Electronic and Electrical Engineering BEng

Course overview

We live in an age where electronic and electrical products play a crucial role in almost every aspect of our lives. From the evolution of smartphones to the development of wind turbines, electronic and electrical engineers are at the forefront of providing technological advances that not only continue to innovate the world but also address many of the biggest challenges faced by society today.

Some of the world’s largest industries such as healthcare, energy and construction rely heavily on the creative and technical skills of electronic and electrical engineers to deliver sustainable solutions for the future — which is why this is such a relevant discipline and hugely sought after by many reputable organisations worldwide.

Studying electronic and electrical engineering at Leeds will equip you with the fundamental concepts and new skills used by modern engineers, taught by academics who are leaders in their fields. This will give you the key knowledge and experience you need to begin your career in this challenging, yet rewarding, field.

Why study at Leeds:

• This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology.
• Our School’s 100-year globally-renowned research activity has been responsible for engineering new technologies and creating pioneering industry-driven developments and feeds directly into your course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking.
• Experience expert teaching delivered by a programme team made up of academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of electronic and electrical engineering disciplines.
• Enjoy a more practical approach to learning, with access to our specialist facilities during your project work, including lecture theatres and labs featuring industry-standard equipment and the latest technology.
• Enhance your career prospects and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with our industrial work placement opportunities. Our close industry links have given previous students the chance to work at — and build professional relationships with — organisations such as Amazon, Rolls-Royce and Sony.
• Gain invaluable life experience and advance your personal development with our exciting study abroad programmes, spanning across universities worldwide.
• At the end of your second year, there’s the possibility of transferring to the four-year integrated Masters (MEng, BEng).
• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society ShockSoc where you can meet more of your peers, attend high-quality technical visits, enjoy social events and get the chance to put theory into practice by participating in our own Robot Fighting League (RFL). Watch our RFL video to find out more.

Accreditation

Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students.

This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council.

This BEng programme is accredited for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). A course of accredited further learning will be required to complete the academic benchmark requirements for CEng.

Course details

This course offers you the chance to learn the core fundamentals across electronic and electrical engineering, with a range of optional pathways, meaning you can tailor your degree to what interests you the most.  

You’ll develop your knowledge of the mathematical and scientific principles that underpin electronic and electrical engineering, as well as key topics like circuit design and communications networks. Specialist modules will allow you to build on this foundation in areas like power electronics, digital electronics, semiconductors and electric machines. 

Every year of your course gives you hands-on experience of project work. This gives you the opportunity to explore your subject further as well as developing valuable skills in problem solving, communication and teamwork.

Ethics plays an integral role in the engineering practices of today, which is why you’ll study engineering ethics as part of your course. You’ll be taught by academics from the Inter-Disciplinary Ethics Applied Centre, as well as your lecturers, covering a wide range of topics such as professionalism and codes of conduct, corporate social responsibility, engineering and responsibility, ethics in innovation and research ethics.

The ethics training will advance your critical thinking, communication and creative problem-solving skills which are crucial to employers, but it will also help you identify and respond effectively to ethical dilemmas that you may encounter in your professional life in the engineering industry.

Each academic year, you'll take a total of 120 credits.

Years 1 and 2

The first two years lay the foundations of your studies and give you a thorough understanding of key topics.

You'll learn about the physical principles that affect the function of electronic components and electrical systems, as well as circuit theory, digital electronics and embedded systems. You'll study communications systems, power electronics and modules designed to improve your mathematical skills for engineering.

Year 3

You'll take more specialised modules that focus on topics such as digital communications, power systems and RF and microwave systems and circuits.

One-year optional work placement or study abroad

During your course, you’ll be given the opportunity to advance your skill set and experience further. You can apply to either undertake a one-year industrial work placement or study abroad for a year, choosing from a selection of universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Modules

Year 1

Compulsory Modules

Circuit Analysis and Design – 20 credits

You'll be introduced to key electronic components, the basic concepts of electronic circuit analysis and design, and the basic principles of electronic circuit test and measurement.

Physics of Electronic Devices – 20 credits

During this module, you'll learn about the fundamental physical concepts that underpin the design and operation of electronic devices and electrical systems.

Introduction to Communication Systems – 20 credits

This module introduces you to the fundamentals of communication systems and how the internet works. You’ll learn about the different building blocks and protocols that are used to implement both wired and wireless communication links. You'll also build the skills to apply programming tools (MATLAB) to model communication signals and systems.

Digital Electronics and Microcontrollers – 20 credits

You’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of digital electronics, logic circuits, C++ and microcontrollers. You’ll gain insight into the development, simplification and simulation of combinational and sequential logic circuits, and develop an understanding of their place within typical microcontroller architectures. You’ll also learn how to interface with various electronic components and develop your own project-based embedded system.

