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Robotics, Electronics,

Communication &
Computer Engineering
Courses at the University of Plymouth

Sutton Harbour, one of Plymouths popular tourist spots. The University is in


the centre skyline. The famous Plymouth Hoe is just to the left of the
picture and the National Marine Aquarium is off to the right.

Plymouths Barbican

If you require any part of this publication


in an alternative format, please contact:
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Tel: +44 (0)1752 587 676
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Email: das@plymouth.ac.uk
Enquiries about admissions & visit opportunities
are welcomed. Please contact:
Faculty of Technology Admissions
University of Plymouth
Tel: +44 (0)1752 586000
Email: technology@plymouth.ac.uk
www.plymouth.ac.uk
www.plymouth.ac.uk/technology

University of Plymouth

Fees
For the latest information on tuition fees,
scholarships and bursaries see
www.plymouth.ac.uk/money
(or your year of entry)
Our School web site will give you further
information on our courses.
www.plymouth.ac.uk/socce

The newly refurbished Smeaton Building which contains our modern well
equipped laboratories with open access facilities.

Contents
2

Introduction

Our courses

10 great reasons to study at Plymouth

Study on TOP rated courses (IET accredited


with maximum score 32/32)

20 MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)/BSc (Hons)


Computer Systems Engineering

Study at one of the best modern universities

Excellent modern laboratories and


computing facilities

National prize winning project work,


showcased on an open day

Exciting and well paid work placements

10 National robot football champions


12 Internationally rated research supporting
teaching

22 MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)/BSc (Hons)


Electrical and Electronic Engineering
24 MEng (Hons)/BEng(Hons)/BSc (Hons)
Electronic & Communication
Engineering
26 MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)/BSc (Hons)
Robotics
28 Course structure MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)
29 Course structure BSc (Hons)
30 BSc(Hons) Clinical Technology

14 Excellent career prospects at graduation

32 MSc courses

16 Friendly and supportive staff

34 Year 0 Foundation courses in Technology

17 A fantastic location for study and recreation

35 Careers and sources of information

18 Studying and living in Plymouth

36 How to apply

19 Accommodation

37 Why not visit us?

University of Plymouth 1

Portland Square building housing many of the Electronics & Robotics staff

Introduction
Some of the greatest changes in our
society since the industrial revolution
have taken place in the last twenty years.
The personal computer, mobile telephone
and wireless communication have
changed our world and offer rewarding
careers helping to improve the quality of
life for all.
Nearly everything we now take for
granted utilises electronic
technology in one form
or another.

Prof. Steven
Furnell,
Head of School of
Computing,
Communications
and Electronics

This includes: hospitals; patient monitoring and non


invasive diagnosis
roads; active traffic control and
observation
railways; automatic signalling and train
control
airports and ferry ports; autonomous
passenger and baggage handling,
instrumentation and communication
systems for adverse weather conditions
water supplies; remote condition
monitoring and pumping systems
telephone systems which seamlessly
switch between changing locations
The list is endless. We now have
intelligent autonomous robots to operate
in hazardous environments, satellites that
tell us exactly where we are and provide
early warning of natural disasters, home
monitoring systems that allow remote
control to maximise energy efficiency.

Today's electronic technologists must


evolve efficient and sustainable solutions.
This requires an understanding of people,
our society and our planets resources so
that we can develop systems that do
more but use less. At Plymouth we will
prepare you for this challenge. Our new
laboratories have state-of-the-art
equipment to test and evaluate your
ideas. We encourage a learning by
doing environment and our student
projects frequently win national prizes.
Our well established engineering degrees
are fully accredited, achieving the
maximum score of 32/32. Our robot
football team has won the UK
championships for the last 8 years.
We hope to welcome you to Plymouth
where we offer a friendly and supportive
environment in which to study.

Ten great reasons


1 Professionally accredited
courses awarded
maximum IET score of
32/32
2 Consistantly ranked as
one of the top modern
universities
3

Excellent modern
laboratories, computing
facilities and library
open 24/7

4 National prize winning


project work, showcased
on an open day

The new 8 million library extension with 24/7 access and Costa Coffee shop!

5 The work placement


year option, often leads
to a permanent job

Ten great reasons to study at Plymouth


Plymouth enjoys one of the best records
for teaching and research in the modern
university sector.

The Sunday Times University Guide September 2006

Plymouth is one of the most modern and


innovative universities in the country
situated in arguably the most beautiful
region in the country.

The Guardian University Guide 2008

National UK Robot
Football champions,
unique modules in
robotics and electronics

7 Internationally rated
research supporting
teaching
8 Excellent career
prospects at graduation
9 Friendly and
supportive staff
10

A fantastic location for


study and leisure

University of Plymouth 3

The project open day, highly


commended by the IET
accreditation visit gives
students the opportunity to
showcase their individual
project work. Prizes are
awarded in several
categories, sponsored by
national and international
companies, who are also
looking to recruit our
graduates.

1 Top rated courses with Professional accreditation from the IET


During 2006 the IEE (now the IET) visited
our School as part of their rolling five
year review programme of accredited
courses. The visiting team recommended
full marks in each of the eight categories
assessed, awarding 32/32 and a full five
year accreditation for all of the BEng
(Hons) and BSc (Hons) degree courses:In addition the staff and the School were
given a long list of commendations
which included: Staff-student relationship and
enthusiasm for student support
Excellent learning resources &
laboratory facilities
Expertise of staff, industrial contacts
and research input into teaching.

4 University of Plymouth

Professional standard of project work


showcased on an open day
Dr Peter White, the Senior Admissions
Tutor and himself the recipient of the IEE
student counsellor of the year award a
few years ago, says it has always been
our view that education of
undergraduates is a team effort between
staff, industry and the students

themselves and this has been vindicated


by this review. The positive feedback
from our industrial partners confirms our
belief that graduates from Plymouth are
considered to be amongst the best.

Adric Marsh, Manufacturing


Engineer Electrical, Corus PLC
BEng (Hons) Electrical and
Electronic Engineering
Graduated 2004
I chose Plymouth mainly because of its
location and was not disappointed. The
nightlife is excellent and varied and, for
mountain bikers like me, the trails are
brilliant. I also chose Plymouth because
the degree course was accredited by
the IET which meant I could achieve
Chartered Engineer status one of my
main priorities.
I knew that provided I did the work and
attended the lectures I would get the
result I wanted. Having said that many
of the academic staff have also spent a
good deal of time in industry which

Phil Symons graduated in 2005


with a BEng (Hons) in Electrical
and Electronic Engineering
He is now working with Babcock
Marine in Plymouth as a Design and
Safety Support Engineer (Nuclear),
responsible for the design of Control
and Instrumentation systems for
Devonport Royal Dockyard and the Civil
Nuclear Industry. He is also the IET
Younger Members representative in the
South West.

helps them to deliver the material well.


My work placement was, in a word,
awesome. I was based in London in the
Research and Development department
of Sortex Ltd. The University helped by
providing interview techniques and CV
workshops and did not forget about me
during my placement year. Also, I can
use the placement reports I wrote for
the University as evidence towards
Chartership.

