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Electronic Engineering - BEng (Hons)

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In today’s digital world electronics plays an essential role. Do you want to pursue your career at the forefront of this key industry? Our BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering course will prepare you with a range of skills and knowledge, helping you to become rounded electronic engineer ready for the world of work....

  • Level Undergraduate
  • Study mode Full Time
  • Location City Centre
  • School School of Engineering and the Built Environment
  • Faculty Faculty of Computing, Engineering and The Built Environment

This course is:

Available with Professional Placement year

Open to International Students

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Overview

In today's fast paced world, technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate. From cutting edge developments in artificial intelligence to sustainable energy solutions, engineering at BCU is the forefront of these innovations. Our campus is situated in the heart of the city, providing you with the perfect environment to immerse yourself in the dynamic field of engineering.

The course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle real world challenges. As a BCU engineering student, you'll be positioned to make an impact in various sectors, from civil and automotive to renewable energy and beyond. The demand for skilled engineers has never been higher, and the opportunities are boundless.

Companies are actively seeking graduates with practical skills and critical thinking that is taught on this course. We also have strong ties with industry partners, providing you with invaluable networking opportunities. You'll get to access BCU's cutting edge facilities and also benefit from using the specialist equipment over at the GBS IoT.

This is where your engineering journey begins. Embrace the possibilities and engineer a future that makes a difference.

In today’s digital world electronics plays an essential role. Do you want to pursue your career at the forefront of this key industry? Our BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering course will prepare you with a range of skills and knowledge, helping you to become rounded electronic engineer ready for the world of work.

Throughout your degree study, you’ll have access to our state-of-the-art expertise and resources, plus you’ll have the opportunity to secure yourself an industry placement, putting you at a competitive advantage point.

This course is open to International students.

What's covered in this course?

The Electronic Engineering course will equip you with necessary skills underpinned by a sound theoretical underpinning of the science and mathematics associated with the discipline. In addition, the course will give you a good understanding of the social, commercial, legal, ethical, economic and environmental factors associated with engineering. You will also develop the key transferrable skills that modern employers require, such as requirements analysis and system design, problem solving, project planning, presentation and communication. Our competitions, such as the annual Engineering Show, which includes the international micro-mouse competition, gives you the opportunity to participate in a range of competitions centred on autonomous and nonautonomous robotic vehicles.

Our engineering courses focus on project-based activities, giving you lots of opportunity to work in teams on projects from design to implementation. This will give you practical experience of applying engineering science to real world problems, working in multidisciplinary teams to develop your interpersonal skills, and prepare you for a key aspect of modern engineering practice.

You’ll also have the option of a placement during your course, either through a summer internship or year-long professional placement, which will provide you with the real-life skills and experience you will need to stand out from the crowd upon graduation. This has helped former graduates progress into roles within companies such as UTC Aerospace and Vector GB.

On completion of this course, you will be able to analyse, synthesise and evaluate those engineering factors that are required to produce electronic engineering solutions.

Progression to MEng Mechanical Engineering

This course offers the option to progress to the MEng Mechanical Engineering. This allows you to undertake an additional year of study at postgraduate level, following successful completion of your BEng course. If you choose to progress to an MEng, you will be able to apply to transfer during your third year of study.

Professional Placement Year

This course offers an optional professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, following successful completion of your second year, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.

If you choose to pursue a placement year, you will need to find a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will be able to draw on the University’s extensive network of local, regional, and national employers, and the support of our Careers teams. If you are able to secure a placement, you can request to be transferred to the placement version of the course.

Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.

Accredited By

This course is accredited by:

  • IET_Accredited_Programme

The course provided a great balance of theoretical and practical learning along with project management and professional practice, which immensely improved my technical knowledge and skills required for different sectors of the industry. My studies have helped me to discover and apply new knowledge, understand complex contexts and solve problems, develop critical thinking and questioning, and design and build new devices.

Zeeshan Mustafa Latif Ansari

Arnaud Fournier

Arnaud had originally considered doing an apprenticeship but changed his mind. He decided that university would give him the opportunity to become more independent. Since beginning his degree, Arnaud has always felt like he’s part of a community at BCU which has helped him overcome the challenges of his course. By working on group projects and undertaking a micro placement, Arnaud has gained new skills applicable to industry.

