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MSc Engineering (Electronics) (Far STEM)

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, examinations may be replaced by an alternative form of assessment during the academic year 2020/2021. Please refer to the Programme Specification on these pages for further details.

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Institution code	H36
School of study	School of Engineering and Computer Science
Course length	Full Time, 2 Years Part Time, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Entry requirements

The normal entry requirements for the programme are:

A pass in A-Level Mathematics or equivalent; and

Typically, a minimum of 2:2 honours degree in chemistry, biotechnology, biochemistry, food science, computer science baed or similar first degrees where statistical analysis was a dominant feature of their analytical studies will give access to the Far STEM route; or

Any other contiguous discipline the subject content of which does not overlap with that of the programme to any substantial extent; or

A qualification from any other recognised International academic institution which is of comparable academic standard to those identified above; or

Exceptionally, a number of applicants with other relevant professional qualifications who have the necessary academic achievements and experience will be considered under APEL (accreditation of prior experiential learning) or APCL (accreditation of prior certified learning).

International qualifications will be considered on the basis of their equivalence to UK qualifications, typically guided by a resource such as the National Academic Recognition Information centre (NARIC). Candidates will be required to demonstrate a suitable level of proficiency in written and spoken English. An IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent) would typically be required from candidates whose first language is not English. Candidates who do not satisfy these requirements will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

About the course

The far STEM route is for Chemistry, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Food Science or similar first degrees where statistical analysis was a dominant feature of their analytical studies. You will spend four semesters studying towards a General Engineering Transition Masters, studying appropriate Level 5 modules in the first semester then joining the Near STEM cohort, again with the opportunity to specialise in the above options at L6 or L7.

Why choose this course?

This course will introduce you to recence advances in today’s electronics and embedded systems.
It will enable you to develop strong design skills for the seamless integration of software and hardware subsystems through the adoption of software-hardware co-design methodologies.
You will gain experience of designing electronics and embedded systems for sustainable and smart applications, using DSP/FPGA/ASIC technology
The School has over 25 years' experience of teaching electronic engineering and has established an excellent international reputation in this field.
We offer extensive lab facilities for engineering students, including the latest software packages;

What will I study?

Our enthusiastic staff is always looking for new ways to enhance your learning experience and over recent years, we have won national awards for our innovative teaching ideas. In addition, our staff are active in research and useful elements of it are reflected on the learning experience.

The School of Engineering and Computer Science has a reputation for innovation in teaching and learning, where nearly all MSc modules are delivered through a combination of traditional face-to-face teaching and backup tutorial's using the University's StudyNet web based facility. StudyNet allows students to access electronic teaching and learning resources, and conduct electronic discussions with staff and other students.

A heavy emphasis is placed on theory and practice, and the School has a policy of using industrial standard software wherever possible.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Computer Programming for Electronics Engineers	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module introduces the student to a variety of programming concepts and practices. Study topics include fundamental material such as number systems, functions and procedures and variables, constants and arrays. Also included is introductory material on more advanced concepts such as software design methodology. The module is taught both by lecture and practical exercises, with the practical work being largely centred on the use of a high level language such as 'C'.
Electrical and Electronic Theory	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to further student's knowledge and understanding of the fundamental concepts of electrical and electronic engineering systems. Topics are covered at the introductory level and include basic electrical circuits and components such as capacitance, inductance and their energy storage characteristics and a comprehensive introduction to ac fundamentals including ac voltage and current, and power in ac circuits. The module also provides an overview of frequency response characteristics of ac circuits and an analysis of the transient behaviour of RL and RC circuits. The module also covers the essentials on amplification and operational amplifiers and their applications in electronic circuit design. Although taught at introductory level, an analytical approach is adopted throughout in order to provide a firm base for later study.
Electronic Engineering Practice	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module introduces students to the fundamental aspects of typical processes found in electrical and electronic engineering design and manufacture, mainly focused in the area of electronic circuit assembly and testing. In addition to practical exercises, students are introduced to the role of computer aids for electronic 'schematic capture' and electronic pcb layout and design. The module also aims to further develop the student's ability to use typical electronic laboratory hardware-based instrumentation. In general material is taught as far as possible by practical 'hands-on' exercises with the aim of developing not only an appreciation of the techniques involved, but also a basic level of skill in their use.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Digital Design & Embedded Systems	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module extends coverage of digital design into the area of microprocessor, microcontroller and programmable logic devices. The fundamental aspects of microprocessor system hardware design are covered, along with an introduction to programming in assembly language. The module also introduce the study of digital systems using field programmable logic devices and modern computer based tools such as VHDL that are used in the programming of such devices.
Product and Project Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
To achieve and maintain market position the manufacturing industry must develop profitable and competitive products in time, to quality and within budget. This requires the functions of the company to be organised to achieve common objectives. This module examines the organisational aspects of product development from definition through design to manufacture. The team issues and techniques of project management are addressed as applicable to the product development process and in general terms. The project management content is taught first in order to support the product development content.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Microelectronics and VLSI	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to extend students' knowledge of analogue and digital electronics into the area of integrated circuit design. Material is biased toward advanced high-speed analogue and digital IC technologies and circuits. The module also covers the way in which these concepts are used in the design of integrated analogue circuits and digital 'systems on chip'. Although treated in an analytical way, learning is supported by the use of modern relevant software design and simulation tools.

