Program Overview

BEng in Computer Engineering 5-year Programme

Programme Information

Computer engineering is one of the three internationally accepted and closely related subdisciplines of the traditional field of electrical engineering (electrical engineering, electronic engineering, and computer engineering). Computer engineering is the most dynamic and rapidly growing engineering discipline in the vast and constantly expanding field of information and communication technology (ICT), and almost every technological system in the world relies on it. It involves a combination of electronics, computer systems (hardware and software), and communication systems. A computer engineer is someone with a talent for optimising electronic systems by introducing dedicated computing systems and control software. This includes computer and communication networks of all sizes from a couple of microcontrollers to the worldwide web.

A computer engineer has a thorough understanding of the basic sciences and a sound education in the theoretical and practical aspects (including design methodology) of electronics, digital systems, computer systems, and control software. Due to the dramatic increase in computing and storage capabilities, as well as a decrease in size and cost, most technological systems include components of computer engineering.

The computer engineering degree offered by the University of Pretoria was developed in 1998 to deliver graduates who are able to deal with the most demanding challenges of the ICT world in all its forms. Examples of computer engineering include cellphone technology, car control computers for engine management, entertainment systems, security systems, air-conditioning systems, active suspension, and anti-lock braking systems (ABSs), which all use the principles of sensing, computing, and actuation under optimised software control. This is the fastest-growing new discipline in engineering, and job opportunities for graduates exist all over the world.

Computer engineering is used in the following fields in particular:

• Telecommunications
• Computer networking
• Cell phone operations
• Computer system companies
• Military technologies (avionics, night vision, electronic warfare, drones)
• Transport technologies
• Internet banking
• Security systems
• Consumer equipment
• Modems
• Handheld scanners
• Voting
• Medical systems (portable and remote diagnostic recorders)
• Robotics
• Entertainment and equipment
• Global positioning system (GPS)
• Navigation
• Measurement and control software
• Fibre-optic (self-healing networks)

Career Opportunities

Computer engineers are active in all fields of the information superhighway and the information and communication technology (ICT) world, which include:

• Computer systems
• Software engineering
• Computer and communications networks
• Wireless sensor networks
• Embedded software
• Electronics
• Smart control systems and automation
• Data security
• E-commerce
• Pattern recognition (face and speech recognition)
• Artificial intelligence

They specialise in combining hardware, software, and communication technologies to optimise system performance.

Faculty Notes

All modules will only be presented in English, which is the University's official language of tuition, communication, and correspondence.

The Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology at the University of Pretoria is a leading source of graduates in the engineering, built environment, and information technology professions. We achieve this by a focus on research to drive innovative and enquiry-led teaching for educating and positioning our students to be leaders in their professions. The Faculty has extensive and cutting-edge teaching, learning, and laboratory facilities integrated with the excellent suite of facilities and services offered by the University.

Admission Requirements

• Achievement Level:
  • English Home Language or English First Additional Language: 5
  • Mathematics: 65%
  • Physical Sciences: 65%
  • APS: 33

Life Orientation is excluded when calculating the APS.

Applicants currently in Grade 12 must apply with their final Grade 11 (or equivalent) results.

Applicants who have completed Grade 12 must apply with their final NSC or equivalent qualification results.

Please note that meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.

Minimum Duration

5 years, full-time

Closing Dates

• South Africa: 30/06/2025
• International: 30/06/2025

Additional Requirements for Transfer Students

Students from the Bachelor of Engineering 5-year programmes must achieve a minimum of 70% in Mathematics and Science, and 60% for Languages before being eligible for transfer into the 4-year Bachelor of Engineering programme after the first year of study in these programmes. This threshold will ensure that students have the necessary analytical, quantitative, and communication skills required for sustained academic success in Engineering.