Electronic Design Project – 10 credits

Develop essential skills in interpreting circuit diagrams, building the corresponding physical prototype and using laboratory instruments to test and evaluate the circuit. You'll also have an opportunity to learn important practical laboratory skills and engage in a team design project.

Introduction to Engineering Mathematics – 20 credits

Develop your knowledge and understanding of the key mathematical principles necessary to underpin your education in engineering. On completion of this module, you should be able to apply mathematical methods, tools and notations to the analysis and solution of engineering problems.

Algorithms and Numerical Mathematics – 10 credits

You’ll explore the concepts of logical algorithm design and numerical mathematics, and the application of logical algorithms to solve numerical mathematics problems in engineering. Application includes practical implementation in the form of programming logical algorithms.

Year 2

Compulsory Modules

Electronic Circuits and Systems design – 20 credits

Gain the necessary skills and knowledge to design and build a variety of electronic circuits and systems. Throughout this module, you’ll learn the concept of ‘signal conditioning’ and practical implementation of amplifiers, filters and signal detectors, focusing on the real characteristics of operational amplifiers and the behaviour of circuits and components at high frequencies. The module also explores the use of analogue to digital conversion in the context of embedded systems, digital interfacing from a circuit-design perspective, such as logic level compatibility and load switching, and the most common serial communication protocols used in modern digital circuits. The module concludes by considering interference, power supplies, thermal management, ‘modularity’ and ‘fail-safe’ circuit design approaches and the ethical considerations around obsolescence in product design.

Transistors and Optoelectronic Devices – 20 credits

Develop your knowledge and understanding of the properties of the semiconductor materials and devices used for transistors and optoelectronic devices. You'll gain an understanding of the principles of semiconductor physics, including an introduction to quantum mechanics and the design and analysis of important representative devices.

Communications Theory – 20 credits

You’ll cover fundamental concepts, models and principles related to the field of communication, using analytical tools for the design of modern communications systems, including Fourier analysis and signal processing, as well as the statistical treatment of signals. The module aims to provide you with a theoretical framework for understanding various aspects and components of communication systems and technologies.

Embedded Systems Project – 20 credits

This module will challenge you to design a prototype product within a tightly constrained set of software tools and hardware components. You’ll be equipped to proficiently write, compile, run and debug C++ programs using standard techniques. It involves implementing diverse embedded software techniques on microcontrollers, emphasising the refining of diverse project skills in embedded systems design projects. The major objective is to develop proficiency in programming a state-of-the-art microcontroller to interface with sensors/actuators and a display, as required. You’ll also learn project management and presentation skills.

Power Electronics – 20 credits

Develop the appropriate analytical skills and knowledge to design electrical power converters whilst gaining an understanding of power electronic conversion techniques, including the basic converters (DC-DC, AC-DC and DC-AC). You’ll learn the methods of circuit analysis applicable to switched mode circuits and become familiar with the properties of the relevant semiconductor devices.

Microprocessors and Programmable Logic – 20 credits

Building on the digital electronics covered in year 1, you'll be taught how to implement digital designs onto programmable hardware using industry-standard tools, as well as simulate and verify designs before and after implementation. This module covers the study of microprocessors and FPGAs, providing a deep insight into computer architectures. Starting from transistors, you’ll learn how to design your own computer and how to write computer programs in assembly language and binary machine code. You’ll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard FPGA tools which will enhance your employability by developing practical skills in Verilog.

Year 3

Compulsory Modules

RF and Microwave Systems – 20 credits

Learn the principles of high-frequency electronic systems and the theory and practice of modern radiofrequency (RF) and microwave circuit design.

Control Systems – 20 credits

Gain an understanding of the theory and practice of control systems, including linear systems analysis using Laplace transforms and transfer functions, the transient response of feedback systems and stability criteria.

Electric Machines – 20 credits

Get introduced to the principles of electromechanical conversion with a focus on both DC and AC electric machines. This module covers the operation of electric machines, starting from basic electromechanical conversion principles to their numerous applications and visiting different machine types and designs. You’ll be equipped with the necessary skills to select and analyse appropriate electric machines for different applications.

Professional Studies – 10 credits

Explore the key aspects of working in a professional engineering environment and managing engineering activity. You’ll develop a good understanding of the importance of engineering to society as well as the need to consider ethical, societal and environmental issues that accompany new technologies. You’ll also learn about other topics relating to professional engineering such as quality management, risk management, innovation management, finance, intellectual property and data protection.

Individual Engineering Project – 40 credits

The Individual Engineering Project module is a simulation/hands-on experience that allows you to apply your engineering knowledge to investigate a real-world problem through a major independent technical project. You're expected to plan, design and execute the project, demonstrating your ability to manage time and resources effectively. You’ll be under the supervision of an academic specialist who’ll support and guide you throughout. The project encourages independent thinking, problem solving and the application of theoretical knowledge to identify a solution. This module is a significant component of an engineering degree, reflecting the practical, applied nature of the field.