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Why Choose Us?

  • Accredited course - This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
  • Industrial placement year option - Gain desirable employability skills and work experience with the option of an industrial placement year, that will take place between your second and final year of the course.
  • State-of-the-art facilities - You will be based at our Millennium Point campus in City Centre, where our facilities have undergone a £6.5 million investment with a new maker area, engineering labs/equipment and IT equipment to provide you with the very best learning experience. You will also use our industry-standard equipment and resources, including rapid prototyping, laser-cutting and CNC machining.
  • £1.1 million investment in new facilities from the IoT – The Institute of Technology (IoT) has invested in brand-new equipment and facilities, including an Electric Vehicle (EV) Test Rig, an Additive Manufacturing Machine (3D printer) and a material testing-split zone furnace - all industry grade technology that will advance your skills, making you more employable.
  • Engineering Leaders Scholarship (ELS) - All second year Engineering students can apply for this scholarship from the Royal Academy of Engineers to receive an accelerated personal development programme of support including £5,000 to use on career development activities, access to alumni for advice and support and attend annual networking event.
  • Employable graduates - Our graduates have progressed into roles with companies such as UTC Aerospace and Vector GB.

Open Days

Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.

Next Open Day: 19 October 2024

Book your place

Entry Requirements

These entry requirements apply for entry in 2024/25.

All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.

Essential requirements

112 UCAS tariff points

Please note: If you qualify for our BCU Accelerate scheme, you could receive an offer that is two grades below our normal entry requirements. Find out more about BCU Accelerate.

If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.

Fees & How to Apply

Please select your student status to view fees and apply
  • UK Student
  • International Student

UK students

Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.

Award: BEng (Hons)

Starting: Sep 2024

  • Mode
  • Duration
  • Fees

International students

Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.

Award: BEng (Hons)

Starting: Sep 2024

  • Mode
  • Duration
  • Fees
  • Full Time
  • 3 years
  • £16,085 in 2024/25

Access to computer equipment

You will require use of a laptop, and most students do prefer to have their own. However, you can borrow a laptop from the university or use one of our shared computer rooms.

Printing

You will receive £5 print credit in each year of your course, available after enrolment.

Field trips

All essential field trips and associated travel costs will be included in your course fees.

Access to Microsoft Office 365

Every student at the University can download a free copy of Microsoft Office 365 to use whilst at university and for 18 months after graduation.

Key Software

You will be able to download SPSS and Nvivo to your home computer to support with your studies and research.

Key subscriptions

Subscriptions to key journals and websites are available through our library.

Project materials (mandatory)

This course includes project work that requires you to develop and produce a portfolio or collection. You'll be expected to provide the materials for use in your individual major projects; costs will vary depending on the materials selected.

Clothing and safety equipment (mandatory)

This course requires the purchase of safety equipment in order to use the workshop facilities. These items cost approximately £40 together and we can advise where to purchase items.

Media consumable items (mandatory)

This course requires the use of consumables.

Excess printing (optional)

Once you have spent your £5 credit, additional printing on campus costs from 5p per sheet.

Books (optional)

Some modules may suggest that you purchase a key textbook. All module key texts will be in the University library, but in limited numbers. Many students choose to purchase a copy.

Placement expenses (optional)

If you choose to undertake a placement, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst living or working away from home.

Accommodation and living costs

The cost of accommodation and other living costs are not included within your course fees. More information on the cost of accommodation can be found in our accommodation pages.

Part-time study

The part-time route on this course is available for advanced entry, from year 3 onwards. If you already hold – or are working towards – an HNC or HND in a related subject, you may be eligible to study this course part-time. To find out more, visit our part-time study webpages.

Guidance for International students

There are three ways to apply:

1) Direct to the University

You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.

2) Through a country representative

Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.

3) Through UCAS

If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.

Personal statement

UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*

The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.

Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:

  • Course choice - Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
  • Career plans - If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
  • Work experience - Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
  • School or college experience - Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
  • Non-accredited skills or achievement - eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.

You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.

Worried about Personal Statements?

If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.

Get personal statement advice

*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.

