Masters Degrees (Vlsi Design)

Programme description

This programme offers distinct specialisation areas in electronics: analogue VLSI design, bioelectronics and analogue and digital systems.

In analogue VLSI design, our facilities include a unique custom designed analogue integrated circuit specifically designed to support laboratory based teaching. Our advanced design and prototyping laboratories, advanced micro and nano fabrication facilities and state-of-the-art digital system laboratories use the latest industry standard software tools.

Alternatively, students may specialise in the emergent discipline of bioelectronics where our research and teaching interests include access to the fabrication facilities at the Scottish Microelectronics Centre. For students who wish to study a more general electronics course including digital systems, a prescribed course selection is available.

Programme structure

This programme is run over 12 months, with two semesters of taught courses, with a number of options, followed by a research project, leading to a masters thesis.

Semester 1 courses

• Analogue IC Design
• Analogue VLSI A
• Discrete-Time Signal Analysis
• Power Electronics
• Principles of Microelectronic Devices
• Digital Systems Laboratory A
• Introduction to Bioelectronics
• Biosensors

Semester 2 courses

• Digital System Design
• Digital Systems Laboratory
• Research Project Preparation
• Electronic/Electrical Engineering System Design
• Analogue VLSI B
• Sigma Delta Converters
• Analogue Circuit Design
• Microfabrication Techniques
• Biosensors and Instrumentation
• Lab-on-Chip Technologies
• Biomedical Imaging Techniques
• Embedded Mobile and Wireless Systems
• Modern Economic Issues in Industry
• Technology and Innovation Management

Career opportunities

You will gain significant practical experience in analogue and digital laboratories and become familiar with the latest industry standard design software and environments. Having been exposed to concepts such as design re-use and systems on chip technology, you will be able to cooperate with others in electronic system design. Recent graduates are now working as applications, design, field, test and validation engineering for employers such as BMW, Guangzhou Hangxin Avionics and Kongsberg Maritime.

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This course covers all aspects relevant to the modern microelectronics industry, including semiconductor theory, fabrication technology, digital techniques, VLSI design and reconfigurable hardware design.

The course covers the main areas of microelectronics:
-Semiconductor theory and fabrication
-Digital and VSLI design
-Application areas

Our graduates are equipped for a career in any area of the industry, while having an appreciation of other aspects of the subject.

You have access to an advanced range of facilities including clean rooms and a characterisation laboratory. Work in more application-related areas involves the use of modern design software. This includes the industry-standard CADENCE suite and a full range of FPGA design facilities.

Academic staff in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering have an international reputation for their research work. The School carries out world-leading research in microelectronic technologies. You will have the opportunity to interact with this work, particularly during your individual project. After graduation there may be opportunities for you to work towards a PhD by joining one of our research groups.

Delivery

This course consists of compulsory and optional modules, and an individual project. Assessment is by written examination at the end of each semester, coursework, and a project and dissertation conducted in association with one of the School's research groups.

Employability

We collect information from our graduates six months after they leave University. This is part of the Destination of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey that every UK higher education institution takes part in.

Accreditation

The course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and Engineering Council, and therefore provides a good foundation for professional registration.

Facilities

Facilities include two clean rooms of class 100-1000 and 100-10000, with capabilities in:
-Lithography
-Deposition
-Thermal and plasma processing
-Packaging

There is a characterisation lab with comprehensive device test facilities. Leading CAD software for modelling and device design is available, some of which originates from researchers at Newcastle.

For VLSI design, you have access to the industry-standard CADENCE suite, and a variety of novel tools developed at Newcastle. There is also a comprehensive range of design tools for FPGA-based systems.

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This Masters in Electronics & Electrical Engineering is designed for both new graduates and more established engineers. It covers a broad spectrum of specialist topics with immediate application to industrial problems, from electrical supply through systems control to high-speed electronics.

Why this programme

◾Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Glasgow is consistently highly ranked recently achieving 1st in Scotland and 4th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2017).
◾If you are an electronics and electrical engineering graduate wanting to improve your skills and knowledge; a graduate of another engineering discipline or physical science and you want to change field; looking for a well rounded postgraduate qualification in electronics and electrical engineering to enhance your career prospects, this programme is designed for you.
◾The MSc in Electronics and Electrical Engineering includes lectures on "Nanofabrication", "Micro- and Nanotechnology", "Optical Communications" and "Microwave and Millimetre Wave Circuit Design", "Analogue CMOS circuit design", VLSI Design and CAD", all research areas undertaken in the James Watt Nanofabrication Centre.
◾With a 92% overall student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2015, Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the School of Engineering combines both teaching excellence and a supportive learning environment.
◾This programme has a September and January intake*.

*For suitably qualified candidates.

