school of engineering Undergraduate course guide 2010 the professional university
welcome Students choose Robert Gordon University for many reasons. It may be the opportunity to get a valued job on graduation, to stretch your mind and your body, or the opportunity to develop your potential in a supportive environment, or because of the social and career opportunities provided by Aberdeen. Whatever your motivation, Robert Gordon University gives you an opportunity to combine a first-rate education with real-world learning; we re The Professional University: a university of choice. In this course guide you ll find details of our degree courses for undergraduates in the School of. contents About the School of 6 : flexible and innovative 8 Which qualification? 9 MECHANICAL ENGINEERING About the course 12 Course structure 14 Career options 15 MECHANICAL AND OFFSHORE ENGINEERING About the course 16 Course structure 18 Career options 19 MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING About the course 20 Course structure 22 Career options 23 ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING About the course 24 Course structure 26 Career options 27 COMPUTER NETWORK MANAGEMENT AND DESIGN About the course 28 Course structure 30 Career options 31 Robert Gordon University is committed to the accessibility of its publications. An alternative, electronic format of this course guide is available. If you have any questions or additional requirements please contact our Admissions Team on +44 (0)1224 262728 or email admissions@rgu.ac.uk Placement 32 Wider access 34 Entry requirements 36 Scholarships 38 How will you be taught? 44 What next? 45 the professional university 1
the city of aberdeen Aberdeen is a thriving, cosmopolitan city situated in the oil rich north east of Scotland. With excellent shopping, entertainment facilities and easy access to some of Scotland s most beautiful countryside and historic sites, Aberdeen has something for everyone. Aberdeen is one of the most economically successful cities in the UK and is easily accessible by road, rail and air. 2 the professional university the professional university 3
our campus The University is currently split between sites in the city centre and the purpose-built riverside campus at Garthdee, just a short distance away by bus or car. Garthdee is also home to our 11 million sports centre, RGU: Sport with its superb sports and leisure facilities. 4 the professional university the professional university 5
About the school of engineering Professional engineers and technologists have a reputation for their ability to solve problems and to undertake challenging and complex projects in all walks of life. They design the essential systems, products, services and processes that we need and use every day now and in the future. The courses within the School of equip you with a range of personal and transferable skills which are particularly attractive to employers. These include problem solving, creativity, team working, entrepreneurship and the ability to analyse data and to communicate this in a readily understood manner. All courses in this brochure are taught in our extensive premises at our City Centre Campus. Here you ll find purposebuilt engineering facilities, including specialised laboratories, computer areas and workshops. The School of is one of the largest in the UK and has a long tradition of excellence in research and teaching, as well as strong links with industry. All students have access to the University virtual learning environment (CampusMoodle), which provides online access to all learning materials and student information. In addition, in the School of, there is wireless access to the computer network and students have extensive access to specialist software and online technical applications. Our staff boast a wide range of qualifications, experience and expertise, and this is reflected in the portfolio of innovative and flexible degree programmes on offer. They are also successfully involved with research, consultancy and the provision of specialist short courses for industry. This ensures that the School maintains a current and relevant involvement in all aspects of the engineering profession. The School is located in the centre of Aberdeen, close to the Robert Gordon University student residences and other city centre accommodation. Students enjoy the buzz of being located in the city centre adjacent to the Robert Gordon University Student Union and many student-friendly coffee shops, pubs and clubs, restaurants and cafés. A two minute walk takes you to the main shopping centres of Aberdeen. The beach and its extensive sporting and leisure facilities is only fifteen minutes walk away and a regular bus service takes you to RGU: Sport at the Garthdee Campus. Of course, Aberdeen itself is a world-leading centre of oil and gas and engineeringrelated industries and this reputation brings students to the city from all over the globe. Add it all together and we think you ll agree we offer the perfect environment for your engineering studies. So take a look at the different engineering choices available at Robert Gordon University, and then decide which is the best fit for your interests and career aspirations. Whichever you choose, you can feel confident that you will be learning in a world class environment - and preparing for a world class career. 6 the professional university the professional university 7