Wales. Corus actively encourages


graduate engineers to become
Chartered and, to this end, I am on
course to become Chartered very soon.

My work placement was, in a


word, awesome.

Returning for my final year I was


offered a job upon graduation with
Corus where, I am happy to say, the
learning has continued and is again
endorsed by the IET. Whilst I am
officially an engineer for a Galvanizing
Line, my other duties involve attending
graduate recruitment fairs in
universities and working with schools in
the Engineering Education Scheme in

I decided to study at Plymouth


because being my local University I
knew it had a good reputation and
excellent facilities. The course was
challenging but I found the lecturers
very enthusiastic and helpful. After my
second year I was offered a one year
sandwich placement at Westlands
Helicopters in Yeovil. This was a really
exciting environment in which to gain
experience and it was so refreshing to
put theory into practice.
After graduation I was offered a place
on a graduate training scheme with
Babcock Marine. This meant I could stay
in Plymouth which is a great place to
live and work.

Phil Symons pictured at the


Devonport Royal Naval Dockyard

University of Plymouth 5

The Rolle Building - one of the Universitys latest


multi million pound investments

2 Live and Learn at one of the UKs top modern Universities


The University of Plymouth is one of
the UKs most prominent and
dynamic universities with an
educational history dating back to
1862. It is consistently ranked as one
of the top three modern universities
with over 30,000 students and
almost 3,000 staff. The School is
currently ranked 19th for Electrical
and Electronic Engineering according
to the Guardians latest league
tables*, outperforming some
traditional universities.

The criteria used to produce the rankings


include:
teaching quality (as rated by graduates
of the course)
feedback from staff to students (as
rated by graduates of the course)
spending per student
staff/student ratio
job prospects
value added (ie comparing students
degree results with their entry
qualifications)
*The Guardians university league tables
can be found at
http://education.guardian.co.uk/
universityguide2009.

The University of Plymouth has recently


spent nearly 200 million on new
buildings and building refurbishment,
including brand new laboratory facilities
for our School. The new library extension
includes an open access area which is
available 24/7. Book loans and returns
are available using a completely
automated computer scanning system
and reservations may be made online.
There is a brand new Student Union
extension with an outdoor performance
area for concerts and bands. All these
campus facilities are adjacent to the
brand new city centre shopping centre
and the historic waterfront is only a few
minutes walk away.
The University was recently awarded four
centres of excellence in teaching and
learning worth 18 million. This was the
maximum award of any university.

6 University of Plymouth

Excellent modern laboratories and computing facilities

Our recent accreditation visit


highlighted the excellent standard of
all our learning resources, in particular
our undergraduate laboratory facilities.
These are all newly refurbished to a
high standard with stateof-the-art software and
hardware. Much of the
laboratory provision is
open access so that our
students may use the
facilities as often as they
want, working individually or
in groups.

University of Plymouth 7

Itaz Virk graduated with a 1st


class BEng (Hons) Electrical &
Electronic Engineering degree
His final year project also won
the IET Younger Members
award.
Studying at the University of Plymouth
was a very positive experience. Leaving
India and studying in a different
country and in a second language was
at first a challenging task but the
rewards have been great. I really
enjoyed the placement year I spent at
Intel Corporation UK which really helped
me focus on my final year studies. I
won four awards for my final year
project for which I developed a controlby-eye system that enables you to
interact with the computer just by
looking at the monitor.

Itaz Virk with other prize winners on the project open day.

As a result of my achievements at
University I was offered a graduate job
at BP. I am working at one of Europes
largest oil and gas terminals as an
Instrument and Control Engineer. My job
involves ensuring process safety and
managing plant integrity as well as
helping to increase plant efficiency.
The best thing about my job so far is
that its the right balance between an
office based role and hands-on
engineering. As a graduate fresh out of

university I consider myself lucky to get


placed on an operational site where I
get plenty of practical experience. I
think this is partly due to the excellent
balance between practical and theory
that my degree course at Plymouth
provided.
A video of Itazs project may be seen
at http://video.plymouth.ac.uk/tvb/
25-07-07TechOpenday07.wmv

4 National Prize winning project work


We have an international reputation for
our project work. Students from all over
Europe come to us just to do their
projects. Our learning by doing ethos
enables you to develop your own ideas,
putting theory into practice using our
new, well equipped laboratories. Project
work begins on day one of your first year
and at the end of week one you will be
able to enter the finished design of your
team in our induction week competition.

8 University of Plymouth

Project work is a recurring feature


through all our courses, culminating in
your own final year project. You will be
able to showcase your work on our
project open day. This event is not only
attended by family, friends and other
students but also by prospective
employers who are on the lookout for
graduates with initiative and flair!

We have a record of winning national


prizes in project competitions and
recently the project of one of our final
year students was selected as the top
electronic project in the UK, from all
universities.

Kabul Maharjan
Work placement at National
Instruments
Before starting my final year, I applied
to National Instruments and was
offered a one year internship. I was
fortunate to be offered a post at this
dynamic company, a pioneer in virtual
instrumentation.
NI is a multinational company that
thrives on innovation to achieve
customer success. NI has developed a
unique business structure that has
earned it a place in the Financial Times
Top 50 Best Workplaces in the UK for
two years running. At NI, I worked as
an Applications Engineer (AE). An AE is
primarily involved with technical
support through phone, email and
forum on the vast product range NI
offers. After developing the products,

this after-sales support has been the


back bone to the success of NI and the
reason why scientists, engineers and
researchers continue to use NI software
and hardware. The AEs help customers
understand NI products better and
recreate any issues they are facing
which might need forwarding to R&D in
some cases. They create
KnowledgeBase articles and example
programs, which can be viewed by
customers to answer their queries. An
AE is also involved in teaching courses
like LabVIEW and Data Acquisition,
setting up demos for events, and
checking system specifications before
purchase.

a motor which kept the target point


stable while the base platform is
shaken. This was challenging and very
interesting as it gave me a chance to
learn more about the technologies
available.

During my internship, I was also


involved in the AE team Project
Competition. In two months, we built a
stabilisation platform which used RealTime and FPGA programming to control

Exciting & well paid work placements


Morgan Roe
Work placement at Aardman
Animations
I decided to take a sandwich
placement before starting my final
year in Robotics. I was fortunate
enough to be offered a Technical
Engineers post at Aardman
Animations Wallace & Gromit and
Chicken Run fame! The work was very
different but also very interesting and
challenging. I was responsible for
designing small robotic manipulators
which are used by the animators and
camera assistants to aid the transition
from film to digital capture. I also
prepared and programmed quarter
of a million pound motion control
rigs to move around the sets. My
placement experience was
invaluable preparation for my final
year studies and helped me focus
my ideas for my final year
project and future career.

