About this course
Infuse your Electronic Engineering studies with the science and technology of light. Photonics engineering has many applications, from broadband internet to precision medical and industrial tools. It’s also vital for new technologies such as quantum and photonic computing, which uses photons for ultra-fast, energy-efficient data processing. This accredited degree will give you access to professional registration as a Chartered Engineer.
On this 4-year, integrated master's, you'll train in the fundamentals of electronic engineering. This will provide a basis for your specialist photonics studies. You'll choose from a huge range of specialist modules, covering the latest advances in areas such as :
- fabrication and microscopy
- optical communications
- nanoelectronic and quantum devices
- metamaterials
- digital coding and transmission
You’ll learn under academics from our prestigious Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). The ORC has an impressive record of discoveries - our researchers developed the optical components that power today’s internet.
As part of this course you can:
- use our research facilities, including a high-voltage lab and our £110m clean rooms
- develop your enterprise skills with help from our startup supporter, Future Worlds
- build your own unique electronic systems
This MEng Electronic Engineering with Photonics degree is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
We are also a member of the UK Electronics Skills Foundation.
As a research-led University we undertake a continuous review of our courses to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. As a result, this course may be revised however, any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
Learn more about this subject area
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202425
A-levels
A*AA including mathematics (minimum grade A) and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science (minimum grade A)
A-levels additional information
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
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: AAA including mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science, plus grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants 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 an applicant'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, as follows: AAA including mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 38 points overall with 19 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 Physics or Computer Science
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Applicants who have not studied the required subjects at Higher Level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
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 National Extended Certificate plus grades A*A from two A-levels including mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science.
or
D* in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades AA from two A-levels including mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science.
We will consider the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Engineering if studied alongside A-level mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC National Diploma if studied alongside A-levels in mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science.
RQF BTEC
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.
Additional information
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades A*A from two A-levels including mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science.
or
D* in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades AA from two A-levels including mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science.
We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma in Engineering if studied alongside A-level mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC Diploma if studied alongside A-levels in mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science.
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.
Access to HE Diploma
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics, applied mathematics and either computer science or physics
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A1 A1 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics, applied mathematics and either computer science or physics
Irish certificate additional information
Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
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
D2, D3, D3 in three Principal subjects including mathematics and either physics or further mathematics.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D2 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A* or grade D3 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A. Applicants who have not studied the required Principal subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate
A*AA including mathematics (minimum grade A) and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science (minimum grade A) or A*A from two A-levels including mathematics and either physics, further mathematics, electronics or computer science, and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate.
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants 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 an applicant'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.
T-Level
A Distinction* overall, with A* in Core and Distinction in the Occupational Specialism, and grade A in A-level Mathematics
The following T levels are accepted:
- Building Services Engineering for Construction
- Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing
- Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing
The following Occupational Specialisms are required:
- For the T level in Building Services Engineering for Construction: either "Electrical and electronic equipment engineering” or “Electrotechnical engineering”.
- For the T level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing: either "Electrical and electronic engineering” or "Control and instrumentation engineering".
- For the T level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing: either "Maintenance engineering technologies: Electrical and Electronic" or "Maintenance engineering technologies: Mechatronic" or "Maintenance engineering technologies: Control and Instrumentation" or "Light and Electric Vehicles".
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 all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
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?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +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, 3 and 4 you’ll specialise in photonics, and can follow your interests by choosing modules from a wide range of options. You can also take 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
In the first year, you’ll study digital systems, and electrical materials and fields. There are core modules in:
- mathematics
- physics
- electronics
- programming
We'll develop your practical skills with extensive laboratory classes. In your first semester you’ll get to build processing boards.
Year 2 overview
Compulsory modules will explore:
- signal processing
- control and communication
- electromagnetism
You'll also start to build your knowledge in key areas of Photonics. This includes looking at optical waveguides and photodetectors.
At the end of the year, you'll complete a 3-week team challenge, judged by an industry panel. Previous projects include the development of a home AI system.
Year 3 overview
You’ll complete a unique piece of individual research in a photonics topic of your choice. You'll be supervised by one of our expert academics. For some students, this project can lead to the publication of their first scientific paper.
You’ll study specialist topics, such as:
- signal and image processing
- nanoelectronic devices
- optical communications
You can select optional modules covering topics, such as cyber security or machine learning.
