University of York

What you'll study

The programme provides a balance of core electrical engineering science and practical design skills. Early modules focus on mathematics for engineers, circuit theory, analogue and digital electronics, signals and systems, and basic programming. As you progress you study power and energy systems, control and instrumentation, microelectronics, embedded systems, communications and electromagnetics.

Teaching combines lectures and tutorials with a substantial practical component: laboratory sessions, hardware design and testing, software development, and integrated project work. Team-based design projects run across the degree, and you complete an independent final-year project on a topic of your choice, supervised by academic staff. Optional modules allow you to tailor the course towards interests such as renewable energy, robotics, RF and microwave engineering, or advanced digital systems.

The department emphasises employability and professional skills: project management, technical communication, CAD/PCB development, measurement and instrumentation, and use of industry-standard software and test equipment. The course content is mapped to professional engineering requirements to support progression to Chartered Engineer status through the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Entry requirements

Applicants should have strong qualifications in mathematics and at least one science, typically physics or further mathematics. Typical offers ask for high A‑level grades with Mathematics required; Further Mathematics and Physics are highly recommended. The University welcomes students presenting vocational qualifications such as BTECs (normally combined with A‑level Mathematics), Scottish Highers, the International Baccalaureate, and recognised international equivalents.

Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate numerical ability, problem-solving skills and an aptitude for practical work. Admissions may consider predicted grades, references and personal statements that describe relevant experience, interest in engineering and any project or workshop activities.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across electronics, power, communications and embedded systems. Typical jobs include design engineer, embedded systems engineer, power systems engineer, control and instrumentation engineer, test and validation engineer, systems integrator, and research and development roles. Employers span sectors such as renewable energy, automotive and aerospace, telecommunications, defence, semiconductor design, medical devices and industrial automation.

The degree also provides a foundation for further study: many graduates continue to MSc or MEng programmes or pursue specialist master’s and doctoral research. The professional accreditation support and practical experience help students enter graduate training schemes and fast-track routes to Chartered Engineer (CEng) status via the IET.

Why study at University of York

York combines research-led teaching with strong practical facilities. The department maintains modern electronics and power laboratories, prototyping and test equipment, and computing resources used in teaching and student projects. Small-group teaching and project supervision mean staff can support individual development and independent research projects.

The University has active links with industry and research centres, providing opportunities for guest lectures, collaborative projects and placement or internship opportunities. The collegiate campus environment and engineering community at York foster multidisciplinary collaboration, while careers support and enterprise services help students build industry contacts and transition into employment or postgraduate study.