International Study Centre

Science & Engineering two-semester programme

What you’ll study

During the two-semester Pre-Masters Programme in Science and Engineering, you will study a combination of academic modules, specific to your pathway, and compulsory modules.

You will study a total of eight modules and achieve 120 credits required in your chosen pathway to progress.

Computer Science and Engineering Pathway

Academic English Skills (30 credits)

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

Research Skills 1 (15 credits)

This module introduces you to key academic skills by inviting you to work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary fashion on a group project. You will study a range of skills targeted towards introductory postgraduate-level research, using key literature. By focusing on a series of key texts, you will learn how to analyse language and structure in academic literature and place this effectively into a larger context. The module culminates in group poster presentations, allowing you to present the research you have undertaken throughout the semester.

Research Skills 2 (15 credits)

This module facilitates your learning about your post-Master's vocation or studies. Through targeted and focused supervision, you will undertake individual research projects into your prospective future work or studies and what skills will be required for you to succeed. 

Maths for Pre-Masters (15 credits)

This module aims to provide the relevant knowledge and skills for students progressing onto postgraduate courses at the University of Sussex. The module concentrates on four key areas, algebra, calculus, statistics and discrete maths. You will represent real-word problems with mathematical models and learn how to effectively communicate your conclusions.

Data Analysis and Modelling (15 credits)

This module aims to provide you with the opportunity to enhance your skills in preparing, analysing, and visualizing large datasets, as well as creating models and simulations using industry-standard tools. The module will familiarise you with industry-standard tools and techniques used for data analysis and modelling and provide hands-on experience with real-world datasets to strengthen your practical skills.

Applications in the Global Context (15 credits)

You will explore how technology affects many aspects of life and will be able to apply your subject knowledge in a variety of real-world contexts. You will discuss and debate issues such as the impact of technology on the way we think and act, questions concerning who actually benefits from technological progress, the industrial revolution, development and globalisation, and the public understanding of science and technology.

Design and Prototyping (15 credits)

This module is in two parts. In the first six weeks you will learn how certain electronic components work and how they are used in practical electronic circuits. Then you will work in teams to build a prototype circuit using computer aided design equipment, test it and record results. In the second six weeks you will acquire mechanical engineering knowledge in order to build and test a prototype of a mechanical device.

This module is only available for the January start date.

Programming and Systems Control (15 credits)

You will work as a team of computer scientists and engineers to create hardware models that solve two problems by programming a single-board microcontroller like the Arduino. In the first problem, you will need to use a range of sensors and actuators to simulate a complex system like an intruder alarm system or a traffic light junction. In the second problem, you will develop an autonomous robot that uses artificial intelligence to make decisions in order to achieve a goal. You will have the opportunity to enhance the design and programming skills that you have acquired in your previous degree.

Life Sciences Pathway

 Academic English Skills (30 credits)

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

Research Skills 1 (15 credits)

This module introduces you to key academic skills by inviting you to work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary fashion on a group project. You will study a range of skills targeted towards introductory postgraduate-level research, using key literature. By focusing on a series of key texts, you will learn how to analyse language and structure in academic literature and place this effectively into a larger context. The module culminates in group poster presentations, allowing you to present the research you have undertaken throughout the semester.

Research Skills 2 (15 credits)

This module facilitates your learning about your post-Master's vocation or studies.  Through targeted and focused supervision, you will undertake individual research projects into your prospective future work or studies and what skills will be required for you to succeed.

Statistical Research Methods (15 credits)

This module will uncover the essential philosophical constructs underlying scientific investigations, preparing you to identify and undertake research projects confidently. From formulating testable hypotheses to analysing and interpreting large data sets using cutting-edge software, this dynamic module will empower you to design rigorous studies, master statistical analysis, and evaluate research outcomes.

Life Sciences: The Cutting Edge (15 credits)

This module will introduce you to a selection of cutting edge techniques used in life sciences and pharmacy while guiding you to evaluate the applications of these techniques in different areas of research within your own discipline. As part of this module you are expected to attend a seminar series at the University. These seminars will allow you to gain first-hand insight into the nature of scientific research from researchers actively involved in current research. The aim of this module is to enable you to critically evaluate and interpret this knowledge to help solve research problems in your chosen area of study.

