MSc Electronics Engineering with Advanced Project

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Hertfordshire

Program Overview

The MSc Electronics Engineering with Advanced Project at the University of Hertfordshire gives students an immersive two‑year pathway to gain deep expertise in the design and integration of hardware and software systems, focusing on smart, sustainable electronics employing microprocessor, DSP and FPGA technologies. It is suited to graduates in electronic, computer or electrical engineering who wish to build a career in embedded systems, IoT, communications, smart devices or electronics design leadership.

Curriculum structure
Year 1
In the first year students build the technical foundation with modules such as Advanced Reconfigurable Systems Design, Mobile Communication Systems, Radio Frequency and Microwave Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Applications and Digital Signal Processing and Applications. These modules enable students to engage both the theory and practice of advanced electronics engineering, covering high‑frequency design, embedded platforms, signal processing, and intelligent systems in real‑world contexts.
Year 2
In the second year the emphasis shifts to major project work and professional‑skill development through modules like Project Skills and Professional Development (Electronics), Successful Project Delivery (Electronics) and the MSc Individual Project (Electronics) (60 credits). In this period students undertake a substantial advanced project—defining a topic, designing, simulating or prototyping a system, and demonstrating engineering and project‑management competence in preparation for employment or further research.

Focus areas: embedded intelligent systems, microprocessor/DSP/FPGA technologies, smart electronics, IoT and IoE applications, RF & microwave design, digital signal processing, project‑based engineering work.
Learning outcomes: Graduates will be able to (1) analyse and synthesise complex electronics engineering problems across hardware/software integration, (2) design and implement advanced electronic systems using embedded and high‑frequency technologies, (3) manage and deliver an advanced engineering project with professional development and (4) demonstrate transferable skills in research methods, simulation/experimental work and project delivery.
Professional alignment (accreditation): While this “Advanced Project” route does not claim the same professional accreditation as some other routes, the programme specification states the Advanced Project award aims to develop key employment and professional development skills through project delivery and advanced engineering practice.
Reputation (employability rankings): The School reports being ranked 7th in the UK for Engineering & Technology in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2024.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students enrolling in this programme will gain practical, industry‑level skills by working in modern labs, applying industrial‑standard software tools, and completing a substantial advanced individual project. In the state‑of‑the‑art Spectra building (the university’s new School of Physics, Engineering & Computer Science facility), students will have access to modelling & simulation labs, a controls testing suite, an automotive/electric‑vehicle workshop, a wind tunnel and more.
During the advanced project, students apply their learning through design, research methods, and practical implementation—bridging the gap between theory and industry‑relevant practice.

Specifically, students will benefit from:

Use of industrial‑standard simulation and modelling software in dedicated engineering labs (the Department emphasises “industrial standard software wherever possible”).
Hands‑on work with embedded systems, microprocessor/DSP/FPGA technologies, hardware‑software integration and smart‑system design.
An Advanced Individual Project (60 credits) along with modules like Project Skills & Professional Development (30 credits) and Successful Project Delivery (30 credits) to build project‑management and research capability.
Cohort taught modules and case studies covering Smart Embedded Systems Engineering, Mixed‑Mode and VLSI Technologies, Radio Frequency and Microwave Engineering, Digital Signal Processing & Applications.
Access to collaborative workshops, social spaces and meeting rooms within Spectra, supporting teamwork and innovation in practical labs.

Why Choose This Programme

This MSc enables graduates to gain broad and deep knowledge and understanding of electronics engineering, particularly in areas of embedded intelligence, smart systems, AI‑applications, wireless communications, VLSI and more.
With more than 25 years’ experience in electronic engineering teaching and a well‑established international reputation, the School provides a blend of academic rigour and industry relevance.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this programme will be well‑prepared to move into 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‑project component gives them hands‑on experience in managing and delivering engineering projects—an attractive skill set for employers.

They benefit from:

University services: The School offers dedicated academic support via the Academic Support Hub and access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities in the Spectra building (e.g., modelling, simulation, EV workshop, controls testing suite).
Employment stats & salary figures: While specific salary figures aren’t published on the course page, it does highlight that graduates take up roles such as Electronics Engineers and Systems Engineers for organisations like MBDA, Centrica, ABB and Leonardo.
University–industry partnerships: The course states strong employer links including companies like Imagination Technologies, Samsung and BAE, which support students via careers fairs and guest lectures.
Long‑term accreditation value: Although this particular “Advanced Project” variant is not explicitly shown as accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the university’s programme specification indicates accreditation status varies. Students with a CEng‑accredited first degree should check the professional registration implications.
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 accumulate industry experience and work towards professional qualifications (e.g., Chartered Engineer registration if eligible) or certifications in ASIC/FPGA design, advanced DSP, or IoT technologies.