Computer Engineering involves the design of the hardware and software elements of a computer system. This module introduces the operation of 8-bit microcontrollers and includes the design of hardware circuits and embedded C programs to interface to basic input/output devices. Application circuits will include motors, keypads, displays and analog sensors. The module places an emphasis on industry standard practices and development tools.

1. Describe the architecture of a small computer system.
2. Describe the internal architecture of an 8-bit microcontroller.
3. Design basic interface circuits to devices like switches, LEDs, motors, keypads, displays.

4. Develop embedded C programs to interface to the circuits of learning outcome 3.

5. Apply embedded development tools to build, download and debug embedded C programs on an 8-bit microcontroller applications board.

This module introduces students to the role of the individual in a team, team formation stages and high performing teams. Team based project work is a distinctive component of the applied learning process in engineering. The purpose of the module is to give learners the opportunity to experience working in a high-performance team environment. The learners will utilise the skills and knowledge gained throughout the module to work as a team member in researching, designing, and presenting data to peers. The module allows learners to understand the requirements of creating a high-performing team and the communication skills to ensure consist high-level outputs.

1. Discuss the role and responsibility of the individual within a team and critically evaluate their own and team performances and the project performance in terms of industry relevant key performance indicators.

2. Analyze and discuss the stages of team formation and investigate the use of disc profiling in team selection.
3. Compare and contrast the main methods used in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) or similar technologies that are used in the team project.

4. Analyse and communicate the implications of diversity in teams and demonstrate and employ important workplace skills including co-operation, teamwork and problem-solving.

PASS leadership is a module that fosters cross-year support between students on the same programme. PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions) encourages first year students to support each other and to learn co-operatively under the guidance of trained students (Peer Assisted Learning Leaders). The aim of this module is to develop students leadership, communication and professional development skills through the facilitation of weekly 'PASS sessions' with first year programme groups.

1. Describe the principles and practices of peer assisted learning and the role of a PASS Leader.
2. Demonstrate the knowledge and apply the facilitation and planning techniques necessary of a PASSLeader.

3. Facilitate peer to peer learning sessions utilising a range of peer learning activities.

4. Engage with the academic PASS champion team and reflect on this engagement experience in the session plans.
5. Reflect on and evaluate the impact of the PASS Leader and the process in developing their leadership, communication and professional development skills.

This module aims to develop students' communication skills. These include written skills, oral skills, and the social and personal skills required of an effective team member.

1. Plan, draft, and edit documents for use in professional settings, adapting their style for different audiences, purposes, and contexts.
2. Prepare and present information orally to peer professionals.

3. Select and effectively use visual aids and graphics in a context-appropriate manner.

4. Participate in various roles in a Team.

5. Recognise ethical issues arising within the discipline in relation to public safety, intellectual property, and gender and cultural difference.

The aim of this module is to engage students in service learning and civic engagement theory and practice. It will enhance participants understanding of the role of service learning, global citizenship and partnership in the community. Learners will apply skills gained from their discipline and programme of study to a community based project.

Civic engagement is situated in the education theory of Service Learning, and it is a method of teaching, and a model for community development that bridges the classroom and the community. Civic engagement utilises structured and intentional community-based service placements to enhance student engagement and community impact. Through community service placements, students work collaboratively with organisations and/or community members to provide for those in need.

The module has been designed based on three stages of civic engagement: 1) preparation, 2) engagement, and 3) reflection.

1. Explain the principlesin civic engagement.

2. Discuss opportunities for sustainably meeting the needs of community partners.

3. Engage in responsible and challenging actions to benefit the community partner and the student’s own self development.

4. Reflect on good practices and ethical responsibilities in community partnerships.

5. Apply civic engagement principles within a discipline-specific community context.

This module follows on from Computer Engineering 1 and involves the design and debug of the hardware and software elements of an 8-bit embedded microcontroller system. Students will implement embedded applications using standard microcontroller peripherals such as timers and serial interfaces. The module places an emphasis on industry standard practices and development tools.

1. Compare the different types of memory used in embedded systems.
2. Describe the on-board peripherals of a typical 8-bit microcontroller.
3. Apply the use of interrupts in a computer system and demonstrate the difference between interrupts and software polling.

4. Develop embedded C software drivers to interface to common hardware modules.

5. Design, develop and debug an 8-bit microcontroller based embedded system to meet the specified requirements.

This module follows on from Internet Technology 1 in Year 1. The internet is a global system of inter-connected computer networks that allows people (and things!) to communicate. Everyone knows how to use it (for web browsing, email, any app on your mobile phone, etc.), but engineers need to know how it works! Students learn about the various protocols used at each layer of the TCP/IP stack, and are also introduced to the essentials of cybersecurity.

