MSc Electronics Engineering

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Hertfordshire

Program Overview

The MSc Electronics Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire equips students with advanced expertise in embedded systems, microprocessor/DSP/FPGA technologies, and smart electronics hardware‑software integration. It is ideally suited for graduates in electronic, electrical, computer or related engineering disciplines who wish to pursue a career in the design, development and management of cutting‑edge electronic systems.

Curriculum structure
Year 1
In the taught phase the student engages with core modules such as Advanced Reconfigurable Systems Design, Mobile Communication Systems, Radio Frequency and Microwave Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Applications, Digital Signal Processing and Applications, Embedded Control Systems, Embedded Systems and IoT, and Mixed Mode and VLSI Technologies. These modules allow the student to build deep technical skills in smart electronics, signal processing, communications, and hardware/software integration.
Year 2 (Individual Project)
The student then undertakes the MSc Individual Project (Electronics) (60 credits) where they apply research, simulation, prototyping or case‑study methods to a specialist topic of their choice, managed with professional development in mind.

Focus areas: embedded intelligent systems, IoT (Internet of Things), mobile communications, RF & microwave engineering, digital signal processing, VLSI/mixed‑mode technologies, hardware/software co‑design, project‑based engineering work.
Learning outcomes: Graduates will be able to (1) analyse and synthesise complex electronics engineering problems spanning hardware and software integration, (2) design and implement advanced electronic systems using embedded, DSP/FPGA and high‑frequency technologies, (3) carry out a major independent engineering project demonstrating research and professional competence, and (4) demonstrate transferable skills in research methods, simulation/experimental work and project delivery.
Professional alignment (accreditation): The programme specification indicates the MSc Electronics Engineering is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and meets UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK SPEC) for further learning toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Reputation (employability rankings): The course page highlights that the School of Physics, Engineering & Computer Science at Hertfordshire was ranked 7th in the UK for Engineering & Technology in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2024.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students who enrol in this programme will gain hands‑on, industry‑level experience by working in modern labs, applying industrial‑standard software tools, and undertaking an individual design‑oriented project. The teaching takes place in the state‑of‑the‑art Spectra building on the Hatfield Campus, where learners access modelling and simulation labs, a controls testing suite, an electric‑vehicle/automotive workshop, a wind tunnel and collaborative zones. The programme emphasises a mix of face‑to‑face teaching and web‑supported tutorials via the university’s StudyNet platform — enabling students to engage with interactive resources and team‑based work.

Specifically, students will benefit from:

Use of industrial‑standard simulation and modelling software within dedicated electronics labs.
Hands‑on work with embedded systems, microprocessor/DSP/FPGA technologies, hardware‑software integration and smart‑system design.
A substantial MSc individual project (worth 60 credits) where students apply their learning through design, experimentation and real‑world problem solving.
Module work and case‑studies covering areas such as Smart Embedded Systems Engineering; Mixed Mode & VLSI Technologies; Radio Frequency and Microwave Engineering; Artificial Intelligence & Applications; Digital Signal Processing & Applications.
Access to the Spectra building’s collaborative workshops, social spaces and meeting rooms to support teamwork, innovation and independent work.

Why Choose This Programme

This MSc offers students broad knowledge and deep understanding of modern electronics engineering — particularly in embedded intelligent systems, IoT, VLSI and wireless communications. With over 25 years of experience in electronic engineering teaching and a strong international reputation, the School delivers a programme that blends academic rigour with applied, industry‑relevant content.
Additionally, graduates are equipped to engage with design decisions, systems integration and advanced hardware‑software applications across many industries.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this programme will be well‑prepared to pursue roles such as Electronics Engineer, Embedded Systems Designer, or IoT/Smart Systems Specialist, with a strong foundation in both hardware and software integration. Their advanced training in electronics design, signal processing and smart systems equips them for technical and leadership tracks in a variety of industries.

They benefit from:

University services: The School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science provides dedicated academic support through an Academic Support Hub and offers access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities within the “Spectra” building, including modelling/simulation labs, EV workshop, wind tunnel, and controls testing suite.
Employment stats & career prospects: The course page indicates that graduates take on roles as Electronics Engineers and Systems Engineers for organisations such as MBDA, Centrica, ABB and Leonardo. Although specific salary figures are not published on the site, early‑career electronics engineers in the UK often earn in the region of £30,000‑£40,000+, depending on employer and location.
University–industry partnerships: The programme highlights strong employer links, including companies like Imagination Technologies, Samsung and BAE, which engage with students via careers fairs and guest lectures.
Long‑term accreditation value: The programme specification indicates accreditation by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) for the MSc (Full time, Semester A) variant. This indicates strong professional relevance and recognition.
Graduation outcomes: On completion, students will have developed the knowledge, intellectual and practical skills to analyse and synthesise engineering/manufacturing problems, design and apply embedded intelligent systems, and enter industries such as wireless communications, smart electronic systems, automotive and aerospace.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, students could progress to doctoral research (for example a PhD in Electronics Engineering, Embedded Systems or Smart Systems Engineering) or pursue specialist postgraduate certificates/diplomas in areas such as VLSI system design, Internet of Things, or AI‑embedded systems. They may also opt to gain industry experience and work towards professional qualifications (e.g., Chartered Engineer registration if eligible) or certifications in advanced electronic design, FPGA/ASIC development or systems integration.