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MSc|Postgraduate Taught

Electronics

Entry year
2025/26
Entry requirements
2.2
Duration
1 year (Full-time)
3 years (Part-time)
Places available
TBC (Full Time)
TBC (Part Time)

This programme is designed as a specialised extension to the study of Electronics at undergraduate level. The programme provides students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding and develop specialist expertise in a range of advanced electronics subjects including microelectronics, sensors, signal processing, hardware and software design, communications, and digital systems.

PLEASE NOTE:

Applications for this course received after 30th June 2025 may not be accepted. In addition, a deposit will be required to secure a place.

Electronics highlights

World Class Facilities

Our facilities have recently undergone a £10m refurbishment and include laboratories for Microengineering, Electronics, Communications, Circuits, Instrumentation, Virtual Reality, Software Engineering, Renewable Energy, Power and Machines. The Queen's Advanced Micro-engineering Centre (QAMEC) is a Centre of Excellence for research and development employing silicon technology and MEMS technology.

Internationally Renowned Experts

An example of our research includes our work in the area of space technologies, where we are involved in a number of projects with the European Space Agency, the new UK Space Applications Catapult Centre, the European High Power Radio-Frequency Space Laboratory and companies such as Astrium, Thales and QinetiQ.

Professional Accreditations

MSc in Electronics is seeking to update its accreditation by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.

Course Structure

Students may enrol on a full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 or 3 years) basis. Taught modules are delivered over two semesters.

Full-time students follow taught modules in Semester 1 (Autumn) and Semester 2 (Spring) and they carry out an independent research project and write their MSc thesis (dissertation) in the summer.

Part-time students may take the course over a two or three year period and are required to take at least two modules per year.

An MSc is awarded to candidates who pass six taught modules (120 CATS points) and the individual research project (60 CATS points).

An “MSc with Professional Placement” is awarded to those students who meet these requirements and are able to secure a (minimum) 9-month placement in an appropriate industrial sector (to be approved by the school).

Two other exit qualifications exist: (i) A Postgraduate Diploma is awarded to students who will pass six modules (120 CATS points) and (ii) a Postgraduate Certificate is awarded to students who pass three modules (60 CATS points).

Course Details

The MSc consists of a practical project of a research nature (60 CATS) plus six modules (120 CATS). The PGDip consists of six modules (120 CATS). Modules normally run from September until June, with the project commencing in November and running until the following September.

In any given year further specialist topics may be available or some topics may not be offered.

Programme Modules

This MSc programme in Electronics is designed to train the next generation of Electrical and Electronic Engineers who will have the necessary skills to occupy prestigious positions in the industry or research institutes and the academia. The curriculum involves the following taught modules (the first two modules are compulsory and you need to choose another four):

Note, we constantly review the syllabus to ensure we are up to date and industry relevant, therefore modules are subject to change and not all modules are guaranteed to be offered each year.


MEMS Devices and Technology: Microelectromechanical devices (MEMS devices) are increasingly common in a wide range of applications, e.g. environmental and biomedical sensing, automotive systems and portable electronics. This module will examine the structure and operation of a range of common MEMS devices including pressure sensors and accelerometers. The design of such devices will be explored, as will a range of sensing and actuation methods. The module will include fabrication technology for silicon-based MEMS including details of processes such as material deposition, etching, and wafer bonding.

Microelectronics Devices and Technology: This module offers a detailed discussion of the fabrication and internal electronics of modern silicon devices. Bipolar and MOS technologies are covered from first principles, such that students should be able to apply their learning to all silicon-based devices. You will be introduced to the realities of present-day scaling and the key parameters which control device performance.

Intelligent Systems and Control: Intelligent Systems and Control develops a robust understanding of the major academic topics which define control methods and intelligent algorithms in dynamic systems. Special focus is given on analysis and design methodologies for control systems alongside an introduction to artificial intelligence.

Wireless Communications: This module provides the concepts and techniques required for the generic design of modern wireless communication systems. Wireless communication systems are emerging as a primary enabling technology in the realisation of smarter connected devices in the future digital society. The module will focus on the fundamentals of wireless system design and include a study of progressive trends in communications and challenges posed by the next generation wireless systems.