You can also choose to:
- study a language
- take modules from other disciplines such as psychology or anthropology
- take a range of innovative interdisciplinary modules
Year 4 overview
The main group design project is a great opportunity to experience working for an industry or academic customer. It is the only compulsory element in year 4. A previous project designed quantum computing lenses for the Networked Quantum Information Technologies Hub.
For the remaining modules, you can explore more photonic topics or choose options from other areas of electronics and computer science, including:
- advanced fibre telecommunications
- silicon photonics
- optical fibres
- machine learning
You can also apply to spend the second semester studying abroad at a partner institution.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Circuits
To explain the mathematical techniques needed to analyse linear and simple non-linear electrical and electronic circuits.
Digital Systems
To introduce digital system design, the principles of programmable logic devices, the implementation of combinational and sequential circuits, and the principles of hardware design using industry standard hardware design tools.
ELEC Part One Laboratory Programme
This module is the lab programme for all first-year students enrolled on an ELEC degree programme. It aims to give students the opportunity to apply the theory that they learn in their other modules, and to provide them with transferrable, subject-based a...
Electronic Systems and Devices
To introduce the physical and electronic properties of materials that underpin semiconductors and semiconductor devices that underpin modern electronic technology. To develop and understanding of electronic devices in circuits, to provide a range of cir...
Engineering Mathematics
This course explores the use of mathematics as a toolbox for engineers need in order to calculate, model, visualise and design systems. The focus is on solving physical problems via equations, both analytically and numerically using computation, along wit...
Fields, Forces and Materials
This module introduces fundamental concepts in electric fields, electromagnetism and mechanics, as a foundation for more advanced topics in electromagnetic theory and mechanics. It also equips students with basic techniques of engineering electromagneti...
Introduction to Signals, Control and Communications
This module is focused on developing the basics of Signals, Control and Communications: • To introduce the underpinning elements of signal processing. • To develop an approach to the modelling of dynamic electromechanical and electronic systems • To i...
Mathematics
This course is designed to develop fundamental mathematical skills which engineers need in order to tackle a wide variety of engineering and design problems. There is a particular focus on developing an understanding of mathematics as a toolbox through pr...
Programming
To introduce the student to the concepts of programming using the C programming language, with an emphasis on programming for embedded systems.
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Applied Electromagnetism
This module introduces and develops the knowledge in fundamental electromagnetics for second year Electrical and Electronic Engineering students. The course presents the basic concepts of electromagnetic theory from a physical and application points of vi...
Communications
To develop knowledge of the analysis of communications systems. To introduce the basic analysis and design tools for communications engineering. To provide a comprehensive foundation for Level 6 and 7 communications courses.
Control and Systems Engineering
This module guides students through the development of knowledge and understanding of linear continuous-time systems. It then introduces the basic analysis and design tools for electronic system control and provides opportunities to develop practical desi...
Design
Conventional laboratory experiments are useful mainly to assist understanding or analysis. Because they are of necessity stereotyped, they are of limited usefulness when a circuit or system must be designed to meet a given specification. The majority of e...
Electronic and Computer Systems
This module focuses on how to create real electronic systems. It covers 'building block' circuits using bipolar transistors and looks at the use of op-amps and comparators. It also covers how to deliver timing in circuits. It covers the basic operation of...
Electronic and Photonic Devices
Semiconductor device technology has evolved beyond computation applications and is now increasingly being used in quantum electronics, lighting, lasers, high speed communications, photovoltaic energy harvesters, smart electronics for the Internet of Thing...
Programming and Simulation of Electronic Systems
This module introduces some advanced programming, simulation and design modelling frameworks and tools. Teaching activities are a combination of taught sessions, expanded self-study supported by the Professional Skills Hub and practical hands-on sessions ...
Signal Processing
To develop knowledge of the fundamentals of Signals and Systems. To introduce the concepts of signal transforms, system convolution and linear operations. To introduce the concepts of randomness in signals and systems. To provide a comprehensive found...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
Part III Individual Project Phase 1
The Part Three Individual Project gives students the opportunity to gain both detailed knowledge and practical experience in a more focussed area than generally possible elsewhere in their degree programme. Most projects are in the nature of a challenging...
Part III Individual Project Phase 2
The Part III Individual Project gives students the opportunity to gain both detailed knowledge and practical experience in a more focussed area than generally possible elsewhere in their degree programme. Most projects are in the nature of a challenging e...
Photonics I
Photonics II
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Advanced Computer Architecture
This module covers the development of modern computer architectures for servers, workstations, hand-held devices, signal processing and embedded systems from the introduction of the four-stage RISC pipeline to the present day.
