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Spectacular advances in electronics, computing and communications have made a huge impact on modern life. Studying Electronic and Communications Engineering at Kent you become a part of this revolution, and gain the knowledge and skills to make your own mark in this exciting field.
Overview
Electronics-based products play a vital role in our daily lives. Examples include diagnostic equipment used in modern hospitals, broadband, satellite, and wireless communication technologies, and consumer electronics in the home. At Kent, our research led degrees mean our graduates can work at the forefront of the major areas of electronic engineering and you will combine theory with practical and project work, turning ideas into real systems.
We have strong links with the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and our student work has won international prizes. Also, our visiting industrial professors contribute a strong industrial relevance of our courses.
Our degree programme
The Foundation Year aims to extend access to university education to students from a wide variety of educational backgrounds and age groups and prepares these students for our three-year Engineering degrees.
In your Foundation Year, you are mainly taught by the University’s academic staff via lectures, example classes and laboratory sessions and the knowledge you gain is, in most cases, equivalent to A level standard. While in your Foundation Year, you can take part in all student activities. On successful completion of your Foundation Year, you move on to the first year of our BEng programme.
Our BEng programme covers all aspects of electronic engineering, which means on graduation you can enter any branch of electronics.
Your first year lays the foundation for the rest of your studies and includes modules on computer systems, electronic circuits, engineering analysis and mathematics. You also complete a robotics project which gives you the chance to construct a robot.
In your second year, you further develop your understanding of the field, gaining further practical experience. As your knowledge grows you discover which areas particularly interest you, so that in your final year you can begin to specialise in preparation for your final-year project.
Study resources
We provide first-class facilities to support your studies, including:
- 120-seat multi-purpose engineering laboratory
- four air-conditioned computer suites housing around 150 high-end computers
- CAD and development software
- PCB and surface-mount facilities
- an anechoic chamber
- 3D body scanner
- motion-capture studio
- mechanical workshop staffed with skilled mechanical engineers.
Professional links
The School has strong links with the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). We have several visiting industrial professors who contribute to the strong industrial relevance of our programmes.
Extra activities
There are many ways to get involved in School life. You could become a student representative, giving students a voice on School committees or become a student ambassador and work with us in secondary schools to promote engineering and technology.
We also host events where you can meet industry experts and former students.
In addition, you can take part in student-led societies including:
- TinkerSoc – a society that embraces all forms of technology, where you build, hack and make things.
Independent rankings
Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Kent scored 90.7 out of 100 in The Complete University Guide 2019.
In the National Student Survey 2018, over 86% of final-year Electronic and Electrical Engineering students who completed the survey, were satisfied with the overall quality of their course.
Of Electronic and Electrical Engineering students who graduated from Kent in 2017 and completed a national survey, over 94% were in work or further study within six months (DLHE).
Teaching Excellence Framework
All University of Kent courses are regulated by the Office for Students.
Based on the evidence available, the TEF Panel judged that the University of Kent delivers consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for its students. It is of the highest quality found in the UK.
Please see the University of Kent's Statement of Findings for more information.
Course structure
The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.
On most programmes, you study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also be able to take ‘elective’ modules from other programmes so you can customise your programme and explore other subjects that interest you.
Foundation year
This programme is for students who do not have the qualifications needed for direct entry to Stage 1 of our degree programmes. It covers electronics, computing, physics and mathematics.
If you successfully complete the foundation year, you can go on to take either the Electronic and Communications Engineering programmes mentioned above or Computer Systems Engineering.
