BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Glasgow Caledonian University

Program Overview

The BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is designed to equip students with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in the fast-paced world of electrical and electronic engineering. Students will engage in hands-on project work, developing practical problem-solving abilities in areas such as communications, sensor technologies, robotics, and high-speed electronics.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, students gain a solid foundation in electrical and electronic engineering principles. Modules include "Mathematics 1," "Engineering Science," "IoT Systems 1," "Engineering for Society," "Mechanical Principles," and "Electrical Principles," providing essential knowledge in circuits, mathematics, and scientific principles.

Year 2:
The second year builds upon the basics, introducing more complex concepts. Modules such as "Mathematics 2," "Software Development for Engineers," "Analogue and Digital Electronics," "Integrated Engineering Studies 2," "Electrical Distribution Systems," and "Digital and Programmable Systems 1" deepen understanding of digital electronics, microprocessor applications, and machine operations.

Year 3:
In the third year, students specialize further with modules like "Digital and Programmable Systems 2," "Communications Engineering," "Integrated Engineering Studies 3," and "Engineering Operations Management." These courses focus on advanced topics in control systems, power electronics, and energy conversion, preparing students for real-world engineering challenges.

Optional Year in Industry:
Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through an optional "Industrial Practice" year, enhancing their employability and industry connections.

Year 4:
The final year emphasizes independent research and advanced engineering topics. Students undertake an "Honours Project (Engineering)" and study "Digital Signal Processing," with optional modules such as "Digital Design and Computer Architecture," "Computer Aided Engineering," "Intelligent Robotics and Mechatronics," and "Wireless Communications," culminating in a comprehensive understanding of modern electrical and electronic engineering.

Focus areas:
Power generation/distribution, renewable energy systems, embedded systems, control engineering, telecommunications, and sustainable technology.

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be abl to:

  • Design and analyze electrical/electronic systems using industry tools (e.g., MATLAB, CAD).
  • Apply engineering principles to real-world challenges (e.g., grid modernization, IoT devices).
  • Communicate technical solutions effectively and work in multidisciplinary teams.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This degree is Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), meeting academic requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status. Strong industry links with employers like SSE, Leonardo, and National Grid; opportunities for placements and graduate roles.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Glasgow Caledonian ranks 1st in Scotland for Electrical Engineering graduate employability (HESA 2024). The program emphasizes "Engineering for a Better World", with alumni in roles at SSE, BP, and Nokia.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From the outset, you'll be immersed in a hands-on, project-based learning environment that emphasizes real-world application. The programme is designed to equip you with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in the fast-paced world of electrical and electronic engineering, focusing on the creation of next-generation, intelligent, connected devices and systems .

Key Features of the Programme:

  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: GCU boasts cutting-edge facilities and teaching informed by breakthrough research. The university has invested millions of pounds in virtual reality and testing facilities, including an emotion lab and a 360-degree Igloo, to enhance the learning experience .

  • Hands-On Learning: The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to engage in practical projects that mirror industry challenges. This approach ensures that you not only understand theoretical concepts but also apply them in real-world scenarios.

  • Industry Collaboration: GCU's strong ties with industry partners provide opportunities for placements and collaborative projects, ensuring that your education is aligned with current industry standards and practices.

  • Graduate Employability: The programme is designed to develop well-rounded graduate engineering professionals with both technical and soft skills, enhancing your employability upon graduation .

  • Supportive Learning Environment: The university offers a supportive learning environment with access to dedicated staff and resources, ensuring that you receive the guidance and assistance needed to succeed in your studies.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Glasgow Caledonian University's BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering are highly employable, moving into roles such as power systems engineer, control and instrumentation specialist, electronics design engineer, renewable energy consultant and telecommunications analyst. Many alumni also pursue further study in smart grids, robotics or related fields, or work in sectors including energy, manufacturing, aerospace and transportation systems.

Here's how GCU specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The programme offers a year-long industrial placement with leading Scottish engineering firms, providing valuable professional experience. You'll develop practical skills through hands-on laboratory work, industry-standard simulation tools and real engineering challenges, with strong emphasis on power electronics, control systems and sustainable energy solutions. The university's Career Service provides dedicated engineering employability support, including placement coordination, professional accreditation guidance and employer networking events.

Industry Partnerships & Research:
The Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering maintains strong connections with companies like ScottishPower, Rolls-Royce and Leonardo. Students benefit from research-informed teaching in areas including renewable energy integration, industrial automation and smart grid technologies. The university's £32m engineering facilities feature high-voltage laboratories, electronics design suites and Industry 4.0 manufacturing systems. Employers particularly value graduates' skills in circuit design, power systems analysis and industrial control applications.

Graduate Outcomes:
Students graduate with professional capabilities in electrical system design, power engineering, microcontroller applications and engineering project management—all highly sought after by employers in Scotland's thriving engineering sector.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BEng (Hons) degree, you can progress to MSc programmes in Electrical Power Engineering or related fields, or enter professional roles in power generation, control systems or electronics manufacturing, supported by the programme's strong industry links and Glasgow's engineering heritage.

Program Key Stats

£14,500 (Annual cost)
Rolling


Eligibility Criteria

BCC
2.7
25
60

1000
24
6.0
78

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Research scientist
  • Electrical engineer
  • Materials scientist
  • Power engineer

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