ENGINEERING: FLEXIBLE AND INNOVATIVE which qualification? The engineering profession has opportunities for every level of ability and aspiration. Therefore the School of offers a range of engineering and technology courses directed at a variety of different aspects of the engineering profession. MEng The MEng programmes provide graduates with the full academic requirements for Chartered Engineer status, which is the highest professional qualification for an engineer. We appreciate that it may be difficult for you to pinpoint right now the exact direction you wish to follow in your studies and in your subsequent career. That s why we have made our undergraduate course programmes as flexible as possible, to allow you to choose the right direction for you in engineering. and technology cover an enormous number of areas and disciplines. In the School of we specialise in a few, which we call our themes, which are appropriate to the current demands of industry. These themes form the core of our undergraduate degree programmes and lead to further specialisations. Mechanical Offshore Electronic and Electrical Computer Networks The courses are structured so that during first year, transfer is possible between themes. So, for those of you who are unsure of which aspect of engineering or technology interests you most, you still have time to decide. The final choice of degree route is made at the end of the second year of study. In your UCAS application you may either specify courses suited to your interests or use the group code for (UCAS H100), indicating no decision yet on eventual specialisation. This enables you to delay your initial choice of theme until the end of the first semester of study, when you have had an opportunity to experience various kinds of. At Robert Gordon University we are unique in Scotland by being able to offer an intensive four year MEng course to selected students allowing completion in 48 months. This is possible by using the summer periods following the third and fourth years of academic study for industrial placement and learning. BEng (Hons) / MEng The BEng (Hons) is a four year course which, together with further study at Masters level, satisfies the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer Status (CEng). Students who demonstrate an aptitude which is above average may transfer to an MEng course at the end of year 2, and then may complete the MEng in a further three years, or less with industrial placement. BSc (Eng) with Honours The BSc (Eng) with Honours programmes are intended for students with motivation and ability who have the potential, at graduation, to provide industry and commerce with competent professional engineers. The BSc (Eng) in Electronic and Electrical and the BSc (Eng) in Mechanical are offered from year 3 on a full-time basis. For further information on part-time study, please see page 34. BSc (Hons) This qualification applies to the four year technology course in Computer Network Management and Design. The course draws on the specialist expertise of staff in the School of in the design and application of networking technology. 8 the professional university the professional university 9
An engineering education is a well recognised springboard to a range of high profile careers in many aspects of business and industry. You ll also be delighted to hear that the financial rewards for engineering students emerging from Robert Gordon University have consistently proved to be at the highest levels amongst graduates. 10 the professional university the professional university 11
mechanical engineering UCAS H304 MEng Mechanical UCAS H301 BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical Mechanical is concerned with the design, construction and operation of machines, structures and industrial plant used in a very wide range of industries. Mechanical engineers are constantly striving to produce safer, durable, cheaper, useful and more efficient machines and mechanical systems to benefit mankind. These can range from small components to extremely large plant, machinery or vehicles. Mechanical engineers must have the ability to work methodically and logically to solve real-life problems in the face of conflicting requirements. The first two years are common to all three of our Mechanical courses (Mechanical, Mechanical and Offshore and Mechanical and Electrical ). At the end of stage 2, you can make an informed decision about which route you wish to follow. Stage 1 consists of a small number of modules which provide an introduction to Mechanical and some modules which are broadening or develop the necessary underpinning knowledge and transferable skills. Stage 2 builds on this knowledge and begins to incorporate the engineer s need to understand the design process, product development and materials selection. In stage 3, you continue to develop your core skills and knowledge in Mechanical ; this is also the point at which you begin to specialise according to the degree route which you have chosen. On the Mechanical course, the specialist modules at stages 3 and 4 are: Environmental (which covers aspects of pollution distribution and control, waste water management and water re-use); Electrical Power and Energy Systems (which covers the fundamentals of synchronous power generation, control and supply); Failure Analysis (which covers advanced aspects of material properties, complex stress systems, failure due to fatigue and creep, as well as testing and monitoring techniques); and Systems (which teaches the evaluative skills required for process management, heat exchangers, pipes and pressure vessels). All students undertake a Group Project at stage 3 and an individual Honours Project at stage 4. Fast-track MEng students are also involved in summer placements before and after stage 4. These provide valuable industrial experience; many students go on to take up employment with their placement company. Although MEng courses are normally five year courses in Scotland, the fast-track route allows students to complete their course in 48 months. The BEng and MEng courses are fully accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). 12 the professional university the professional university 13
course structure career options Year 1 Semester 1 semester 2 Maths 1A Maths 1B Statics and Dynamics Introduction to Design, Materials and Manufacture Introduction to Electrical Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics Professional Skills Product Development Exit Award: Certificate of Higher Education in Mechanical Year 2 Semester 1 semester 2 Maths 2A Dynamics Mechanics of Solids Products in Service Thermofluids Introduction to Electronics The Strategy of Design and Manufacture Electrical Power Exit Award: Diploma of Higher Education in Mechanical Year 3 Semester 1 Semester 2 Maths 3A Team Working and Leadership Signal computer Acquisition, Instrumentation science and Control Analysis 1 Environmental Industrial Plant Project Management Electrical Power and Energy Systems UCAS G400 Group Project ( Stage 3) Semester 3 MEng Only Principles of Asset Management Socially Responsible Management Pre-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Exit