Electrical engineering involves the generation, supply, distribution, application and control of electrical energy. It is also the powerhouse of the manufacturing industry - think of all the electrically powered equipment on a modern production line - without it, industry and the nation would grind to a halt!
With the drive to a sustainable future with lower carbon emissions, the intelligent use of electricity is the key to the more efficient use of energy. Wind, wave and other renewable sources, hybrid and electric cars, more electric ships and aircraft are all developing industries that are crying out for well-qualified electrical engineers.
The three-year degree in electrical engineering is designed for students wishing to develop knowledge and skills for a career in these fields. You will study electrical subjects covering power generation and distribution, electrical machines, power electronics, power quality, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and industrial drive processes, as well as relevant subjects covering control, programming and signal processing.
A year in industry placement develops additional knowledge in aspects of management and commercial practice within industry.
The Department's research activities in these areas are internationally recognised and have attracted considerable industrial collaboration - you will be taught by people who are at the cutting-edge of these technologies.
Year one
The first year is common to all of our courses. This gives you the flexibility to transfer to other courses within the department once you have better knowledge of the different specialist areas. You will gain an understanding of the principles and practices on which all specialisms within electrical and electronic engineering are founded.
Through core modules you will study information systems, power and energy, engineering analysis and computer engineering. You will then apply the knowledge you have acquired to the applied electrical and electronic engineering construction project, where you will also gain valuable practical and fault-finding skills.
The construction project module takes place through a series of weeklong practical sessions where you have the chance to engage fully in the work you are doing and developing yourself as a professional engineer. Your appreciation of the aspects of science and mathematics, which underpin the subject, will also be enhanced.
Year two
You will continue to improve your understanding of electrical and electronic engineering, and your design skills will be developed through a variety of laboratory-based subjects. This will prepare you to study, in the final years of your course, emerging and advanced technologies usually taught by internationally recognised researchers.
Group projects, presentations and seminars enable you to gain the skills and understanding essential for the workplace.
Year three (in industry)
A year in industry placement develops additional knowledge in aspects of management and commercial practice within industry.
Final year
In your final year, you will be able to choose from a range of specialist topics, with flexibility to maintain a broad base or focus on specific technologies. Your individual project forms a major part of the final year. Working in an area of your choosing, you will develop design, analysis, construction and fault-finding skills. Many of these projects support research or development carried out with industry.
More information
See also the Engineering and Science Foundation Year Programme.