About this course
Introduction
This Foundation Degree, offered in partnership with Gloucestershire College, is intended for those with a strong interest in pursuing a career in aircraft software systems. It provides the opportunity for individuals from a wide range of backgrounds to achieve their full academic potential through Higher Education study in a local college environment. Successful completion of the course will allow progression onto several related BSc or BEng degrees here at UWE.
A key feature of this course is the support that it receives from local and regional employers. Much of your learning will focus around live project briefs, real case studies and work-related scenarios. Our aim is to provide you with the relevant professional skills and knowledge employers tell us they need so that you can embark on your future career on aircraft software systems with confidence.
Structure
Content
The FdSc Aerospace Computer Systems is unique in its combination of mathematics, electronics, low level programming and high level software engineering principles. It has been tailored to provide the set of knowledge and skills particular to aircraft software systems in response to demand from local and regional employers. You will focus on the design of microelectronic and computer-based systems, with a strong emphasis on applied, hands-on activities and project work.
Level 1 modules:
- Practical Electronics
- Analogue Circuit Analysis
- Digital Systems Development
- Digital Design and Instrumentation
- Introduction to Software Development in C
- Analytical Methods
- Program Development
Level 2 modules:
- Embedded Microprocessor Systems
- CPU Architecture and VHDL
- Software Design
- Work-based Project
- Avionics Systems B
Teaching and learning
You will be taught through a rich mix of lectures, tutorials and practical work taking a variety of forms. The strong links between the College and local employers will be drawn on to provide a selection of specialist lectures, case studies and workshops.
Assessment
Assessment varies from module to module. However, it would normally take the form of continual assessments, assignment or project work and examinations.
Careers/further study
In a recent report by Gloucestershire First (March 2007), based on comments made by senior executives of major companies in the area, the need for individuals with electronic system design skills was identified. This course meets precisely these needs.
You will leave this degree with a unique blend of technical competencies designed to make you very attractive to future employers. If you so wish, you will also be able to progress onto a BSc and BEng degree here at the University of the West of England. Advanced entry options exist in BEng(Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering or BSc(Hons) Computer Systems Integration.
Entry
Typical offers
- Tariff points: 160
- GCSE: English and Maths at grade C or above.
- A-level subjects: A-Levels in relevant Science or Technology subjects. Including; Chemistry, Computing/Computer Science, Design and Technology, Electronics, Engineering, Information and Communications Tech, Music Technology, Physics, Maths.
- EDEXCEL (BTEC) Diploma: Level 3 Engineering
- Access: Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma (normally Access to Science); achievement of level 3 credits in Maths (to include algebra and calculus), achievement of level 2 credits in Maths and English Language. The Maths Unit at Level 3 must cover the core content for AS Maths.
Entry requirements
In addition to the 'typical offer' given here, please read the general information about entry requirements.
How to apply
Please see the general information about applications. Applications for full-time study are made through UCAS. Please note that applications for part-time study are made directly to Gloucestershire College or to UWE.
When applying for this course, please quote Campus Code V in your application.
For further information
Page last updated 14 December 2011