Advanced Partial Differential Equations
Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) occur frequently in many areas of mathematics. This module extends earlier work on PDEs by presenting a variety of more advanced solution techniques together with some of the underlying theory.
Analogue and Mixed Signal Electronics
To cover in some depth those areas of circuitry likely to be used between an analogue signal source and a digital signal processing system, making maximum use of available integrated circuits. This fits in with our overall programme of providing a broa...
Computational Biology
Modern biology poses many challenging problems for the computer scientists. Rapid growth in instrumentation, and our ability to archive and distribute vast amounts of data, has significantly changed the way we attempt to understand cellular function, and ...
Control System Design
Digital Coding and Transmission
- To expand knowledge of techniques for information transmission via discrete (digital) channels, which have a wide area of applications, i.e. distributed computer systems, instrumentation and control systems, as well as communication systems of all types...
Digital Control System Design
The topics considered are: z transforms, sampling and reconstruction, discretisation, elements of realisation theory, controller design via pole placement, observers, optimal control design.
Digital IC and Systems Design
Embedded Networked Systems
With rapid popularity and advancements in technologies like the internet-of-things (IoT) and network-on-chip (NoC), the ability to connect and network embedded devices is becoming ever more commonplace, and a feature of most electronic devices. This modul...
Foundations of Machine Learning
Machine Learning is about extracting useful information from large and complex datasets. The subject is a rich mixture of concepts from function analysis, statistical modelling and computational techniques. The module will cover the fundamental principles...
From Data to Dynamical Model: System Identification
The main problem in system identification is deriving mathematical models of dynamical systems (for transfer function, state-space) from data. Such problem arises for example in control, when the complexity of a model or lack of physical insight prevent t...
Green Electronics
This module covers recent developments in electronic devices that reduce energy consumption, generate power, or advance the distribution of power. Together these devices are playing an essential role in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. The modu...
Guidance, Navigation and Control
This module will be first offered in the 2019/20 academic year. This module will provide a basic grounding in navigation guidance and control with particular aspects on the processing of the signals involved and overall system integration.
Integral Transform Methods
Many classes of problems are difficult to solve in their original domain. An integral transform maps the problem from its original domain into a new domain in which solution is easier. The solution is then mapped back to the original domain with the inver...
Nanoelectronic Devices
The module will discuss all important issues related to scaling down the transistor size into the nanometer regime, such as high-k dielectrics and FINFETs. The teaching will be complemented with a finite element simulation of the MOS scaling which will br...
Operational Research
The module introduces the operational research approach for modelling and solving engineering and management problems.
Optimisation
The module provides an introduction to the theory and practice of optimization techniques. It covers linear programming as well as nonlinear programming. This module is suitable to those who want to apply computational optimization methods to their proble...
Photonics II
Real-Time Computing and Embedded Systems
This module gives a broad introduction to development of real-time and embedded systems
Robotic Systems
Robots are becoming more widely used in society, with applications ranging from agriculture through to manufacturing, with increasing interest in autonomous systems. This module will introduce students to the fundamentals of robotic systems including k...
Security of Cyber Physical Systems
The course requires to understand C code, assembly language, x86 architectures and memory allocation (a refresher will be provided).
Signal and Image Processing
Signal processing is an essential part of human life and of modern industrial systems. As humans we see and hear and process signals. This is the same in electronic systems: we sense and then process signals. We need to be able to understand these signals...
Wireless and Optical Communications
This module introduces both the wireless and optical propagation environments, the modelling of the corresponding channels as well as their implications on the design and architecture of wireless and optical communications systems. The basic principles of...
Year 4 modules
You must study the following modules in year 4:
Group Design Project
This module provides an introduction to intensive group project work in collaboration with an industrial or academic customer. Students work in groups of at least four people on a project typically based on an idea from an industrial partner, or from an a...
Industrial Studies
This Industrial Studies module is part of our MEng programmes with “Industrial Studies” in the title, and allows students to go on to a one-year placement in industry in Part III of their programme. Students are normally expected start their placement...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
Advanced Fibre Telecommunication
Communications is arguably the most widespread application of fibre optics, and naturally forms an essential part of an MSc Programme specialising on fibre technologies. This module will cover topics ranging from the more general (aimed at students with a...
Advanced Wireless Communications Networks and Systems
This module is taught in Semester 2. It is particularly aimed at equipping our MSc Mobile Communications and Smart Networking, and MEng Electronic Engineering with Wireless Communication students with advanced communication theory and technologies, vital ...