The question: most companies prefer to


employ people with relevant experience,
but how do you get experience without
first obtaining a job?
The answer: all our courses offer a work
placement option between the second
and final year of study.
The advantages:
Gives you practical experience in the
commercial world where deadlines and
budgets figure as highly as the
technical challenge.
The opportunity to put theory into
practice aiding your understanding of
concepts encountered in your studies
Develop further your communication
skills and team work
Earn up to 16,000 (or more) with the
possibility of a permanent job offer or
final year sponsorship.

You can submit your placement


experience towards professional
registration.
After the placement year the academic
performance of final year students
usually increases measurably.

Finding a placement
Our placement office will help you. They
provide information about companies
and help with cv preparation and
interview techniques.

University of Plymouth 9

Our autonomous robots


limber up before a match

6 National Robot Football Champions


Plymouth was the first UK university to
enter the Mirosot robot football
league. This was partly because we
have had a very active robotics
research group for many years and as
a result we were the first UK
university to launch a robotics degree
course in 1990.
We have been the UK champions for
the last 8 years and have participated
in national and world robot football
championships in Paris, Munich, Korea,
Brazil and San Francisco.
Many of our undergraduate and
postgraduate students become part of
the robot football group and we
sponsor them to travel all around the
world to participate in the matches.

10 University of Plymouth

Bipedal robot taking kick at


penalty shoot-out

Unique Electronic & Robotic Projects


Robotics provides an exciting platform for
innovative electronics. These images
show the range of projects currently
involving our undergraduate and
postgraduate students. Plymouth is the
first UK university to enter a bipedal
robot in robot football competitions. Our
first prototype is shown here.

Award winning
Rubiks Cube
solving robot

roject
robot p
laying
p
s
s
e
h
ec
teractiv
Novel in

University of Plymouth 11

Fixed and Mobile


Communications Research
Group
This group has been active for over 20
years with funding exceeding 1M. It is
involved with the European Space
Agency, NASA, France Telecom and many
other universities internationally.
Recently one of the groups researchers
identified the error correcting code
required to transmit images from deep
space back to earth. This problem has
remained unsolved for the last 30 years
since it would have taken over 2000
years to test each code experimentally in
a communication system. However by
connecting together 2000 computers on
campus, cracking codes as a background
task, the codes were analysed in 3
weeks.

Unfiltered satellite pictures

The top two pictures, received from a


communications satellite demonstrate
the power of error correction.
The group is also involved in developing
wireless networks for inter-car
communication for the exchange of
information about traffic, weather, road
conditions etc. This will have a major
impact on road safety in the future. The
coloured lines on the photo represent
typical wireless links

Filtered satellite pictures

Typical wireless links

7 Internationally Rated Research


Centre for Information Security
and Network Research (CISNR)
The Centre for Information Security and
Network Research (CISNR) has research
interests encompassing IT Security (from
both technology and human
perspectives), Network Monitoring,
Simulation and Management, and
Internet/WWW technologies, as well as
application areas such as mobile services
and e-Learning. Much of the research
has an applied, real-world focus, and the
Centre has links with a variety of external

12 University of Plymouth

organisations, including leading industry


names such as Cisco, France Telecom
(Orange Labs), and Symantec, as well as
a range of international academic
collaborations. During more than 20
years of research, this work has led to
many successful projects, as well as
numerous publications in international
journals, conferences, and related books.

Centre for Research in


Information Storage
Technology
This internationally renowned group do
leading edge research in advanced
computer disk drives, computer memory
technology and spintronics. The research
facilities include a class 1000 class 10
nanotechnology clean room-based
laboratory equipped with a 6-target UHV
device-quality spintronic deposition tool
and a Nano-R 3-D atomic force
microscope and a submicron mask
aligner. These facilities are unique
amongst UK universities.
The group has recently successfully
completed a 3M national collaborative
project funded by the DTI MNT
(micro/nano-technology) initiative on
MRAM (Magnetic Random Access
Memory) technology and a 1.75million

European collaborative project funded by


the EU FP6 on electron spin transport in
nanoscale devices. The picture shows
the newly installed spintronic deposition
tool in our Cleanroom lab, which is used
for MRAM research.

Internationally Rated Research


Robotics Research Group
In the near future robots will be
expected to be more human-like and
should have a level of intelligence which
will allow them to interact with us in
novel ways, using language, gestures
and emotions. At Plymouth we are at the
forefront studying artificial intelligence
and human-robot interaction. We work
together with psychologists and linguists
to better understand the development of
human intelligence. Our engineers and
scientists then recreate human-like
intelligence and behaviour on humanoid
robots. We are particularly interested in
children, and the question of how
newborn children learn to walk, talk and
do clever things in a surprisingly short
period of time, while in contrast robots
have to be explicitly programmed do so.

We have a range of robots which we use


to study AI, including wheeled robots,
small walking robots and a baby robot.
Plymouth is the main site of the EPSRC
funded international Virtual Research
Centre in Personal Robotics
(http://vrcpersonalrobotics.org) and
the project coordinator of the flagship
6.25 million project ITALK: Integration
and Transfer of Action and Language
Knowledge in Robots
(www.italkproject.org)

University of Plymouth 13

8 Excellent Career Prospects & Progression


* All graduates who achieve 2:2 honours
or above in a related degree may
become a full member of the Institution
of Engineering and Technology (MIET).
Graduates from a BSc (Hons) or a BEng
(Hons) who subsequently undertake
further learning, either work based or an
MSc, may apply for chartered status
when working at a professional level.
MEng graduates may apply for chartered
status after an appropriate number of
years working at a professional level.
Most of our staff are also active
practitioners or researchers and involved
with companies at a professional level.
They are able to advise you on your
career path and provide links to suitable
companies.

14 University of Plymouth

Our degree courses give you a wide


range of career choice.
Opportunities and challenges for
graduates working in the global society
include: Research & innovation
Predictive modelling & forensic
analysis
Product development & integration
Customer support & commissioning
Energy production, conservation and
environmental control
Eco-system modelling and
sustainability

To play your part in one of these vital


areas you may work in: Electronic & Communication System
Design
Automotive electronics
Robotics, and artificial intelligence
Mobile and satellite communications
Eco-friendly power generation and
distribution, offshore engineering

The Robotics and Automated Systems


degree offered everything I was looking
for: a professionally accredited course
and vast experience in engineering
tuition geared to facilitate the needs of
modern industry along with excellent
facilities.

Sean Trevethan graduated


with a degree in BEng (Hons)
Robotics and Automated
Systems

Mark Mean graduated with a


degree in BEng (Hons)
Communication Engineering.
He is now working for Babcock Marine
(formerly DML) in Plymouth as a Design
& Safety Engineer within the Control
and Instrumentation group. His
responsibilities include the design of
lightning protection systems and
improving safety critical systems on
nuclear sites.

After my final exams I worked for three


months as a Robotics Engineer for an
offshore oil contractor, working with
underwater robots. I then joined the
Royal Navy as a Weapon Engineering
Officer. The job offers lots of challenges
and demands but one of the best parts
of the job is the variety. In one post I
could be managing a department of 60
technicians, in the next I would be
involved in the design and procurement
of the Navys latest systems.