| Compulsory modules currently include | Credits |
|---|---|
|
EL021 - Calculus
This module introduces students to the mathematics of calculus and its applications in engineering. Examples classes are provided to support the student learning. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL024 - Electromagnetics for Engineers
This module introduces students to the basic principles of electro-magnetism and electrostatics that are necessary in order to understand modern electronic and communications systems. Practical work and examples classes are included to assist the student learning. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL025 - Electrical Principles and Measurements
Electrical Circuits Electrical quantities, circuit concepts, circuit calculations. Engineering Mechanics Mechanical quantities, static and dynamic laws and examples of their application in electronic and mechanical engineering Practical work and examples classes are included to assist the student learning View full module details |
15 |
|
EL026 - Analogue Electronics
This module introduces students to basic electronic components and circuits. By the end of this module students should be able to understand the operation of some important electronic circuits. It also extends the work on mechanics to include rotary and oscillatory motion, basic mechanical properties of materials and fluid statics. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL027 - Semiconductor and Digital Electronics
This module consists of a series of lectures, laboratory sessions and example classes. Topics covered include logic gates and their associated arithmetic with applications. It also introduces materials used in electronic and mechanical engineering and their practical applications. Elementary alternating current circuit theory is also introduced. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL033 - Introduction to programming using MATLAB
In order to support laboratory experiments to be performed in other modules a short series of lectures on report writing and experimental error analysis is included. A series of lectures will introduce a microcontroller and its programming language in an informal way. The aim is to enable the student to input and output signals to a microcontroller to control simple actuators. The programming skills will be developed in a series of non-assessed and assessed laboratory based assignments where students will be presented with a pre-written programme and they will be asked to make changes to achieve a change in its operation. Also included in this module is an assigned mini project that can either be electronic or mechanical in nature depending on the preference of the student. Students are expected to build, test and report on the operation of the project and make suggestions for its improvement. A short series of lectures which introduce students to University study. View full module details |
15 |
|
MA022 - Graphs, Geometry and Trigonometry
This module introduces fundamental methods needed for the study of mathematical subjects at degree level. a) Functions and graphs: plotting, roots, intercepts, turning points, area (graphical methods), co-ordinate geometry of straight lines, parallel and perpendicular lines, applications to plots of experimental data, quadratics, introduction to the trigonometric functions b) Trigonometry: radians, properties of sine and cosine functions, other trigonometric functions, compound angle formulae and subsequent results, solving trigonometric equations c) Geometry: circles and ellipses, right-angled triangles, SOHCAHTOA, trigonometric functions, inverse trigonometric functions, sine and cosine rule, opposite and alternate angle theorems, applications to geometry problems d) Vectors: notion of a vector, representation of vectors, addition, subtraction and scaling, magnitude, scalar product, basis vectors in 2 and 3 dimensions View full module details |
15 |
|
PH020 - Algebra and Arithmetic
Calculations Significant figures Standard form Fractions Simplification of fractions Percentages and fractional changes Indices Logarithmic and exponential functions Basic rules (operations and indices). Solving equations (substitution and order of operation). Changing subject of a formula Inverse operations Rules of indices Long division Expansion and Factorisation Quadratic equations Solving linear and simultaneous equations Partial fractions Binomial Theorem View full module details |
15 |
Stage 1
| Compulsory modules currently include | Credits |
|---|---|
|
EL303 - Electronic Circuits
The module provides techniques to design electronic circuits containing active and passive components and to appreciate the power issues and frequency response of circuits containing reactive elements. An introduction will be given to Electromagnetism for engineering purposes. An understanding of the fundamentals of Electronic Engineering is assumed and the module proceeds via a sequence of lectures supported by simple exercises designed to give practical experience of the concepts introduced in the lectures. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL305 - Introduction to Electronics
The module provides an introduction to the basic knowledge required to understand, design and work with basic electronic circuits and the basic principles underlying the process of Electronic Engineering. No previous electronics experience is assumed and the module proceeds via a sequence of lectures supported by simple exercises designed to give practical experience of the concepts introduced in the lectures. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL313 - Introduction to Programming
The module provides an introduction to the basic knowledge required to understand, design and write computer programs and the basic principles underlying the process of Software Engineering. No previous programming experience is assumed and the module proceeds via a sequence of lectures supported by simple exercises designed to give practical experience of the concepts introduced in the lectures. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL315 - Digital Technologies
This module provides an introduction to contemporary digital systems design. Starting with the fundamental building blocks of digital systems the module outlines both theoretical and practical issues for implementation. Practical work includes the use of digital simulation and analysis software for implementing real-world problems. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL318 - Engineering Mathematics
Mathematics is the fundamental language of engineering, allowing complex ideas to be formulated and developed. This course provides the sound basis of mathematical techniques and methods required by almost all other modules in the department's engineering courses. Topics covered include functions, set theory, complex numbers, calculus, linear algebra, statistics and probability. The lectures are supported by assessed examples classes, taken in small groups. View full module details |
15 |
|
EL319 - Engineering Analysis
This module expands the introductory mathematics covered in EL318 and provides students with the appropriate mathematical tools necessary for the further study of electronic, mechanical and computer systems. The main emphasis of the course is in applied calculus, which isused to solve real-world engineering problems.. The lectures are supported by assessed examples classes, taken in small groups. View full module details |
15 |
Teaching and assessment
Teaching includes practical work in conventional laboratory experiments or projects, lecture modules and examples classes, which develop your problem-solving skills, and staff hold regular ‘surgeries’ where you can discuss any questions you have. Practical work is carried out in air-conditioned laboratories, with state-of-the-art equipment and outstanding IT infrastructure.
Stage 1 modules are assessed by coursework and examination at the end of the year. Stage 2 and 3 modules, with the exception of the Stage 3 project, are assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. All years include project work to replicate industrial practice and develop skills to maximise employability.
