School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

MEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Do you want to lead society towards a more energy-efficient future, enhance your business acumen, and further develop your technical and design ability? The MEng course develops your communication and entrepreneurial skills, and prepares you for a range of high-end careers in electrical and electronic engineering. This course, which meets the full academic requirements for Chartered Engineer status, is accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

You will develop highly practical skills and learn through doing. You'll access one of the largest undergraduate laboratory spaces in the country, which you can use to further your own understanding of communications, electronics and renewable energy technologies. You will benefit from free IET membership (whilst at University) as the University is an IET Academic Partner. You will further your knowledge with a placement after successfully completing year two.

Opportunities available...

  • A scholarship scheme is available: for more information, see the 'Fees, costs and funding' section, below.

Careers with this subject

Discover employment and further study opportunities that you could consider once you graduate with an electrical and electronic engineering degree.

Key features

  • Four year integrated masters programmes.
  • Ranked 14th overall in the country for electrical engineering (Guardian league tables 2020).
  • Draw on our strong industry links and benefit from industry participation in course development, delivery and project sponsorship.
  • Take part in our final year student project open day showcasing the excellence of the engineering skills development and the high levels of achievement of our undergraduates, with many industrially sponsored prizes awarded.
  • Develop highly practical skills and learn through doing.
  • Students in engineering, science and the arts have access to a range of specialist equipment and innovative laboratories in our new engineering and design facility.
  • Take advantage of our flexible course, allowing you to switch between electronics and robotics until your final year, as your interests develop. 
  • Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
  • Benefit from free IET membership (whilst at University) as the University is an IET Academic Partner.
  • Joining our MEng course means working towards an honours degree that provides the shortest route to professional and chartered status. 
  • Challenge yourself. Final year MEng students work in groups to undertake a major design project that will give them the opportunity to experience a broad selection of strategic, ethical, environmental, management, operational, logistical, technical, financial, contractual and team-working challenges.
  • Further your knowledge with a placement after successfully completing stage 2 or between the final two years of the MEng course. 
  • Receive electronic tools for studying.
  • Access one of the largest undergraduate laboratory spaces in the country, which you can use to further your own understanding of communications, electronics and renewable energy technologies.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • In the first year you'll use our well-equipped laboratories to develop your knowledge and practical problem solving skills. From the start of your studies you'll find that there is an emphasis on learning by doing, and group project work will enable you to develop your problem solving and communication skills. An integrating project will encompass business and technical skills, and focus on activities that are typical of a start-up company.

    Core modules

    • Stage 1 Electrical/Robotics Placement Preparation (BPIE112)

      This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

    • Analogue Electronics (ELEC141)

      This module provides an overview of analogue circuit characterisation, analysis and design, linking theory to practice. It will examine how common analogue systems are constructed from elementary components.

    • Digital Electronics (ELEC142)

      This is a foundation module in digital electronics and computer control, which introduces digital devices and provides a background in the principles, design and applications of combinational and sequential logic circuits.

    • Electrical Principles and Machines (ELEC144)

      This module gives an introduction to the electrical properties of materials, capacitance, Inductance, and electromagnetism. Basic circuit principles and their application in dc and ac circuit analysis are then applied to electrical machines, transformers and energy conversion.

    • Embedded System Design and Build (PROJ100)

      The module enables students to work collectively to build prototype solutions to real-world problems using both software and hardware. This will include development and verification skills in both hardware and software. 

    • Engineering Mathematics (ENGR104)

      This module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills, and techniques, which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.

  • Year 2

  • You'll develop a greater understanding of underlying engineering principles and circuit design methods in the second year. Again, we place an emphasis on team work and you'll have the opportunity to do both group and individual presentations of your projects. You'll use industrial standard software tools for design and simulation in preparation for your final year individual project or for your optional placement year.

    Core modules

    • Stage 2 Electrical/Robotics Placement Preparation (BPIE212)

      This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed build on the Level 1 module (BPIE111) and to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

    • Power Electronics and Generation (ELEC237)

      This module introduces power electronics devices and motors. Students will build switching power systems and also build and interface motor drive systems and generators.

