Electronic and Communication Engineering BEng(Hons) (with integrated foundation year)

Why choose Brighton?

• Foundation year that opens up opportunities in engineering if you don’t hold the required qualifications, are changing career or returning to study.
• Exciting project work that mirrors industry.
• Accredited by IET.
• Learn with researchers who are part of the Advanced Engineering Centre, and the Centre for Precision Health and Translational Medicine.
• Student-led Sustainable Technology and Engineering Projects (STEP) lab – working to solve energy challenges.
• Specialist facilities include CISCO-certified communication and cybersecurity lab, flight and car simulators, wind tunnel, prototyping labs and workshops, CNC machines, and robotics and VR labs.
• Professional engineers visit to share their experiences in guest lectures.
• Gain a year of work experience on placement.

Foundation year

On successful completion of the foundation year you will progress directly to the Electronic and Computer Engineering BEng(Hons) course.

Modules

• Core Mathematics

  Core Mathematics enables you to develop the mathematical knowledge that you need to study engineering. You'll explore key concepts from arithmetics and algebra to quadratic equations and logarithmic functions in lectures, tutorials and computer-based workshops.

• Core Science

  Core Science introduces you to the concepts and applications of physics and electricity, and helps you to build the study skills needed on an engineering degree. You'll develop skills in basic experimental techniques, measurements and technical report writing.

• Mechanics

  Mechanics introduces you to the key concepts of classical mechanics used across different branches of engineering. You'll use these concepts to analyse the behaviour of simple mechanical systems.

• Engineering Mathematics

  This module builds on the concepts learned in Core Mathematics further developing the mathematical skills needed to study an engineering degree. You'll be introduced to concepts including calculus, complex numbers and matrix algebra. 

• Engineering Science

  Building on the skills learned in Core Science, this module introduces further key physical concepts including light, heat, sound and electromagnetism. As well as taking attending lectures and taking part in tutorials, you'll have practical classes and workshops in the lab.

• Foundation Year Project

  The foundation year project is your opportunity to develop study skills including time management, research methods, problem solving and presentation techniques. You'll work in a small team to produce a technical report and a formal presentation.

Making sure that what you learn with us is relevant, up to date and what employers are looking for is our priority, so courses are reviewed and enhanced on an ongoing basis. When you have applied to us, you’ll be told about any new developments through Student View.

Year 1

The first year is shared with our Electrical and Electronic Engineering BEng(Hons) course. You will explore fundamental electronic engineering topics including engineering concepts, digital and analogue electronics, and mathematics.

Design projects enable you to integrate practical and theoretical work and help to reinforce what you are learning.

Modules

• Introduction to Electrical Engineering

  This module will provide you with context and practical experience of electrical engineering. You will be introduced to fundamental characteristics of power system components, electrical power generation and distribution systems.

• Engineering Mathematics

  In this module you will learn to apply mathematical concepts and software tools to solve engineering problems.

  On completion you will be able to use analytical techniques and software tools to solve simple algebraic problems, develop mathematical models of engineering systems, and apply an appropriate analytical method, or software tool to solve a mathematical model.

• Engineering Practice

  On this module you will develop your engineering skills using projects as the focus of your learning.

  You will work on group projects, applying engineering skills such as reflection, organisation, planning, design, communication and planning. Concepts across a range of engineering specialisms will be introduced as part of a problem-based approach.

• Embedded Systems 1

  This module enables you to build a base of knowledge and skills in programming using the C language (a very common language used in embedded systems).

  You'll use the open-source electronic prototyping platform Arduino with its mix of sensors and actuators, motivating you to set programme challenges for yourself.

• Analogue and Digital Electronics

  This module introduces the essential components and signals found in analogue and digital electronic systems. You'll explore analysis tools that enable you to extract reliable and useable data and signals from circuits, and learn how to use the tools to measure and improve electronic systems.

• Introduction to AI

  This module introduces artificial intelligence (AI), giving you the skills needed for specialist study later in your degree. You'll cover the principles and techniques of AI and gain and understanding of how to apply the techniques to real-world problems and situations.

Year 2

Building on the knowledge and skills developed in year 1, you will explore topics such as computer programming, radio and navigation systems, microcontrollers and programmable logs. 

You will learn programming to an advanced level and spend time in our specialist labs compiling, simulating and implementing your designs.

Modules

• Communication Networks

  Communication Networks will develop your understanding of the principles of analogue communications systems and network protocols. You'll get to grips with basic network configuration and troubleshooting, identifying LAN security threats alongside configuring and securing a basic WLAN.

• Electrical Engineering 2

  Electrical Engineering 2 is an exploration of fundamental concepts used in the electrical power industry. You'll be introduced to the design and analysis of single and three phase electrical power systems, and to the design and operation of electrical power and conversion devices.

• Dynamics and Control

  This module introduces concepts to describe the dynamic behaviour of practical engineering systems. You'll learn to build mathematical models for engineering systems that can be used to analyse and predict the dynamic behaviour of mechanical systems. You'll also explore design and simulation methodologies for systems to control the dynamic behaviour of engineering systems. 