Award: BEng Mechanical Year 4 Semester 1 semester 2 Analysis Systems Failure Analysis Plant Performance Safety, Risk and Reliability Management Control and Instrumentation BEng: Honours Project BEng: Honours Project MEng: Individual Project MEng: Individual Project Semester 3 MEng only Analysis 3 Quality Management for Engineers Post-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Exit Award: BEng (Hons) Mechanical (Semesters 1 and 2 only in stage 4) Fast-track only: MEng Mechanical (Semesters 1,2 and 3 in stage 4) The MEng degree satisfies the full academic requirements for Chartered status, while the BEng (Hons) satisfies the graduate part of the academic requirements. As such, our graduates have a wide variety of career options open to them. Our graduates are highly sought after by employers and are successful at securing employment and professional responsibility in a wide variety of roles. Mechanical graduates go on to work in oil and gas engineering, power generation and utilisation, marine technology, health and bioengineering, aerospace and transport. Some of our graduates have gone on to become: Senior Technical Engineer Design Engineer Commissioning Engineer Project Engineer Contracts Manager Principal Mechanical Engineer Peter Urquhart is employed by Total E&P UK as a Completions Engineer. My job involves both engineering of multiple systems and offshore supervision of the operations. So far the job has focused on North Sea operations but it will, shortly, carry me to several other countries. I started on the BEng degree. However after showing that I could keep up with the work, I was invited to move up to the MEng. I did not ask, I was asked, which showed that those running the course were tracking how I was doing and presented me with the choice. This attention to the performance of students is, ultimately, why I got the job I did. Jamie Fletcher is employed by Kongsberg Maritime as a Mechanical Design Engineer I carry out mechanical design work for the company s products, which tend to be a range of harsh environment imaging equipment, including underwater wellhead inspection cameras. I really enjoy the range of tasks this can involve, for example I do a lot of 3D modelling (using AutoCAD Inventor), testing, creating prototypes and carry out stress calculations and material studies. The experience of being at Robert Gordon University has made me more confident in my abilities, and it is very beneficial to know that you are learning things that will be of use in the workplace. The course also concentrates a lot on improving students soft skills through presentations and working in groups. 14 the professional university the professional university 15
mechanical and offshore engineering UCAS H350 BEng (Hons) MEng Mechanical and Offshore This course includes the core aspects of the Mechanical course and combines it with a specialism in Offshore. Offshore involves the study of oil and gas exploration and recovery, platform design, pipelines, down-hole instrumentation and energy transformation. Mechanical is concerned with the design, construction and operation of machines, structure and industrial plant used in a very wide range of industries. Mechanical engineers are constantly striving to produce safer, durable, cheaper, useful and more efficient machines and mechanical systems to benefit mankind. These can range from small components to extremely large plant, machinery or vehicles. Mechanical and offshore engineers must have the ability to work methodically and logically to solve real-life problems in the face of conflicting requirements. The first two years are common to all three of our Mechanical courses. At the end of stage 2, you can make an informed decision about which route you wish to follow. Stage 1 consists of a number of modules which provide an introduction to Mechanical, some modules which are broadening or develop the necessary underpinning knowledge and transferable skills. Stage 2 builds on this knowledge and begins to incorporate the engineer s need to understand the design process, product development and materials selection. In stage 3, you continue to develop your core skills and knowledge in Mechanical ; this is also the point at which you begin to specialise according to the degree route which you have chosen. On the Mechanical and Offshore course, the specialist modules at stages 3 and 4 are: Environmental (which covers aspects of pollution distribution and control, waste water management and water re-use); Offshore (which examines how an offshore well is drilled, what wave loading is on a drilling rig and what the development options are for offshore oil and gas fields); Oil and Gas A (which examines the offshore environment, corrosion control techniques, drilling fluids and drilling-related risk assessment); and Oil and Gas B (which examines how to utilise exploration data, understand drilling fluids and reservoir properties and how to select appropriate equipment for hydrocarbon management). All students undertake a Group Project at stage 3 and an individual Honours Project at Stage 4. Fast-track MEng students are also involved in summer placements before and after stage 4. These provide valuable industrial experience; many students go on to take up employment with their placement company. Although MEng courses are normally five year courses in Scotland, the fast-track route allows students to complete their course in 48 months. The BEng and MEng courses are fully accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). 16 the professional university the professional university 17
