Electrical Circuits with Computer Programming

Unit code: NEE2001 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)
Overview
Enquire

Overview

In this unit, you will build a strong foundation in electrical circuit theory and computational problem-solving, developing both analytical precision and digital fluency. You will explore how voltage, current, and power behave in Direct Current (DC), Alternating Current (AC), and transient systems, applying core concepts such as Kirchhoff’s laws and energy storage in inductors and capacitors. Through laboratory experiments and programming exercises, you will design, model, and analyse circuits, comparing theoretical, numerical, and experimental results to enhance confidence in engineering judgement. You will also reflect on design efficiency, data integrity, and professional communication in conveying engineering outcomes. By the end of this unit, you will be able to model and interpret circuit behaviour, optimise designs through simulation, and present clear, well-reasoned engineering solutions for real-world applications.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Apply electrical circuit laws and principles, including Kirchhoff’s laws and superposition, to analyse and predict circuit behaviour;

  2. Analyse transient and steady-state responses of resistor-capacitor (RC) and resistor-inductor (RL) circuits under varied operating conditions;

  3. Construct computational programs to model circuit performance using industry software such as SPICE, comparing analytical, numerical, and experimental results;

  4. Integrate simulation and laboratory findings to interpret results, justify design decisions, and collaborate effectively in professional teams;

  5. Evaluate power, efficiency, and correction strategies in single- and three-phase systems, emphasising sustainability, safety, and professional communication; and

  6. Interpret academic texts, applying principles of academic integrity and reflective practice to engage with the academic community.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type:
|
Grade:
In-class analytical problem solving and data interpretation (Individual) (30 mins)
Assessment type:
|
Grade:
Circuit-design mini-project report with verified code and simulation (Group) (1500 words)
Assessment type:
|
Grade:
Applied problem-solving activity with live code explanation (Individual) (10 mins each)
Assessment type:
|
Grade:
Evidence of completion of the Academic Integrity Modules

Test: This secure invigilated in class assessment has an unpredictable problem-solving scenario format that tests deep understanding, requires explanation of reasoning and process, and involves applying knowledge to new contexts.

Report: Report documenting circuit design project, focusing on verification of code and simulation. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Presentation: This secure assessment ensures authenticity by requiring students to demonstrate and explain their problem-solving and coding processes in real time. Unpredictable questions and live code discussion prevent the use of pre-prepared solutions and live evaluation of reasoning and applied skills verifies individual understanding.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
NHEE | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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