Contact Hours
For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours. The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
Programme aims
The programme aims to:
- provide students with a firm foundation in electronics, mathematics and practical skills necessary for higher level courses
- develop in students a range of transferable skills of general value
- offer students an intellectually stimulating and satisfying experience of learning
- provide academic guidance and welfare support for students
- create an atmosphere of co-operation and partnership between staff and students, and an environment in which students can develop their potential.
Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
You gain knowledge and understanding of:
- mathematical principles relevant to electronic engineering
- scientific principles and methodology relevant to electronic engineering
- characteristics of materials, equipment, processes and products.
Intellectual skills
You gain the following intellectual abilities:
- analysis and solution of problems in electronic engineering using appropriate mathematical methods
- use of engineering principles and the ability to apply them to analyse key electronic engineering processes
- identify, classify and describe the performance of systems and components through the use of analytical methods and modelling techniques.
Subject-specific skills
You gain subject-specific skills in the following:
- use of mathematical techniques to analyse and solve hardware and software problems
- the ability to work in an engineering laboratory environment and to use a wide range of electronic equipment, workshop equipment and computer-aided design (CAD) tools for the practical realisation of electronic circuits
- analysing experimental and simulation results and determining their strength and validity
- applying quantitative methods and computer software relevant to electronic engineering to solve engineering problems
- preparing technical reports and presentations.
Transferable skills
You gain transferable skills in the following:
- the ability to generate, analyse, present and interpret data
- the use of information and communications technology
- personal and interpersonal skills and working as part of a team
- communicating in various forms: written, verbal and visual
- learning effectively for the purpose of continuing professional development
- applying critical thinking, reasoning and reflection
- managing time and resources within an individual project and a group project.
Careers
Graduate destinations
Our graduates go into careers in areas such as:
- electronic engineering and computing
- telecommunications industries including radio, television and satellite communications;
- medical electronics, instrumentation and industrial process control.
They have gone on to work in companies including:
- BAE Systems
- Nokia
- the Royal Navy
- Xilinx
- British Energy
- RDDS.
Some graduates choose to go on to postgraduate study, for example, MSc Advanced Communication Engineering (RF Technology and Communications), Advanced Electronic Systems Engineering and Information Security and Biometrics.
Professional recognition
For over 30 years, our BEng and MEng courses in Electronic and Communications Engineering have been accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which enables fast-track career progression as a professional engineer.
Help finding a job
The School of Engineering and Digital Arts holds an annual Employability and Careers Day where you can meet local and national employers and discuss career opportunities. Ongoing support is provided by the School’s dedicated Employability Officer.
The University also has a friendly Careers and Employability Service which can give you advice on how to:
- apply for jobs
- write a good CV
- perform well in interviews.
Career-enhancing skills
In addition to the technical skills you acquire on this programme, you also gain key transferable skills including:
- planning and organisation
- leadership
- effective communication.
You can gain extra skills by signing up for one of our Kent Extra activities, such as learning a language or volunteering.
The course didn’t just teach me the technical knowledge needed to be an engineer, it taught me how to solve problems and how to approach engineering challenges.
Scott Broadley Electronic and Communications Engineering MEng
Entry requirements
Home/EU students
The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications. Typical requirements are listed below. Students offering alternative qualifications should contact us for further advice.
It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.
New GCSE grades
If you’ve taken exams under the new GCSE grading system, please see our conversion table to convert your GCSE grades.
| Qualification | Typical offer/minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| A level | DDD. Contact Admissions Officer for details. |
| GCSE | Grade C in Mathematics and Physics/Science |
| Access to HE Diploma | The University will not necessarily make conditional offers to all Access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If we make you an offer, you will need to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above. |
| BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma) | The University will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF; OCR) on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice on your individual circumstances. |
| International Baccalaureate | 34 points overall or 12 points at HL |
International students
The University welcomes applications from international students. Our international recruitment team can guide you on entry requirements. See our International Student website for further information about entry requirements for your country.
However, please note that international fee-paying students cannot undertake a part-time programme due to visa restrictions.
If you need to increase your level of qualification ready for undergraduate study, we offer a number of International Foundation Programmes.
Meet our staff in your country
For more advice about applying to Kent, you can meet our staff at a range of international events.
English Language Requirements
Please see our English language entry requirements web page.
Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of 'pre-sessional' courses in English for Academic Purposes. You attend these courses before starting your degree programme.
General entry requirements
Please also see our general entry requirements.
Fees
The 2019/20 annual tuition fees for this programme are:
| UK/EU | Overseas | |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9250 | £19000 |
For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.
For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.*
Your fee status
The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.
General additional costs
Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.
Funding
University funding
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.
Government funding
You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.
Scholarships
General scholarships
Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.
The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence
At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence.
The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.
The scholarship is also extended to those who achieve AAB at A level (or specified equivalents) where one of the subjects is either mathematics or a modern foreign language. Please review the eligibility criteria.