Course in Depth

First Year

In order to complete this programme you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

Second Year

In order to complete this programme you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

Professional Placement (Optional)

In order to qualify for the award of Bachelor of Engineering, Electronic Engineering with Professional Placement Year, or Integrated Masters of Engineering Electronic Engineering with Professional Placement Year, you must successfully complete all of the modules listed as well as the following module.

Final Year (BEng)

In order to complete this programme you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

MEng

If you choose to continue onto the MEng, you will need to successfully complete all of the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

Download course specification

Download now

Important Course Accreditation Information*

Students completing an IET accredited degree are deemed to have met part or all of the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered or Incorporated Engineer and are in a strong position to move on to achieve professional engineering status after a period of initial professional development in industry.

BEng Accreditation Information

In order for you to achieve professional accreditation, you must have, on top of your academic qualifications, a minimum of 4 years relevant industrial engineering experience at the appropriate level.

Our current BEng courses are accredited at Partial CEng level, meaning that provided you have the relevant industrial experience, you may be eligible to apply for Incorporated Engineer Level.

Should you wish to apply for CEng Engineer level, there will be requirement for further learning at PG level, for example, an accredited MSc in the relevant subject. Our MSc courses are accredited at full CEng level.

MEng Accreditation Information 

The following information applies to those who choose to progress on to the MEng.

The accredited MEng will meet, in full, the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Accredited MEng graduates will be able to show that they have satisfied the educational base for CEng registration.

IET_Accredited_Programme
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)

CEng accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), fulfilling the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer when presented with an accredited MSc. In addition, the programme meets the educational requirements for registration as an Incorporated Engineer.

Employability

We will provide you with the attributes you need to be successful in employment. Upon graduating, you’ll be able to demonstrate professionalism at all levels, as well as being a creative problem solver with innovative ideas, a global outlook and an open-minded, diverse personality.

Birmingham City University also has the Graduate+ scheme and you could also gain work experience through student jobs on campus.

Placements

You have the option to conduct an industrial placement year, gaining valuable work experience in a real-life company. You’ll be supported by a placement officer, who will assist you in finding a placement and applying for the position.

Thanks to our excellent partnerships and working relationships with some of the UK’s leading companies, our students have previously worked with General Electric, UTC Aerospace and Bosch. 

More about our placement opportunities

International

Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.

The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.

Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:

Facilities & Staff

[00:00:01] Speaker 1: Hello, my name is Olga.

[00:00:02] Speaker 2: And I'm Carlos. 

[00:00:03] Speaker 1: And we are both Engineering students here at BCU. And today we're going to take you on a tour in Millennium Point to all the engineering facilities.

[00:00:11] Speaker 2: Follow us.

[00:00:20] Speaker 1: Now we're on ground floor in the electronics lab, and this is where you can build circuits such as this one using these machines, you can control them and power them. So in your first year, you might end up doing a circuit like this, which is just the power on LED. And then you can go on using an oscilloscope to test sequences.

[00:00:39] Speaker 2: So now we're going to take you to the soldering lab. Anytime we need to do some soldiering on any type of projects, here is where we do them. Like Olga is doing right now, she is working on the micro mouse and with all the soldering for all the components. [00:00:57]

[00:01:00] Speaker 1: So this is where all the programming happens, such as coding and schematics and diagrams. All of this you'll be doing in this room. 

[00:01:12] Speaker 2: Welcome to our mechanical lab. This is where we test different materials on different bays for different applications, for things like their strength, versatility, and depending on which application, we have different machinery for it.

[00:01:26] Speaker 1: So we use microscopes to see the internal structures of materials, as you can see here. We do this to find how different structures behave under different conditions. So this is the workshop where we actually have real industrial machines here that are used from some of the parts for the projects we build. 

[00:01:45] Speaker 2: We do have industrial type machines capable of building engine parts like this one here. We are building a cylinder. 

[00:01:52] Speaker 1: Like this one here as well. This is a crank used in engines as well. It's really cool that we can use all of this machines just right here in our workshop.

[00:02:01] So this is another project that we built, and it's to test your knowledge on everything you've learned. And this is for the ball to stay on track at all times, even in this loop, as you can see here.

[00:02:09] This is the common area where you can come to either relax or catch up on your work as there's loads of seats and comfortable sofas.

