Electronics and Computer Engineering 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 will 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 will 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 electronics and in 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.
• 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.

Course details

We are currently reviewing our curriculum as part of a university-wide process. As a result, we are unable to publish module information for this course at this time. The information below provides an overview of what you’ll study and our approach to teaching and assessment. We will update this page as soon as the changes are confirmed. Read more in our terms and conditions.

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 mobile computing, parallel computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, internet-of-things, cybersecurity, 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.

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 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 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.

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 topics covered each year on this course.

Year 1 Topics

Topics taught in year 1 will cover:

• Electronic components, the basic concepts of electronic circuit analysis and design, and the basic principles of electronic circuit test and measurement.
• Basics of computer programming and develop abstract problem-solving skills.
• The fundamentals of communication systems will be covered in year 1. You’ll learn about the different building blocks and protocols that are used to implement both wired and wireless communication links.
• Fundamentals of digital electronics and embedded systems, including underlying theories in digital electronics. In this level, you’ll be equipped with practical design skills including proficiency in embedded systems programming.
• Knowledge and understanding of the key mathematical principles necessary to underpin your education in engineering. At the end of level 1, you should be able to apply mathematical methods, tools and notations to the analysis and solution of engineering problems, especially within the field of electronics and computer engineering.
• Essential skills in interpreting circuit diagrams, building the corresponding physical prototype and using laboratory instruments to test and evaluate. You’ll also have an opportunity to learn important practical laboratory skills and engage in a team design project.

Years 2 and 3 Topics

Topics taught in years 2 and 3 will cover:

• Necessary skills and knowledge to design and build a variety of electronic circuits and systems. This includes aspects of underlying circuit theory, simulation, and practical implementation.
• Digital electronics will be extended, following the establishment of the fundamentals 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.
• Foundations of artificial Intelligence and be introduced to the basics of machine learning. You’ll be equipped with knowledge and skills to employ artificial intelligence and machine learning to tackle real-world problems. You’ll develop the ability to identify and analyse technical limitations, as well as social, ethical and legal issues surrounding artificial intelligence applications. In years 2 and 3, you’ll further develop your knowledge and skills in computing and computer engineering through studying more specialised topics, such as, cybersecurity, edge and cloud computing, Internet-of-Things (IoT) etc.
• Deeper knowledge of quantitative/analytical tools for the design of modern communications systems, including Fourier analysis and signal processing, as well as the statistical treatment of signals.
• The opportunity to design a prototype product within a tightly constrained set of software tools and hardware components. 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.
• 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.
• Working in industry and the role of the engineer in society.

Year 3 – Individual Project

Undertake a major independent technical project. You’ll be required to investigate and define a technical problem and develop a solution by employing the knowledge and skills gained in previous years of study. The project will afford you the opportunity to gain self-confidence in the context of a technical project; further develop verbal and written communication skills and enhance your technical knowledge.

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.

Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for your programme and modules.

You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.

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/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), 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 an alternative 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 alternative 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 2023/24 and 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will remain capped at £9,250 for 2023/24 and 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 international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24 and 2024/25
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 and 2024/25 are available on individual course pages.

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 about additional costs.

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

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.

Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

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 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 10 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2023, 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 will 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

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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