I returned to full time study after


12 years working as an electronics
technician. I chose Plymouth
University over several others
after visiting the local area, the
campus facilities and looking at
the breadth of modules in the
course. At times it was a
challenge to keep up with the
recently qualified
students, but thankfully the
lecturing staff were readily
available and very helpful. The
laboratory resources were great and
facilitated working on projects for the
various modules. After finishing the
course I won the Science, Engineering
and Technology award for my final year
project. I am now working towards
becoming a Chartered Engineer with
the Institution of Engineering and
Technology (IET).

You are given a lot of responsibility


from the outset enabling you to
achieve Chartered Engineer status early
with opportunities to gain a Masters
degree if you so choose.

The Robotics and Automated


Systems degree offered
everything I was looking for

Mark Mean receiving his SET award, and his prize


winning project Head up display for motor
cyclists.

I won the SET (Science


Engineering and Technology)
Award for my final year
project
The SET award is given out annually at a
presentation in the London Guildhall. It is a
highly prestigious award, an Oscar in the
Science, Technology and Engineering world
University of Plymouth 15

Many of our graduates keep in touch


with us long after graduation. These two
pictures show the MEng cohort of 1990
who returned for a reunion in 2008. We
were pleased to provide a champagne
reception to toast their success since
graduation. Some of them are now
running their own companies.

9 Friendly and supportive staff


We are committed to helping you to
make the most of the excellent
learning environment on offer at
Plymouth. Our open access
laboratories and our web based
student portal allow you to access
learning resources 24/7. Our friendly
and approachable staff are always
ready to listen and advise on tutorial
work, project work or even job
applications.
Since most of us are Chartered
Engineers who still work as
consultants to companies we may be
able to offer you a direct link to a job
opportunity. Our student-staff liaison
group meets regularly over lunch for
informal discussions on course
content and progression.

16 University of Plymouth

Andrew Steward was one of


our first MEng graduates,
graduating in 1990.
He started his own electronics
company called Systembase Limited.
The aim of the company was to merge
the technology of ISDN with Digital
Signal Processing to produce a series

of products that could be used to


transmit high quality audio through
digital leased lines. The highest profile
event that Systembase equipment has
been used for (pictured here with
Andrew) was the live transmission of
Big Ben to mark the start of the
new millennium in 2000.

A fantastic location for study and recreation

10

Dartmoor National Park is on the doorstep, providing miles of open


countryside for walking, biking, climbing or horse-riding

University of Plymouth 17

Women in Technology
Network
WiTNet is a network for all women
studying Technology subjects. The
network is there to help female
students get the most from their
studies and support their progress to

successful careers. WiTNet provides a


forum for informal meetings,
workshops, professional development
and social events. It regularly includes
career talks from women working in
industry and academia.

Studying & Living in Plymouth

The University of Plymouth is one of the


UKs most prominent and dynamic
universities with an educational history
dating back to 1862. It is consistently
ranked as one of the best modern
universities.
We currently have students from over
100 different countries who are
attracted to Plymouth by its
reputation for teaching and research
as well as the opportunity to
experience one of the most beautiful
regions of the UK.

18 University of Plymouth

The University is investing over


200 million in facilities designed to
take it further towards its stated
mission of delivering teaching and
research to world-class standards.
This includes 850,000 on a new
fitness complex, 110,000 on new
boats for the Diving Centre, 8.3
million to refurbish the engineering
and science buildings, 1 million on a
new nursery facility for use by staff
and students, 8 million for the new
library extension and about 96
million on new buildings.

Plymouths reputation for teaching


was further enhanced in 2005 when,
despite fierce competition from other
universities, we were awarded
18 million from the government to
establish four Centres of Excellence in
Teaching and Learning. Only one
other university has achieved such
success. One of the Centres themes
is Education for Sustainable
Development.

Accommodation
Good value accommodation is available
The Universitys Accommodation
Office undertakes to find everyone
somewhere suitable to live, either in
a hall of residence or a rented
privately owned house or flat.
Plymouth has an abundance of good
quality, affordable accommodation
close to the University and the city
centre see www.plymouth.ac.uk/
accommodation and
www.unite-students.com
The Universitys halls of residence are
new, purpose built and within a few
minutes walk of the campus, the
shops and the city centre.
Three new blocks of student flats
have just been built by private
companies in partnership with the
University. These are managed by
the University.

Our Accommodation Office regularly


inspects privately owned houses and
flats to ensure high standards of
safety and good dcor. Options range
from studio flats to large houses with
a group of people sharing. Houses
often have communal spaces, car
parking and many are now set up for
broadband connection.
Our accommodation database also
includes properties suitable for
families.
The University guarantees to offer
accommodation either in University
managed halls or approved housing
to all international students during
their first, full year of study.

Typical Halls of
Residence at the
University of
Plymouth

University of Plymouth 19

MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)/


BSc (Hons)
Computer Systems
Engineering
Entry Requirements
MEng (Hons): 300 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND
BEng (Hons): 260 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND.
Applicants must have studied Maths and a relevant Science/Technology subject to
A level or equivalent standard.
BSc (Hons): 200 UCAS tariff points with at least 1 full A-level in Science/Technology or NND.
All entrants must have GCSE grade C English or equivalent.

Duration
MEng (Hons): UCAS code H650: 4 years full time or 5 years with work placement (p9)
BEng (Hons): UCAS code G463: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)
BSc (Hons): UCAS code G600: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)

Career summary
Computers are everywhere: inside your
mobile phone, controlling your cars
engine, delivering your cash from the
banks ATM, navigating and flying aircraft.
Creating the hardware and software for
these complex systems is the realm of the
Computer Systems Engineer, an exciting
career for those who never like to stand
still!

Course information
MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)
The first two years of all our BEng
(Hons)/MEng (Hons) degrees are common.
You can change pathway right up until the
beginning of the final year. The emphasis
throughout the courses is on conceptual
design from fundamentals which is why a
good pass in A level mathematics is
required. All students, including those on
20 University of Plymouth

the BEng (Hons) can progress to year 3 of


MEng (Hons), subject to appropriate
performance. The MEng (Hons) provides
the quicker route to professional status of
Chartered Engineer (see page 14). BEng
(Hons) graduates must do some additional
learning, which may be work based (CPD)
or an MSc.

BSc (Hons)
The first two years of the BSc (Hons)
degrees are common. Students may
change pathway at any point until the
beginning of the final year. Our BSc courses
are accredited for Incorporated Engineer
status and are more applications based
offering a more practical or hands on
experience with a systems integration
emphasis.

Final year subject modules


These allow you to focus on your specialist
interest and typically include Network
Architecures, Programmable Electronics and
Ada & Software Engineering. All students
undertake an individual project
(dissertation) in a topic of their choice,
guided by a personal supervisor. The
project is a major feature of the final year
and allows an individual specialist focus.
The project open day allows you to
showcase your work, see page 8.

