathematics and Physics (preferred), Biology or Chemistry.

mEng

A-level:

AAB including Mathematics and at least one from Physics (preferred), Biology, Chemistry, Design/Technology, Electronics, or Further Mathematics.

Note: applicants not offering Physics at A-level should have a minimum of a grade B in GCSE Physics or Double Award Science.

BTEC National diploma:

A relevant BTEC National Diploma with 16 Distinctions and 2 Merits. Distinctions will be required in stipulated relevant units.

Irish leaving Certificate:

AB2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade A and B2 in any order in Mathematics and Physics (preferred), Biology or Chemistry.

AdditionAl informAtion for

speciAl feAtures

Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Queen’s has an excellent reputation, ranking in the top 10 in the UK in the Times League Table 2011 and top 100 in the world (QS World Rankings). Queen’s is one of only seven UK universities involved in the prestigious Power Academy scholarship scheme. Each year this provides 60 generous scholarships worth over £30k each to well-qualified students on the BEng and MEng degree pathways across the seven member universities. Turn to page 18 for further information on these and other scholarships on offer for students studying this degree.

Electrical and Electronic Engineering courses at Queen’s are fully accredited by the relevant professional society. Students interested in travel may spend a placement abroad or gain summer work experience through the IAESTE international exchange programme.

The School has an outstanding record of achievement in research. There are a number of well-funded and very strong research groups engaged in leading-edge technology. Final year projects are heavily influenced by the research activities of staff.

i studied At seeecs

nAme:

cAtherine irwin

current joB:

emeA engineering, reseArch

& technology mAnAger, dupont

I graduated with a BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

and I was lucky enough to have a scholarship from the

Department of Economic Development and sponsorship from

DuPont. When I was at Queen’s I had a particular interest in the

Electrical Engineering section of my degree, particularly the

‘Power & Machines’ section which was not being taken by many

of the undergraduates, probably because it was seen as ‘old

technology’.

During lectures we were told that there would be a severe

lack of Electrical Engineers in this field in the years to come – I

now see this as being true, so it was a good choice! If I had to

offer any nuggets that might help undergraduates find a job

on the completion of their degree I’d say get some real-world

work experience, not just in the world of electrical engineering

or electronics as it shows a rounded character. Also, pay close

attention to the spelling and grammar on your CV as the number

of application forms I have discarded because of tardiness is

huge. And remember that at interview stage, old fashion values

such as appearance, eye-contact and the ability to speak clearly

and confidently count for a lot.

(23)

44

45

electricAl And electronic

engineering

course content

Beng

This is an enhanced engineering honours course and, for suitably qualified students, normally takes three years of full-time study. All BEng course students are normally required to complete at least 12 weeks of approved industrial training before graduating. The BEng course is also offered incorporating a sandwich year in industry. This professional experience year is usually taken after Stage 2 and students may gain a Licentiateship of the City & Guilds from this period of work.

Transfer from the BEng course to the MEng course is possible at the end of Stage 2, subject to satisfactory performance.

stAge 1

In the Stage 1 course, the subjects offered are: • Circuits & Communications

• Computing for Engineers • Design Projects

• Electronic Circuits & Devices • Electrical Engineering • Mathematics

stAge 2 And stAge 3

At Stage 2 and Stage 3, a choice of subjects is offered, including: • Communications • Computer Architecture • Computer Communicatio