MSc Electronic and Electrical Engineering

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

This master’s programme provides students with advanced skills in both electronic and electrical engineering, blending theory with hands-on work so they can design and implement real-world systems. It’s ideal for individuals who already hold a relevant undergraduate degree (or equivalent experience) and who aim to move into roles such as product design, aerospace engineering, or power systems.

Curriculum structure:
Year 1 (Full-time route):
In the first part of the programme students build a strong foundation in essential areas — for example through modules such as Electrical Machines and Drives, where they explore DC/AC machines and control via power electronics; Electrical Power Systems Technology, where they model power networks and assess stability and faults; and Sensors and Measurement Systems, where they design measurement solutions and work with sensor technologies.
Project phase:
Later on, students will undertake their Individual MSc Project (60 credits) which involves investigating current engineering practice, designing and evaluating their own solution and producing a formal report.
Optional modules (depending on interest):
Students may choose options such as Digital Data Processing, where they examine data-compression, encryption and solve engineering problems through algorithms; or Medical Instrumentation Systems, where they apply engineering concepts to diagnostic and imaging technologies.

Focus areas:
Electrical power systems and networks • Electronic systems design and implementation • Sensors, measurement and instrumentation • Renewable and alternative energy systems • Engineering management, economics and risk analysis.

Learning outcomes:
On completion of the programme, students will be able to design and analyse advanced electronic and electrical engineering systems, use industry-standard simulation and lab tools, manage projects effectively with commercial and ethical awareness, and prepare themselves for professional accreditation and leadership roles.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This MSc is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and satisfies the UK engineering standard (UK-SPEC) for further learning towards Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
It also appears in the European engineering programme database (EUR-ACE validated).

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Portsmouth reports that this programme places you in a strong position to secure employment due to national skills shortages in the sector.
For example, they highlight that the programme is rated 2nd in the UK for student-satisfaction in electrical & electronic engineering in the 2024 Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From the very beginning, students engage with practical, applied engineering work. In the “Analogue and Digital Electronics Laboratory”, for example, you’ll build and test real circuits using breadboards and oscilloscopes. You’ll also use professional simulation software and hardware tool-sets as part of labs and project work. During your major individual MSc project you’ll choose a problem in electronic or electrical engineering, design a solution, implement and test it — this gives you a chunk of independent, research-oriented work ready for industry roles.

Given that orientation, here are specific experiential learning features you’ll benefit from:

Laboratory sessions in specialist facilities (e.g., digital electronics lab, circuit testing equipment) where you practice building and measuring electronics.
Use of professional-standard simulation and modelling software, enabling you to design and test systems virtually before real-world implementation.
A major individual MSc project (60 credits) where you define, research and execute a substantial piece of engineering design or analysis.
Modules focused on real-industry themes such as “Electrical Machines and Drives”, “Electrical Power Systems Technology”, “Sensors and Measurement Systems” — all of which involve practical simulation, hardware and measurement tasks.
Tutorials, seminars, group discussions and lab teamwork — meaning you’ll collaborate with peers and get used to engineering team-dynamics.
Support via the university’s library (open 24/7 during term-time) and specialist academic skills tutors, ensuring you can access up-to-date resources and get one-to-one help with technical coursework and projects.
Access to the university’s careers and employability services: networking events, applied projects with companies (for example, mentions of collaboration with organisations like IBM, Boeing and local councils) which help you link your engineering work to industry.
Flexible module choices and study modes (full-time, part-time, September or January starts) so you can tailor your pace and learning style.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Portsmouth’s MSc Electronic and Electrical Engineering are well-prepared for a wide range of advanced engineering roles, including electronics engineer, product design engineer, aerospace systems engineer, and applications or controls engineer. The programme develops strong technical expertise and professional competence, enabling students to contribute effectively to industries that rely on innovative electrical and electronic technologies.

Here is how the university supports career progression:

The Careers and Employability Service assists students from enrolment and continues for up to five years after graduation, offering one-to-one career advice, interview preparation, CV and cover letter guidance, and access to exclusive job listings and networking events.
Employment prospects are strong, with Portsmouth engineering graduates reporting average salaries of around £32,000 within 15 months of graduation, and typical ranges between £29,000 and £35,000.
The MSc is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and fulfils the UK-SPEC further learning requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).
The university maintains industry partnerships with leading organisations such as IBM, Boeing, and Hampshire County Council, offering opportunities for applied projects and professional networking.
The long-term value of accreditation ensures that the qualification is professionally recognised and trusted by employers worldwide.
Graduates complete an in-depth 60-credit research or design project, demonstrating their ability to develop and implement complex engineering solutions, supported by core modules in areas such as Power Systems Technology, Electrical Machines and Drives, and Sensors and Measurement Systems.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may continue their academic journey through doctoral research (PhD) in areas such as advanced power systems, aerospace electronics, or sensor design. They may also pursue specialised postgraduate diplomas or certificates in fields like sustainable energy systems or embedded systems. Additionally, the programme’s IET accreditation enables graduates to advance directly toward achieving Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, enhancing their professional standing in the engineering sector.