Programme structure

Modes of delivery of the MSc in Electronics and Electrical Engineering include lectures, seminars and tutorials and allow students the opportunity to take part in lab, project and team work.

You will undertake a project where you will apply your newly learned skills and show to future employers that you have been working on cutting-edge projects relevant to the industry.

Courses include

(six normally chosen)
◾Bioelectronics
◾Computer communications
◾Control
◾Digital signal processing
◾Electrical energy systems
◾Energy conversion systems
◾Micro- and nano-technology
◾Microwave electronic and optoelectronic devices
◾Microwave and millimetre wave circuit design
◾Optical communications
◾Power electronics and drives
◾Real-time embedded programming
◾VLSI design
◾MSc project.

Projects

◾To complete the MSc degree you must undertake a project worth 60 credits.
◾The project will integrate subject knowledge and skills that you acquire during the MSc programme.
◾The project is an important part of your MSc where you can apply your newly learned skills and show to future employers that you have been working on cutting edge projects relevant to the industry.
◾You can choose a topic from a list of MSc projects in Electronics and Electrical Engineering. Alternatively, should you have your own idea for a project, department members are always open to discussion of topics.

Example projects

Examples of projects can be found online

*Posters shown are for illustrative purposes

Industry links and employability

◾This programme is aimed at training new graduates as well as more established engineers , covering a broad spectrum of specialist topics with immediate application to industrial problems.
◾The School of Engineering has extensive contacts with industrial partners who contribute to several of their taught courses, through active teaching, curriculum development, and panel discussion. Recent contributions in Electronics and Electrical Engineering include: Freescale.
◾During the programme students have an opportunity to develop and practice relevant professional and transferrable skills, and to meet and learn from employers about working in the electronic and electrical engineering industry.

Career prospects

Career opportunities include chip design, embedded system design, telecommunications, video systems, automation and control, aerospace, software development, development of PC peripherals and FPGA programming, defence, services for the heavy industries, for example electricity generation equipment and renewables plant, etc.

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Microsystems Engineering is one of the most dynamic and interdisciplinary engineering fields. The Master of Science program in Microsystems Engineering (MSE) provides the educational basis for your success in this field. The MSE program is designed for highly qualified graduate students holding a Bachelor degree in engineering or science.

In the first year 12 mandatory courses provide the fundamental theoretical framework for a future career in Microsystems. These courses are designed to provide students with a broad knowledge base in the most important aspects of the field:

• MSE technologies and processes
• Microelectronics
• Micro-mechanics
• MSE design laboratory I
• Optical Microsystems
• Sensors
• Probability and statistics
• Assembly and packaging technology
• Dynamics of MEMS
• Micro-actuators
• Biomedical Microsystems
• Micro-fluidics
• MSE design laboratory II
• Signal processing

As part of the mandatory courses, the Microsystems design laboratory is a two-semester course in which small teams of students undertake a comprehensive, hands-on design project in Microsystems engineering. Requiring students to address all aspects of the generation of a microsystem, from conceptualization, through project planning to fabrication and testing, this course provides an essential glimpse into the workings of engineering projects.

In the second year, MSE students can specialise in two of the following seven concentration areas (elective courses), allowing each student to realize individual interests and to obtain an in-depth look at two sub-disciplines of this very broad, interdisciplinary field:

• Circuits and systems
• Design and simulation
• Life sciences: Biomedical engineering
• Life sciences: Lab-on-a-chip
• Materials
• Process engineering
• Sensors and actuators

Below are some examples of subjects offered in the concentration areas. These subjects do not only include theoretical lectures, but also hands-on courses such as labs, projects and seminars.

Circuits and Systems
• Analog CMOS Circuit Design
• Mixed-Signal CMOS Circuit Design
• VLSI – System Design
• RF- und Microwave Devices and Circuits
• Micro-acoustics
• Radio sensor systems
• Optoelectronic devices
• Reliability Engineering
• Lasers
• Micro-optics
• Advanced topics in Macro-, Micro- and Nano-optics


Design and Simulation
• Topology optimization
• Compact Modelling of large Scale Systems
• Lattice Gas Methods
• Particle Simulation Methods
• VLSI – System Design
• Hardware Development using the finite element method
• Computer-Aided Design

Life Sciences: Biomedical Engineering
• Signal processing and analysis of brain signals
• Neurophysiology I: Measurement and Analysis of Neuronal Activity
• Neurophysiology II: Electrophysiology in Living Brain
• DNA Analytics
• Basics of Electrostimulation
• Implant Manufacturing Techologies
• Biomedical Instrumentation I
• Biomedical Instrumentation II

Life Sciences: Lab-on-a-chip
• DNA Analytics
• Biochip Technologies
• Bio fuel cell
• Micro-fluidics 2: Platforms for Lab-on-a-Chip Applications