Analogue and Mixed Signal CMOS Design
The key aim of this module is to provide the background and the methods for the understanding of the operation of basic analogue CMOS cells, and how to design common functions. The emphasis is placed on design of analogue functions specifically as part of...
Applied Control Systems
This module will introduce the student to key topics within control and signal processing, developing understanding through a combination of theoretical content and practical application. The theoretical content is focussed in a number of key themes wi...
Bio/Micro/Nano Systems
The aim of this module is to provide an overview of a range of biomolecular, microscale and nanoscale systems and devices, including sensors. The module consists of practical work on three different systems, involving construction and characterisation wit...
Biologically Inspired Robotics
This module lies at the intersection of robotics and biology. Through the abstraction of design principles from biological systems, it is possible to develop a range of core competences, including mechatronic systems, sensor and actuator technologies. By ...
Computer Vision (MSc)
The challenge of computer vision is to develop a computer based system with the capabilities of the human eye-brain system. It is therefore primarily concerned with the problem of capturing and making sense of digital images. The field draws heavily on ma...
Cryptography
This module covers the mathematics, techniques, and applications of modern cryptography. We will look at the history of code making and code breaking, and draw lessons for the future from the mistakes and successes of the past. We will also give a gentle ...
Digital Systems Synthesis
Describe the design of complex digital systems using a (SystemVerilog and SystemC based) behavioural synthesis approach. Provide understanding of the algorithms which underpin behavioural synthesis including scheduling, allocation and binding. Gain ...
Embedded Processors
This module gives a broad introduction to application-specific processor system design and illustrates the use of such processors in the broader context of complex digital systems. A significant portion of the module assessment is coursework where stud...
Evolution of Complexity
Evolution by natural selection has created amazingly complex and sophisticated solutions to some very difficult problems - how exactly does it achieve this, and how can we harness this capability for engineering artificial systems and computational proble...
Future Wireless Techniques
This course covers some advanced techniques that have the potential for application in the future generations of wireless communications systems. Recently, the research and development in wireless communications have been focused on the techniques for the...
Image Processing
This module is useful to introduce: - Image processing and its relation to signal processing. - Image transformations for filtering, coding and etc. - Histogram processing algorithms to enhance image qualities and visibility. - Theories analysing and ...
Individual Research Project
The Individual Research Project is a 7.5 ECTS credit masters level module undertaken by independent study that allows students to demonstrate mastery of an advanced aspect of their discipline, including critical evaluation of current research and research...
Machine Learning for Wireless Communications
The aim of the module is to introduce students to the fundamentals of machine learning and then to apply the advanced machine learning principles for the design and optimisation of wireless communications systems and mobile networks. Recently, the rese...
Medical Electrical and Electronic Technologies
Microfabrication
This module provides an overview of modern microfabrication technologies for the making of micro structures applicable to device engineering. The various fabrication techniques that are relevant for microdevices in the field of electronics, optoelectroni...
Microfluidics and Lab-on-a-Chip
This module teaches the basics of the behaviour of fluids in microsystems, specifically focussing on the interaction of fundamental physical mechanisms and the design of microfluidic devices. It also reviews and analyses the state of the art in applied mi...
Microsensor Technologies
This module presents a broad overview of microsensor technologies, including the basic principles of measurement systems and the scaling effects arising from system miniaturisation. The practical component, assessed by a Lab Report, involves the design an...
Modelling with Differential Equations
The emphasis of this module is on the methods required to develop mathematical models using differential equations to understand physical problems. The module involves both conventional lectures as well as discussion lectures. The discussion lectures comp...
Nanofabrication and Microscopy
This course consists of two parts: 'Nanofabrication' deals with the fabrication of structures that are smaller than 100 nm, while 'Microscopy' concerns the visualisation of such small features. Advanced optical lithography concepts are illustrated by a co...
Nonlinear Control of Aerospace Systems
Modern (and future) aircraft employ a variety of nonlinear techniques to both design control systems and perform analysis of the arising closed-loop. This is due to the fact that aircraft dynamics are fundamentally nonlinear and also, with the widespread ...
Numerical Methods
Often in mathematics, it is possible to prove the existence of a solution to a given problem, but it is not possible to "find it". For example, there are general theorems to prove the existence and uniqueness of an initial value problem for an ordinary di...
