Electronic and Computer Engineering MSc

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Birmingham

Program Overview

This one-year full-time master’s course enables a student to deepen their expertise at the intersection of electronics and computing — developing advanced skills in embedded systems, digital design, communications and software-systems integration. It is well suited for someone who holds a strong undergraduate degree in electrical/electronic engineering or a related discipline and wants to step into leadership roles in industry or take the next step toward research.

Curriculum Structure

Autumn Term: The student begins with core modules such as Digital Design, Introductory Module for Computer Engineering and Software and Systems which build a solid foundation in digital hardware, embedded architectures and system design.
Spring Term: The student continues with further taught courses including a compulsory module and optional modules such as Computer and Communication Networks, Data Mining and Machine Learning and Sensing and Control for Autonomous Systems. They also begin the individual project, working with a supervisor to develop the plan.
Summer Research Project: In the final term the focus shifts to the large individual project (60 credits) where the student designs, implements and reports on a hands-on engineering challenge, integrating what they’ve studied, and working independently under supervision.

Focus Areas:
electronics & embedded systems; computing & communications; digital design; machine-learning and autonomous systems.

Learning Outcomes:
Develop expert-level skills in digital design and embedded systems; integrate computing with electronics to tackle real-world engineering problems; conduct substantial individual engineering work with professional quality; communicate technical solutions and collaborate across disciplines.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The programme is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) — continuing a longstanding record (over 40 years) of professional engineering qualification accreditation at the University.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings):
The University of Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, placing it among the global top 100. Its School of Engineering is ranked in the UK top 10 for Engineering research according to the REF 2021. Graduates of this MSc are reported to enter careers across sectors such as IT, manufacturing and consultancy, and employers listed include Deloitte, Jaguar Land Rover, Airbus and Transport for London.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in this MSc programme gain hands-on experience via advanced labs and industry-relevant projects. They’ll work in the School of Engineering’s modern facilities (for example electronics and electrical project spaces, a full‐size railway-points set, pantograph test rig and a scaled hydrogen-powered train test track) which help bring theory into realistic engineering applications.
They’ll engage in a mixture of lectures, tutorials, practical labs and an individual research/engineering project — integrating computing, electronics, communications and embedded systems. Here are some of the specific experiential elements:

Use of dedicated laboratory spaces in the School of Engineering, including electronics and electrical projects rooms, where students conduct practical experiments and design tasks.
An individual Advanced Project (worth 60 credits) in the summer term where the student works under supervision to apply and extend their learning, culminating in a substantial written report and outcome.
Compulsory modules such as Digital Design, Introductory Module for Computer Engineering, Software & Systems, which give the tools for embedded and computing systems work. Optional modules (e.g., Sensing & Control for Autonomous Systems, Data Mining & Machine Learning, Small Embedded Systems) allow specialisation and deeper practical engagement.
A strong industrial relevance: the programme mentions one of the broadest portfolios of successful industry collaborations in the country, meaning many projects reflect actual engineering/industry problems.
Group work and teamwork are embedded in the laboratory and project assignments, developing skills in collaboration, independent problem-solving and real-world engineering process (lectures, tutorials, lab assignments) rather than purely theoretical exercises.

Why this programme stands out

It is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), continuing over 40 years of professional engineering qualifications.
The programme is delivered on campus (Edgbaston, Birmingham), full-time for one year (with part-time option) so students can immerse themselves fully.
Graduates move into roles across sectors such as information technology, electronics manufacturing, consulting, software and more. The careers support is strong.
The facilities include specialised assets (e.g., test rigs, tracks, embedded systems labs) which give real engineering context rather than just classroom tasks.

Application Essentials

Entry requirement: A 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering or a relevant subject.
English language requirement (for international students): typically IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any band.
Duration: Full-time 12 months; part-time 3-4 years.
Tuition fee (for reference): £12,150 full-time (UK/Ireland) cited; international fees vary.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the University of Birmingham’s MSc in Electronic and Computer Engineering are equipped with the advanced technical and analytical skills needed to thrive in the fast-evolving electronics and computing industries. They move into roles across cutting-edge sectors such as automation, embedded systems, telecommunications, and digital design. Typical career paths include: Software Engineer, Embedded Systems Developer, Hardware Design Engineer, and R&D Specialist.

Students benefit from comprehensive career support and strong industry connections:

Careers Network provides tailored support, including career mentoring, employer fairs, and interview preparation designed for engineering graduates.
Access to the Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education and Digital Systems Labs, offering collaboration opportunities on real-world industrial projects.
Close industry partnerships with leading employers such as Intel, IBM, Jaguar Land Rover, and ARM, allowing students to engage with real engineering challenges and build professional networks.
The degree carries IET accreditation, offering a valuable route toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and global recognition of professional expertise.
The Graduate Outcomes Survey shows that over 90% of Birmingham engineering postgraduates secure employment or further study within 15 months, with competitive starting salaries in technology and innovation sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can advance to a PhD in Electronic, Electrical or Computer Engineering to specialise in areas such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, or advanced signal processing. The programme also serves as a strong platform for interdisciplinary research or professional doctorates that merge computing and engineering innovations.