Materials
• Microstructured polymer components
• Test structures and methods for integrated circuits and microsystems
• Quantum mechanics for Micro- and Macrosystems Engineering
• Microsystems Analytics
• From Microsystems to the nano world
• Techniques for surface modification
• Nanomaterials
• Nanotechnology
• Semiconductor Technology and Devices

MEMS Processing
• Advanced silicon technologies
• Piezoelectric and dielectric transducers
• Nanotechnology

Sensors and Actuators
• Nonlinear optic materials
• CMOS Microsystems
• Quantum mechanics for Micro- and Macrosystems Engineering
• BioMEMS
• Bionic Sensors
• Micro-actuators
• Energy harvesting
• Electronic signal processing for sensors and actuators


Essential for the successful completion of the Master’s degree is submission of a Master’s thesis, which is based on a project performed during the third and fourth semesters of the program. Each student works as a member of one of the 18 research groups of the department, with full access to laboratory and cleanroom infrastructure.

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Engineering is constantly changing, and graduates often need to deepen their technical skills and understanding.

This course is especially relevant for mechanical and manufacturing engineers and technicians wishing to broaden their industrial and managerial skills. It is ideal for continuing professional development and updating technical skills.

You study eight taught modules drawn from a wide choice of technical and management modules. This gives you advanced tuition in areas of engineering tailored to your career needs such as design, manufacturing, materials, networking or electronics and telecommunications.

We emphasise applying knowledge to relevant workplace skills in areas such as

• design, manufacture, electronics, telecommunications and information technology, networking and materials
• core management disciplines of quality, finance and marketing and others

The international product development module involves working in multidisciplinary teams to design and develop a product in the global market.

This flexible course helps you to develop your career based your needs, and helps you on your path towards Chartered Engineer status.

Professional recognition

This course is accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), on behalf of the Engineering Council, for the purposes of partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer; graduates who have a BEng (Hons) accredited for CEng will be able to show that they have satisfied the further learning requirement for CEng accreditation.

This course is also accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council and will meet, in part, the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Accredited MSc graduates who also have a BEng (Hons) accredited for CEng, will be able to show that they have satisfied the educational base for CEng registration. It should be noted that graduates from an accredited MSc programme, who do not also have an appropriately accredited Honours degree, will not be regarded as having the exemplifying qualifications for professional registration as a Chartered Engineer with the Engineering Council; and will need to have their first qualification individually assessed through the Individual Case Procedure if they wish to progress to CEng.

This programme is CEng accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and fulfils the educational requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer when presented with an CEng accredited Bachelors programme.

Course structure

You choose a combination of management, technical and optional modules from a choice of 36. Your choice must total eight 15-credit modules and be agreed with your course leader. At least four must be technical modules.

Optional management modules

• finance and marketing
• project and quality management
• management of strategy, change and innovation
• lean operations and six sigma
• manufacturing systems

Optional technical modules

• group project - international product development • competitive materials technology • advanced CAD/CAM • competitive design for manufacture • advanced manufacturing technology • advanced metallic materials • sustainability, energy and environmental management • computer networks • communication media • network applications • communication engineering • digital signal processing • applicable artificial intelligence • microprocessor engineering • software engineering • operating systems • object oriented methods • digital electronic system design • VLSI design • industrial applications of finite element methods • industrial automation • robotics • machine vision • equipment engineering and design • control of linear systems • advanced investigatory techniques for materials engineers • advanced control methods • advanced vibration and acoustics

MSc

• project and dissertation (60 credits)

Assessment

By final examination, coursework and project reports    

Employability

Graduates in technical subjects can broaden their experience in mechanical manufacturing, electronics and information technology, networking, materials and management areas.

The flexible choice of modules allows you to tailor the course to your particular needs and this can enhance career prospects in the engineering industry, research, teaching and public service.

   

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Explore the latest electrical engineering and process control techniques through this Masters in Microelectronic Systems Design. This postgraduate course is accredited by IET and meets Chartered Engineer status.

•Complete this masters degree in one year (full time)
•Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the course meets Chartered Engineer status requirements
•Study at one the UK’s leading Engineering Schools
•Programme informed by internationally-acclaimed research
•Close industry links
•Excellent career opportunities in roles such as system designers, analysts, and senior engineers in the fields of electrical engineering, process control, and related industries

This Masters course will equip you with the technical and management skills you need to progress to senior professional positions, specialising in the design, fabrication and testing of microelectronic devices.

You will study the fundamental principles that drive future developments in microelectronics. We offer the opportunity to develop the critical, analytical and experimental skills to solve practical problems and work at the cutting edge of this rapidly developing field.