• Embedded Systems 2

  Building on Embedded Systems 1 from your first year, this module enhances your understanding of microcontroller operation by relating software instructions to the hardware architecture using assembly code. You'll extend your C programming skills to be able to use the full functionality of microcontroller technology in an embedded real-time application.

• Digital Systems Design

  Digital Systems Design builds on your knowledge of basic combinational logic and sequential systems design. You'll apply these designs to programmable logic using VHDL as a hardware description language. The module is hands-on and you'll spend time in the laboratory compiling, simulating and implementing your designs using FPGA development software and hardware.

• Engineering Design

  On this module you'll develop the knowledge and skills needed to undertake and apply engineering theory to design practice. You'll work in multidisciplinary groups on the design and manufacture of an engineering project, and ending with a competitive test of the product's functionality.

Placement year

A placement year offers you a great opportunity to:

• build knowledge of real-world businesses and organisations
• develop existing skills and discover new ones
• make contacts in industry and commerce
• increase your confidence
• improve your time management.

You will also gain the appropriate amount of work experience to reach Engineering Technician (EngTech) status.

Our students have been on placement with companies such as Network Rail, General Electric, Rolls-Royce and Cummins Generator Technology.

Final year

Areas of study include digital signal processing, microprocessor systems design, and product innovation and management.

You will also undertake an individual project giving you the opportunity to explore an area that interests you most.

Modules

Core modules

• Individual Project

  In this module you'll be both technical expert and project manager of your major individual project which investigates a technical problem in significant depth. You'll work independently, with a member of academic staff acting as project adviser, building your confidence and competence in project management. The project enables you to bring together skills that you've learned during your degree, such as research, analysis and engineering application.

• Product Design

  This module enables you to further develop the knowledge and skills needed to design engineering products and components. Through a project-based approach, you'll develop your ability to apply design techniques that underpin the generation of new products, alongside examining the management and professional techniques used when releasing new products into the marketplace.

• Wireless Computer Networks

  On this module you'll develop advanced knowledge of the key design aspects of modern wireless communication systems. You'll also explore communication systems theory and the latest innovations in technology.

Options*

• Networking

  Large enterprises depend heavily on the smooth operation of their network infrastructures. You'll explore the architectures and considerations related to designing, securing, operating and troubleshooting enterprise networks. The module will also prepare you for CCNA certification as an optional activity. 

• Digital Signal Processing

  Digital Signal Processing prepares you to apply digital signal algorithms to real-time signals. You'll develop the knowledge, skills and understanding to implement digital signal processing algorithms operating on real-time one-dimensional data. Part of your assessment will be a technical report detailing your investigation, evaluation and implementation of FIR and IIR filters in a real-world situation.

• AI/ML for Robotics Communication Systems

  This module introduces artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques and applications used in robotics and communication systems. You'll develop in-depth knowledge of topics such as neural networks, data mining, information filtering, node-to-node communication and mobile/wireless communications like 5G and B5G. And you'll use that knowledge in a group practical project to design and build a system.

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.

Staff profile

Dr Zuhaib Khan, course leader

In my role as a course leader I make a conscious effort to bring real-world examples and experiences into the classroom, bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications. Engaging with current industry trends, challenges, and innovations allows me to provide students with valuable insights that extend beyond the textbook. Additionally, I maintain an active presence in professional networks, fostering collaborations and partnerships that can enhance the learning experience for my students.

Our students engage extremely well in practical, hands-on learning from industry visits and guest lectures to design and build projects and participating in competitions. Students also have opportunities to get involved in diverse and impactful research projects, applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. Recent examples of student involvement include students contributing to the optimisation of a communication protocol for a low-power, long range wireless sensor network, and a research initiative focused on developing a real-time algorithm for the early detection of anomalies in ECG signals.

One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching undergraduates lies in witnessing the transformative journey as students navigate through their academic pursuits. The joy stems from facilitating the acquisition of knowledge and skills, fostering critical thinking, and observing students evolve into capable, enthusiastic professionals. The vibrant interactions with students, their diverse perspectives, and the collaborative learning environment create a dynamic and enriching atmosphere that adds a sense of purpose and excitement to the teaching experience.

Course fees

If you choose to take the professional placement (sandwich) year offered on this course you will pay a reduced fee during this year. Our fee for the professional placement year is £1,500 for UK students and £2,280 for international students. This fee may be subject to small increases, in line with inflation.

The fees listed here are for the first year of full-time study if you start your course in the academic year 2024–25.

You will pay fees for each year of your course. Some fees may increase each year.

UK undergraduate and some postgraduate fees are regulated by the UK government and increases will not be more than the maximum amount allowed. Course fees that are not regulated may increase each year by up to 5% or RPI (whichever is higher).

If you are studying part-time your fee will usually be calculated based on the number of modules that you take.

Find out more

• Brighton Boost – cost of living help for our new undergrad students. Find out about how we can help with your study, accommodation or travel costs and more...
• Fees, bursaries, scholarships and government funding info for UK and international undergraduate students
• Student finance and budgeting while studying
• Read our student contract and tuition fee policy (pdf) for more on University of Brighton tuition fees.

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