Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Extended Degree) BEng (Hons)

Students on the BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Northumbria University gain hands-on, industry-ready experience while studying in the city of Newcastle:

From the outset, you’ll immerse yourself in practical engineering—working with real circuits, digital systems, and programming tools in well-equipped labs, combined with problem-solving workshops, tutorials, and timely feedback to strengthen both your skills and confidence.

To help you visualise what this looks like, here’s how the learning unfolds:

Immersive, practical learning from Day 1: The programme is designed to develop “hands-on technical, analytical and practical skills” required for a career as an electrical or electronic engineer, using modern tools and real-world scenarios. It’s IET-accredited and evolving to align with the latest industry standards (AHEP4) for even more flexibility in your career path.

Optional placement year (sandwich format): You can enrich your experience by opting for a placement year in your degree—working in industry between your study years. This adds real-world context and gives you a strong edge when entering the job market.

Blended teaching backed by strong academic support: Learning is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, practical activities, group work, and tutorials—paired with extensive feedback from tutors and a personal Guidance Tutor to support your academic journey.

Key modules emphasise core engineering skills: Foundational topics include Engineering Mathematics, Digital Electronics and Communications, Computer Programming, Electricity & Magnetism, plus Energy Systems and Research & Presentation—providing a well-rounded technical base.

Industry recognition through accreditation: The degree is fully accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which supports your path to becoming an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and contributes toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Graduates of Northumbria University's BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering are highly employable, moving into roles such as power systems engineer, electronics design specialist, control systems engineer, telecommunications consultant, and embedded systems developer. Many alumni also pursue further study in engineering disciplines or work in sectors including energy, manufacturing, robotics, and emerging technologies.

Here's how Northumbria specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The three-year BEng programme offers opportunities for an industrial placement year with leading engineering firms. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory sessions in Northumbria's state-of-the-art engineering facilities, including the Electrical Power Laboratory and Control Engineering Lab. The curriculum includes a major individual project in the final year where students tackle real-world engineering challenges. The university's Careers and Employment Service provides dedicated engineering career support, including industry networking events and one-to-one guidance throughout the degree.

Industry Partnerships & Research:
The programme benefits from Northumbria's strong industry connections with companies like Siemens, National Grid, and ARM, as well as research collaborations with the Smart Materials and Surfaces research group. Students access excellent facilities including high-voltage labs, power electronics suites, and embedded systems workstations. The curriculum incorporates current research in areas like renewable energy systems, smart grids, industrial automation, and wireless communications.

Graduate Outcomes:
Students develop strong technical skills in power systems, electronic circuit design, control engineering, and digital systems - competencies that are valued across multiple engineering sectors. Recent graduates have secured positions with companies like National Grid, Rolls-Royce, and Jaguar Land Rover.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BEng at Northumbria, graduates can progress to the MEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering or pursue master's study in specialized fields. Alternatively, they can enter professional roles in power engineering, electronics design, or technical consultancy - supported by the programme's industry-relevant training and strong employer connections in the North East's engineering sector.