You’ll learn how to critically analyse designs, their functionality and expected reliability and it will also be important for you to gain a strong understanding of the capabilities and limitations of modelling and simulation tools.

The programme design provides opportunities to practice communication skills at Chartered Engineer level. You’ll gain sought after professional behavioural traits to prepare you for technical and management roles in microelectrical system design.

You will also undertake an individual project giving the opportunity to focus on your area of interest, working with our world-leading researchers.

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Level 7
Dynamic systems simulation
Microelectronic systems design
VLSI devices, fabrication and testing
Embedded systems
VLSI design
Research skills
Modelling with Matlab and Simulink
MSc project
Advanced single processing
Operations research
Safety and reliability
Project management
Programming for engineering
LabVIEW
Professional and leadership skills

Further guidance on modules

The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Academic Framework reviews are conducted by LJMU from time to time to ensure that academic standards continue to be maintained. A review is currently in progress and will be operational for the academic year 2016/2017. Final details of this programme’s designated core and option modules will be made available on LJMU’s website as soon as possible and prior to formal enrolment for the academic year 2016/2017.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

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Bristol, and the surrounding area, hosts a thriving and world-leading semiconductor design industry. The Microelectronics group at the University of Bristol has many collaborative links with multinational companies in the microelectronics industry that have identified a shortfall in graduates with the necessary qualifications and professional skills to work in the sector. This programme has been designed to meet this need.

A range of taught subjects cover core topics such as advanced architectures and system design using FPGA and DSP platforms, before progressing into more specialised areas such as digital and analogue ASIC design, integrated sensors and actuators and mixed-signal design. Changes are made periodically to reflect important emerging disciplines, such as electronics for internet of things, bio-medical applications and neuromorphic computing.

The programme offers you the opportunity to learn from experts in micro- and nanoelectronics and computer science, to allow you to start working straight after your degree or continue your studies via a PhD. Special emphasis is put on providing you with a range of contemporary design skills to supplement theoretical knowledge. Lectures are accompanied by lab exercises in state-of-the-art industrial EDA software to give you experience of a professional environment.

Programme structure

The course consists of 120 credits of taught units and an individual research project worth 60 credits. The following core subjects, each worth 10 credit points (100 learning hours), are taken over autumn and spring:
-Design Verification
-Analogue Integrated Circuit Design
-Integrated Circuit Electronics
-Digital Filters and Spectral Analysis (M)
-Advanced DSP & FPGA Implementation
-VLSI Design M
-Embedded and Real-Time Systems
-Wireless Networking and Sensing in e-Healthcare

Additionally students are able to choose any two out of the following four 10-credit units (some combinations may not be possible due to timetabling constraints).

-Device Interconnect - Principles and Practice
-Advanced Computer Architecture
-Sustainability, Technology and Business
-Computational Neuroscience
-Bio Sensors

In the spring term, students also take Engineering Research Skills, a 20-credit unit designed to introduce the fundamental skills necessary to carry out the MSc project.

After completing the taught units satisfactorily, all students undertake a final project which involves researching, planning and implementing a major piece of work relating to microelectronics systems design. The project must have a significant scientific or technical component and may involve on-site collaboration with an industrial partner. The thesis is normally submitted by the end of September.

The programme structure is under continual discussion with the National Microelectronics Institute and our industrial advisory board in order that it remains at the cutting edge of the semiconductor industry. It is therefore subject to small changes on an ongoing basis to generally improve the programme and recognise important emerging disciplines.

Careers

This course gives graduating students the background to go on to a career in a variety of disciplines in the IT sector, due to the core and specialist units that cover key foundational concepts as well as advanced topics related to hardware design, programming and embedded systems and system-level integration.

Typical careers are in soft fabrication facilities and design houses in the semiconductor industry, electronic-design automation tool vendors, embedded systems specialists and software houses. The course also covers concepts and technologies related to emerging paradigms such as neuromorphic computing and the Internet of Things and prepares you for a career in academic research.

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The School of Electronic Engineering at Bangor is ranked as 2nd in the UK for research by the UK Government in its most recent Research Assessment Exercise and as such the School houses academics, researchers and students of international standing. The School offers an MRes programme in Electronic Engineering, with a variety of specialist areas of study available. Each programme is aligned to the research conducted within the School:

MRes Electronic Engineering Optoelectronics
MRes Electronic Engineering Optical Communications
MRes Electronic Engineering Organic Electronics
MRes Electronic Engineering Polymer Electronics
MRes Electronic Engineering Micromachining
MRes Electronic Engineering Nanotechnology
MRes Electronic Engineering VLSI Design
MRes Electronic Engineering Bio-Electronics

The MRes programme provides a dedicated route for high-calibre students who (may have a specific research aim in mind) are ready to carry out independent research leading to PhD level study or who are seeking a stand alone research based qualification suitable for a career in research with transferable skills for graduate employment.
It is the normal expectation that the independent research thesis (120 credits) should be of at a publishable standard in a high quality peer reviewed journal.
The MRes programme is a full-time one year course consisting of 60 taught credits at the beginning of the programme which lead on to the 120 credit thesis.
Each MRes shares the taught element of the course, after successful completion of the taught element students are then able to specialise in a specific subject for their thesis.
The taught provision has four distinct 15 credit modules that concentrate on specific generic skill.