course structure career options Year 1 SEMESTER 1 semester 2 Maths 1A Maths 1B Statics and Dynamics Introduction to Design, Materials and Manufacture Introduction to Electrical Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics Professional Skills Product Development Exit Award: Certificate of Higher Education in Mechanical and Offshore Year 2 SEMESTER 1 semester 2 Maths 2A Dynamics Mechanics of Solids Products in Service Thermofluids Introduction to Electronics The Strategy of Design and Manufacture Electrical Power Exit Award: Diploma of Higher Education in Mechanical and Offshore Year 3 SEMESTER 1 semester 2 Maths 3A Analysis 1 Signal Acquisition, Instrumentation and Control Industrial Plant Environmental Offshore Project Management, Team Working and Leadership Group Project ( stage 3) SEMESTER 3 MEng Only Principles of Asset Management Socially Responsible Management Pre-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Exit Award: BEng Mechanical and Offshore Year 4 SEMESTER 1 semester 2 Analysis Oil and Gas B Oil and Gas A Plant Performance Safety, Risk and Reliability Management Control and Instrumentation BEng: Honours Project MEng: Individual Project SEMESTER 3 MEng only Analysis 3 Quality Management for Engineers Post-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Exit Award: BEng (Hons) Mechanical and Offshore (Semesters 1 and 2 only) Fast-track only: MEng Mechanical and Offshore (Semesters 1,2 and 3 in stage 4) The MEng degree satisfies the full academic requirements for Chartered status, while the BEng (Hons) satisfies the graduate part of the academic requirements. As such, our graduates have a wide variety of career options open to them. Our graduates are highly sought after and many of them gain employment in the global oil and gas engineering sector. However, opportunities also exist in many other areas of mechanical engineering such as aerospace, transport, marine technology, health and bioengineering. Some of our graduates have gone on to become: Marine Engineer Senior Well Engineer Drilling Manager Specialist Drilling Engineer Petroleum Engineer Rig Manager Subsea Engineer Business Analyst Recent graduate Jason Duthie is employed at Petrowell as a Graduate Engineer. I design down-hole completion tools for the oil and gas industry. The 3D modeling software that I now use was studied during my course which gave me a good base and the offshore modules that I chose in years 3 and 4 gave me a great insight into the industry that I am now employed in. The work placement opportunity is great, as it is a glimpse of what is to come in the future and can also help you find what direction you want to go in after you finish your degree. 18 the professional university the professional university 19
mechanical and electrical engineering UCAS HH36 BEng / MEng Mechanical and Electrical There is a great demand in industry for engineering graduates that have a broad range of knowledge, covering both mechanical and electrical engineering disciplines. This course includes the core aspects of the mechanical engineering course and combines it with a specialism in Electrical. Electrical involves the technology of power generation and transmission, electrical generators, motors, the development and operation of renewable energy schemes and environmentally friendly engineering systems. Mechanical is concerned with the design, construction and operation of machines, structures and industrial plant used in a very wide range of industries. Mechanical and electrical engineers are constantly striving to produce safer, durable, cheaper, useful and more efficient machines and mechanical systems to benefit mankind. These can range from small components to extremely large plant, machinery or vehicles. Mechanical and electrical engineers must have the ability to work methodically and logically to solve real-life problems in the face of conflicting requirements. The first two years are common to all three of our Mechanical courses (Mechanical, Mechanical and Offshore and Mechanical and Electrical ). At the end of stage 2, you can make an informed decision about which route you wish to follow. Stage 1 consists of a number of modules which provide an introduction to Mechanical and some modules which are broadening or develop the necessary underpinning knowledge and transferable skills. Stage 2 builds on this knowledge and begins to incorporate the engineer s need to understand the design process, product development and materials selection. In stage 3, you continue to develop your core skills and knowledge in Mechanical ; this is also the point at which you begin to specialise according to the degree route you have chosen. On the Mechanical and Electrical course, the specialist modules at stages 3 and 4 are: Electrical Machines and Drives 1 (which investigates the use of 3-phase induction motors and DC drive systems); Electrical Power and Energy Systems (which covers the fundamentals of synchronous power generation, control and supply); Electrical Machines and Drives 2 (which includes an analysis of 3-phase induction and synchronous motors in addition to introducing simulation techniques for AC machines); and Power Systems Analysis and Protection (which allows students to develop the capability to analyse and simulate power system stability and protection mechanisms and to evaluate the economic generation of electrical power). All students undertake a Group Project at stage 3 and an individual Honours Project at stage 4. Fast-track MEng students are also involved in summer placements before and after stage 4. These provide valuable industrial experience; many students go on to take up employment with their placement company. Although MEng courses are normally five year courses in Scotland, the fast-track route allows students to complete their course in 48 months. The BEng and MEng courses are fully accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Institution of and Technology (IET). 20 the professional university the professional university 21
course structure career options Year 1 Semester 1 Maths 1A Statics and Dynamics Introduction to Electrical Professional Skills Semester 2 Maths 1B Introduction to Design, Materials and Manufacture Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics Product Development Exit Award: Certificate of in Mechanical and Electrical Year 2 Semester 1 Maths 2A Mechanics of Solids Thermofluids The Strategy of Design and Manufacture Semester 2 Dynamics Products in Service Introduction to Electronics Electrical Power Exit Award: Diploma of Higher Education in Mechanical and Electrical Year 3 Semester 1 Maths 3A Signal Acquisition, Instrumentation and Control Electrical Machines and Drives 1 Project Management Team Working and Leadership Semester 2 Analysis 1 Industrial Plant Electrical Power and Energy Systems Group Project ( stage 3) The MEng degree satisfies the full academic requirements for Chartered status, while the BEng (Hons) satisfies the graduate part of the academic requirements. As such, our