Universities in the UK accept a wide range of qualifications for admission into undergraduate Computer Engineering programmes. The specific grades required vary between institutions and this is driven by the level of competitiveness of the course at the time of application. This page shows the various qualifications and the minimum grades you (including international students) might need to have to secure a place on a Bachelor's degree at any of the numerous UK universities offering Computer Engineering.
What is Computer Engineering?
Computer Engineering is a discipline of computer science and electronic engineering. The discipline develop and design computer systems and hardware. It encompasses the principles, methods, and modern tools for creating computing systems, from microprocessors and embedded controllers to supercomputers and networked systems.
Requirements for Computer Engineering in UK
GCSEs (or their equivalents) are not typically accepted for direct entry into a computer engineering bachelor's degree programme, instead, they usually form part of a foundation pathway or other specified preparatory programmes.
Acceptable Qualifications and Requirements
A-Levels:
A-Levels are the most common qualification accepted for processing entry to bachelor degree computer engineering. Grades that would earn a student a place can range from BBC to AAA, depending on the institution. Top universities often require AAA or A*AA and most of them require A-Level Mathematics, often alongside a science subject like Physics, Computer Science, Electronics, or Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate (IB):
The IB Diploma is another qualification students from anywhere in the world could use to process admission to study computer engineering in UK. Typical offers range from 30 to 36 points and it often requiring Higher Level Mathematics and Physics or another science subjects. For example, the University of Birmingham asks for 32 points with 6,6,5 at Higher Level including Mathematics.
BTEC:
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diplomas (often in engineering disciplines) are accepted, with grades like DMM to DDD*. Many universities require specific mathematics units or an additional A-Level in Mathematics.
Other Qualifications:
Universities also accept the Welsh Baccalaureate, Scottish Advanced Highers, T-Levels, and various international qualifications (e.g., Irish Leaving Certificate) on a case-by-case basis. These typically need to be supplemented with good grades in relevant subjects.
GCSE Requirements
Regardless of the primary qualification, applicants generally need GCSE English Language at grade C/4 and Mathematics at grade B/5 or higher. Some institutions may accept alternatives qualifications.
English Language Requirements for International Students
International students whose first language is not English must prove proficiency through tests like:
- IELTS: 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each component (varies by university).
- TOEFL: Scores around 80 overall are commonly accepted.
- Cambridge English: Often 169-170 overall with no less than 162 in each skill.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): 59 overall, with no less than 59 in each skill.
Top UK Universities for Computer Engineering
Several UK universities are renowned for their computer engineering programme both at home and at international level. These institution combine rigorous classroom theory with high level research and development programme.
Check: https://tertiarycampus.blogspot.com/2024/04/universities-to-study-computer.html?
for the list of universities in UK that offer computer engineering as a taught programme at undegradutr degree level.
Note: The grades stated are general averages. Always check the specific requirements of your chosen university, as they can vary significantly.