Kwadwo Kissiedu
Electronic Software Engineer
Joining the course at Plymouth was one
of the best decisions I have made in my
life so far. It may have something to do
with the wonderful university
atmosphere, the range of up-to-date
facilities or even the fantastic
entertainment and beautiful local places
to visit. Looking back now the course
gave me excellent preparation for my
working life.

course content at Plymouth combined


with the fantastic support from staff and
the pragmatic method of teaching has
given me the foundations to succeed
both now and in the future.
I really enjoy my job but a
part of me still wants to be a
student at Plymouth.

The course gave me


excellent preparation for
my working life

Shortly after leaving university, I joined a


UK based company as an Electronic
Design Engineer/Junior Programmer on a
new multi million pound project.
Two years on and I now have joint
responsibility over all software issues on
the project. I personally feel that the

Profiles
Babatunde Adelekon
BEng (Hons) Computer
Systems Engineering
I came to the UK to study at Plymouth
University from my home in Nigeria. I
had heard that Plymouth had a good
reputation and was a nice part of the
country in which to live. I have not
been disappointed.

The campus facilities here are great and


the location is so convenient for the city
centre and water front. My degree course
has been an enjoyable challenge. The
staff are very friendly
and approachable
and always ready
to help and answer
questions.

For my final year individual project I


designed and implemented an audio
recognition signal processing system for a
new humanoid robot which is part of an
ongoing research project here. It was
very satisfying to be able to apply some
of the theoretical principles that I had
acquired during the course. When I
graduate I intend to return home and
apply my new found knowledge and
skills there.

University of Plymouth 21

MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)/


BSc (Hons)
Electrical and Electronic
Engineering
Entry Requirements
MEng (Hons): 300 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND
BEng (Hons): 260 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND.
Applicants must have studied Maths and a relevant Science/Technology subject to A level or
equivalent standard.
BSc (Hons): 200 UCAS tariff points with at least 1 full A-level in Science/Technology or NND.
All entrants must have GCSE grade C English or equivalent.

Duration
MEng (Hons): UCAS code H608: 4 years full time or 5 years with work placement (p9)
BEng (Hons): UCAS code H604: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)
BSc (Hons): UCAS code H622: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)

Career summary
The challenge for today's Electrical and
Electronic Engineers is to design smarter
devices and systems that do more but use
less energy. This could be more efficient
domestic appliances and 'smart' houses,
'drive by wire' cars or more energy
efficient industrial utilities. An exciting
career path for those who aspire to use
technology to solve environmental
problems, not create them.

Course information
MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)
The first two years of all our BEng
(Hons)/MEng (Hons) degrees are common.
You can change pathway right up until the
beginning of the final year. The emphasis
throughout the courses is on conceptual
design from fundamentals which is why a
good pass in A level mathematics is
22 University of Plymouth

required. All students, including those on


the BEng (Hons) can progress to year 3 of
MEng (Hons), subject to appropriate
performance. The MEng (Hons) provides
the quicker route to professional status of
Chartered Engineer (see page 14). BEng
(Hons) graduates must do some additional
learning, which may be work based (CPD)
or an MSc.

BSc (Hons)
The first two years of the BSc (Hons)
degrees are common. Students may
change pathway at any point until the
beginning of the final year. Our BSc courses
are accredited for Incorporated Engineer
status and are more applications based
offering a more practical or hands on
experience with a systems integration
emphasis.

Final year subject modules


These allow you to focus on your specialist
interest and typically include Power
Converters and Drive Systems, Automated
Systems, and Information Signal
Processing. All students undertake an
individual project (dissertation) in a topic of
their choice, guided by a personal
supervisor. The project is a major feature of
the final year and allows an individual
specialist focus. The project open day
allows you to showcase your work, see
page 8.

Matthew Welch
International First Network
Soak and Trials Engineer,
Nortel
I chose Electrical and Electronic
Engineering because I felt it would give
me a broader range of knowledge and
ultimately more options later in life.
After graduation I was offered a job
straight away - a great job with lots of
travel opportunities.
I had a fantastic time at the University
of Plymouth and made many good
friends. Whilst studying for my degree I
discovered I was dyslexic. It came as
quite a shock as I had always thought I
just couldnt spell. The University
support for this was fantastic and I cant
thank them enough.

For my final year project I developed


Track-cam.com, a performance
metering tool for a track car, with a
data analysis package. Now I work as
an International Engineer for Nortel. My
role is to bridge the gap between
research and design and general
release, integrating new technologies
into existing customer networks and
thoroughly testing them. After I sign off
a product it goes to general release so
any errors are on my head.

Madrid and Barcelona with future


projects planned for further afield.

Its a challenging and exciting job with


lots of opportunities for travel. My
schedule for last year took me to Paris,

Its a challenging and exciting


job with lots of opportunities
for travel

Profile
Adam Wilkins - with his prize
winning project
I worked with a railway signalling
company and the qualifications I
gained whilst working allowed
me to enter the 2nd year of
the BEng(Hons) degree. I really
enjoyed the course and the
lecturers were all very friendly
and helpful. For my final year
project I developed a system for
monitoring and giving advance
warning of potential railway
sleeper degradation. The research
that I did for this and the
subsequent electronic design has
really increased my career
opportunities.

University of Plymouth 23

MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)/


BSc (Hons)
Electronic and Communication
Engineering
Entry Requirements
MEng (Hons): 300 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND
BEng (Hons): 260 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND.
Applicants must have studied Maths and a relevant Science/Technology subject to A level or
equivalent standard.
BSc (Hons): 200 UCAS tariff points with at least 1 full A-level in Science/Technology or NND.
All entrants must have GCSE grade C English or equivalent.

Duration
MEng (Hons): UCAS code H691: 4 years full time or 5 years with work placement (p9)
BEng (Hons): UCAS code H690: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)
BSc (Hons): UCAS code H692: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)

Career summary
Wireless systems are everywhere now.
Mobile telephones connected to local
cellular masts and from there via optical
links to the internet. Managing, processing
and interfacing such a variety of signals
from so many different sources and
systems is truly challenging. Look no
further if you see yourself leading a
communications and electronics design
team after graduation.

Course information
MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)
The first two years of all our BEng
(Hons)/MEng (Hons) degrees are common.
You can change pathway right up until the
beginning of the final year. The emphasis
throughout the courses is on conceptual
design from fundamentals which is why a
good pass in A level mathematics is
24 University of Plymouth

required. All students, including those on


the BEng (Hons) can progress to year 3 of
MEng (Hons), subject to appropriate
performance. The MEng (Hons) provides
the quicker route to professional status of
Chartered Engineer (see page 14). BEng
(Hons) graduates must do some additional
learning, which may be work based (CPD)
or an MSc.

BSc (Hons)
The first two years of the BSc (Hons)
degrees are common. Students may
change pathway at any point until the
beginning of the final year. Our BSc courses
are accredited for Incorporated Engineer
status and are more applications based
offering a more practical or hands on
experience with a systems integration
emphasis.

Final year subject modules


These allow you to focus on your specialist
interest and typically include Electronic
System Design, Integrated Electronics,
Information Signal Processing, Microwave
Engineering and Antennas, Personal and
Satellite Communications. All students
undertake an individual project
(dissertation) in a topic of their choice,
guided by a personal supervisor. The
project is a major feature of the final year
and allows an individual specialist focus.
The project open day allows you to
showcase your work, see page 8.