graduates have a wide variety of career options open to them. Career pathways for graduates include: Mechanical Engineer Electrical Engineer Design Engineer Project Engineer Risk & Safety Engineer Semester 3 MEng Only Principles of Asset Management Socially Responsible Management Pre-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Exit Award: BEng Mechanical and Electrical Year 4 Semester 1 Analysis Electrical Machines and Drives 2 Safety, Risk and Reliability Management BEng: Honours Project MEng: Individual Project Semester 2 Power Systems Analysis and Protection Plant Performance Control and Instrumentation BEng: Honours Project MEng: Individual Project Our graduates are highly sought after and many of them gain employment in the global oil and gas engineering sector. However, opportunities also exist in many other areas of mechanical engineering such as aerospace, transport, marine technology, health and bioengineering. Semester 3 MEng only Analysis 3 Quality Management for Engineers Post-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Exit Award: BEng (Hons) Mechanical and Electrical (Semesters 1 and 2 only in stage 4) Fast-track only: MEng Mechanical and Electrical (Semesters 1,2 and 3 in stage 4) 22 the professional university the professional university 23
Electronic and Electrical UCAS H600 MEng Electronic and Electrical UCAS H606 BEng (Hons)/ MEng Electronic and Electrical Electronic involves integrated circuit design, ultrasonics, optelectronics and the application of computer technologies. In the initial stages of the course you will study the principles of electronic devices and circuits, computer hardware and software, microprocessors and microcontrollers and telecommunications. Electrical involves the technology of power generation and transmission, electrical generators, motors, the development and operation of renewable energy schemes and environmentally friendly engineering systems. At stages 1 and 2 you will study a variety of topics in electronic and electrical engineering, with introductions to communications and computer engineering. To put into practical application what you have learnt in lectures, you will be involved in team projects to build underwater robots at stage 1, and armoured sumo wrestling robots at stage 2. At stages 3 and 4 of the courses you will have the opportunity to choose two specialist areas for in-depth study. The choices are: Electronics: Taking this specialism you will use design software to implement analogue and digital circuitry for instrumentation and control of a range of applications including robots and medical equipment. Electrical : When specialising in Electrical you will undertake a variety of modules including electrical systems, electrical power, electrical machines and energy conversion and storage. Communications : This specialism involves satellites, personal and mobile communication systems, wireless technology computer networks and internet technologies. Computer : This involves the indepth study and application of microprocessors, software engineering, computer hardware and interfacing, industrial instrumentation and control using embedded systems. Fast-track MEng students are also involved in summer placements before and after stage 4. These provide valuable industrial experience; many students go on to take up employment with their placement company. Although MEng courses are normally five year courses in Scotland, the fast-track route allows students to complete their course in 48 months. The BEng and MEng courses are fully accredited by the Institution of and Technology (IET). 24 the professional university the professional university 25
course structure career options Year 1 Semester 1 Introduction to Electrical Maths 1A Statics and Dynamics Professional Skills Semester 2 Introduction to Electronics Maths 1B Computer Hardware and Software Product Development Exit Award: Certificate of Higher Education in Electronic and Electrical Year 2 Semester 1 Electronics 2 Microprocessors and Microcontrollers Maths 2A Electrical Systems Semester 2 Electrical Power Introduction to Telecomms Applied Management Design Exercise Exit Award: Diploma of Higher Education in Electronic and Electrical Year 3 Semester 1 Elective (Communications or Electrical) Computer Architecture Signal Acquisition, Instrumentation and Control Project Management, Team Working and Leadership Semester 3 MEng only: Principles of Asset Management Socially Responsible Management, Pre-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Exit Award: BEng Electronic and Electrical Year 4 Semester 1 Elective (Communications or Electrical) Renewable Energy Systems Control and Signal Processing BEng: Honours Project MEng: Individual Project Semester 3 MEng Only Reliability and Risk Management Quality Management for Engineers Post-Project Industrial Placement (Double Module) Semester 2 Elective (Computer or Electronic) Electrical Power and Energy Systems Data Networks Group Project Semester 2 Elective (Computer or Electronic) Advanced Computer Architecture Safety Risk and Reliability Management BEng: Honours Project MEng: Individual Project Exit Award: BEng (Hons) Electronic and Electrical (Semesters 1 and 2 only in stage 4) Fast-track only: MEng Electronic and Electrical (Semesters 1, 2 and 3 in stage 4) The MEng degree satisfies the full academic requirements for Chartered status, while the BEng (Hons) satisfies the graduate part of the academic requirements. As such, our graduates have a wide variety of career options open to them. Our graduates are much sought after by employers and are successful at securing employment and professional responsibility in a wide variety of roles. Electronic and Electrical graduates have career opportunities in the development and operation of electronic and electrical systems in automotive systems, oil and gas engineering, power generation and utilisation, marine technology, consumer equipment and complex control systems for industry, as well as a range of opportunities in the telecommunications industries. Our graduates are employed in positions such as: Software Systems Engineer Process Engineer Senior Project Manager Survey Systems Engineer Material Engineer Electrical Project Engineer Graduate Andrew Simpson is now employed by Selex Gallileo as a Systems Engineer: I develop systems for the naval, air, land and space sectors of the defence industry. My time at Robert Gordon University gave me a taster of many of the technologies used in industry, including MatLab, VHDL and change control processes. 26 the professional university the professional university 27
