Electronic Engineering and Computer Science

Course overview

Accredited* by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), successful completion of this degree will put you on the path to Chartered Engineering status. Setting you up for a successful career in a diverse and in-demand sector.

This integrated master’s focuses on the two pillars that underpin modern society. Electronic Engineering focuses on designing, developing, and optimising electronic systems, while Computer Science deals with the theory and application of computing.

Studying both disciplines equips you with a holistic understanding of technology, enabling you to create groundbreaking solutions that integrate hardware and software seamlessly.

“The teaching and student support enhanced my time at Aston as it helped me on the path to achieving an integrated master’s degree with a placement year experience within 4 years! My placement gave me an insight into what I would like to do after university and assisted me in beginning my path towards professional accreditations aiming towards Chartered Engineer status.”

Devang Shah

Electronic Engineering

Electrical Engineer Graduate, Network Rail

Why Electronic Engineering and Computer Science at Aston University?

TEF Gold

Aston University was awarded Gold- the highest possible rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)

Professionally accredited*

Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)

Thriving student life

Aston Students’ Union was rated 8th in the UK in the 2022 What Uni League Table

Ranked 24th in the world

Aston University is ranked 24th in the world for reducing inequalities

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

My Student Journey: Nishika Chettry

Electrical and Electronic Engineering student Nishika Chettry talks about her experience at Aston University

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.

AI & Digital

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Inclusive Leadership

Environmental Sustainability

Discover Power Skills

Course description

MEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering and Computer Science

This course will expand the breadth and depth of your knowledge in digital electronics, a highly sought after skill set.

What we will provide
First-class teaching in the UK’s second-largest city, delivered by accredited* academics, researchers, and visiting professors from industry. You will receive free IET membership, and access to the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies, one of the world’s leading photonics research centres. You will also have access to world-class facilities, including a dedicated electrical engineering student lab.

We are an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry. To find out more, visit here.

What you will provide
If you have a passion for innovation, a thirst for knowledge, and a desire to be at the forefront of technological advancement, then this is the course for you. Studying on our integrated master’s it is essential you are dedicated and hardworking and someone who enjoys problem-solving and getting stuck into practical work.

What skills we teach
You will develop a solid foundation of technical software and hardware skills. From mastering a range of programming languages to delving into the world of data mining. The design of this innovative course emphasises ‘doing’ as well as ‘knowing’, helping you to develop essential practical, intellectual, business, and communication skills, critical to the workplace.

Placement year
You will have the option to undertake a 12-month industrial placement, alongside undertaking our distance learning business modules. Our award-winning careers and placement team and strong industry ties will provide you with exciting placement opportunities. Previous students have gained experience with leading companies, such as BNFL, ConocoPhillips, GSK, Kraft, Thames Water, AMEC and 3M.

Career prospects
Our Electrical and Electronic degree is ranked Top 15 in the UK for Graduate Prospects "On-Track". (Complete University Guide, 2023). Graduates from this flexible and in-demand degree have gone on to successful roles such as Software Engineer or Developer, Electronics Design Engineer and Graduate Consultant Engineer for leading companies like BT, Microsoft, Open Cosmos and JLR.

Professional accreditation
*This programme is accredited by the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET). As part of the standard process, it is currently undergoing re-accreditation, with confirmation expected before September 2025.

Accreditation is on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

How you will learn

You will spend a substantial amount of time in workshops allowing you to apply your theoretical knowledge into practice, designing your own products and working with cutting-edge equipment will be a core part of the course.

You will be involved in individual and group project work throughout the programme, getting the opportunity to collaborate with students across a range of engineering disciplines.

Here at Aston University, we are passionate about supporting our students. You will have a personal tutor and a dedicated programming support officer throughout your studies to provide support and guidance. The Learning Development Centre is there to provide maths support, academic writing development, advice, and strategies for managing your studies. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in PAL sessions, learning from your peers who have been through the course content before you.

Extracurricular activities:

You can join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals in our Electrical and Electronic Engineering Society and Aston Computer Science Society
Become a member of the 'Industry Club'. Where you'll gain access to hands-on industry experience, internships, and projects with tech companies. Helping you build your professional network from the get-go.
Challenge yourself in the annual Aston Hack hackathon, a frenzied 24 hours of designing, coding, and making.
Enhance your skills in the various aspects of robotics and programming through our brand new drone project.
Let your creativity run wild in our Design Challenge, whilst you tackle real-world engineering problems and propose innovative solutions.
Join our Formula Student team where you will design, build, and race your very own formula-style car.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Fundamentals of Digital Systems	15
Introductory Mathematics for Engineering, Digital, and Physical Sciences	15
Introductory Programming for Engineering and Physical Sciences	15
Interdisciplinary Design Project	15
Foundations of AI and Data Science	15
Cybersecurity Fundamentals	15
Internet Applications and Databases	15
Power Skills	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Be able to apply knowledge of circuit theory and programming principles to design basic electronic & computing systems
Have demonstrated knowledge of and the ability to apply computing and physics principles in engineering contexts
Be able to identify, evaluate and apply mathematical, programming, and computational approaches to solving complex problems
Be able to analyse measurement results and interpret technical data sheet specifications to make reasoned engineering design decisions
Have demonstrated the ability to effectively use electronic engineering components, test equipment and design, analysis and programming software
Be able to effectively report and communicate technical results and independent study both in writing and orally
Have developed self-study skills and independent learning skills to facilitate professional development
Have developed an appreciation of the team-working and project management skills required in professional engineering employment
Evaluate and interpret data using industry-standard methods and communicate information effectively to ensure data-driven approaches to decision-making in solving complex problems.
Use sustainable development strategies that reflect a deep understanding of the Circular Economy, Net-Zero strategies, Design and Systems Thinking, and Global Social Responsibility and lead to solutions that are ethically sound and globally relevant.
Employ integrated problem-solving skills to analyse challenging and multifaceted problems considering professional, social, and ethical contexts.