Modelling and Design
Focuses on the simulation and design of electronic devices using an advanced software package – COMSOL. This powerful commercial software package is extremely adaptable and can be used to simulate and design a very wide range of physical systems.

Introduction to Nanotechnology and Microsystems
Focuses on the device fabrication techniques at the nano and micro scale, as well as introducing some of the diagnostic tools available to test the quality and characteristics of devices.

Project Planning
Focuses on the skills required to scope, plan, execute and report the
outcomes of a business and research project.

Mini Project
Focuses on applying the skills and techniques to a mini project, whose theme will form the basis of the substantive research project.
MRes Research Project: After the successful completions of the taught component of the programme, the major individual thesis will be undertaken within the world-leading research groups of the School.
Student Study Support
All students are assigned a designated supervisor, an academic member of staff who will provide formal supervision and support on a daily basis.
The School’s Director of Graduate Studies will ensure that the appropriate level of support and guidance is available for all postgraduate students, and each Course Director is available to help and advise their students as and when required.

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The Master’s programme in Electronics Engineering focuses on the design of integrated circuits and System-on-Chip in advanced semiconductor technologies. This requires a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills across many fields within engineering and science, far beyond the curriculum of traditional electronics education. The programme provides a competitive education in digital, analogue and Radio Frequency (RF) integrated circuits (IC) and System-on-Chip (SoC) design, combined with in-depth knowledge in signal processing, application specific processors, embedded systems design, modern communications systems and radio transceivers design.

The modern society depends to a large extent on reliable and efficient electronics. Mobile phones, internet, PCs and TVs are just a few examples that constantly improve in terms of functionality, performance and cost. In addition, there is a growing number of concepts and technologies which will significantly improve areas such as: mobile and broadband communications, healthcare, automotive, robotics, energy systems management, entertainment, consumer electronics, public safety and security, industrial applications and much more. This indicates that there will be vast industrial opportunities in the future, and also a high demand for competent engineers with the required knowledge and skills to lead the design of such complex integrated circuits and systems.

The programme is arranged by several strong divisions at the department of Electrical Engineering and the department of Computer and Information Science. These groups, which include more than 60 researchers and 10 internationally recognized professors, have excellent teaching experience, world-class research activities which cover nearly the entire field of integrated electronic design, state-of-the-art laboratories and design environments, as well as close research collaboration with many companies worldwide.

The programme starts with courses in wireless communication systems, digital integrated circuits, digital system design, analogue integrated circuits and an introduction to radio electronics, providing a solid base for the continuation of the studies. Later on, a large selection of courses provides two major tracks of studies, including common and specific courses. The tracks are:
System-on-Chip with focus on digital System-on-Chip design and embedded systems.
Analogue/Digital and RF IC design with emphasis on the design of mixed analogue/digital and radio frequency integrated circuits.

The programme offers several large design project courses, giving excellent opportunities for students to improve their design skills by using the same state-of-the-art circuit and system design environments and CAD tools that are used in industry today. For instance, in the project course VLSI Design students will design real chips using standard CMOS technology that will be sent for fabrication, measured and evaluated in a follow-up course. Only few universities in the world have the know-how and capability to provide such courses.

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Course Summary

The field of microelectronics systems design embodies many of the key skills relating to integrated circuit design and electronic systems engineering. This cutting-edge programme examines aspects of system integration and discrete device properties, and is an excellent platform for further research in the Nano group and the Electronics and Electrical Engineering group.

Modules

Semester one: Digital Integrated Circuit Design; Digital System Design; Nanoelectronic Devices; VLSI Systems Design

Semester two: VLSI Design Project; Analogue and Mixed Signal CMOS Design; Automated Software Verification; Nanofabrication and Microscopy; Advanced Wireless Communication Networks and Systems; Medical Electrical and Electronic Technologies; Cryptography; Digital Systems Synthesis; Embedded Processors

Visit our website for further information...

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About the course

This MSc provides advanced training and enhances your skills in the specialised area of electronics, communications and computer engineering.

The course aims to provide you with a comprehensive coverage of the skills required by an engineer working in instrumentation, electronic systems, wireless and wired telecommunications, computer hardware, and software aspects of computer engineering.