Yanshan Li
Assistant Engineer, Parsons
Brinckerhoff
Most people think that engineering
courses are for men. However, I like to
try new things and break traditions so I
decided to do an engineering course for
my first degree.
I chose the Electronic Communications
Systems course because it offered great
potential for both me and my future
career. I wasnt disappointed. The course
proved to be just what I had hoped for
and now I find I can apply all the
knowledge I gained to the work I am
involved in.
I am currently working in Hong Kong for
Parsons Brinckerhoff, an American

engineering consultancy company,


providing consultancy services to a
variety of clients. I especially enjoy
working on railway systems, safety
assurance and risk management and
would like to further my technical skills in
these areas.
As an international student from China I
found Plymouth very friendly and had a
great time. I learnt a lot but also made
many friends. The city itself has a lot to
offer and the University organises many
social activities to ensure overseas
students are made welcome. I also had
some very helpful and resourceful
lecturers to guide me along the way.

Studying at Plymouth is a great


opportunity to enhance your skills and
education which all help towards
developing your career in the future. I
would not have missed it for the world.

As an international student
from China I found Plymouth
very friendly

Profile
Louise Wilkinson
Business Development
Manager, British
Telecommunications
Ever since I studied GCSE Electronics I
have wanted to pursue a career in
engineering. After A Levels I spent a
year at British Aerospace Systems
where I worked as a Student Engineer
and rotated around the company. Not
only was this fantastic experience but
it also confirmed that I wanted to
follow a career in Electronics
Engineering.
I chose the University of Plymouth
because it was in my home town, but
also because of the great success rate
of the graduates who obtain full-time
employment afterwards. The degree
course gave me many opportunities to

network and plan my career. I met and


worked with some great people.
In my second year I joined the
University Ladies Hockey Team which
gave me a chance to socialise, meet
new people and keep fit. I also helped
out on recruitment days, particularly
with workshops focused around
encouraging women to pursue careers
in electronics. This was greatly
rewarding.
After graduation I was lucky enough to
be accepted on British Telecoms two
year Graduate Scheme. As part of the
scheme I am completing a recognised
qualification in leadership and

management and as a result will soon


be suitably equipped to take on a
management role. I also love the fact
that I meet someone new every single
day and have been able to travel all
over the UK.
The marketplace for women engineers
is massive. My advice is to be
confident with what you want and
make the most of everything around
you.

The marketplace for female


engineers is massive.
University of Plymouth 25

MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)/


BSc (Hons)
Robotics
Entry Requirements
MEng (Hons): 300 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND
BEng (Hons): 260 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND.
Applicants must have studied Maths and a relevant Science/Technology
subject to A level or equivalent standard.
BSc (Hons): 200 UCAS tariff points with at least 1 full A-level in Science/Technology or NND.
All entrants must have GCSE grade C English or equivalent.

Duration
MEng (Hons): UCAS code H676: 4 years full time or 5 years with work placement (p9)
BEng (Hons): UCAS code H675: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)
BSc (Hons): UCAS code H671: 3 years full time or 4 years with work placement (p9)

Career summary
Robotic systems are developing rapidly
with innovations in both physical
dexterity and behavioural intelligence.
The impact on industrial and home
automation is significant and this course
will prepare you for the challenges
offered by the exciting and varied careers
in this new expanding field.

the BEng (Hons) can progress to year 3 of


MEng (Hons), subject to appropriate
performance. The MEng (Hons) provides
the quicker route to professional status of
Chartered Engineer (see page 14). BEng
(Hons) graduates must do some additional
learning, which may be work based (CPD)
or an MSc.

Course information

BSc (Hons)

MEng (Hons)/BEng (Hons)


The first two years of all our BEng
(Hons)/MEng (Hons) degrees are common.
You can change pathway right up until the
beginning of the final year. The emphasis
throughout the courses is on conceptual
design from fundamentals which is why a
good pass in A level mathematics is
required. All students, including those on

26 University of Plymouth

The first two years of the BSc (Hons)


degrees are common. Students may
change pathway at any point until the
beginning of the final year. Our BSc courses
are accredited for Incorporated Engineer
status and are more applications based
offering a more practical or hands on
experience with a systems integration
emphasis.

Final year subject modules


These allow you to focus on your
specialist interest and typically include
Robotics and Control and Systems,
Machine Vision & Behavioural Computing
and Power Converters & Drive Systems.
All students undertake an individual
project (dissertation) in a topic of their
choice, guided by a personal supervisor.
The project is a major feature of the final
year and allows an individual specialist
focus. The project open day allows you to
showcase your work, see page 8.

Joerg Wolf
PhD student in Robotics,
University of Plymouth
Unable to find the course of my choice
in my own country I decided to come
to the UK to study and Im glad I did.
At Plymouth I was offered many more
opportunities than I would have had in
Germany, including helping the
University of Plymouth to become the
UK national robot football champions
for the fourth year in a row.
The course at Plymouth attracted me
first because it combines all my
interests: electronics, computing and
mechanics but also because it involves
real industrial robots and has a
reputation for being an established
degree.

I have now decided to stay on at


Plymouth to pursue PhD studies in
Robotics and am especially interested
in making personal service robots a
reality so that everyone can have a
robot at home to do all their
household tasks. It is a challenge but
one I am enjoying. Another goal is to
enter the FIRA Hurosot league, a
league where one foot tall walking
robots play football with a tennis ball.

In 2006 I helped the


University become the UK robot
football champions for the
fourth year in a row.

Profiles
Chris Kosmas, final year
Robotics student.
Project sponsored by R J
Wiggins, paper manufacturer
I enjoyed my sandwich placement
between years 2 & 3. It was great
being able to put theory into
practice and really helped me
during the final year. The
company also sponsored my
project for which I won a prize. I
was offered a graduate position
with a locally based
international company which
uses state-of-the-art robotics
and automated systems to
produce medical products.
I think I am very lucky because I have
been able to stay in Plymouth.

