Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering PhD / MSc (Res)

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Birmingham

Program Overview

This one-year full-time Master’s course offers a deep dive into advanced electronic, electrical and systems engineering, equipping students to tackle cutting-edge challenges across power systems, communications, control and integrated systems. It is ideal for someone with a strong undergraduate background in electrical / electronic engineering who wants to step into high-impact industry, research or specialist engineering roles.

Curriculum Structure
Year 1: In the Autumn Term students undertake the core taught modules such as Digital Design, Introductory Module for Computer Engineering, and Software and Systems, developing foundational knowledge in electronic systems, embedded computing and design methods.
Spring Term: The teaching continues with further compulsory work and optional modules such as Computer and Communication Networks, Data Mining and Machine Learning, and Sensing and Control for Autonomous Systems, allowing students to tailor the programme towards communications, systems or embedded electronics.
Summer Research Project: The final term is devoted to the individual project (the Advanced Project module of 60 credits), where students apply what they’ve learned by tackling a real-world engineering challenge, under a supervisor’s guidance, culminating in a report or prototype.

Focus Areas:
communications & sensing; electrical power & control systems; railway systems engineering; human-systems integration.

Learning Outcomes:
Produce original research or design work; develop expert-level technical skills in electronics, electrical and systems engineering; communicate findings in academic and industrial contexts; undertake autonomous and collaborative engineering work; position for senior or interdisciplinary engineering roles.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The MSc programme is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) — marking its relevance to professional engineering practice and ensuring your qualification is recognised in industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students pursuing the Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering PhD / MSc (Res) at the University of Birmingham gain hands-on research experience through world-class facilities and active engagement with real-world engineering challenges. The programme is designed to develop advanced technical, analytical, and innovation skills by immersing students in a collaborative, research-intensive environment. Research areas span across power and control systems, communications and sensing, and railway systems engineering, ensuring that each student contributes to impactful technological advancements.

From advanced laboratories to cross-disciplinary collaborations, students benefit from direct exposure to cutting-edge equipment, software, and professional research networks. The department integrates practical experimentation with academic theory, encouraging independent inquiry and teamwork in equal measure. Building on this, the following resources and opportunities support experiential learning:

Smart Grid Laboratory and Centre for Cryogenic Energy Storage, offering hands-on experimental research in sustainable energy systems, grid integration, and energy storage technologies.
Supervised research within active groups such as Communications & Sensing, Electrical Power & Control Systems, and Railway Systems Engineering, providing exposure to current industrial and academic challenges.
Use of advanced digital tools and simulation software, including electronics design suites and signal-processing toolkits. The department also maintains access to extensive licensed software through a partnership agreement with Microsoft.
Independent research opportunities where students design experiments, collect data, and analyse results, culminating in a dissertation or thesis demonstrating original contribution to the field.
Access to a vibrant postgraduate research community within the School of Engineering, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, peer feedback, and professional networking through workshops and symposiums.
One-to-one supervision complemented by the University’s Doctoral Development and Training Programme, which enhances transferable skills such as project management, research communication, and leadership.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the University of Birmingham’s Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering PhD / MSc (Res) programme are highly sought after by employers for their strong research expertise and advanced technical knowledge. Many go on to secure positions in leading technology companies, research institutions, and academia. Typical career paths include: Research Engineer, Systems Design Specialist, Electronics Consultant, and University Lecturer.

Students benefit from a range of dedicated career and research support services, including:

Careers Network – offering one-to-one career coaching, employer networking events, and job placement support tailored for engineering postgraduates.
Birmingham Doctoral Researcher Development Programme (DRDP) – providing professional skills training, research communication workshops, and guidance on translating research into real-world impact.
Strong industry partnerships with organisations such as Rolls-Royce, Siemens, and National Grid, enabling collaborative projects and access to cutting-edge facilities.
Accreditation value: The university’s engineering degrees are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), ensuring international recognition and professional standing.
According to the Graduate Outcomes Survey, over 90% of Birmingham postgraduates are employed or in further study within 15 months, with many entering high-value research and development roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their academic journey by pursuing a PhD in Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering or related research areas at Birmingham or other top global universities. The programme also provides an excellent foundation for moving into interdisciplinary fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence, or renewable energy systems, supported by the university’s extensive global research network.