Optional Modules

Choose one of the following optional modules:

Digital Media Engineering – 10 credits

Learn the principles of digital audio, images and video, and digital content transmission systems.

Digital Communications – 10 credits

You'll be introduced to the key principles of advanced digital communications systems, including pulse shaping, channel characteristics and multiple-access techniques in cellular mobile and optical communications systems.

Electric Power Systems – 10 credits

Learn about the fundamentals of power system modelling, analysis and operation. You’ll build an understanding of the various layers and components in modern power networks and how power systems are operated.

Learning and teaching

As an engineering student at Leeds, we ensure that you benefit from a wide range of teaching methods, including lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practical lab work.

Laboratory classes and project work allows you to gain first-hand experience investigating and applying material from your lectures and tutorials to real-life work situations. Together, they’ll equip you with in-depth knowledge, key practical skills and transferable skills that will help you secure a graduate job. Our close links with industry also mean that you have direct contact with industry and potential employers from an early stage in your course.

You’ll be assigned an academic personal tutor to guide you through your studies, and you’ll receive support from fellow students through our peer mentoring scheme. Peer mentors are students who are on your course but are in years 2 or 3. They’ll help you when you arrive at University and throughout your first year. You’ll meet your peer mentors during your first week for a social activity.

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Most modules are assessed by more than one component. These components can include written examinations held at the end of each year, in-class and online tests, example sheets, assignments, and coursework in the form of reports, projects, presentations and posters.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA including Mathematics.

Where an A-Level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

Excludes A-Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), International Project Qualification (IPQ) and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (ASCC): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers an A in the EPQ, IPQ or ASCC we may make an offer of AAB at A-Level (any required subjects such as Mathematics must still be at grade A).

GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: ABB including Mathematics and dependant on successful completion of the Access to Leeds Scheme.

For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each section. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £9,250 (per year)

International: £30,250 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.

The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course and check the deadline for applications through the UCAS website.

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Admissions guidance

Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

What happens after you’ve applied

You can keep up to date with the progress of your application through UCAS.

UCAS will notify you when we make a decision on your application. If you receive an offer, you can inform us of your decision to accept or decline your place through UCAS.

How long will it take to receive a decision

We typically receive a high number of applications to our courses. For applications submitted by the January UCAS deadline, UCAS asks universities to make decisions by mid-May at the latest.

Offer holder events

If you receive an offer from us, you’ll be invited to an offer holder event. This event is more in-depth than an open day. It gives you the chance to learn more about your course and get your questions answered by academic staff and students. Plus, you can explore our campus, facilities and accommodation.

International applicants

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students.

We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Read about visas, immigration and other information here.

If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2024

This course is taught by

School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering

Contact us

School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering Undergraduate Admissions

Email: ugelec@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

Because of the nature of the industry, the demand for high calibre electronic and electrical engineering graduates is huge and far-reaching, with the potential to take you all over the world.

Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2024, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after by some of the most reputable companies in the field.

Qualifying with a degree in electronic and electrical engineering from Leeds will set you up with the core foundations you need to pursue an exciting career across a wide range of industries, including:

• Energy
• Pharmaceuticals
• Healthcare
• Transport
• Construction
• Utilities
• Automotive
• Gaming
• Telecommunications
• Electronics and technology
• Manufacturing

The breadth of knowledge and experience, along with the teamwork, design, problem-solving, communication and numerical and analytical skills taught on the course are widely transferable and desirable to a whole host of employers.

Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our graduates have obtained:

• EMC Design Engineer, Apple
• Electrical Power Engineer, E.ON
• Software Engineer, GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada
• Senior Smart Grid Development Engineer, Northern Powergrid
• Systems Engineer, BAE Systems
• Research Engineer, Huawei Technology
• Engineer, Jaguar Land Rover
• Principal Engineer, Network Rail
• Technologist, Rolls-Royce
• Senior Radio Optimisation Engineer, O2
• Senior Software Developer, Skype
• Senior IT Project Manager, Vodafone Ltd
• Validation Engineer, Hikma Pharmaceuticals

Read our alumni profiles to find out more about where our students are working.

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We'll help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.

You'll be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.

You'll also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.

From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.

This programme offers you the option to spend time abroad as an extra academic year and will extend your studies by 12 months.

Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title which demonstrates your added experience to future employers.

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

Work placements

An industrial placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You’ll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector. It will also help you to stand out in a competitive graduate jobs market and improve your chances of securing the career you want.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
• Build industry contacts within your chosen field
• Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
• Improve your employability

If you decide to undertake a placement year, this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you'll be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.

Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed:

• Trainee Electronics Design Engineer, GKN Automotive Innovation Centre
• Industrial Placement Microwave Engineer, Leonardo MW Ltd.
• Analysis Engineer, Diodes Incorporated

Find out more about Industrial placements.

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