The programme provides an excellent basis for engineers wishing to update their knowledge, students who wish to embark a career in advance research and development, or for students wishing to enhance their training and qualifications.

Key facts

Particular features of the programme include:

- Incorporating 6 months industrial internship as part of the curriculum
- Teaching informed by active leading-edge researchers in the field
- Innovative and engaging teaching methods
- One-to-one project consultation with expert members of staff
- Access to many online resources and flexibility in course content. This is a highly flexible course, which gives you the opportunity to - Choose modules according to your specific interests and requirements.

Course content and structure

After completing the taught components of the course, you will undertake an industrial internship placement with the major industry players in the field of electronics, communications and computer engineering. Subsequently, with knowledge/skills gained through industrial internship period, you will proceed with highly industry-oriented research project supervised by our expert members of faculty staffs.

This course operates on a modular basis and consists of a series of taught modules (worth 120 credits), followed by 6 months of non-credit bearing industrial internship. During the industrial internship, you will explore your interest in a specific research topic/project dissertation which will be beginning right after your industrial placement. The project dissertation will be 60-credit worth, and will begin in the following spring period.

You will be taught using the latest advances in teaching methods and electronic resources, as well as small-group and individual tutorial.

Tutors provide feedback on assignments. Our objective is to help you develop the confidence to work as a professional academic, at ease with the conventions of the discipline, and ready to tackle any area of research in electronic communications and computer engineering.

Modules offered:

Instrumentation and Measurement
Engineering Ultrasonics
Optical Communications and Networks
HDL for Programmable Logic
Applied Computational Engineering
Integrated Photonics: Design and Technology
Control Systems Design
Electronic Design
Solid State Devices
Digital Communications
Power Electronic Design
Embedded Computing
Digital Signal Processing for Telecommunication Multimedia and Instrumentation
RF Microelectronics
Mobile Communications
VLSI Design
Telecommunication Electronics
Web Based Computing
Optical Communications
Applied Computational Engineering

Internship programme​

The internships are with IC design, solid-state electronics, automotive electronics or semiconductor industries that are mainly located in Ningbo/Shanghai. Our partners are either international or locally-bred, such as Ningbo Advanced Memory Technology Corporation, Atmel, Sondrel, AMD and Bosch. We may expand our internship programme in Hong Kong, South Korea, etc in the future.

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Advances in technology are yielding smaller and higher-performance computer systems permeating into a wide range of applications, from communication systems to consumer products and common household appliances. Computer engineering encompasses the principles, methods, and modern tools for the design and implementation of computing systems.

Our MSc Computer Engineering is the first in the UK and provides a balanced perspective of both hardware and software elements of computing systems, and their relative design trade-offs and applications. It will build on your knowledge in mathematics, science, and engineering to ensure you have a sound foundation in the areas needed for a career in this field.

Laboratory experiences enable you to understand experimental design and simulation techniques. We are internationally leading in this and you will have access to unique computer engineering platforms including our:
-Intelligent Flat (iSpace)
-Robotics Arena
-Networked intelligent campus (iCampus)
-Advanced networking and multimedia labs

Our School is a community of scholars leading the way in technological research and development. Today’s computer scientists are creative people who are focused and committed, yet restless and experimental. We are home to many of the world’s top scientists, and our work is driven by creativity and imagination as well as technical excellence.

We are ranked Top 10 in the UK in the 2015 Academic Ranking of World Universities, with more than two-thirds of our research rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent (REF 2014).

This course is also available on a part-time basis.

Professional accreditation

This degree is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).This accreditation is increasingly sought by employers, and provides the first stage towards eventual professional registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Our expert staff

Our research covers a range of topics, from materials science and semiconductor device physics, to the theory of computation and the philosophy of computer science, with most of our research groups based around laboratories offering world-class facilities.

Our impressive external research funding stands at over £4 million and we participate in a number of EU initiatives and undertake projects under contract to many outside bodies, including government and industrial organisations.

In recent years we have attracted many highly active research staff and we are conducting world-leading research in areas such as evolutionary computation, brain-computer interfacing, intelligent inhabited environments and financial forecasting.

