Electronics and Computer Engineering MEng, BEng

Course overview

Communications, information, visualisation and sensing technologies are increasingly being integrated into smartphones, advanced manufacturing, electronic healthcare and other areas. As a result, the interface between electronics and computing is a key growth area for the technology industry.

You'll study the foundations of electronics and computing and gain an in-depth education in the key underpinning topics of electronics and computer engineering such as electronic circuit principles, computer algorithms and programming, data communications and embedded systems. You'll also develop in-demand knowledge and skills in specialised topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, internet-of-things, and cybersecurity, among others. The programme will provide pathways to a range of potential careers as the disciplinary knowledge and skills developed are in high demand across a variety of sectors.

This programme will equip you with the skills you need to succeed in industry, including design, problem solving, numeracy and analysis, together with transferable skills, such as communication and working in a team. Virtually all high-tech fields require engineers with expertise in both electronics and computer engineering, which means that this degree leads to an impressive variety of career opportunities across sectors and industries that span the globe.

Why study at Leeds:

• 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 — major 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.
• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society ShockSoc where you can meet students on your course, 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.

Benefits of an integrated Masters

Learn more about what an integrated Masters is and how it can benefit your studies and boost your career.

View this video on Bilibili.

Course details

In this course, you'll study the foundations of electronics and computing, from programming languages to electronic circuit design, and learn how the whole hierarchy of digital electronics and software fits together. You'll gain an in-depth education in the key underpinning topics of electronic and computer engineering such as electronic circuit principles, computer algorithms and programming, data communications and embedded systems.

The course provides a variety of in-demand knowledge and skills in specialised topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, internet-of-things, among others. The programme will enable pathways to a range of potential careers as the disciplinary knowledge and skills developed are in high demand across a variety of sectors.

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.

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.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read Electronics and Computer Engineering MEng, BEng in the course catalogue.

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 the foundations of electronic components and electrical systems, as well as circuit theory, digital electronics and embedded systems. You’ll be equipped with knowledge in computing through studying subjects like programming, algorithm design, artificial intelligence and machine learning. You’ll also study communications systems, microprocessors and programmable logic and modules designed to improve your mathematical skills for engineering.

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 fundamental principles of electronic circuit test and measurement.

Computational Foundations of Artificial Intelligence – 20 credits

Take a hands-on approach to the study of core aspects of computing essential for modern engineering and applied artificial intelligence practice. You’ll become familiar with the implementation of different data structures and algorithms with Python and learn how to apply them and analyse their performance in different problem-solving contexts.

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.

Introduction to Engineering Mathematics – 20 credits

Gain knowledge and understanding of the key mathematical principles necessary to underpin your education in engineering, with extensive opportunities for practising mathematical skills. 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.

Electronic Design Project – 10 credits

This is a lab-based module that extends the understanding of electronic components and how to apply them to the circuit design to achieve different functionality. Over the module, you’ll develop skills in electronic engineering by building up a physical circuit based on diagrams and datasheets. You’ll develop essential practical skills in interpreting circuit diagrams, building the corresponding physical prototype and using laboratory instruments to test and evaluate the circuit. To achieve that, different topics such as 555 timer, op-amp, logic gate IC and H-bridge will be covered in weekly lab activities. You’ll also have a chance to work as a group on a team electronic design project, building your own buggy for a race!

Year 2 compulsory modules

Electronic Circuit 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.

Machine Learning – 20 credits

This module provides you with the fundamentals of machine learning, introducing basic machine learning concepts and algorithms which serves as a foundation to more specialised topics in artificial intelligence. Also, you’ll take a hands-on approach to the application of machine learning for tackling problems using pattern recognition, data-driven methods and statistical techniques.

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.

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.

IoT and Edge Computing – 20 credits

Learn the fundamentals of the Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies. This module is tailored to develop your knowledge and skills in the development of IoT systems, exploring the principles, techniques and tools of networking and communications, edge computing and other core aspects of IoT systems.

Year 3

You’ll build on your knowledge and skills in topics studied in years 1 and 2, and you will also take more specialised modules that focus on topics such as cybersecurity, control systems, and Internet-of-Things.

Compulsory modules

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.

Artificial Intelligence – 20 credits

You’ll build the knowledge and skills in more specialised topics in artificial intelligence. You’ll learn how to design, implement and evaluate advanced artificial intelligence in different application contexts such as autonomous learning systems. You’ll also study topics in explainable and ethical artificial intelligence.

Audio Signal Processing – 20 credits

This module covers the foundational aspects of signals, exploring time and frequency domain representations. You’ll learn to perform calculations on signal properties and comprehend the principles and applications of analogue-to-digital conversion (ADC), calculating requirements for typical ADC systems. You’ll gain an understanding of selecting and designing analogue circuits for audio signal conditioning, encompassing amplifiers, buffers and filters. Furthermore, you’ll also gain insight into the fundamental components of digital signal processing (DSP) and apply DSP functions on microcontrollers to implement various signal processing tasks for audio applications.

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 a real-world problem. You'll plan, design and execute a project, demonstrating your ability to manage time and resources effectively. The project encourages independent thinking, problem solving and the application of theoretical knowledge. This module is a significant component of an engineering degree, reflecting the practical, applied nature of the field.