University of Plymouth 27

MEng (Hons) and BEng (Hons) course structure and module listing
Computer Systems
Engineering (page 20)

Electrical & Electronic


Engineering (page 22)

Electronic & Communication


Engineering (page 24)

Robotics
(page 26)

The first two years of our MEng (Hons) and BEng (Hons) degrees are common. The modules include:
First year
Electrical Principles
Analogue Electronics

Digital Electronics
Computer Systems & Software

Integrated System Design


Mathematics

Business Studies

RF Circuit & System Design


Digital Electronic Systems

Software Engineering
Industrial Control Engineering

Mathematics
Business Dynamics

Second year
Electronics for Communications
Microprocessor System Design

Work Placement Year (optional, see page 9)


Third year MEng (Hons)
Final year BEng (Hons)

Third year MEng (Hons)


Final year BEng (Hons)

Third year MEng (Hons)


Final year BEng (Hons)

Third year MEng (Hons)


Final year BEng (Hons)

Advanced Network Mechanisms


Control & Intelligent Systems
Digital Systems for VHDL
Software Techniques
Individual Project

Information Signal Proccessing


Power Converter & Drive Systems
Automated Systems
Electronics for Communications
Individual Project

Information Signal Processing


Satellite & Mobile Communications
Digital Systems for VHDL
Electronics for Communications
Individual Project

Control & Intelligent Systems


Power Converter & Drive Systems
Automated Systems
Robotics 2
Individual Project

Final year MEng (Hons)

Final year MEng (Hons)

Final year MEng (Hons)

Final year MEng (Hons)

Interdisciplinary Group Design Project


Distributed and Embedded Computing
Mobile Personal and Sat Comms
Multimedia Communication Networks
Cryptographic Mechanisms and
Applications
Network Simulation

Interdisciplinary Group Design Project


Distributed and Embedded Computing
Interactive and Intelligent Systems
Data Recording and Storage
Technology
Digital and Wireless Communication

Interdisciplinary Group Design Project


Advanced Signal Processing
Data Recording and Storage
Technology
Digital and Wireless Communication

Interdisciplinary Group Design Project


Distributed and Embedded Computing
Interactive and Intelligent Systems
Sensors and Actuators
Vision Systems
Autonomy and Intelligence

28 University of Plymouth

BSc (Hons) course structure and module listing


Computer Systems
Engineering (page 20)

Electrical & Electronic


Engineering (page 22)

Electronic & Communication


Engineering (page 24)

Robotics
(page 26)

The first two years of our BSc (Hons) are common. The modules include:
The first two years of our BSc (Hons) degrees are common. The modules include:
First year
Electrical & Comms Principles
Analogue Electronics

Digital Electronics
Internet IT & PC Technology

C programming in context
Engineering Mathematics

Business Studies

Comms & Elec Eng Principles


Microprocessor System Design

Robotics 1
Electronic Design Simulation

Introduction to High Level


Programming

Second year
Control & Interfacing
Digital Electronic System design

Work Placement Year (optional, see page 9)


Final year

Final year

Final year

Final year

Machine Vision & Behavioural


Computing
Advanced Network Mechanisms
Signal Analysis & Processing
Software Engineering
Individual Project

Signal Analysis & Proccessing


Electronic Drive Systems
Robotics 2
Multimedia Telephony
Individual Project

Signal Analysis & Proccessing


Satellite & Mobile Communication
Systems
RF & Microwave Techniques
Multimedia Telephony
Individual Project

Machine Vision & Behavioural


Computing
Electronic Drive Systems
Robotics 2
Design for Entertainment Systems
Individual Project

University of Plymouth 29

BSc (Hons)
Clinical Technology
Entry Requirements
240 UCAS tariff points from at least 2 full A-levels or NND.
Applicants must have studied a relevant
Science/Technology subject to A level or equivalent
standard and have passed maths at grade B at GCSE or a
pass at AS level. All entrants must have GCSE grade C
English or equivalent.

Duration
BSc (Hons): UCAS code B890: 3 years full time or 4 years with
work placement option (see p9)

Career summary

Course information

Final year subject modules

Multi-disciplinary health-care teams use


an increasing range of electronic and
electro-mechanical equipment.
Developing innovative solutions to clinical
challenges requires highly trained
professionals. Hospitals increasingly
require specialist technical teams to
support the medical staff in patient
diagnosis and non-invasive monitoring.
Exciting opportunities also exist in
companies to develop new and better
technologies for health and well-being.

The first 2 years share some modules


with other BSc(Hons) courses.

These allow you to focus on your


specialist interests and typically include
Medical Instrumentation, Design in a
Clinical Context and Signal Analysis and
Processing. All students undertake an
individual project (dissertation) in a topic
of their choice, guided by a personal
supervisor. The project is a major feature
of the final year and allows an individual
specialist focus. The project open day
allows you to showcase your work, see
page 8.

30 University of Plymouth

The subject modules and course structure


are shown opposite, more detail may be
found at www.plymouth.ac.uk/socce

First year

Final year

Electrical & Comms Principles


Analogue Electronics
Digital Electronics
Mammalian Life Cycles & Development
C programming in context
Engineering Mathematics
Business Studies

RF & Microwave Techniques


Signal Analysis & Processing
Design in a Clinical Context
Medical Instrumentation Applications
and Design
Individual Project

Second year
Control & Interfacing
Digital Electronic System design
Comms & Elec Eng Principles
Microprocessor System Design
Healthcare Bioscience Systems
Electronic Design Simulation
Introduction to High Level Programming
Work Placement Year
(optional, see page 9)
University of Plymouth 31

Masters
Courses
Entry Requirements
A minimum of 2:2 BEng (Hons)
or BSc (Hons) in an appropriate
discipline.

Duration
One year full time, usually
September September

Our MSc degrees


MSc Communications
Engineering & Signal Processing
The advancement in telecommunications
and information technology allows
people to share information and improve
their life in entertainment, health, and
commerce. A whole range of new
multimedia services underpins the
colossal growth in all these areas. The
rapid growth in mobile phones and the
internet has caused the huge demand for
the 3rd generation wireless wideband
(UMTS), due to be in operation this year
in most of the EU, and the evolutionary
research into broadband (data bit rate > 2
Mbps) wireless communications with
optical communication as a backbone
network.
The course provides an up-to-date
engineering educational experience and

32 University of Plymouth

specialist skills to meet the increasing


worldwide demand for high calibre R&D
and Design Engineers in modern
telecommunications and information
industries. The contents cover a wide
range of technologies, of modern
communication systems including
wireless terrestrial and satellite
communications supported by advanced
DSP and Multimedia wideband networks
and compression techniques.
This course is aimed at new graduates
who want to have a good start in their
professional life and to train them for
work in the telecommunications industry.
It is also aimed at Engineers working in
the telecommunication industry who
want to update their knowledge of the
technology or change their career
emphasis to telecommunications.

MSc Information Systems


Security
Security is undeniably a vital issue in
todays information systems
environment. This modular course targets
those who wish to understand the
threats and the associated solutions,
spanning issues of network security and
attacks, through to physical and policyrelated measures that are essential for
modern organisations
Subjects studied include:
Information security management
Cybercrime and investigation
Network security
Incident prevention, detection and
response
Cryptographic mechanisms and
applications

Our MSc degrees


MSc Network Systems
Engineering
This course provides:
a knowledge of the technologies for
effective provision and management of
network services
a high level awareness of the issues
arising from the convergence of
computing and telecommunications
technologies
a broad grounding in network
architectures, protocols and related
standards, and a detailed
understanding of the underlying
technologies
an understanding of the
communication engineering and
computing issues related to intelligent
communication networks, network
design and network management
an ability to follow a career in the

networking and/or telecommunications


industry, or in academic research
Subjects studied include:
Mobile, personal and satellite
communications
Computer Systems and Networks
Multimedia communications networks
Network monitoring & simulation

MSc Robotics
This course provides a broad
understanding of the latest developments
in all areas of robotics.
It is a stepping stone towards applied
research in either industry or in
academia.
The subject material will cover theoretical
and practical knowledge of control and
design, interfacing between real-world
devices and autonomous processing.

