MEng Electronic Engineering with Nanotechnology

Here’s how the Electronic Engineering with Nanotechnology (MEng)​ degree at the University of Southampton transforms theory into tangible engineering ability through immersive, hands-on learning:
From the outset, you’ll design and build real electronic systems, code embedded platforms, and prototype AI-driven applications—all in Southampton’s advanced research and teaching labs. You work with industry-standard equipment alongside expert academics who drive innovation in robotics, neuromorphic computing, cleanroom fabrication, and machine learning research.

Experiential learning in this programme includes:

• Practical Robotics & Algorithm Labs: Develop control systems and machine learning tasks (like robot navigation or image recognition) in real labs, bridging electronics and software design using hardware-in-the-loop testing and live datasets.
• High‑Voltage & Device Fabrication Facilities: Access the Tony Davies High Voltage Laboratory (for power, sensor and insulation testing) and the £110 million interdisciplinary cleanroom where you can prototype AI sensors or custom electronics under expert supervision.
• Team-based Group Design Project: In later years, you’ll undertake an industrial-style collaborative design brief—delivering prototypes that integrate embedded systems, FPGA, machine learning, electronics, and technical documentation.
• Embedded Systems & FPGA Design: Through modules such as Digital Systems, Microprocessors, Intelligent Agents, and Machine Learning, you’ll build real-time AI systems using ARM processors, FPGA toolchains (SystemVerilog/VHDL), MATLAB/Simulink, Python, and Cadence/PSpice simulation suites.
• Start-Up & Innovation Support via Future Worlds: Launch your own AI-engineering project or prototype into entrepreneurship with lab space, mentorship, and funding guidance—ideal if you aim to commercialise smart hardware designs.
• Year‑Long Industrial Placement Option: Opt for the “Industrial Studies” variant and spend a full, paid year working with industry partners on real AI or electronics projects—developing your skillset on the job, with academic and employer feedback built into your degree.
• Paid Summer Internships & Research Opportunities: Participate in ECS-funded placements between Years 2–3 working on AI-enabled sensor or robotics research projects. You’ll often present these in formal poster/demonstration sessions alongside faculty-led labs.
• Access to Industry Labs & Custom Hardware: Work in purpose-built spaces like the Hardware Projects Laboratory, Teaching Labs, and High-Performance Workstations. These labs mirror real R&D environments and support your designs from circuit sketch to validation on benches with scopes, reflow ovens, and digital instrumentation.
• Research-Grade AI & Electronics Resources: Tap into Southampton’s leadership in areas like neuromorphic computing, RF sensing, sustainable electronics and disaster‑relief robotics via optional links with PhD-level research groups such as SET—helping you build into advanced lab ecosystems or publish prototype work.

Graduates of the University of Southampton's MEng Electronic Engineering with Nanotechnology are highly employable, moving into roles such as nanoelectronics engineer, semiconductor device specialist, quantum technology researcher, microsystems designer, and advanced materials scientist. Many alumni also pursue further study in nanotechnology or work in cutting-edge sectors including semiconductor manufacturing, photonics, renewable energy technologies, and biomedical engineering applications.

Here's how Southampton specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning: 
The four-year integrated master's program offers opportunities for an industrial placement year with leading nanotechnology companies or research institutions. Students gain hands-on experience in world-class cleanroom facilities through practical projects in nano-fabrication, quantum device characterization, and advanced materials analysis. The university's Career Hub provides specialized nanotechnology career support, including industry networking events with semiconductor and advanced materials companies.

Industry Partnerships & Research: 
The program benefits from Southampton's global leadership in nanoelectronics, with strong industry links to companies like Intel, IBM, and TSMC, plus collaborations with the National Physical Laboratory and the Henry Royce Institute. Students access exceptional facilities including the £110m cleanroom complex with Class 100 nano-fabrication suites, the Zepler Institute cleanrooms, and advanced characterization laboratories. The curriculum incorporates current research in revolutionary areas like 2D materials, nanophotonics, molecular electronics, and quantum dot technologies.

Graduate Outcomes: 
Students develop expert-level skills in nano-fabrication techniques, quantum device physics, advanced materials characterization, and microsystems integration - capabilities that are driving innovation across the global electronics industry.

Further Academic Progression: 
After completing the MEng, graduates can pursue PhD research in nanoelectronics or quantum technologies, or move directly into specialist roles in semiconductor R&D, advanced materials development, or photonic systems engineering - supported by the program's outstanding research environment and industry connections in nanotechnology.