1. Compare the protocols used at the transport layer.
2. Explain the operation of internet routing.
3. Design, build and test common networks.
4. Present network documentation in a standardised format.
5. Explain the importance of network infrastructure and content security.

This module provides an introduction to the circuits used to process analog signals. The student will analyse common signal amplifier circuits, power amplifiers, filter circuits and switching circuits used in the electronics industry. The theory of circuit operation is presented in the lectures. In the laboratory sessions circuits are simulated, built and tested.

1. Understand the operation of Op Amp and integrated circuit based analog circuits.
2. Build various analog circuits using integrated circuits.
3. Use laboratory equipment to test analog circuits.
4. Design Op Amp and integrated circuit based analog circuits.
5. Use simulation software to test Analog circuits.

This module provides a solid foundation in Object-Oriented Concepts in the Java programming language. The primary focus of this module is to, within the agile process, provide theoretical and practical approaches to producing clean Java code, more frequently and reliably, to an advanced level. An emphasis is placed on Test Driven Development and Software Automation.

Java is the foundation for virtually every type of networked application and is the global standard for developing and delivering enterprise software, web-based content, games and mobile applications. Java enjoys a large and mature ecosystem with strong tools support. Java delivers application portability and robust performance across many computing environments.

1. Differentiate and apply the various primitive types, mathematical, logical, increment/decrement operators and the
differing selection/iteration constructs.

2. Interpret and solve problems by employing OOP encapsulation and inheritance techniques.
3. Implement good programming practices when writing code.

4. Differentiate and apply singleton, inner classes, immutable classes and enumerated types.

5. Distinguish between checked/unchecked exceptions.

6. Fix/evolve the software based on the flaws/errors in program code by testing and refactoring.

7. Design and write (automated) software tests, run and evaluate test outcomes using tools such as JUnit and Maven.

8. Maintain and professionally evolve software using version control software such as Gitand GitHub.

The Internet of Things (IoT) project module provides a structured engineering project experience in the general application area of the Internet of Things. Students develop an individual project in a collaborative learning environment, with structured support lectures, laboratories and mentoring on selected subject areas. The module progresses from idea creation, research and planning through design, build, test, costing, presentation and demonstration, while incorporating Agile project management principles. Students focus on technical skills and soft skills concurrently throughout the module and will consider the impact of their design on achieving the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) 2030.

1. Research an Internet of Things based application area and create a project proposal.
2. Discuss a selected project application area, including industry trends, technologies, ethics andimpact on UN sustainable development goals 2030.

3. Select suitable hardware, software and networking elements to implement the project, following general guidelines.
4. Develop, integrate and test hardware and/or software elements of a project, on a specified Internet of Things development platform.

5. Apply problem solving techniques to technical and other issues that arise in the context of a project.

6. Manage project deliverables throughout the project timeline.
7. Contribute towards a collaborative working environment, as well as work independently towards project goals.

8. Demonstrate project technical functionality, and understanding of technical and mathematical concepts and implementations incorporated.

9. Communicate project ideas, design and deliverables orally in and written format.

10. Cost and provide sourcing information for all project components.

A course on mathematical methods and techniques employed in the solution of problems in Electronic Engineering. The course deals with the purpose, methods and applications of differentiation, integration, matrices, differential equations and probability theory.

1. Differentiate single variable functions requiring a combination of rules.
2. Determine the partial derivatives of functions of two variables.
3. Apply differentiation to solve rates of change and optimisation problems.
4. Select and apply appropriate techniques of integration to evaluate integrals.
5. Formulate and evaluate integrals to determine areas, mean and RMS values.
6. Perform matrix operations, evaluate determinants and apply matrix methods to the solution of linear systems in two and three variables.
7. Perform modular arithmetic & solve linear & matrix ciphers

This module aims to develop the practical skill of printed circuit board layout using a current industry-level EDA tool. It also introduces the concepts of library and data management, generation of manufacturing data, and place of EDA in the overall product development life-cycle.

1. Create PCB Designs in two or more layers from multisheet hierarchical designs.
2. Create and manage complex multi-part components and their associated libraries.
3. Generate PCB manufacturing data to current industry standards/requirements.
4. Evaluate and test a PCB.

5. Demonstrate an understanding of PCB design in the product design cycle and the relevant industry standards.

Machine Learning with Python is an introductory course in Machine Learning (ML), which is a branch of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that uses computer algorithms, data and models to automatically learn and make decisions or predictions. The course offers a mix of ML theory and hands-on practice in a computer laboratory environment, incorporating open source Python based MLplatform(s). General programming and Python skills are developed in the context of ML, with a view to these being transferrable to other applications.