[00:02:26] Speaker 1: So this is a hydraulics lab where you can do very interesting things like 3D printing, earthquake simulator and wind turbines. So these smaller 3D printers I used for reverse engineering and rapid prototyping. We can also use them to repair small things where we would ask students to design whatever parts broke and then we can 3D print it here so they can replace it on their project. In this room we actually have industrial level machines such as a metal 3D printer which can do something like this.

[00:02:56] Speaker 2: We also do various simulations here from a hydro station and also as you can see right next to me here, we do have a earthquake simulation running at the minute.

[00:03:09] So coming from our hydraulics lab, we are now in our civil lab. We test different types of soil, play around with it and try them out and develop new concrete as for example, here. 

[00:03:23] Speaker 1: So this is a biomedical lab where we test soils from different areas for pollution and soil health so we know if it's good for farming. 

[00:03:31] Speaker 2: So we are actually working with big names, big companies like Rivers Trust, and we are trying to develop new solutions for soil health. 

[00:03:40] Speaker 1: So this is the Formula student lab where we actually built a car that's going to go to Silverstone. 

[00:03:58] This is our engine test lab where we have an Audi, R8, E-TRON engine.

[00:04:03] Speaker 2: We also have a battery simulator in this room. We can actually do real life simulations of our engine, for example, in Silverstone, and see if we can actually complete the track and the times. 

[00:04:15] Thank you for watching our engineering facilities - I hope you enjoyed.

[00:04:18] Speaker 1: To find out more, you can come to one of our Open Days or you can visit the link below.


Our Facilities

Our state-of-the-art Engineering labs and workshops provide the perfect setting for practical work with modern-day teaching and learning facilities. We pride ourselves on equipping our students with the skill set that they need not only working on industry standard equipment, but having industrial links, which set them up perfectly for a career in engineering.

We have invested in industry-standard facilities to support the practice-based elements of our Engineering courses and give students as much practical learning as possible, to prepare for industry placements and job opportunities after graduation. Students have access to our facilities during classes, and can book out of class sessions with our specialist technicians. 

We are a partner of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIoT) and have secured £1.1 million of government funding for investment in brand-new equipment and facilities. Funding of £808,000 from the Department for Education has supported our development of an Electric Vehicle (EV) Test Rig, an Additive Manufacturing Machine (3D printer) and a material testing-split zone furnace.

The IoT has enabled procurement of new technologies for material testing, electronics prototyping and production and 3D scanning to compliment computer aided design for manufacture.

Engineering facilities

Engineering bays
Engineering-facilities
Engineering-facilities
Engineering-Workshop-Facilities

Our staff

Dr Fawaz Annaz

Reader in Mechatronics

Dr. Fawaz Annaz had a long international career in Mechatronics Engineering, where has taught and conducted research in many countries including the UK, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia and Brunei.

More about Fawaz

Professor Wenyan Wu

Professor in Advanced System Engineering

Professor Wenyan Wu has extensive interdisciplinary teaching and research experience across Engineering, Computing, and Technology throughout the UK and abroad. Her knowledge and expertise span the following areas: electronic engineering, informatics, water and environmental engineering, sensor technology, smart sensing and communication for...

More about Wenyan

Dr Waheb Abdullah

Associate Professor in Electrical / Electronic Engineering

Waheb Abdullah is an Electrical Engineer with a PhD in Electrical, Electronic, and Systems Engineering combined with over 15 years of expertise in industry and academia. He received the BSc in Electrical Engineering from the University of Basrah, Iraq, in 2001, the Master of Engineering in Communication & Computer Engineering and the PhD in...

More about Waheb

Dr Mario de Oliveira

Interim Deputy Head of Engineering

Dr Mario de Oliveira is Interim Deputy Head of Engineering. He has extensive cross-disciplinarily research and teaching experience across Computing, Engineering and Technology. Mario’s knowledge and expertise are across boundaries of electronic, biomedical, structural health monitoring systems (SHM), signal processing, embedded systems and neural...

More about Mario

Dr Viranjay M. Srivastava

Senior Lecturer

Viranjay joined the Electronics Engineering Department at BCU in early 2023. Prior to this, he was employed by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa as an Associate Professor for more than 9 years from 2013 to 2023, where he is now an Honorary Associate Professor (since June 2023).

More about Viranjay M.