computer network management and design UCAS H620 BSc (Hons) Computer Network Management and Design Most companies, whether large or small, now have their own computer network systems which are vital to their operation. These networks are used for communication, for storing data and for sharing information. This applies across a wide range of companies, including the energy industry, the health sector, banking and finance. These companies require specialist staff who are able to manage and develop these networks. The BSc (Honours) course in Computer Network Management and Design prepares students to take on these important roles. The course consists of groups of modules which are designed to develop different aspects of your ability to work in this area. There are modules which will develop your knowledge and understanding of computer networking, general modules which broaden your knowledge and modules which will develop your transferable skills. Project work forms an important strand in the course, starting with a small team project in first year and culminating in the Honours Project in the final year. The School of is a regional academy for Cisco, students study Cisco CCNA modules (Cisco CCNA Stages 1-4) as an integral part of the course. Completing these four modules prepares the student for Cisco Certified Network Associate certification, a qualification which is recognised world wide. Finally, the course also provides you with the opportunity to undertake a one year work placement across years 3 and 4, enabling you to apply your academic knowledge and skills in a professional environment. As the reliance on computer networks becomes more and more widespread, the opportunities for graduates in this area are very good. 28 the professional university the professional university 29
course structure career options Year 1 Semester 1 Professional Development in Computing Introduction to Networks Cisco CCNA Stage 1 Professional Skills Semester 2 Computer Hardware and Software Web Design Management Concepts Product Development Exit Award: Certificate of Higher Education in Computer Network Management and Design Year 2 Semester 1 Business Enterprise Skills IT for Managers Introduction to Database Systems Microprocessors and Microcontrollers Exit Award: Diploma of Higher Education in Computer Network Management and Design Year 3 Semester 1 Cisco CCNA Stage 3 Network Design Project Management, Team Working and Leadership Network Management Exit Award: BSc Computer Network Management and Design Year 4 Semester 1 Work Placement (Stage 4) Or without Placement: Industrial and Commercial Network Studies Introduction to Safety and Risk Management Wireless LANs Internet Based Programming Exit Award: BSc (Hons) Computer Network Management and Design Semester 2 Cisco CCNA Stage 2 Web Programming and ecommerce Introduction to Data Networks Design Exercise Semester 2 Work Placement (Stage 3) Or without Placement: Principles of Management Interactive Multimedia Unix Management Group Project ( stage 3) Semester 2 Advanced Network Management Cisco CCNA Stage 4 Honours Project () There are exciting career opportunities in the development and management of computer networks for large and small organisations. Successful completion of the course prepares you for the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification, a qualification which is recognised world wide. Some of our graduates have gone on to become: Network Engineer Network Manager Technical Consultant Security Engineer Network Specialist IT Consultant Graduate Franco Sorrentino is employed within Global Connectivity Services at Schlumberger: My role is to support and implement changes on the network infrastructures used by offshore installations and land based sites. These systems provide services such as internet, VoIP telephony and real time data for the remote locations. In addition to that I also work on the Satellite systems which we use to provide the connectivity needed for the remote locations. The most valuable aspects of the course were undoubtedly working on the Cisco equipment and the theory involved in routing/switching and multiplexing technologies. The qualifications I gained at Robert Gordon University definitely gave me the tools needed to get the job I applied for, which was only my second interview on finishing university. The knowledge gained also gave me the foundation needed for gaining the CCNA qualification which is the first stepping stone to further Cisco qualifications. 30 the professional university the professional university 31
placement Placements are an integral part of several courses. Working in a real environment with other professionals provides you with invaluable experience and often provides an advantage over other graduates when it comes to getting a job. Saurabh Kaushal (pictured) undertook a placement at Schoolhill Hydraulics. My placement has given me an excellent development opportunity, by allowing me to experience all aspects of live industry projects; from design and procurement through to final product delivery. I have benefited immensely by gaining valuable industrial experience and key skills which will help me in my future endeavours and boost my career prospects. 32 the professional university the professional university 33
