Embedded computing, especially when paired with machine learning, promises to provide the tools to enhance technology, business models and decision-making across a range of sectors. On this course, developed with industry leader Arm, you’ll learn how to leverage the latest technologies and develop intelligent, distributed, heterogeneous, and secure solutions.
You’ll discover the latest industry trends, which emphasise embedded and portable devices optimised for machine learning at the edge, and work on real-life case studies.
Developed in partnership with Arm
Our partnership with Arm means you'll have access to industry-relevant educational materials, real-life case studies and Arm technologies throughout the duration of the course.
Why ARU?
Learn how to leverage the latest technologies and develop intelligent, distributed, heterogeneous, and secure solutions
Work on real-life case studies with industry tools
Study on a course developed with industry leader Arm
Study around your existing commitments over eight months by distance learning
Future-proof your computing career while continuing to work.
Arm stands as a key player in the embedded computing industry, and by studying on this course, you’ll be uniquely positioned to benefit from this association.
The modules within our programme not only provide theoretical knowledge but also offer practical exposure, ensuring that you're not just proficient in embedded computing concepts, but ready to contribute meaningfully to the industry, particularly in the context of Arm technologies.
Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to continue your academic career and join a research programme at ARU. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and save £400 on your fees.
We want you to be a step ahead when you graduate, so we offer:
We’re here to help you develop your CV and find that all-important role after graduation. Our Employability Service offers tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, help to complete job applications, and much more. You’ll have 24/7 access to an online Careers Centre too, which is packed with useful resources.
The support continues after you graduate, with lifelong access to our Alumni Career Centre.
Enhance your embedded computing, machine learning and AI skills.
You’ll learn about the core principles of embedded systems, with a specific emphasis on Arm architectures. This will help you understand the intricacies of Arm technology – knowledge which will help you get ahead in your embedded computing career.
We’ll go on to delve into the intersection of Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning, offering you a profound insight into the potential of these combined technologies when implemented at the edge, focussing on the use of Arm technologies to achieve this integration.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
We'll assess you in a number of ways including time-constrained assessments, coursework assignments and presentations.
Our module case studies assess your ability to analyse situations, identify key issues, select, synthesise and apply techniques and skills, and evaluate the appropriateness of solutions when compared to industrial practice.
Facilities
Enjoy a range of facilities designed to support your studies and career development.
These include extensive library and IT resources, and careers support through our Employability Service. After you graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to our Alumni Career Centre.
You can also access support, should you need it, with study skills, health and wellbeing, and more.
Entry requirements
Main
Applicants will normally hold a first or second class first degree. While a prior degree in a subject containing computing or electronics is welcome, the course is open to applicants with an electronics / computing background and a passion for technology whose first degrees may be in other subjects.
A Foundation degree in computing or electronics with an appropriate period of industrial experience may also be considered. Each applicant for the Master’s programme who possesses a Foundation degree will be expected to attend an interview where an assessment will be made to determine the standard of their industrial experience and suitability for the course.
If English is not your first language, you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent English Language qualification as recognised by ARU. You’ll need at least 5.5 in each of the four skills - listening, speaking, reading and writing.
As a distance learner, you'll also need a suitable computer with internet connection, together with sufficient IT competence to make effective use of our online Learning Management System (LMS) with high-speed internet and email. You will also need access to a fairly modern laptop or personal computer which runs Microsoft Windows 10 or later. Furthermore, admin rights are required to install relevant software packages.
Important additional notes
Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements.
Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course; please email [email protected] for further information. Applicants to undergraduate courses can also check our information about undergraduate entry qualifications.
You'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course.
Fees and funding
£3,000PGCert students starting 2026/27 (total cost)
Fees are payable upfront, in full or in instalments, but there's no need to pay until you've accepted an offer to study with us. Find out more about paying your fees and about postgraduate loans and funding.
Part-time course fees assume that you’re studying at half the rate of a full-time student (50% intensity). Course fees will be different if you study over a longer period. All fees are for guidance purposes only. Your offer letter will contain full details of credits and fees, or you can contact us if you'd like more information.
You’ll be required to purchase some hardware, such as ST DISCO-L475E, and sensors, which we do not expect to exceed £100. You’ll also need access to a fairly modern laptop or personal computer which runs Microsoft Windows 10 or later, with admin rights so you can install relevant software packages.
There are several ways to fund postgraduate study, and we recommend finding out more before you apply.