Optical Fibres and Waveguides
An optical waveguide is the fundamental building block in photonics and in-depth knowledge of waveguides as a light guiding medium is vital for understanding a number of photonic devices, circuits and systems. This module will introduce the fundamentals o...
Optical Sensors
Optical sensor technology is playing an increasing role in modern-day life with a range of applications emerging in areas spanning civil engineering, defence and the life sciences. This module focuses on a key area of ORC expertise that has developed in p...
Quantum Devices and Technology
The aim of this module is to provide an overview of advancement of quantum devices and technology in line with the development of nanoelectronics and nanotechnology. Students will gain knowledge of basic quantum mechanics and how the quantum mechanics are...
Secure Hardware and Embedded Devices
This course covers security and trust of hardware and embedded devices, with a particular focus on the emerging security challenges facing the internet of things technology. It includes the following topics: vulnerabilities in current digital system desig...
Silicon Photonics
The course will present an introduction to guided waves, optical modes, and propagation characteristics of photonic circuits, using Silicon Technology by way of example.
Software Project Management and Secure Development
This module prepares students to develop an understanding of the critical issues and application of software project management. It introduces the students to the tools, techniques and body of knowledge involved in each stage of the project management lif...
VLSI Design Project
Design hierarchical modules using a layout editor. Demonstrate project management and time management skills including working to deadlines and planning your work beyond the next deadline. Communicate your work accurately and concisely through writt...
VLSI Systems Design
This modules provides an understanding of the design and layout of digital VLSI circuits and systems through laboratories and design exercises making use of appropriate CAD tools.
Wireless Networks
This course is intended to give students an outline of how wireless communication and computer networks work "above the physical layer". This includes the interoperability of wireless networks such as WiMax/GPRS and WiFi to provide WiFi on trains etc. How...
Wireless Transceiver Design and Implementation
This course introduces the principles and techniques needed to design a wireless transceiver. We will cover the process needed to take the main principles of digital communications such as digital modulation and detection. Through lectures and coursework,...
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)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
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:
Year 2
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:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Xu Fang is the course leader.
Careers
This course is accredited as meeting the full academic requirement for registration as a chartered engineer.
With a highly respected electronic engineering degree and specialist expertise, you’ll have excellent career prospects in many areas of the electronics sector, particularly optoelectronics and telecoms companies.
Most of our students go straight into electronic engineering jobs in high-tech companies. You'll develop transferable skills to suit a wide range of other sectors. Skills include:
- intellectual and problem-solving
- team-work
- project management
- communication
Our graduates have succeeded in sectors such as finance and law.
This photonics engineering degree is also a great foundation for further study at PhD level.
Electronics and Computer Science graduates have secured roles at organisations including:
- Apple
- McLaren
- Microsoft
- Samsung
- Sony
Our faculty's Careers Hub provides specialist career support and lets you connect with employers. It includes:
- an Electronics and Computer Science careers fair, attended by major electronics companies
- an online jobs and placements portal
- paid summer internships
Our support for innovation and enterprise means we have a track record of success. For example, programme leader and wireless communications specialist Professor Rob Maunder founded AccelerComm Ltd to bring his 5G-ready processor to market.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. 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.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £27,400.
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 to help fund your studies.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.
Support during your course
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- A missing link between continental shelves and the deep sea: Have we underestimated the importance of land-detached canyons?
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- An electromagnetic study of the continent-ocean transition southwest of the UK
- An investigation of the relationship between health, home and law in the context of poor and precarious housing, and complex and advanced illness
- Antibiotic resistance genes in chalk streams
- Being autistic in care: Understanding differences in care experiences including breakdowns in placements for autistic and non-autistic children
- Biogeochemical cycling in the critical coastal zone: Developing novel methods to make reliable measurements of geochemical fluxes in permeable sediments
- Bloom and bust: seasonal cycles of phytoplankton and carbon flux
- British Black Lives Matter: The emergence of a modern civil rights movement
- Building physics for low carbon comfort using artificial intelligence
- Building-resolved large-eddy simulations of wind and dispersion over a city scale urban area
- Business studies and management: accounting
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- Business studies and management: strategy, innovation and entrepreneurship
- Carbon storage in reactive rock systems: determining the coupling of geo-chemo-mechanical processes in reactive transport
- Cascading hazards from the largest volcanic eruption in over a century: What happened when Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai erupted in January 2022?
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- The Mayflower Studentship: a prestigious fully funded PhD studentship in bioscience
- The calming effect of group living in social fishes
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