wider access 2+2 Degree Link Programme Some of the courses in the School of are available through the Robert Gordon University Degree Link programme. This programme is offered by the University and partner Colleges on a 2+2 basis. This means that students who successfully complete a relevant Higher National Diploma (HND) course over 2 years (or part-time equivalent) at a partner College, are guaranteed access to year 3 of an appropriate degree course in the School of. Entry to year 3 of the BSc (Hons) Computer Network Management and Design course will be possible for those that have completed an HND in Computing Technical Support and semesters 1 and 2 of the CISCO CCNA at Aberdeen College or Banff and Buchan College. Entry to year 3 of the BSc (Eng) (Hons) Mechanical course will be possible for those that have completed an HND in Mechanical at Aberdeen College or Banff and Buchan College. Entry to year 3 of the BSc (Eng) (Hons) Electronic and Electrical course will be possible for those who have completed an HND in Electrical, an HND in Electronics at Aberdeen College or an HND in Electronics at Banff and Buchan College. Part-time BSc (Eng) Electronic and Electrical BSc (Eng) Mechanical The aim of the BSc (Eng) courses in Electronic and Electrical and Mechanical is to enable students to acquire the knowledge and understanding, key transferable skills, higher cognitive skills and technical skills necessary for competent practice and lifelong development as professional engineers. It is a course for aspiring Incorporated Engineers which aims to develop the knowledge, understanding, capability and awareness necessary to maintain and manage existing technology at peak efficiency and to provide a balance of technological, management and personal skills which prepare students for early management and leadership responsibility. As such the course provides a broad education and training in the fundamental areas of electronic and electrical engineering and mechanical engineering. Both degree programmes are Incorporated Engineer qualifications. The BSc (Eng) in Electronic and Electrical and Mechanical are not intended to be specialist courses, options are available in the third stage of the course so that students may choose a mixture of study topics of greatest relevance to career progression. The course is vocational in nature and studies in Project Management complement the more fundamental aspects. The BSc (Eng) in Electronic and Electrical is not offered at Stage one level. The BSc (Eng) in Mechanical is only offered at Stage 3 level. Both courses are offered to the Pass Degree level of award in the evenings. The majority of part-time students enter the Electrical course at Stage 2 level (with an appropriate HNC or equivalent entry qualification). Entry into Stage 3 (pass degree) is possible with an appropriate HND or equivalent qualification. Entry to the Mechanical course is at Stage 3 only and requires an approved HND. The BSc (Eng) in Mechanical is fully articulated with the HND offered by Aberdeen College, and Banff and Buchan College. A structured evening class schedule is available, and this is the most popular attendance mode for part-time students. Alternatively, part-time students may attend the normal daytime classes if they so wish, but the timetable is not designed specifically for a day-release attendance mode. The course is not offered on a distance learning basis at present. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) All modules offered in the undergraduate degree courses are available to be taken as CPD courses by students who have the necessary pre-requisites but do not wish to commit to a degree course at this stage. Most of these modules are offered in the day time. 34 the professional university the professional university 35
entry requirements SQA Higher GCE A Level MEng ABBB or ABBCC to include Maths and Physics and/or Technological Studies, or Advanced Highers BCC to include Maths and either Physics or Technological Studies, plus Standard Grade English if not held at Higher. BEng (Hons)/MEng BBCC to include Maths and either Physics and/or Technological Studies, or Advanced Higher BC to include Maths and either Physics or Technological Studies, plus Standard Grade English if not held at Higher. BSc (Hons) Computer Network Management and Design BCC preferably to include Maths and a science/technology/computing subject, plus 2 passes at Standard Grade to include English and Maths if not held at Higher. MEng BCC to include Maths and Physics or or Design and Technology, plus GCSE in English or English Language. IB Diploma Alternative Qualifications MEng 28, including Maths and Physics/Technological Studies at Higher Level and English. BEng (Hons)/MEng 26, including Maths and Physics/Technological Studies at Higher Level and English. BSc (Hons) Computer Network Management and Design 24, including Maths and Physics/Technological Studies at Higher Level and English. Equivalent overseas qualifications, SQA, BTEC, S/NVQs and some Access programmes will be considered. Applications welcomed from students with alternative qualifications and work experience. ILC Higher BEng (Hons)/MEng CCC including Maths and Physics or or Design and Technology plus GCSE in English or English Language. BSc (Hons) Computer Network Management and Design A Level CC to include Maths and a science/technology/computing subject, plus 3 GCSE passes at Grade C to include English or English Language. MEng ABBB at Higher Level to include Maths and either Physics or Technological Studies, plus Ordinary Level English if not at Higher. BEng (Hons)/MEng BBC1C1 at Higher Level to include Maths and Physics and two Ordinary Level passes to include English if not at Higher. 2 + 2 Degree Link Programme Part-time Some of the courses in the School of are available through the Robert Gordon University Degree Link programme. This programme is offered by the University and partner colleges on a 2+2 basis. See page 34 for further information. The BSc (Eng) in Electronic and Electrical and the BSc (Eng) in Mechanical are offered from year 2 to year 3 on a parttime evening class basis. The entry requirement is an appropriate HNC or equivalent. See page 35 for further information. BSc (Hons) Computer Network Management and Design: BCC at Higher Level, preferably to include Maths and a science/ technology/computing subject, plus 2 Ordinary Level passes to include English. 36 the professional university the professional university 37