    • Communication Systems (ELEC239)

      This module extends the student's knowledge and understanding of electrical engineering in order to develop a deeper understanding of electronic engineering principles and their application to electronic and communication engineering.

    • Engineering Mathematics and Statistics (MATH237)

      This module provides an introduction to mathematical and statistical methods that are important in the study of electronic and communications engineering. The mathematical techniques (transforms) are central to the study of linear, time-invariant systems. As well as introducing descriptive statistics, basic probability distributions, the module also considers the more advanced topics of reliability and quality control.

    • Control Engineering (ROCO219)

      This module introduces basic concepts in how to control systems that have dynamics. This can involve making an unstable system stable, like balancing a Segway transporter to ensure it always remains upright. Or to get a system to follow a desired input and reach the desired goal. For example, controlling a robot arm so it moves directly to a target location without oscillating or overshooting.

    • Real Time Systems Project (PROJ200)

      The module enables students to build robust and scalable real-time solutions to real-world problems using both Microcontroller and FPGA technologies. This will include both hardware and firmware development skills.

  • Optional placement year

  • You can enhance your studies with relevant experience by taking an optional placement year in the UK, France, Germany and Japan. Placements give you the opportunity to put theory into practice, and are excellent opportunity to seek final year sponsorship. Many of our graduates have been offered permanent jobs with their placement company.

    Core modules

    • Electrical Industrial Placement (BPIE332)

      A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study and to prepare for the final stage and employment after graduation.

  • Year 4

  • Year 3 (or Year 4 if you took an optional placement year) is an exciting opportunity to develop an individual project. You'll consolidate your knowledge, explore and evaluate new technologies, and demonstrate your communication skills in the oral and written presentation of your project. Previous project have included a landmine detection system, CreatoBot (a modular robotic system) and DishDynamics (Global Ordinance And Targeting System [GOATS]).

    Core modules

    • Information and Communication Signal Processing (ELEC347)

      This module provides a thorough understanding of basic and advanced signal processing and coding techniques. This will equip students with knowledge that is vital for the processing, manipulation, encoding and transmission and efficient storage of information in most areas of IT, electronics and communications.

    • Design and Control of Renewable Energy Technology (ELEC349)

      The focus of this module is on the generation of energy using solar photovoltaic (PV) technology. The effect of the environment, the PV material characteristics and the technology to achieve maximum power point tracking (MPPT) are described.

    • Advanced Embedded Programming (ELEC351)

      The module aims to develop programming skills in embedded programming, by making use of advanced features of high-level programming languages and by deepening the knowledge of modern programming techniques in embedded systems. The module has a strong practical bias where students are required to solve various problems by programming existing microcontroller hardware.

    • Individual Project (PROJ300)

      Investigate problems from industry or current research, define the problem boundaries, investigate possible solutions and present your results.  You’ll have the chance to demonstrate a wide range of skills in project management, ethics, IP, research, critical thinking, engineering decisions, hardware, electrical/electronic and mechanical, design and simulation, software implementation, schematic capture and testing.

    Optional modules

    • High Speed Communications (ELEC345)

      A circuit and system design module covering analogue and high frequency techniques and their place in modern communications systems.

    • Machine Learning for Robotics (ROCO351)

      This module introduces basic concepts in the area of machine learning, which is a rapidly expanding field that allows computers to learn how to behave and perform complex tasks without being explicitly programmed to do them. Applications range from signal processing, image recognition through to the control of robotics systems.

  • Final year

  • Your final year includes additional technical modules and a large interdisciplinary design project. Past projects have included designing a product that involved a local company and a central government department, the challenge was to build a prototype system, which was showcased at the Project Open Day. This project will most likely result in the formation of a real company (later in the year). You also have the possibility of continuing your studies to MSc level in the same academic year.

    Core modules

    • Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronics (ELEC512)

      This module is designed to provide interdisciplinary training in all aspects of the emerging Nanotechnology field. It introduces techniques for developing nano-scale devices and sensor technology as well as the nano-fabrication techniques required to construct them.