Exploring Ethics in Research (15 credits)

This module develops knowledge and skills needed for reviewing academic literature, and you will explore the ethical concepts and issues a researcher needs to consider while carrying out research. Using workshops you will gain hands-on experience in using literature databases, referencing software and search methods. Interactive seminars will encourage you to critically analyse controversial issues regarding values and ethics in life sciences and psychology research. These activities develop the skills to work independently and as a team, make decisions and to take the initiative.

Research Project: Psychology and Life Sciences (15 credits)

This module will provide you with the chance to conduct your own independent research project under the guidance of experienced staff. You will choose the topic, design the experiments, and then report the findings both as a poster presentation and a written report. As you the conduct your research, you will learn how to read technical literature, demonstrate understanding of ethical implications, collect and analyse data, and identify new avenues of research based on your findings.

Maths for Pre-Masters (15 credits)

This module aims to provide the relevant knowledge and skills for students progressing onto postgraduate courses at the University of Sussex. The module concentrates on four key areas, algebra, calculus, statistics and discrete maths. You will represent real-word problems with mathematical models and learn how to effectively communicate your conclusions.

Psychology Pathway

Academic English Skills (15 credits)

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

Research Skills 1 (15 credits)

This module introduces you to key academic skills by inviting you to work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary fashion on a group project. You will study a range of skills targeted towards introductory postgraduate-level research, using key literature. By focusing on a series of key texts, you will learn how to analyse language and structure in academic literature and place this effectively into a larger context. The module culminates in group poster presentations, allowing you to present the research you have undertaken throughout the semester.

Research Skills 2 (15 credits) 

This module facilitates your learning about your post-Master's vocation or studies.  Through targeted and focused supervision, you will undertake individual research projects into your prospective future work or studies and what skills will be required for you to succeed.  

Statistical Research Methods (15 credits)  

This module will uncover the essential philosophical constructs underlying scientific investigations, preparing you to identify and undertake research projects confidently. From formulating testable hypotheses to analysing and interpreting large data sets using cutting-edge software, this dynamic module will empower you to design rigorous studies, master statistical analysis, and evaluate research outcomes.

Research Project: Psychology and Life Sciences (15 credits)

This module will provide you with the chance to conduct your own independent research project under the guidance of experienced staff. You will choose the topic, design the experiments, and then report the findings both as a poster presentation and a written report. As you the conduct your research, you will learn how to read technical literature, demonstrate understanding of ethical implications, collect and analyse data, and identify new avenues of research based on your findings.

Psychology: The Cutting Edge (15 credits)  

This module aims to provide you with an ability to engage with cutting-edge psychological topics and techniques, using both scientific literature and professional presentations. You will enhance your scientific literacy and your communication skills by learning to effectively summarise literature and present the key themes to your peers.  This module also gives you an opportunity to gain insight into the nature of current research, and experience direct communication by experts on state-of-the-art tools and techniques. 

Exploring Ethics in Research (15 credits)  

This module develops knowledge and skills needed for reviewing academic literature, and you will explore the ethical concepts and issues a researcher needs to consider while carrying out research. Using workshops you will gain hands-on experience in using literature databases, referencing software and search methods. Interactive seminars will encourage you to critically analyse controversial issues regarding values and ethics in life sciences and psychology research. These activities develop the skills to work independently and as a team, make decisions and to take the initiative. 

Maths for Pre-Masters (15 credits)  

This module aims to provide the relevant knowledge and skills for students progressing onto postgraduate courses at the University of Sussex. The module concentrates on four key areas, algebra, calculus, statistics and discrete maths. You will represent real-word problems with mathematical models and learn how to effectively communicate your conclusions.

English Courses

Need to improve your English? You can study a range of our Online English language courses.

See our English courses

One-semester programme

We also offer a one-semester version of the Pre-Masters in Science and Engineering.

Explore the course
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How to apply

Ready to apply? Discover how to submit an application and learn more about fees, semester dates and entry requirements.

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University of Sussex International Study Centre

Develop skills to change the world at the University of Sussex International Study Centre. Improve your English, develop your academic skills, and grow the confidence you need to succeed in your degree.

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English language courses

Improve your English skills with one of our Online English language courses designed to support international students studying a pathway programme at the International Study Centre.

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