1. Describe basic concepts in machine learning.

2. Select and apply machine learning algorithms in Python to solve problems.

3. Prepare data for machine learning applications.

4. Evaluate and refine machine learning performance.

5. Apply basic programming techniques to machine learning applications in Python.

6. Discuss ethical principlesin machine learning and artificial intelligence.

An embedded system is a computer system designed for a specific task. Example usages of embedded systems are consumer products, the automotive industry and Internet of Things devices. This module involves the design of the software and hardware elements of a 32-bit embedded system. Students will develop embedded systems incorporating sensors and wireless technologies such as WiFi, Bluetooth and RFID. An emphasis will be placed on developing secure wireless communications.

1. Develop embedded C code for 32-bit embedded systems using industry standard Application Program Interfaces (API).

2. Choose the optimum microcontroller memory, serial and timer peripherals for a specific embedded application.

3. Integrate the hardware and software design elements of a sensor based embedded system.

4. Develop secure wireless connected devices using WiFi, Bluetooth and RFID.
5. Estimate the power consumption of an embedded system and be able to utilise microcontroller power modes to extend battery life.
6. Develop and debug a network embedded system using embedded C code and an industry standard development environment.

This module provides an applied introduction to operating systems. The focus will be on Linux, bash commands, and bash and zx shell scripting.

1. Describe the components of an operating system

2. Demonstate an understanding of process and I/O management

3. Interact with Linux using a wide range of shell commands

4. Explain the Linux file system and directory structure

5. Write bash and zx shell scripts

Continuous integration (CI) and continuous delivery (CD) embody a culture, set of operating principles, and collection of practices that enable application development teams to deliver code changes frequently and reliably. The implementation is also known as the CI/CD pipeline.

The primary focus of this module is to, within the CI/CD environment, provide theoretical and practical approaches to producing Java mircroservices, more frequently and reliably. Microservices facilitate an architectural style that structures an application as a collection of services that are highly maintainable and testable, loosely coupled, independently deployable and organised around business capabilities.

Students will learn the characteristics of microservices. They will compare the microservice architecture with monolithic style, emphasising why microservices are well suited to continuous delivery. The student will also learn about the tools necessary to successfully deploy, manage and monitor microservice based applications.

1. Compare and contrast Microservices and Monolith Architecture.
2. Apply a framework technology to develop microservice applications.
3. Investigate how to successfully design, test and deploy microservice based applications using continuous integration.
4. Design a distributed application composed of multiple collaborating services in the form of microservices.

5. Develop and deploy microservices in a distributed environment.

A System-on-Chip (SoC) is an Integrated Circuit (IC) with many components integrated on a single substrate such as silicon. The SoC Design and Verification module introduces modern hardware design, covering theory, tools, techniques, technologies, and trends. Students develop their skills through the use of an industry standard Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) tool suite, hardware description language, and development board.

1. Describe SoC and FPGA related concepts and systems.

2. Evaluate general logic and logical reasoning concepts and techniques.
3. Apply digital logic, digital design & verification techniques to SoC design and verification.

4. Analyse SoC Intellectual Property (IP).
5. Develop SoC designs using a hardware description language and industry standard development tools.
6. Discuss ethics and sustainability in the context of SoC design & verification.

This module will: Equip students with the mathematical techniques to formulate and solve problems in differential equations. Introduce probability distributions and statistical inference through the concepts of estimation and hypothesis testing and apply these concepts to engineering problems. Introduce the student to the fundamentals of algorithm analysis.

1. Formulate and solve first-order separable, linear differential equations and solve second order linear constant coefficient differential equations and appreciate their role in the modelling of electrical circuits.
2. Calculate confidence probability distributions and intervals for the parameters of a distribution and use confidence intervals to reflect on the reliability of data, and use this information to structure decision-making engineering problems.
3. Formulate a linear regression model and analyse the results.
4. Determine the computational complexity of common algorithms.
5. Outline the purpose of complexity analysis and understand its impact on programming.

This module merges a 3-to-8-month industrial placement with preparatory workshops focused on developing an employability portfolio (CV, LinkedIn) and interview skills relevant to the software/electronics industry. Learners will develop professionally and personally and be equipped with the skills, knowledge, and relevant industrial experience to develop their career.

Learners will enhance their technical, communication, teamwork, problem-solving and basic work skills in an industrial setting. An industrial mentor and academic staff member will support the student while on placement.

1. Analyse professional and personal strengths and weaknesses.
2. Network effectively online and in person.
3. Review current recruitment and selection processes used by organisations, and prepare relevant documents for same.
4. Present and articulate their skills and experience professionally in an interview situation.
5. Assess the work placement learning experience under categories including technical skills, basic work skills, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, ethical responsibilities.
6. Apply the knowledge and skills they have learnt on their degree course to a software and electronic working environment.
7. Participate professionally as an individual and/or as member of a team throughout the work placement module.