Specialist facilities

We are one of the largest and best resourced computer science and electronic engineering schools in the UK. Our work is supported by extensive networked computer facilities and software aids, together with a wide range of test and instrumentation equipment.
-We have six laboratories that are exclusively for computer science and electronic engineering students. Three are open 24/7, and you have free access to the labs except when there is a scheduled practical class in progress
-All computers run either Windows 7 or are dual boot with Linux
-Software includes Java, Prolog, C++, Perl, Mysql, Matlab, DB2, Microsoft Office, Visual Studio, and Project
-Students have access to CAD tools and simulators for chip design (Xilinx) and computer networks (OPNET)
-We also have specialist facilities for research into areas including non-invasive brain-computer interfaces, intelligent environments, robotics, optoelectronics, video, RF and MW, printed circuit milling, and semiconductors

Your future

Upon graduation, you can look for employment in:
-Heavy industries, designing advanced computer systems and control
-Hardware companies, designing and developing microprocessors, personal computers, and supercomputers
-Communication and mobile phone companies, designing advanced computer systems for communications systems
-Large computer and microelectronics companies, writing software and firmware for embedded microcontrollers, and designing VLSI chips, analog sensors, mixed signal circuit boards, and operating systems
-Embedded system companies, developing advanced computer systems, and mobile applications and phones
-Banks and businesses, designing intelligent distributed systems to serve their operations
-Computer games companies, designing advanced computer games
-Our recent graduates have progressed to a variety of senior positions in industry and academia.

Some of the companies and organisations where our former graduates are now employed include Electronic Data Systems, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Bank of Mexico, Visa International, Hyperknowledge (Cambridge), Hellenic Air Force, ICSS (Beijing), United Microelectronic Corporation (Taiwan) and within our University.

We also work with the university’s Employability and Careers Centre to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.

Example structure

-MSc Project and Dissertation
-Converged Networks and Services
-Digital Signal Processing
-High Level Logic Design
-Professional Practice and Research Methodology
-Programming Embedded Systems
-Advanced Embedded Systems Design (optional)
-Artificial Neural Networks (optional)
-Constraint Satisfaction for Decision Making (optional)
-Creating and Growing a New Business Venture (optional)
-Electronic System Design & Integration (optional)
-Intelligent Systems and Robotics (optional)
-Mobile Communications (optional)

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Electrical and Electronic Engineering is characterised by the need for continuing education and training. Today, most Electrical and Electronic Engineers require more than is delivered in a conventional four-year undergraduate programme. The aim of the MEngSc (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) programme is to provide advanced coursework with options for a research element or industrial element, and additional professional development coursework. Students choose from a range of courses in Analogue, Mixed Signal, and RF Integrated Circuit Design, VLSI Architectures, Intelligent Sensors and Wireless Sensor Networks, Wireless Communications, Robotics and Mechatronics, Advanced Power Electronics and Electric Drives, Optoelectronics, Adaptive Signal Processing and Advanced Control. A range of electives for the coursework-only stream includes modules in Computer Architecture, Biomedical Design, Microsystems, Nanoelectronics, Innovation, Commercialisation, and Entrepreneurship

Visit the website: http://www.ucc.ie/en/ckr47/

Course Details

The MEngSc (EEE) has three Streams which include coursework only, coursework with a research project, or coursework with an industrial placement. Students following Stream 1 take course modules to the value of 60 credits and carry out a Minor Research Project to the value of 30 credits. Students following Stream 2 take course modules to the value of 60 credits and carry out an Industrial Placement to the value of 30 credits. Students following Stream 3 take course modules to the value of 90 credits, up to 20 credits of which can be in topics such as business, law, and innovation.

Format

In all Streams, students take five core modules from the following range of courses: Advanced Analogue and Mixed Signal Integrated Circuit Design, Advanced RF Integrated Circuit Design, Advanced VLSI Architectures, Intelligent Sensors and Wireless Sensor Networks, Wireless Communications, Robotics and Mechatronics, Advanced Power Electronics and Electric Drives, Optoelectronics, and Adaptive Signal Processing and Advanced Control. In addition, students following Stream 1 (Research Project) and Stream 2 (Industry Placement) carry out a Research Report. Following successful completion of the coursework and Research Report, students in Streams 1 and 2 carry out a research project or industry placement over the summer months.

Students who choose the coursework-only option, Stream 3, take additional courses in lieu of the project or placement. These can be chosen from a range of electives that includes modules in Computer Architecture, Biomedical Design, Microsystems, Nanoelectronics, Innovation, Commercialisation, and Entrepreneurship.

Assessment

Part I consists of coursework modules and mini-project to the value of 60 credits. These are assessed using a combination of written examinations and continuous assessment. Successful completion of the initial tranche of coursework modules qualifies the student to progress to Part II, the research project, industrial placement, or additional coursework to the value of 30 credits in the cases of Streams 1, 2, and 3, respectively.

Placement and Study Abroad Information

For students following Streams 1 and 2, research projects and industrial placements are normally in Ireland. Where the opportunity arises, a research project or work placement may be carried out outside Ireland.

Careers

MEngSc (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) graduates will have a competitive advantage in the jobs market by virtue of having completed advanced coursework in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and, in the case of Streams 1 and 2, having completed a significant research project or work placement.

