University of York

What you'll study

This four-year integrated master’s programme builds from core engineering fundamentals to advanced topics in electronics and computing. In early years you will study foundational subjects such as circuit analysis, analogue and digital electronics, signals and systems, programming, mathematics for engineers and the principles of computing and electronics design.

• Core modules: circuit theory, analogue electronics, digital systems and logic design, signals and systems, control and instrumentation, and software engineering fundamentals.
• Intermediate modules: microcontrollers and embedded systems, communications and networking, electronic measurements and instrumentation, and hardware description languages (HDL) for FPGA design.
• Advanced and specialist topics: VLSI and microelectronics, power electronics and drives, wireless communications, image and signal processing, machine learning for embedded systems, Internet of Things (IoT) architectures, and autonomous systems.
• Design and professional practice: group design projects, laboratory work, professional engineering, and optional industrial placement or project links with industry.
• Final year (MEng level): an individual research or design project at master’s level plus advanced option modules chosen to reflect specialisation interests and research-led topics from academic staff.

Teaching comprises lectures, small-group tutorials, laboratory practicals and project supervision. Assessment uses a mix of coursework, laboratory reports, written examinations and design or research project deliverables.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong qualifications in mathematics and science. Typical entrants hold high grades at A-level (including A-level Mathematics and normally Physics) or equivalent qualifications such as a recognised international diploma or a substantial foundation year. Relevant level 3 vocational qualifications may be considered alongside A-levels where they provide sufficient mathematical and analytical content.

Applicants without direct qualifications may be admitted through recognised access routes or a foundation programme. Good GCSE or equivalent passes in English and Mathematics are usually expected. International applicants should demonstrate equivalent academic achievement and English language proficiency according to the university’s published requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles across electronics, computing and systems engineering. Typical career paths include electronics design engineer, embedded systems or firmware engineer, FPGA and ASIC developer, hardware verification engineer, communications and network engineer, systems integrator, robotics and control engineer, and software developer for safety-critical or real-time systems.

Many graduates go into industries such as consumer and industrial electronics, telecommunications, automotive and aerospace, defence, medical devices, renewable energy and IoT product development. The degree also provides a strong platform for further study and research (MSc/PhD) and, because it meets the educational requirements of professional institutions, supports progression towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status when combined with appropriate work experience.

Why study at University of York

The University of York combines a research-active engineering environment with focused teaching and project opportunities. Students benefit from small-group teaching, well-equipped electronics and computing laboratories and supervised project work that links teaching to current research topics.

York maintains links with industry and encourages placement and project collaborations to give practical experience and professional awareness. The department supports student development through a combination of laboratory practice, team design challenges and individual research projects, helping graduates to be workforce-ready with both technical and transferable skills.

Overall, studying at York gives access to a broad and flexible electronics and computing curriculum, research-led teaching and routes to professional accreditation and postgraduate study.