Cybernetics deals with systems and their control. These may be technological systems such as robots, biological such as the control of human body temperatures, or environmental as illustrated by the Gaia Hypothesis which states that the Earth itself is a self-regulating cybernetic system. Its study brings together several academic disciplines and spans subjects including robotic systems, biomedical engineering, computer science, information technology and engineering.

Students choose cybernetics at Reading because of the unique focus we place on the subject, the world renowned nature of our research into the subject, and the wide range of cutting-edge technologies you can learn. These include Autonomous Robots, Artificial Intelligence, Terahertz Radiation and Virtual Reality.

Cybernetics would suit you if you want to control the future! You explore the common threads inherent in functioning systems, whether they are animals, machines, electronic, computational or information systems. Knowing the underlying principles of how things work allows you to implement novel systems. The principles of Cybernetics can be applied in many contexts, having a major impact on life - from understanding brain rhythms to creating autonomous vehicles, and the interdisciplinary nature of the subject suits students with wide interests and those who wish to explore multiple disciplines. Real understanding and innovation often comes from experimentation and so the design, build and test of practical systems is an essential part of the course.

The MEng degree programme allows you study Cybernetics in more depth and includes a range of additional modules as well as a six month industrial placement or research project in the fourth year.

Programming

Software engineering

Computer applications

Engineering mathematics

Cybernetics and circuits

Fundamentals of computing

Institution-Wide Language Programme

System design and project management

Signal processing

Embedded microprocessors and digital systems

Control systems

Neuroscience

Sensors and devices

Neural networks

Robots and mechanics

Robotic systems

Telecommunications

Machine intelligence

Social, legal and ethical aspects of science and engineering

System identification and control

State space

Law and management

Modern heuristics

Mechatronics

Machines in motion

Virtual reality

Multi agent systems

Image analysis

Sustainable electrical energy

Measurement systems

Analogue electronics

Bionics

Industrial project or both a research project and research studies

Swarm intelligence and artificial life

Mind as motion

Advanced neural networks

Manipulator dynamics and haptics

Biomechanics

Nonlinear control

Optimal control

Robust control

Medical image and signal processing

Visual intelligence

Terahertz

Practice of entrepreneurship