About this course
Help develop the next generation of world-changing technology - from mobile phone and entertainment systems, to medical devices and artificial intelligence. Electronic Engineering is both a technical and creative subject that combines theory and practice. You’ll learn to solve problems by designing, building and testing new electronic systems. You'll gain all the knowledge and skills for a career as an incorporated electronic engineer.
Electronics is the study of the physical components, software and systems that bring electronic devices to life.
This 3-year course will help you develop the skills to solve real-world challenges, from sustainable energy production to cyber security. You’ll explore the components within electronic devices and how they work together, for example, to analyse data or display information on a screen.
Our outstanding facilities, huge range of optional modules and strong industry links make Southampton one of the best places in the UK to study Electronic Engineering.
As part of this course you can:
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use our research facilities, including a high-voltage laboratory and our £110m interdisciplinary clean room
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develop your enterprise skills with help from our startup supporter, Future Worlds
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build your own unique electronic systems
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learn from leading researchers in quantum technology, nanotechnology and photonics
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study engineering management and law to develop your career skills
This BEng Electronic Engineering degree is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of:
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fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer
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partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
In light of COVID-19, we’ve made changes to some elements of course delivery for 2020-21. For details as to how this has changed delivery for this course, please view the Addendum to the Programme Specification PDF.
Entry requirements
A-levels
AAA including mathematics and an additional required subject
or
A*AB including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
A-levels additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer: AAB including mathematics (minimum grade A) and an additional required subject (minimum grade A), plus grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
AAB including mathematics (minimum grade A) and an additional required subject (minimum grade A)
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 points required at Higher Level including 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or 7 at Higher Level in Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation, and 6 at Higher Level in an additional required subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Required Higher Level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics or computer science.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A in A-level mathematics and A in an additional required A-level subject. We do not accept the BTEC Extended DiplomaWe do not accept the BTEC DiplomaApplicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Access to HE Diploma
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics at H1 and an additional required subject at H1
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A1 A2 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics at A1 and physics at A1
Irish certificate additional information
Required subjects include mathematics and either applied mathematics, computer science or physics
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, D3 in three Principal subjects including mathematics and an additional required subject
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Required Principal subjects include mathematics and either physics or further mathematics.
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAA including mathematics and an additional required subjectorAA from two A-levels including mathematics and an additional required subject, and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge CertificateorA*AB including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject orA*A from two A-levels including mathematics and an additional required subject, and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
85% overall including grade 8.5/10 in mathematics and grade 8.5/10 in physics
Non-academic entry requirements
There are no additional requirements
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests, find out which English language tests we accept.
Other ways to qualify
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
A-levels
AAA including grades AA in mathematics and an additional required subject
or
A*AB including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
A-levels additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer:
AAB including mathematics (minimum grade A) and an additional required subject (minimum grade A) and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
AAB including mathematics (minimum grade A) and an additional required subject (minimum grade A)
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in mathematics and 6 at Higher Level in an additional required subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Required Higher Level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics or computer science.
Applications where Higher Level subjects have been studied without the full Diploma, will also be considered on a case by case basis.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus plus grades AA in A-level mathematics and an additional required A-level subject
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
Required A-level subjects include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Access to HE Diploma
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics at H1 and physics at H1
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A1 A2 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics at A1 and physics at A1
Irish certificate additional information
There are no additional requirements
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, D3 in three Principal subjects including mathematics and physics.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
further mathematics may be considered in lieu of physics
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAA including mathematics and an additional required subject
or
AA from two A-levels including mathematics and an additional required subject, and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
or
A*AB including grades A*A in mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order)
or
A*A from two A-levels including mathematics and an additional required subject (in any order), and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Required A-level include mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. A pass in the science Practical is required where applicable.
European Baccalaureate
85% overall including grade 8.5/10 in mathematics and grade 8.5/10 in physics
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests, find out which English language tests we accept.
Other ways to qualify
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
The year 1 and 2 modules are similar across all our Electronic Engineering courses and provide a grounding in essential engineering topics.
In years 2 and 3, you can follow your interests by choosing modules from a wide range of options. You can also choose modules from other subject areas.
You’ll work in high-spec electronics and computer labs, equipped with the latest technology, hardware and software.
Year 1 overview
The first year has core modules in:
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mathematics
-
physics
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electronics
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programming
You’ll study digital systems, and electrical materials and fields. We'll develop your practical skills through extensive laboratory classes.
Year 2 overview
Compulsory modules will explore:
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electrical materials
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circuitry
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programming
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communications
You'll choose from optional modules, covering topics such as:
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photonics
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semiconductors
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computer engineering
A group design project will require you to design, construct and test a range of circuits. Previous projects include the creation of a home AI system.
Year 3 overview
In your final year, you’ll complete a unique piece of individual research. This will typically involve designing, building and testing a new electronic system. For some students it can lead to their first published scientific paper.
Examples of past projects include:
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designing high-efficiency, quantum-dot-enhanced LEDs
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developing underwater communications
You can choose to specialise your module options, or stay on a broad study path. Optional modules include:
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advanced computer architecture
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bionanotechnology
-
robotic systems
You can also choose to:
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study a language
-
take modules from other disciplines such as psychology or anthropology
-
take a range of innovative interdisciplinary modules
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
You must study the following modules in year 2:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
You must study the following module in year 3:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
How you'll spend your course time:
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Stuart Boden is the course leader.
Careers
This course is accredited as meeting the full academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
As a bachelor of electronic engineering from Southampton you’ll have excellent career prospects.
Most of our students go straight into graduate electronic engineering jobs in high-tech companies. You’ll be prepared for professional and managerial roles such as:
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electronic engineer
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design and development engineer
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technology analyst
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systems engineer
This highly respected degree and the transferable skills you'll develop will also suit a wide range of other sectors. Skills include:
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intellectual and problem-solving capabilities
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team-work
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project management
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communication
Our graduates have built successful careers in professions such as finance and law, and have started their own companies. This degree is also a great foundation for further study at postgraduate level.
Our Electronics and Computer Science graduates have secured roles at organisations including:
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Apple
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Audi
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BAE Systems
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Huawei
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IBM
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Nokia
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Sony
Our faculty's Careers Hub provides specialist career support and lets you connect with employers. It includes:
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an Electronics and Computer Science careers fair, attended by major electronics companies
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an online jobs and placements portal
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paid summer internships
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
Students on this course are encouraged to spend 20 weeks in industry, usually as two 10-week summer placements.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK/EU students pay £9,250.
- International students pay £21,580.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: H610
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000