How to apply: http://www.ucc.ie/en/study/postgrad/how/

Funding and Scholarships

Information regarding funding and available scholarships can be found here: https://www.ucc.ie/en/cblgradschool/current/fundingandfinance/fundingscholarships/

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You will cover subject specific subjects such as Digital Signal Processing and Artificial Intelligence alongside cohort taught subjects to develop their management skills and their employability.

On the Msc in Microelectronics and Computer Engineering, the development of skills and advancement of knowledge focus on developing strong design skills for the seamless integration of software and hardware subsystems through the adoption of software-hardware co-design methodologies.

This will enable you to gain experience of designing digital systems for sustainable and smart applications, using DSP/FPGA/ASIC technology. Students will be aware of alternatives to the mainstream superscalar approach to computer design and instil in them design skills for a variety of acceleration intelligence techniques.

The successful postgraduates of the programme will acquire the knowledge and understanding, intellectual, practical and transferable skills necessary for the analysis and synthesis of problems in engineering and manufacturing through a combination of experimental, simulation, research methods and case studies. You can expect to work in a range of disciplines within a variety of industries from specialist technical roles to positions of management responsibility.

Why choose this course?

-Gain experience of designing digital systems for sustainable and smart applications.
-Microelectronics is developing as technology expands at an increasing rate and we are at the forefront for this subjects.
-Supported by the School which has over 25 years' experience of teaching electronic engineering and has established an excellent international reputation in this field.
-We offer extensive lab facilities for engineering students, including the latest software packages.

Careers

You will typically be employed to evaluate, select and deploy appropriate software tools to create/manage or simulate applications/systems. Within your area of expertise, you will be making independent design decisions on mission-critical systems.

Teaching methods

Our enthusiastic staff is always looking for new ways to enhance your learning experience and over recent years, we have won national awards for our innovative teaching ideas. In addition, our staff are active in research and useful elements of it are reflected on the learning experience.

The School of Engineering and Technology has a reputation for innovation in teaching and learning, where nearly all MSc modules are delivered through a combination of traditional face-to-face teaching and backup tutorial's using the University's StudyNet web based facility. StudyNet allows students to access electronic teaching and learning resources, and conduct electronic discussions with staff and other students.

A heavy emphasis is placed on theory and practice, and the School of Engineering and Technology has a policy of using industrial standard software wherever possible.

Structure

Modules
-Advanced Reconfigurable Systems and Applications
-Artificial Intelligence
-Computer Architecture Design
-Digital Signal Processing and Processes
-MSc Project
-Mixed Mode and VLSI Technologies
-Operations Management
-Operations Research
-Sustainability and Smart Systems Engineering

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On this programme you will learn about recent advances in mobile communication systems with full coverage of both radio-frequency (RF) and data communication networks. The programme content will reflect the current migration to tetherless networks. In addition to studying the latest protocols used by mobile communication systems, you will also learn to apply the principles of RF engineering to the design of such systems.

You will be taught by experienced research and teaching staff with expertise in the specialist fields and you will be learning about the latest theories, techniques and technologies. You will need an understanding of both generic and domain-specific research techniques, and the ability to apply them in your own work. A module in research methods enables you to develop these techniques, moving from generic skills, such as the design and evaluation of experiments, to focus on the specific skills that you will need for your own project. An important outcome of the module is a well-structured report, augmented by the use of appropriate artefacts and media, presenting your proposals for your specialist project.

In the first two semesters of the programme you take modules exploring a variety of current research topics in electronics and related areas. At the end of the programme you complete a project which enables you to demonstrate your understanding of the principles and concepts that you have learned and your ability to apply them to a substantial piece of development or investigative work.

Why choose this course?

-The School has over 25 years' experience of teaching electronic engineering and has established an excellent international reputation in this field
-We offer extensive lab facilities for engineering students, including the latest software packages
-Learn about mobile communication systems, tetherless networks and all the latest protocols

Careers

You will typically be employed in the design and implementation of advanced digital systems and networks in the communication and control industries. Within your area of expertise, you will be making independent design decisions on mission-critical systems.

Teaching methods

Our enthusiastic staff is always looking for new ways to enhance your learning experience and over recent years, we have won national awards for our innovative teaching ideas. In addition our staff are active in research and useful elements of it are reflected on the learning experience. Learning tools such as StudyNet, unique to the University of Hertfordshire, are extremely useful for the learning environment of the student.

Structure

Modules
-Advanced Reconfigurable Systems and Applications
-Broadband Networks and Data Communications
-Digital Mobile Communication Systems
-Information Theory and DSP in Communications
-MSc Project
-Mixed Mode and VLSI Technologies
-Operations Management
-Operations Research
-Wireless, Mobile and Ad-hoc Networking

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