scholarships The Bureau Veritas Scholarship The Petrofac Scholarship Since its foundation in 1828, the Bureau Veritas Group has consistently built recognised expertise, helping clients comply with standards and regulations relating to Quality, Health and Safety, Environment and Social Responsibility. WHICH COURSES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP? The Bureau Veritas Scholarships are open to second year students on the following degree programmes: MEng/BEng (Hons) Mechanical MEng/BEng (Hons) Mechanical and Electrical MEng/BEng (Hons) Mechanical and Offshore MEng/BEng (Hons) Electronic and Electrical Petrofac is an international provider of facilities solutions to the oil and gas production and processing industries with a diverse client portfolio including many of the world s leading integrated, independent and national oil and gas companies. WHICH COURSES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP? The Petrofac Scholarships are open to second year students on the following degree programmes: MEng/BEng (Hons) Mechanical MEng/BEng (Hons) Electronic and Electrical MEng/BEng (Hons) Mechanical and Offshore MEng/BEng (Hons) Mechanical and Electrical How to Apply: For full details on how to apply for the scholarships, please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/scholarships WHAT FUNDING IS AVAILABLE? The Bureau Veritas Scholarship offers two students an award of 2,000 in their second year and an award of 3,000 in their third and final years as well as paid summer placements. The award is performance linked and students must progress on to a MEng programme after their second year of study. All successful Bureau Veritas scholars will be provided with paid summer placements and will have the additional benefit of being eligible for a job interview at graduation. WHAT FUNDING IS AVAILABLE? The Petrofac Business, and Quantity Surveying Scholarships offer 1,500 in years two, three and four of the course. In addition successful candidates are offered a paid placement with Petrofac either locally in Aberdeen or elsewhere. To find out more about Bureau Veritas, please visit: www.bureauveritas.co.uk To find out more about Petrofac, please visit: www.petrofac.com 38 the professional university the professional university 39
The Talisman Scholarship The Technip Scholarship The Wood Group Scholarship AMEC Scholarship Talisman Energy (UK) Limited is the leading independent upstream company in the UK North Sea, where it operates 33 fields. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Talisman Energy Inc., which was established in Calgary, Canada in 1992 and is a diversified, global oil and gas company with core production areas in North America, the North Sea and South East Asia. Which courses are eligible for the Scholarship? The Talisman Scholarships are open to first year students on the following degree programmes: MEng Mechanical MEng Electronic and Electrical BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical and Offshore BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical and Electrical BEng (Hons)/MEng Electronic and Electrical What funding is available? The Talisman scholar will qualify to receive funding support of 4,000 each year for the first three years of the course, followed by a 3,000 grant in the final year of the course. A leader in the field of subsea engineering and construction, Technip UK, which is part of the global Technip Group, provides assets, products and services to enable the safe development of offshore oil and gas fields. The company supports a diverse range of clients with offshore assets in the North Sea and offers a comprehensive range of subsea services including; pipelay, subsea structure construction and installation and inspection, repair and maintenance (IRM) services. One of the largest employers in Aberdeen, Scotland, Technip UK has a workforce of over 800 talented individuals who collectively ensure Technip retains its long standing status as the leading subsea engineering and construction contractor in the UK. WHICH COURSES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP? The Scholarship is open to first year students on the following programmes: MEng Mechanical BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical and Offshore BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical and Electrical Wood Group is an international energy services company with sales of $5.2bn, employing more than 28,000 people worldwide and operating in 46 countries. WHICH COURSES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP? Students who have accepted the offer of a place on one of the following courses at Robert Gordon University will be eligible to apply for the scholarship: MEng Mechanical MEng Electronic and Electrical BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical and Offshore BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical and Electrical BEng (Hons)/MEng Electronic and Electrical WHAT FUNDING IS AVAILABLE? The Wood Group Scholarship offers 10,000 over four years along with paid summer placements and mentoring support. AMEC is a focused supplier of high-value consultancy, engineering and project management services to the world s energy, power and process industries. With annual revenues of over 2.3 billion, they design, deliver and maintain strategic and complex assets for our customers. AMEC employs over 23,000 people in more than 30 countries globally. WHICH COURSES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP? The AMEC Scholarship is open to second year students on the following degree programme: MEng (Hons) Electronic and Electrical WHAT FUNDING IS AVAILABLE? The AMEC Scholarship offers one student an award of 2,000 in years two, three and four as well as paid summer placements. The award is performance linked and students must progress on to a MEng programme after their second year of study. All successful AMEC scholars will be provided with paid summer placements and will have the additional benefit of being eligible for a job interview at graduation. Successful Talisman scholars will also have the additional benefit of being able to apply for a paid industrial placement at Talisman during their studies. WHAT FUNDING IS AVAILABLE? The Technip Scholarships offer 2,000 per year for each year of the course. To find out more about Talisman, please visit: www.talisman-energy.com To find out more about The Talisman Scholarship Programme, please visit www.talismanscholarship.co.uk Successful Technip UK scholars have the additional benefit of being eligible to apply for a paid industrial placement at Technip. To find out more about Technip UK, please visit: www.technip.com To find out more about Wood Group, please visit: www.woodgroup.com To find out more about AMEC, please visit: www.amec.com 40 the professional university the professional university 41