    • MEng Project (PROJ515)

      This group project involves an in-depth study of a complex real-world problem originating from industry, commerce or research. It could include theoretical, computational and experimental work in addition to a critical literature survey and also involves the design and build of a prototype to support the claims made in the project execution plan.

    • Integrated Power Systems (ELEC517)

      This module will focus on current power systems pertinent to renewable energy. The design and performance of converters will be main focus of this module.

    • Distributed and Interactive Communications Systems (ELEC520)

      In this module, students will develop applications involving interconnected hardware devices and software capabilities. Devices include both embedded and networked computers. Capabilities include sensor data acquisition, actuator control, and behaviour generation. The module will cover both theory and practical work, including management of code complexity, and dealing with real-time and reliability issues.

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

MEng Electrical Electronic Engineering Programme Specification September 2024 3747

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

128

To include B at A level mathematics and grade B at a second relevant subject. Relevant subjects include design technology, electronics, engineering, further mathematics, physics, pure mathematics, statistics, use of mathematics, computer science OR chemistry. Excluding general studies.
International Baccalaureate: 32 overall to include 5 at Higher Level mathematics and 5 at Higher Level relevant second subject. English and mathematics must be included.
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DDM in engineering/science/technology BTEC. To include distinction in mathematics as a core module mathematics for technicians.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
Pass Access to HE Diploma (i.e. mathematics, science, combined) with at least 33 credits at merit and/or distinction and to include at least 12 credits in mathematics units with merit. Individual interview/diagnostic test please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.ukfor further information.
Other qualifications considered, please enquire for further details.
Students may also apply for the BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering  
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

Fees, costs and funding

Student 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home £9,250 £9,250
International £16,300 £18,100
Part time (Home) £770 £770
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

IET Awards and Scholarships

All our electronics and robotics courses are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET); any student embarking on our courses are eligible to apply for a number of IET engineering scholarships. Amounts can vary between £1,000 and £3,000 per annum, and closing dates for applications are usually at the end of June. For more information on the different scholarships available, details on how to apply and confirmed closing dates for applications, please visit IET Awards and Scholarships.

Undergraduate scholarships for international students

To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Additional fieldwork and equipment costs.

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2023/2024 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2023/2024 is £1,385.
Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). 
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code. 
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

New engineering and design facility

Situated on the western edge of our city centre campus, the landmark new facility is home to the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics and offers additional space for the School of Art, Design and Architecture.
We have one of the best-equipped undergraduate laboratory suites in the UK, and all courses are highly practical, with an emphasis on design and build. Use our dedicated robotics and communications laboratories to focus on industrial and intelligent robotic systems and high frequency electronics.
New Engineering and Design Facility
athena swan bronze

Athena Swan Bronze

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics was awarded an Athena Swan Bronze award in October 2020 which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and success for all.
"Developments in the modules throughout the years keep them in focus with the latest technology advances. Throughout my degree the facilities and staff within the laboratories have been brilliant, there is so much knowledge within the faculty."
Darren Bearne, current student
Laboratory space - The general laboratory facilities provide power supplies, soldering facilities and compiler facilities for a hands-on student experience.

Meet some of your lecturers

Meet our school technical staff 

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.

Work placements

A ‘placement year’ is an excellent way to gain a competitive edge. It will set you up for when the graduate schemes launch and help you make better career decisions.
Josh Sullivan gained important skills and career-defining experiences working for Rolls Royce as an electronics engineer.
Student Placements - Josh Sullivan

Student Showcase

Celebrating the range of research and development projects students undertake, the event allows students to demonstrate their creations to industry.

Student experience
Jack speaks about his experience on the course and presenting his project at the Student Showcase event.

Employer insight
Kevin Stewart, Senior Designer at Alstom, talks about his experience as an employer at the Showcase.

Emily-Jane Rolley-Parnell

Student Showcase
Find out more about the event.

The Tamar Engineering Project

Are you inspired and fascinated by the potential of technological and engineering advancements? Do you want to make a positive difference to the world around you?
The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Learn if you are eligible for this scholarship at the University of Plymouth through the Tamar Engineering Project 
Successful applicants will receive:
  • £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • £1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Gemma Maynard
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni is updated annually in September.