Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This MSc combines taught modules with an independent research or design project to build advanced practical and theoretical skills in electronic communications. Core themes typically include radio-frequency (RF) and microwave engineering, antenna design and propagation, digital signal processing, wireless and mobile communications, embedded systems for communications, and optical or fibre communications.

• Advanced Communications Systems — modulation and coding, link budget analysis, system performance and network considerations.
• Digital Signal Processing for Communications — filtering, sampling, spectral analysis, adaptive algorithms and their application to communications problems.
• RF and Microwave Engineering — transmission lines, components, RF test and measurement techniques.
• Antennas and Propagation — antenna fundamentals, array design, channel modelling and propagation effects.
• Wireless Networks and Mobile Systems — cellular architecture, protocol layers, spectrum management and emerging mobile technologies.
• Embedded Systems for Communications — microcontrollers/FPGAs, real-time systems and implementation of communications algorithms.
• Optional modules — may include optical communications, satellite systems, IoT architectures, or machine learning for communications depending on availability.
• Individual project/dissertation — a substantial practical or research project addressing a current communications engineering challenge, often with industry involvement or laboratory work.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a good honours degree (2:2 or above) in electronic engineering, electrical engineering, telecommunications, computer engineering, physics or a closely related subject. Candidates with lower academic qualifications but with significant relevant professional experience may also be considered.

International applicants whose first language is not English are usually required to provide evidence of English proficiency (for example IELTS or equivalent) at an appropriate level. Specific module prerequisites or prior programming experience may be recommended for some optional units.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into technical and engineering roles across the communications and electronics sectors. Common destinations include:

• RF and microwave design engineer
• Telecommunications systems engineer or network planner
• Wireless communications engineer (mobile networks, Wi-Fi, IoT)
• Embedded systems developer for communications products
• Satellite and space communications engineer
• Test and measurement engineer or field applications engineer
• Research and development roles or further study such as a PhD

Employers range from telecom operators and network equipment manufacturers to specialist RF design consultancies, defence and aerospace companies, and technology start-ups focusing on IoT and wireless solutions.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers a practical, industry-focused approach with access to well-equipped electronics and communications laboratories and modern software tools used in industry. The programme emphasises hands-on learning, project work and links with local and national employers, helping students develop skills that are immediately applicable in professional roles.

The university is located in a city with a strong technology and engineering employers network, which supports placement opportunities, industrial projects and guest lectures. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment, research-active staff, and opportunities to collaborate on applied projects that reflect current developments in communications engineering.