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Electronics 1	15
Robot Control	15
Data Structures, Algorithms and OOP	15
Electronic Engineering Team Project	15
Ethics, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainability	15
Embedded Systems and C	15
Digital Design	15
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Robotics	15
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Have demonstrated a critical understanding of the principles of a broad range of topics in the field of electronic and software engineering and their relevance to contemporary systems and applications
Be able to apply an understanding of mathematical, programming and engineering concepts and analysis techniques to develop solutions to a wide range of electronic engineering and computing problems
Have demonstrated the ability to design, evaluate and critically review solutions to an engineering problem subject to technical, commercial and societal constraints
Be able to undertake independent critical analysis of information from a range of sources, evaluate and interpret it to provide valid, reasoned technical recommendations and arguments
Have the ability to identify and apply the practical lab and computer aided design skills required for the development of new engineering designs and solutions
Be able to apply programming and computing skills to the structured design, modelling and implementation of engineering systems
Be able to communicate both technical and non-technical information at appropriate levels for different audiences both in writing and orally
Have demonstrated the ability to apply industry standard team working and project monitoring skills in the development of a prototype electronic and/or computing system

Year 3

In your third year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Professional Engineering Practice	15
Engineering Project Management	15
Sustainability in Science and Technology	15
Leadership in Engineering	15
Engineering in Practice	60
Total	120

Year 3 outcomes

On successful completion of the third year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate a systematic understanding of established knowledge and practice in electrical and electronic engineering and an in depth knowledge of current developments in a specialist area
Research, review and evaluate information from a range of sources to develop knowledge and understanding of advanced concepts
Apply a conceptual understanding to evaluate different problem solving approaches and methodologies and to identify new approaches to the solution
Adopt appropriate investigative techniques to devise and critically evaluate solutions to an engineering problem subject to multiple real-world constraints
Develop new knowledge and understanding of a commercial engineering environment, the role of individuals within project teams and associated professional engineering issues
Be able to communicate effectively in a professional engineering environment
Reflect on experience studying in a different culture leading to personal development in global awareness, intercultural competency and adaptability
Evaluate and reflect on their knowledge, skills and competencies to formulate a personal development plan in line with their chosen engineering career

Final year modules

In your final year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Aston Global Advantage	15
Final Year Project	45
Total	60

You will choose two of the following optional modules:*

Module Title	Credits
Digital Systems Design	15
Digital Systems Hardware	15
Internet of Things	15
Digital Signal Processing	15

You will choose two of the following optional modules:*

Module Title	Credits
Reliability in Software Engineering	15
Information Security and Assurance	15
Robotics and Autonomous Systems	15

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.

Final year outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to

Reflect on originality in the application of a systematic understanding of the field to the investigation of issues at the forefront of a specialist area
Research, review and evaluate information from a range of sources to develop knowledge and understanding of advanced concepts
Propose and adapt different problem solving approaches and methodologies to generate creative engineering solution
Interpret and adapt information which may be partially specified and make informed, insightful engineering judgements to resolve conflicting inter-disciplinary requirements
Evaluate and select appropriate investigative techniques to devise evidence based and critically evaluated solutions to an engineering problem subject to multiple real-world constraints
Select and use appropriate communication styles and formats to convey information and ideas and adapt these to the appropriate level for academic, technical and non-technical audiences
Critically evaluate their personal strengths and limitations, assess how these affect the ability to achieve objectives and make an independent appraisal of professional development requirements
Plan, monitor and implement in adaptabile and creative way a substantial individual contribution to an engineering project to successfully achieve a measurable set of objectives

My Placement at Renesas Electronics

Nishika acquired her placement year with Renesas Electronics through the UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF) Scholarship Scheme. During her placement, Nishika worked as a software developer, writing code for microprocessors.

Nishika's placement experience

Facilities

You will learn in our recent £1.3 million refurbished electronics labs, gaining hands-on experience in our high-spec workspaces, with support from our exceptional technicians, meaning you will be industry-ready once you graduate. Some of the facilities include;

Soldering workshop
Power supply multimeter oscilloscope and function generator that are all integrated into one setting and connected to a PC
Workshop space where you can design and produce your prototypes with a laser cutter and a 3D printer
24/7-hour access to the Electrical and Electronic Engineering student society room which has equipment for testing soldering, and a 3D printer that you can use in your free time to work on your own projects and expand your creativity.