Level 7

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Sustainability and Smart Systems Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
You will be introduced to sustainability and smart systems through a combination of lectures and practical, hands-on, sessions. The course also covers distributed smart systems design and addresses practical issues encountered in the real-world. The course provides a framework for understanding the details of different systems such that, whether as a potential purchaser or developer of these systems, you will be able to rapidly assimilate the details relevant to a particular requirement. From smart systems to smart cities, you will be exposed to the current and upcoming policies concerning the sustainability and low-carbon agenda. You will then be able to apply the knowledge, experience and understanding gained on this course to a range of environments a future employer may have chosen.
Mixed Mode and VLSI Technologies	15 Credits	Compulsory
This course aims to extend students knowledge of analogue, digital and mixed-signal electronics into the area of chip design for VLSI and SoC systems. Material is biased toward advanced IC techniques including current-mode and transconductance design concepts for high speed and low power operation. Typical system building blocks such as filters, data converters and PLL are included. Also covered is the way in which these concepts are used in the design of integrated filters. Although treated in an analytical way, learning is supported by the use of relevant software simulation tools.
Embedded Control Systems	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will develop a student's ability to design and implement embedded software and hardware for control of mechatronic systems. The module will start with a number of programming exercises to develop the students programming skills supported by lectures/seminars on hardware requirements for embedded systems. The remainder of the module will be project based with students expected to develop software through self-study and demonstrate its use to control various mechatronic systems.
Digital Mobile Communication Systems	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module starts by reviewing digital modulation (ASK, FSK, PSK, GMSK, QAM) and then moves on to multi-carrier digital modulation techniques such as OFDM and spread spectrum techniques FHSS and DSSS. Multiple access techniques FDMA, TDMA and CDMA are studied together with error control techniques appropriate for radio links. Modulation, transmission and communications protocols are also studied in the context of GSM, 3G/UMTS, 3GPP LTE, 4G and 5G cellular radio systems. Radio propagation topics such as fading models and multipath effects are studied with emphasis on mobile communications. Various building blocks for radio communication systems are included, such as antennas, amplifiers, mixers, filters, frequency control and synthesis. Radio transmitters and receivers are also studied with emphasis on Software Defined Radio (SDR).
Digital Signal Processing and Applications	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module provides the concepts and principles of digital signal processing and processors. The material included in the module range from techniques and design methods used in digital signal processing to the architecture of digital signal processors. The student will appreciate the significant differences between implementing on fixed-point or floating-point digital signal processors and will be able to decide which platform to use for a particular implementation. Software tools will be used to simulate some of the applications on digital signal processors.
Artificial Intelligence	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, such as fuzzy inference, neural networks, neuro-fuzzy and evolutionary computation. Students will also be given opportunities to further develop their knowledge of the principles of artificial intelligence, and to gain practical experience of the design, simulation and evaluation of intelligent systems.

Careers

MSc General Engineering Transition Masters course will equip you with in-depth knowledge and skills of a broad range of General Electronics Engineering. Graduates may therefore expect employment across a very wide range of engineering companies and institutions.

Careers may be sought in a variety of areas including acoustics, defence, nanotechnology, radio and satellite communication and robotics. Industry sectors that recruit this type of qualification include the automotive electronics sector, defence, hardware design and consulting.

Fees and funding
Fees 2020
UK/EU Students

Full time
- £8925 for the 2020/2021 academic year
Part time
- £745 per 15 credits for the 2020/2021 academic year
International Students

Full time
- £13500 for the 2020/2021 academic year
Part time
- £1125 per 15 credits for the 2020/2021 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Course fact sheets
MSc Engineering (Electronics) (Far STEM) Files	Download

Programme specifications
General Transition Masters in Engineering	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	n/a
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes

International applicants

Apply through our international application portal

Home and EU applicants

Apply using the links below:

2020

Start Date	End Date	Link
20/01/2021	31/01/2022	Apply online (Full Time)
23/09/2020	31/05/2021	Apply online (Part Time)

2021

Start Date	End Date	Link
20/01/2022	31/01/2023	Apply online (Full Time)
23/09/2021	31/05/2022	Apply online (Part Time)

2022

Start Date	End Date	Link
20/01/2023	31/01/2024	Apply online (Full Time)
23/09/2022	31/05/2023	Apply online (Part Time)

Please note that some of the images and videos on our course pages may have been taken before social distancing rules in the UK came into force.

MSc Engineering (Electronics) (Far STEM)

About the course

Why choose this course?

What will I study?

Careers

Fees 2020

UK/EU Students

Full time

Part time

International Students