Wireless Sensor Systems: This module gives an introduction to Wireless Sensor Networks, their capabilities, applications, the Internet of Things (IoT) concept, enabling technologies and standards. It includes collaborative sensing, aggregation of data, data analysis, communication protocols, MAC-layer, routing protocols, energy-aware operation, power management, time synchronization and synchronization protocols.

Control and Estimation Theory: You will learn how to design a stabilising model predictive controller (MPC), which is an advanced control methodology used in modern control applications (robotics, process industry, aerospace, automotive, etc). We will also give an introduction to probability and statistics and learn the basics of estimation theory, with special focus on the Kalman filter and nonlinear state estimation methodologies. The module includes lab sessions where the students acquire hands-on experience in the applications of control and estimation theory.

Digital Signal Processing: This module covers a number of key topics on digital signal processing and its applications. Particular topics include, but are not limited to, Fourier series, Fourier and Laplace transforms, Sampling, Analog and Digital filter design, Adaptive Filters and the celebrated Discrete and Fast Fourier Transforms.

Each student needs to carry out an individual MSc project under the supervision of an academic. We offer a very large number of project proposals every year. Some of our top students publish the results of their work in esteemed international peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

Note that the above taught modules will be offered conditional on having an adequate number of enrolled students. If you would like further information, do not hesitate to contact the course director, Dr Pantelis Sopasakis at p.sopasakis@qub.ac.uk.

People teaching you

Course Director

School of EEECS
Email: p.sopasakis@qub.ac.uk

Learning and Teaching

Learning and Teaching

Academic Team

You will be taught by a team of experts in their subject areas and are active researchers in those subjects. Often our students conduct their individual research project within an ongoing research project so they get exposed to the state of the art in electrical and electronics engineering.

English Language Support

The school is offering support on the use of English in academic writing. This will help you not only during your studies at Queen’s, but also in your future career.

Mathematics Support

The school is offering additional support on mathematics. Queen’s University is also home to MASH: the Mathematics and Statistics Helpdesk.

Modules

Each module normally involves two hours of lectures per week. Some modules include additional tutorial sessions (where you solve exercises or address practical problems with the help of your lecturer) or laboratory exercises

Transferable Skills

We give a lot of emphasis on the development of transferable skills, such as the communication skills, time management and prioritisation, research and critical thinking, effective CV writing and interview skills, collaboration and more.

Virtual Learning Environment

All modules have a virtual learning environment (using Canvas) where the students can find all relevant material (lecture notes, handouts, video lectures) as well as online quizzes and assignments. Without a doubt, having all learning resources in one place is very useful.

Assessment

Assessments associated with the course are outlined below:

  • Coursework
  • Written examination
  • Project dissertation

What our academics say

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Modules

Modules

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

  • Year 1

    Core Modules

    Project (60 credits)

    Optional Modules

Entrance requirements

Graduate

Normally a 2.2 Honours degree or above or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in Electrical and/or Electronic Engineering, or Physics with significant electronics content.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 30th June 2025 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.

Please note: a deposit will be required to secure a place.

International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.

English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.

International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.

If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

  • Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
  • Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.

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Careers

Career Prospects

Introduction

Our graduates have found that earning a prestigious MSc qualification from the School, one of the UK's top engineering schools, has significantly enhanced their job opportunities and employment prospects. Graduates typically find employment in a wide range of fields including with semiconductor companies, electronic equipment manufacturers, design and service providers, software houses and in other electronic engineering-based industries.

Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes alongside sterling integration with business experts helps our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/

Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1 £7,300
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 £7,300
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 £9,250
EU Other 3 £25,800
International £25,800

1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

More information on postgraduate tuition fees.

Additional course costs

There are no specific additional course costs associated with this programme.

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

How do I fund my study?

The Department for the Economy will provide a tuition fee loan of up to £6,500 per NI / EU student for postgraduate study. Tuition fee loan information.

A postgraduate loans system in the UK offers government-backed student loans of up to £11,836 for taught and research Masters courses in all subject areas (excluding Initial Teacher Education/PGCE, where undergraduate student finance is available). Criteria, eligibility, repayment and application information are available on the UK government website.

More information on funding options and financial assistance - please check this link regularly, even after you have submitted an application, as new scholarships may become available to you.

International Scholarships

Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.

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How to Apply

Apply using our online Queen's Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Apply now

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

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