You will also have access to an extensive network of computer facilities throughout your course, including high-performance PCs for industrial standard ECAD, Unix workstations, and a large number of embedded processors for lab work. These resources are complemented by specialist electronics, telecommunications, and networked laboratories and research facilities

coursepage_electricalengineering_facilities_lab

coursepage_electricalengineering_facilities_technician

coursepage_electricalengineering_facilities_workshop

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Facilities

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.
As an Aston student, you will develop expertise in four key areas:

AI & Digital

Join the rise of the humans. Don't fear AI, master it and use it for good. Develop digital skills for the future, whatever career you want to pursue.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Don't follow the rules, rewrite them. Today’s fast-changing world needs original thinkers. Creators. Innovators. Risk takers. So get ready to think smart and reach the next level.

Inclusive Leadership

Make space for every voice to be heard. Be the one who brings people together with a shared vision. Learn to break down barriers and be the leader the future needs.

Environmental Sustainability

It's not game over for our planet. It's game on. Together we can create a greener tomorrow. The world urgently needs graduates who can shape more sustainable and ethical ways of working. The future depends on it.

Entry requirements

A Levels
BBC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subject
BCC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subject (with an EPQ or core maths* at grade B)
CCC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subject (contextual offer)

List of STEM (a) subjects: Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Design Technology, Chemistry, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Biology and Electronics.

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Math.

Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

If BTEC is in Engineering:

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (Engineering): DDM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
1 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (Engineering): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
2 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (Engineering): DM, plus 1 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (Engineering): DM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics, plus 1 A-level at a minimum Grade B.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (Engineering): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction if one A level is not in Mathematics: (QCF) Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Distinction, with the following units at Distinction: Mathematics for Engineering, Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems, or Further Engineering Mathematics.
Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade Distinction, plus an A-Level in any subject at grade C. This must include the following units at Distinction: Mathematics for Engineering, Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems, or Further Engineering Mathematics.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

If BTEC is in any other subject:

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (any subject): DDM, and A Level Maths at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (any subject): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B in Mathematics and another STEM (a) subject listed above.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (any subject): DM, plus A-level Mathematics at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (any subject): DM, plus A-level Mathematics at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B including Mathematics.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

29 points overall with 5, 5, 4 in Higher Level, including Mathematics and another STEM (a) listed subject.

We accept the QAA-recognised Access Diploma which must consist of at least 15 Distinctions and 30 Merits at level 3; including at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Mathematics units and at least 15 credits at Level 3 in STEM (a) subject units.

Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification and you must meet the GCSE entry requirement.

The following T Levels are accepted qualifications for this course:

Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction Grade D
Building Services Engineering for Construction Grade D
Onsite Construction Grade D
Design and Development for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D
Engineering Manufacturing Processing and Control Grade D
Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement each applicant must meet a GCSE (level 2) requirements:

GCSE English Language or Literature minimum grade C/4
GCSE Mathematics minimum grade C/4

Non-standard qualifications

Degree

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent Level 3) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second-year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space in that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second-year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have successfully passed (or be expected to pass) your first year with 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university with very similar module content.

The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:

£9,535*

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:

£21,500

UK students (Home Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £9,535 (subject to the passing of legislation implementing the Government’s policy to increase the maximum tuition fee from £9,250, payable by Home Undergraduate students on full-time courses).

International students (Overseas Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £21,500.

All students:

The duration of your programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions and subject at all times to the maximum tuition fee caps set by Government from time to time. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

The MEng Electronic Engineering and Computer Science degree is assessed through a combination of exams, project portfolios, quizzes, quality reviews, lab reports, presentations, and analysis reports.

The assessment methods will reflect the most effective and relevant way to review your performance for each module. Therefore, each module will be assessed in a variety of ways to reflect your knowledge from that module and how you would apply it in the real world.

Career prospects

The demand for professionals who have mastered both fields of electronics and computing is consistently high. Our MEng Electronic Engineering and Computer Science graduates have gone on to work in a variety of roles including Software Engineer and Developer, Electronics Design Engineer, Graduate Consultant Engineer and Electronic Engineer. For a range of employers, such as: HSBC, Renesas Electronics, BAE Systems, Npower, Siemens, Vodafone, QinetiQ, the National Grid, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Cars and Microsoft.

Many of our MEng Electronic Engineering and Computer Science graduates have gone on to complete their PhD with us in the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies, one of the world’s leading photonics research centres.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Does accreditation matter?

Yes. Working towards accreditation with your professional body means that you are among the best in your field. This course is accredited* by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

How will a placement year benefit me?

The placement year is available with all engineering courses, giving you invaluable practical experience and enhancing your career prospects through a paid professional placement in the UK or abroad. We have excellent links with industry and will help to arrange this placement for you.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham