We welcome applications from the United States of America
We've put together information and resources to guide your application journey as a student from the United States of America.
Overview
Top reasons to study with us
Practical hands-on courses including lab-based sessions and project work
Brand new state-of-the-art facilities
Get real-world experience with our placement years
Our design-based degree teaches the essentials of electronic and electrical engineering, allowing you to engage with creativity and develop a range of practical and professional skills, which will create opportunities in a range of industries.
Electronic and electrical engineering is concerned with the broad application of electricity and electronics, ranging from small intelligent microprocessor based systems through to large scale power generators. Virtually every sector requires and uses electronic or electrical engineering and it is difficult to think of an application where it does not have influence.
You will benefit from our research informed teaching, which is a key strength of this programme. You will join a thriving academic department that makes use of our expertise in microelectromechanical smart systems; novel electromagnetics; radio frequency engineering; and millimetre waves with THz signals. Through this programme, you will be exposed to our work with organisations such as CERN and the European Space Agency.
The programme begins with a broad based common first year. You will learn about subjects such as heat transfer and manufacturing, which form a key requirement of modern electronic systems. Our Electronic and Electrical Engineers work alongside other disciplines, reflecting very much how you would operate in industry, equipping you with interdisciplinary project, communication and professional skills to allow you to excel in your professional career.
Specialist modules in electronic and electrical engineering continue in the second year, where you will build your familiarity and practical experience in widely-used programming languages and software development environments, reinforcing your technical knowledge. This year, you will complete a small group project, where you will apply your specialist knowledge within an interdisciplinary team.
On this programme, you may decide to spend a year in industry, gaining valuable experience and enhancing your employability. We have extensive links built through our leadership in research and have students undergoing placements with multinational corporate companies through to smaller specialist SMEs. We would recommend the most appropriate time to do this would be at the end of year two, once you have gained a reasonable amount of engineering knowledge.
In third year, you will start your individual project: a substantial piece of research and investigation into a topic of your choice, but often linked with industry or one of our research groups. The project period covers the entire academic year, with an intensive period following exams to finalise results and present the findings professionally. Previous examples include: remote moisture sensing for internet of things; wearable antennas for medical body area network; low carbon shipping through improved electric propulsion; and energy storage and development of an electrical storm tracker.
Third year also continues the management skills theme, which is essential to modern engineering. You will develop your knowledge in company finance and aspects of law, human resource management and industrial organisation. You will also receive an overview of environmental reporting, quality and safety management.
The BEng 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. It provides a sound foundation in crucial aspects in the design and manufacture of future systems in the medical, environmental, energy, transport, communications and ICT markets. Teaching is delivered by world-class academics and shaped by their outstanding research output. You will gain hands-on experience with modern facilities and an array of high-quality equipment in our state-of-the-art Engineering Building.
MEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering
We also offer a MEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering programme which 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 a Chartered Engineer. This programme provides further skills, knowledge and experience, with a focus on leadership and management. Students wanting to transfer to this programme must achieve a minimum threshold at the end of year two
Lancaster is a member of the UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF).The UKESF Scholarship Scheme connects undergraduates to leading employers in the Electronics sector and provides an annual bursary, paid summer work placements and a paid-for residential workshop.
When I started at university I essentially said to myself that I wanted to take as many opportunities as possible, and studying abroad seemed like an amazing option in order to broaden my horizons, get out of my comfort zone and keep university fresh going. So, I decided I was going to apply to do a year abroad in the States, and ended up at the University of Iowa!
I would easily say that my study abroad year was by far the best year I had at university, thanks to the travel, the people and the freedom. Getting off the plane with all your baggage and as you walk out of the airport that feeling of “10 months, here we go”. It will open your eyes to the big world, and it's so much more than just going on holiday somewhere. Living somewhere, even as a student, takes you a few layers deeper into the experience.
What really struck me about the US was the diversity of lives people lived. I knew people that would go out hunting at the weekend to feed their families, whilst others wouldn’t even dream of even going down the meat aisle at the local Walmart. Others would go on road trips for multiple weeks, but the best part was, all of them were more than happy to take you along on every adventure. I also got the opportunity to travel a lot whilst I was there, both with friends and with complete strangers. It gave me the ability to see a path I want to walk down, instead of having to wait for someone else to want to go down that path too. I am confident to explore it on my own, whether that be going on a holiday or getting a job that takes me away from home.
Studying abroad has changed my life, by making me hungry for more adventure. I no longer want to get a job in the place I am from and settle down immediately - I want to go out into the big world, not just in my personal life, but in my professional life. I firmly believe it was one of the main enabling factors that gave me the confidence and desire to join the Royal Navy as a Commissioned Officer in the Weapons Engineering branch. My job now keeps my life fresh and just outside of my comfort zone, and helps me become comfortable with being just a little uncomfortable.
Kayman Lewis Johnson, MEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering (Study Abroad)
Our modern world is defined by electronic and electrical apparatus, from the motherboards in our computers to the systems and circuits that control our rail and transport industries - and engineers play an integral part in the manufacturing of all these systems. You will graduate with a broad range of subject specific skills, such as CAD design, understanding electrical circuits, power systems and much more and this in-depth, specialist knowledge will make you a sought-after employee able to embark on a wide range of careers in sectors such as defence, power generation, automotive, telecoms, and utilities. The transferable skills you develop can be applied to any career you choose. The ability to think creatively, develop solutions to problems, manage projects, apply practical and technical knowledge and to be confident in decision making will place you in demand. You may even decide to pursue further study and seek a career in academia. Graduates from our Engineering degrees are well-paid too, with a median starting salary of £29,000 (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023).
Here are just some of the roles that our BEng and MEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering students have progressed into upon graduating:
Graduate Electrical Engineer – CBG Consulting
PhD Candidate – Kings College London
Network Engineer – Vodaphone
Electronics Engineer – Elvie
Graduate Engineer – Sellafield Ltd
Electronic Engineer – Elekta
Engineer – Partner Electronics Ltd
Electrical Power Engineer – BAE Systems
Senior Applications Engineer – Siemens Energy
Graduate Electrical and Electronics Engineer – Ultra Electronics (Maritime)
AWS Platform Engineer – Digital Dimensions
Lancaster University is dedicated to ensuring you not only gain a highly reputable degree, you also graduate with the relevant life and work based skills. We are unique in that every student is eligible to participate in The Lancaster Award which offers you the opportunity to complete key activities such as work experience, employability/career development, campus community and social development. Visit our Employability section for full details.
Gain vital skills and experience
Each of our Engineering undergraduate programmes comes with an optional placement with a cutting-edge engineering company. Each placement will give you practical, realistic workplace experience that will make you attractive to employers after your graduation. In recent years, Lancaster University students have taken work placements with EDF, Jaguar-Land Rover, Mercedes AMG, Network Rail and more.
UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF)
The UKESF Scholarship Scheme connects undergraduates to leading employers in the Electronics sector and provides an annual bursary, paid summer work placements and a paid-for residential workshop.
I studied MEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Lancaster, and after graduating, I secured a role as Electronics Design Engineer at Partner Electronics, based in Silverstone. At the moment, I am part of a team that designs PCBs, writes firmware and creates software for a range of products different products - from smart sensors to components used in space flights! Here, we take ideas from prototype, right through to a point where they are ready for manufacture.
My work here is so varied, and I learn something new every day - but thanks to my time spent at Lancaster's School of Engineering, I have a solid foundation of technical knowledge to draw and build upon. The School is also very interdisciplinary, which gave me an excellent starting point for being able to communicate with clients. Many of our clients are quite technically-minded, but may not necessarily have expertise within my field. At Lancaster, we often had the opportunity to work alongside engineers from other disciplines, so we would need to convey our ideas in a manner that can be understood by everyone, in a similar way to how I do now.
Many of the modules I studied at Lancaster have greatly benefited me as I have transitioned into the working world. As an MEng student, I got the opportunity to undertake a number of group projects and management modules. These have all stood me in excellent stead for the project management aspects of my work today, which I have been undertaking pretty much since I started! The course at Lancaster, as well as the many extra-curricular opportunities available to students, have helped to build my confidence to get me where I am today.
Isabel Parsons, MEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering -Electronics Design Engineer at Partner Electronics
Entry requirements
These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. You may need to have qualifications in relevant subjects. In some cases we may also ask you to attend an interview or submit a portfolio. You must also meet our English language requirements.
ABB. This should include Mathematics and a physical science subject, for example, Physics, Chemistry, Electronics, Design & Technology or Further Mathematics.
Access to HE Diploma
Considered on a case-by-case basis. Our typical entry requirement would be 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 15 Level 3 credits at Merit, but you would need to have covered appropriate subject content.
Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.
BTEC Extended Diploma
Pre-2016 specifications: DDM in an Engineering related subject to include Distinctions in Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians units.
2016 specifications: DDM in an Engineering related subject to include Distinctions in the following units – Unit 1 Engineering Principles, Unit 7 Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems. Unit 8 Further Engineering Mathematics is highly recommended.
