University of Reading Shuts Down School of Systems Engineering

The School of Systems Engineering (SSE) at the University of Reading has been closed as a result of a lack of applications, "disappointing" academic research and an almost £2m deficit.

Significant structural changes have also been made in other departments. For example, the BSc Computer Science course (which holds nearly 60% of all SSE undergraduates) and the MSc Advanced Computer Science has now been moved and will continue under a new school called the Department of Computer Science. A new department that has been created within the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

However, degrees such as BScs in IT and Robotics with finish in 2016. Others that will also close are BSc Artificial Intelligence, BSc Electronic Engineering and BSc Cybernetics.

In addition, the university has warned members of staff that in a "worst case scenario" up to 15 academic positions and 20 support posts are expected to go.

Sir David Bell, Vice-chancellor, has stated: "We are confident these changes are in the best long-term interests of the whole institution. We need to take the right decisions to expand tuition and research income, build on existing strengths, and take robust action on weaker areas."

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