MSc Embedded Systems and Internet of Things (ES-IoT)

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Newcastle University

Program Overview

This one‑year MSc equips students with advanced skills in embedded digital systems, networking, sensors and the Internet of Things — blending hardware, software and system‑level thinking for connected devices and machines.
It’s ideal for graduates in electrical engineering, electronic engineering, computer engineering or related disciplines who want to work in next‑generation IoT, smart devices, real‑time systems and connected infrastructure.

Curriculum Structure:

Taught Modules (Autumn & Spring terms): Students begin by studying compulsory modules such as Real Time Embedded Systems (20 credits) and M2M Technology Internet of Things (20 credits), where they learn how to design and analyse real‑time applications and machine‑to‑machine networks. They also take Reconfigurable Hardware Design (20 credits) and Communication Networks and Security (20 credits), gaining skills in FPGAs and secure networked sensor/embedded systems. In addition, a module like Machine Learning for Engineering Applications (20 credits) and Research Skills and Development for Engineers (20 credits) prepare students for independent design and research.
Individual Project (Summer term): The final major component is the Individual Project (60 credits), during which students apply their learning to a substantial self‑directed study—designing, implementing and evaluating an embedded / IoT system (for example sensor networks, low‑power devices or networked smart systems) under supervisor guidance.
Final Stage (Submission & evaluation): At the end of the year, students submit their project report and may present their work, demonstrating their competence in system design, hardware/software integration, networking and real‑world IoT constraints.

Focus areas: embedded real‑time systems and hardware (FPGA/reconfigurable platforms); IoT & M2M networking; sensors, security and low‑power devices; machine learning for engineering systems; systems integration and project work.

Learning outcomes: Students will be able to design and analyse real‑time embedded application systems, implement M2M and IoT networks, use reconfigurable hardware and low‑power embedded computers, apply networking and security knowledge in embedded/IoT domains, and carry out an independent engineering project demonstrating system‑level competence.

Professional alignment (accreditation): The programme is professionally accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Reputation (employability rankings): Newcastle University’s School of Engineering is ranked among the top 140 worldwide for Engineering and Technology in the QS subject rankings, reflecting strong global recognition.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Right from the start, students on this programme are immersed in hands‑on engineering and real‑world embedded systems design. They work in modern electronics laboratories using targeted hardware (such as FPGAs, sensor networks and IoT communication modules), engage with industry‐tuned project work and collaborate in teams, gaining both software and hardware experience. The facilities are strong: modern teaching labs, CAD/code and embedded systems workspaces, and access to the £110 million Stephenson Building which houses many specialist research groups.

Here’s how the practical learning works in detail:

Use of embedded hardware platforms and reconfigurable hardware (FPGAs) in modules such as “Reconfigurable Hardware Design”.
Real-time embedded systems programming and systems‑on‑chip development in the “Real Time Embedded Systems” module, including real‑time application design and scheduling.
IoT/M2M network implementation, including sensors, wireless communications, and security for networks of embedded devices. The “M2M Technology Internet of Things” module covers this.
Engagement in an individual capstone or Research Project (60 credits), where students work on real engineering problems—examples include IoT systems for oil refineries or IoT parking management systems.
Multi‐disciplinary group work, laboratory sessions and computing workshops, enabling collaboration across software, hardware and systems engineering.
Access to teaching and research laboratories affiliated with the School of Engineering: CAD labs, electronics labs and specialist facilities for embedded systems and networks.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates leave equipped to take on roles like Embedded Systems Engineer, IoT Solution Architect, Firmware & Hardware Design Engineer or Systems Integration Specialist. With the programme’s solid technical foundation and industry focus, you’ll be ready to join companies designing connected devices, embedded platforms and smart systems.

Furthermore:

University support & services – The University’s Careers Service offers one‑to‑one consultation, CV clinics, networking events and employer engagement.
Employment stats – Across Newcastle, 94% of 2020/21 graduates entered employment or further study within 15 months.
University–industry partnerships / industry links – The School of Engineering reports strong industry links for this MSc: guest lectures, site visits, projects with companies, and the modules are designed in consultation with industry experts.
Long‑term accreditation value – This programme is professionally accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and recognised by the Engineering Council, which adds weight for professional engineer registration.
Graduation outcomes – On completion you will:
- Have skills in real‑time embedded systems design, M2M/IoT networks, sensor systems and reconfigurable hardware (FPGA) platforms.
- Be ready to design and implement embedded/IoT systems, analyse communications and security issues in embedded networks, and apply machine learning techniques in embedded hardware/software contexts.
- Be prepared for roles across hardware, firmware, systems integration and embedded software in the connected‑device sector.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, you could choose to deepen your expertise by pursuing a PhD in embedded systems, IoT architectures, wireless communications or sensor networks. Alternatively, you could opt for professional certifications (for example in embedded firmware, FPGA/ASIC design, or IoT system architecture) to advance toward senior‑engineering roles or technology‑lead positions.