Students will have access to a Robotics


Club and will work on an innovative
project inspired by the latest
developments in technology and society.
Robotics is a multi-skill discipline
preparing the successful student to deal
with future developments in distributed
systems of sensors, information sources,
actuators and human users. These include
industrial automation, mobile service
robots, edutainment robotics, intelligent
appliances and smart homes.
Subjects studied include:
Robotics and control
Distributed and embedded computing
Sensors and actuators
Artificial vision systems
Natural language interfaces
Anatomy and intelligence

University of Plymouth 33

Christian Danker
Mid life career upgrade with
the help of the University of
Plymouth.
After 20 years of running the family
dairy farm in Devon I decided it was
time for a complete change. My local
University (Plymouth) offered a
Foundation year which seemed an ideal
way to bring my Mathematics and
Science up to the level required for an
engineering degree course.
I subsequently progressed and achieved
a 2:1 honours degree in Robotics and
Automated Systems. I enjoyed all the
intellectual challenges that studying at
degree level provides and although a
mature student I felt completely
integrated into the study environment.
Due to my agricultural background and

state-of-the-art degree
I was offered a job in
New Zealand with a
company that designs
and installs robotic
milking machines. I never
imagined that my life
would change so drastically
or be so enjoyable as a
result of studying at
Plymouth! So, good luck to
all you mature students, go
for it!

Foundation Courses in Technology


Thinking about doing
engineering, but not sure
that you have the required
entry qualifications?
Did you leave school
with only GCSEs but have
work experience in the
engineering industry?
These Professionally Accredited
Courses guarantee progression
onto one of our degree
pathways, subject to achieving
the following minimum pass
rates:
MEng (Hons) 70%
BEng (Hons) 60%
BSc (Hons) 50%
34 University of Plymouth

Four years full time, five years with


work placement.

degrees; for entry to the BEng(Hons)


degrees you will need to pass with an
average mark of 60%. These foundation
courses aim to give to give you a solid
grounding in the subjects engineers
need, in particular Maths and Science.

BEng (Hons) Robotics with


Foundation

What modules will you typically


study on the Engineering Pathways?

UCAS Code H677

BEng (Hons) Electrical and


Electronic Engineering with
Foundation
UCAS Code H609

Four years full time, five years with


work placement.
To progress from the foundation year to the
BEng degrees you will need to pass the
first year with an average mark of 60%.

Mathematical methods
Applied Mathematics
Physics or Engineering Science
Engineering Experience
Engineering Project

Contact:
Foundation Pathways in
Technology
UCAS Code H108, One year full time
Passing the foundation year guarantees
you admission to any of our BSc(Hons)

To enquire about the Foundation


courses, please contact the Faculty of
Technology Admissions Team; details
on the next page.

Careers advice and guidance


Our Admissions Team are very happy to
discuss anything from the differences
between our courses to future
employment prospects. They can be
contacted either by email at
technology@plymouth.ac.uk or by
telephone on 01752 586000.

There is also a web site for the Institution


of Engineering and Technology, the
professional body which accredits our
courses. This site covers things like What
is Engineering? and also has a School
Zone. You dont need to be a member to
use it.

There are also some good independent


web sites, designed for students, that
include much useful information about
gap years, UCAS points, career planning,
what to do with disappointing A-level
results, finance, employment rates and
what sort of work various professionals
undertake.

www.theiet.org/students

www.prospects.ac.uk
www.doctorjob.com

www.engc.org.uk
www.wisecampaign.org.uk

Overseas students may find


www.educationuk.org useful.

The Engineering Council, which controls


the titles Chartered Engineer and
Incorporated Engineer also has a web site
that covers how to become an engineer,
employment opportunities and women in
science and engineering (WISE).

University of Plymouth 35

How to apply
Making your application

Entry requirements

All applications (for first or second year

The period for making an application is

A summary of the standard UK entry

entry) should be made through UCAS

from late September onwards. The normal

requirements are given at the top of each

(Universities and Colleges Admissions

closing date for applications is 15 January of

course page. Most equivalent overseas

Service). The UCAS website gives much

the year of entry, although late applications

qualifications are also acceptable but,

helpful advice and information, and

will still be accepted. Applicants intending

because of the difficulty of comparing

allows you to apply online.

to take a gap year can apply for deferred

different qualifications, there may be no

entry (ie to the following year).

standard requirement; each case will be

Contact:

www.ucas.com

judged on merit when an application is


You have 5 choices on the UCAS form, so
you can apply for the same course at 1 to 5
different universities, or more than one
course (perhaps at different levels) at a
smaller number of universities. Normally,
by the end of April of your year of entry
you must have selected one course as your
first choice and one as your insurance
choice (in case you dont meet the entry
requirement of your first choice). University
Open Days and Course Preview Days are
available to help you with this decision.

36 University of Plymouth

received.

Why not visit us?


University Open Days
We would be very pleased to
show you what the University
of Plymouth has to offer.

These are designed to give people (who


have not yet made an application) the
opportunity to find out more about the
university. These are held in June and
October each year. For further details
contact the University on:
+44 (0)1752 586000

Course Preview Days


If you apply to one of our degree courses
you will be invited to attend a Course
Preview Day. These allow you to find out
more details about the course you have
applied for and the career paths it will
open. You will meet the staff who will
teach you, and will be able to talk to
current students about their experience

here. You will see where you will study


and where you will live. We warmly
invite you to come along.
If you are unable to come to these
particular events, but would like to
arrange a visit please contact the
Faculty Admissions Team at
technology@plymouth.ac.uk
Final Note
All details in this brochure are believed
to be correct at the time of printing.
However, we are constantly reviewing
and updating our courses. Please feel
free to contact us at any time to confirm
any details.

University of Plymouth 37

Undergraduate courses

UCAS code

Computer Systems Engineering

MEng (Hons)
BEng (Hons)
BSc (Hons)

H650
GH66
G600

Electrical & Electronic Engineering

MEng (Hons)
BEng (Hons)
BSc (Hons)

H608
H604
H622

Electronic & Communication Engineering

MEng (Hons)
BEng (Hons)
BSc (Hons)

H691
H690
H692

Robotics

MEng (Hons)
BEng (Hons)
BSc (Hons)

H676
H675
H671

Clinical Technology

BSc (Hons)

B890

Foundation Pathways in Technology (Year 0)


Electrical and Electronic Engineering

H108
BEng (Hons)

H609

BEng (Hons)

H677

with Foundation
Robotics with Foundation

Postgraduate
MSc Communications Engineering and Signal Processing
MSc Information Systems Security
MSc Network Systems Engineering

Faculty of Technology,
University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA
Tel: +44 (0)1752 586000 Fax: +44 (0) 1752 586003 Email: technology@plymouth.ac.uk

www.plymouth.ac.uk

D/539173/10/08

MSc Robotics

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