Digital Media Engineering – 10 credits

Through comprehensive learning, you’ll gain proficiency in the principles underlying the compression and distribution of digital audio and video, as well as the intricacies of the DVB-T system within the digital television domain.

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.

Year 4

You’ll be able to further specialise in topics in embedded systems design, computing, and others. You’ll also undertake a substantial research project to apply what you’ve learned and gain knowledge of the electronics and computing industry to help prepare you for professional life.

You’ll have the opportunity to work with your supervisors throughout the project, who’ll be experts in their particular research area.

Recent projects include:

• Autonomous search-and-rescue robot
• 4G mobile system simulation
• Aviation flight tracking receiver
• Quadrocopter surveillance drone
• Walking School Bus

Compulsory modules

Modern Industry Practice – 15 credits

Professional engineers need to have a sound knowledge of how the engineering industry operates, including the different roles within companies, the operation of supply chains, legal and contractual issues and much more. This knowledge is vital for individual career planning. This module aims to help you develop a detailed understanding of the global engineering industry and will assist you in making appropriate career plans. You’ll learn about diverse roles within the workplace, focusing on topics such as personal development, CV writing and the recruitment process. You'll cover research, innovation and entrepreneurship in engineering, with emphasis on the practical aspects of working in industry through case studies and company profiles. Ethical considerations, professionalism and sustainability also feature in this module, including the ethics of AI within the broader context of sustainability, systems engineering and innovation.

Team Engineering Project – 45 credits

In the Team Engineering Project, you’ll work as a team to investigate and define
the problem, split work into parts and work on each part individually within the team. You’ll use available resources to develop a solution by employing the knowledge and skills gained throughout your degree.

Integrated Circuit Design – 15 credits

This module explores VLSI design, covering principles, combinational and sequential logic representations and circuit implementation. You’ll delve into the electrical properties of silicon logic, MOSFETs, and switch-level elements, utilising mathematical models for informed design decisions. The curriculum extends to physical design, layout, modularisation and the application of CAD tools for complex VLSI system analysis. Memory devices and circuits are elucidated, incorporating principles of architectural and system-level design involving interconnects, data flow and synchronisation. This approach equips you with practical skills for tackling VLSI design challenges.

Digital Signal Processing – 15 credits

You’ll cover the fundamental principles of digital signal processing, building the skills to apply DSP techniques to a broad range of signal processing problems. This module explores the core principles of digital signal processing (DSP), covering a spectrum of applications in communications. You’ll explore the mathematical theories of DSP for both analysis and design, applying these techniques to process signals from random processes. The curriculum evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of various DSP implementations and elucidates how DSP algorithms can optimise the performance of cellular mobile radio systems. By fostering a deep understanding and practical application, this module equips you with valuable insights into the diverse aspects of DSP in communication contexts.

FPGA Design for System-on-Chip – 15 credits

Explore the use of Hardware Description Language (HDL) for designing digital circuits and the industry-standard software tools used for the implementation of reprogrammable digital logic circuits using FPGAs. You'll be provided with a hardware platform to explore and test the concepts learned. Examination is conducted predominantly through small group mini project work.

Embedded Microprocessor System Design – 15 credits

This module explores the use of microprocessors in a System on Chip (SoC) environment and uses the C-language and industry-standard software tools for implementation on an advanced Arm A9 Processor. This module provides an opportunity to develop your skills in the use of contemporary design tools which support the optimisation of embedded processor architectures. You'll use a hardware platform to explore and test the concepts learned. You’ll be assessed through an open-ended mini project, undertaken in small groups, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate the key skills and techniques you’ve developed in the class.

Project work

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.

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.

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 will 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 or AAB

AAA including Mathematics or AAB including Mathematics (at grade A) and either Physics, Further Mathematics or Computer Science.

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) and International Project Qualification (IPQ): 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.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

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: To be confirmed

International: £32,250 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
In November 2024 the UK Government announced that the tuition fee cap may rise to £9,535 from £9,250.

The tuition fee cap for some foundation years may also reduce to £5,760 from £9,250.

This would start from the academic year 2025/26. However, this is subject to final confirmation from the Government. Once available, we’ll publish the fees for the 2025/26 academic year and individual offer letters shall be updated via email and post.

The foundation year courses affected are:
·         Business Studies with Foundation Year BSc
·         Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
·         Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
·         Social Science (foundation year) BA

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

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 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.

Additional cost information

You can enhance your learning experience by acquiring a laptop and scientific calculator. A laptop will be particularly useful when you’re conducting project work off campus. However, we do have laboratories and computer clusters equipped with all the necessary software you’ll need to complete your course work.

We, as a School, will also loan you kits for the Digital Electronics and Microcontrollers and Embedded System Project modules to enhance your learning outside timetabled session. These kits, equipped with a microcontroller and various components, empower you to work beyond the course content, encouraging deeper understanding.

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 admissions 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 Admissions Policy 2025

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 electronics and computer 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 electronics and computer 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 from the School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering 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.

Explore more about your employability opportunities at the University of Leeds.

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

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.