8. Manage learning in the workplace by reflecting on their skills development and performance and setting short-term goals using a log book.
9. Apply experiential learning, problem-based learning, action learning, collaborative learning and research to develop their skills in a work-based environment as appropriate.
10. Develop at least one technical skill significantly through work-based project learning.
11. Describe the company, its organisation, culture and his/her role within it.
12. Evaluate the use of industry standard tools and role of ICT in the workplace.
13. Communicate the learning experience resulting from the work placement in report and oral format.

The Next Step – Careers Module develops the learner professionally and personally and equips them with the skills and knowledge to enable them to plan for and achieve their lifelong career goals. The module is aligned to ATU's Employability Statement and Framework which highlights the Institutes commitment to working with employers, ensuring that graduates are prepared for a constantly changing world of work. The Next Step combines a digital learning suite of resources and traditional live discussions that are informed by enterprise. A suite of online workshops facilitate and guide students actions and reflections, as they develop and fine tune a career portfolio. Learners will gain knowledge and skills in relation to the recruitment and selection process, and gain skills relevant to commencing in the workplace.

The online careers module provides students with a programme of career, personal and professional development that is grounded in a theoretical model, CareerEDGE (Darce, Pool, and Sewell 2007). The model of employability has become embedded in the Careers module and forms the architecture around which students' personal, career and professional development is based and delivered.

This module can be delivered as a blended or online module.

1. Apply active self reflection and research skills to create a sustainable career development plan.
2. Construct a comprehensive Career Development e-Portfolio.
3. Present and articulate professional skills and experience in an employment interview situation.
4. Identify, research and reflect on transversal employment skills.

This module is part of suite of modules that a student may take instead of Work Placement. The project affords the student an opportunity to apply their learning from the programme in a practical situation.

1. Apply knowledge gained to a selected topic.
2. Demonstrate research skills, and an ability to work independently.

3. Design solutions to problems identified in a selected topic.

4. Document and communicate clearly and appropriately the outputs of the project.

This module is part of suite of modules that a student may take instead of Work Placement. The project affords the student an opportunity to apply their learning from the programme in a practical situation.

1. Apply and evaluate knowledge gained to a selected topic.

2. Demonstrate research skills, and an ability to work independently.

3. Design, build and test solutions to problems identified in a selected topic.

4. Document and communicate clearly and appropriately the outputs of the project.

Blockchain is a disruptive technology platform which will transform the manner with which a multitude of industries will carry out trusted tractions. Upon completion of this module students will be able to provide an overview of the nuanced characteristics of blockchain technologies and identify blockchain solutions and services which organisations can adopt. Students will learn about various blockchain use cases from different industries such as the marine, accounting, logistics, fintech and agricultural industries. Students will also evaluate how other technologies such as cloud computing, IoT and AI are fusing with blockchain.

1. Evaluate what blockchain is and the fundamental characterises of blockchain technologies

2. Assess various blockchain services and deployment models

3. Identify the blockchain adoption barriers and enablers for organisations

4. Analyse blockchain governance architectures

5. Identify various blockchain security threats and concerns and provide solutions to these

The aim of this module is to help students master the concepts, skills, and practices of effective business communications and negotiations.

1. Assess the major concepts and theories of negotiation and the purpose of communications.
2. Evaluate suitability of social media and online tools for Business Communication
3. Assess and reflect on interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and negotiation style.
4. Develop facilitation/mediation skills and strategies for negotiations and conflict management.
5. Assess and discuss International and Cross-Cultural communications.

This module examines the international quality and regulatory standards that industry apply. ISO 9001 is a common business standard that general companies apply as a good business model and the ISO 13485 standard is specific to medical technology. It is important that students understand the application of these standards and the benefits they offer. These are recognised world-wide and will allow students to engage with companies in a more meaningful and productive manner.

1. Understand the applicable regulations and/or standards that apply to various types of industry.

2. Apply the concepts of ISO 9001 for general Industry.

3. Apply the concepts of ISO 13485 for medical technology industry.

4. Explain the role and the application of the Quality Management System (QMS) in the overall business context.

This module provides students with the knowledge and skills required to write technical documents. A number of case studies are presented to facilitate the analysis of topical issues in industry.

1. Identify the target audience and apply the concepts of writing technical documentation to suit the competence of the target audience.

2. Present documents in a clear, concise, consistent and unambiguous style.

3. Reference sources in technical documentation using Harvard style referencing system.

4. Critically analyse graphics and text.

5. Interpret and report on case studies based on issues that may arise within an industrial setting.