BTEC in combination with A levels
Our typical requirement would be A level grade B plus BTEC(s) at DD, or A levels at grade BB plus BTEC at D, but you would also need to meet the subject requirements.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects including either:
1. Mathematics HL grade 6 (either pathway) plus grad 6 in a HL Physical Science
2. Mathematics HL grade 6 (either pathway) plus grade 6 in two SL Physical Sciences
3. Mathematics SL grade 7 (analysis and approaches) plus grade 6 in a HL Physical Science
Acceptable physical science subjects include Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science and Design Technology.
Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers
We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.
T levels
Only accepted alongside A level Mathematics grade B. The following subjects accepted at Distinction overall, alongside A level Mathematics grade B: Design and development for engineering manufacturing; Engineering, manufacturing, processing and control; Maintenance, installation and repair for engineering and manufacturing. The following subjects considered on a case by case basis, alongside A level Mathematics grade B: Design, surveying and planning for construction; Building services engineering for construction; Onsite construction.
If you are thinking of applying to Lancaster and you would like to ask us a question, please complete our enquiry form and one of our team will get back to you.
International foundation programmes
Delivered in partnership with INTO Lancaster University, our one-year tailored foundation pathways are designed to improve your subject knowledge and English language skills to the level required by a range of Lancaster University degrees. Visit the INTO Lancaster University website for more details and a list of eligible degrees you can progress onto.
Contextual admissions
Contextual admissions could help you gain a place at university if you have faced additional challenges during your education which might have impacted your results. Visit our contextual admissions page to find out about how this works and whether you could be eligible.
Course structure
Lancaster University offers a range of programmes, some of which follow a structured study programme, and some which offer the chance for you to devise a more flexible programme to complement your main specialism.
Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, and the University will make every reasonable effort to offer modules as advertised. In some cases changes may be necessary and may result in some combinations being unavailable, for example as a result of student feedback, timetabling, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes and new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.
This module introduces fundamental applications of engineering science to build physical components, structures and systems and create functionality across all engineering disciplines. The basics of manufacturing and processes will be explored together with design principles, methods of sensing physical, electromagnetic, electrostatic and chemical effects, and converting these effects to electrical signals and mechanical actuation.
Over the course of this module, students will learn how to manipulate and manufacture objects, synthesise chemical compounds, as well as build and code electrical interfaces. At the end of the module, students will complete a group project using CAD tools to analyse, design, capture, and manufacture engineering components, sensor interfacing, data conversion and data processing.
This module introduces concepts associated with the fundamentals of engineering science relevant to chemical, mechanical, nuclear and electrical/electronic systems. Students will learn how physical principles associated with heat, energy transfer, radiation, fluid mechanics, forces, kinetics, impedance, and atomic level behaviour govern the function of structures, processes, components, devices, and systems. These principles provide a foundation for all engineering degree programmes. By the end of the module, students will be able to apply their knowledge of these principles in a practical manner to investigate real-world challenges.
This module introduces key numerical and analytical concepts relevant to the engineering disciplines providing a foundation for all engineering programmes. Students will consolidate their skills in the use of complex numbers, calculus, differential equations, vectors, matrices and transforms as engineering tools that can be applied to the analysis and design of engineered materials, components, devices, structures, assemblies and systems.
MATLAB and Excel will be introduced to both solve mathematical problems, apply mathematical principles to data sets to generate curves, statistics and trends. Students will learn basic programming in order to implement mathematical algorithms commonly used in the engineering disciplines. Supporting laboratories will involve tasks associated with the visualisation of mathematical solutions, the processing of data sets and the use of programming techniques to implement solutions on an embedded processor or personal computer.
Core
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This module considers a range of material in the wider business development area. Students are encouraged to think with creativity, entrepreneurial flair and innovation. Practical sessions allow students to demonstrate their progress on a weekly basis through idea generation, peer presentations, elevator pitches and formal presentations. The module is accompanied by a number of external industrial speakers who have been successful in their own business endeavours and are keen to pass on that knowledge.
Students will become familiar with a rich mixture of experiential learning opportunities, that develop a wide range of transferable skills in the context of engineering entrepreneurship. The module will focus on the development and use of business plans and marketing strategies. Students will prepare a business plan, discuss team dynamics and the requirements for entrepreneurial activity. Additionally, the appropriate terminology to use when developing business projects will be explored. Students will discuss relevant aspects of company finance, uncertainty in business ventures and techniques for analysing markets. They will also examine frameworks for marketing and structuring a business plan and will develop the ability to analyse potential markets and sources of funding.
This module will introduce digital logic design targeting programmable logic devices, in particular FPGAs: Field-Programmable Gate Arrays. Student will look at major steps involved in modern digital logic design development such as simulation, time and hardware resources optimisation, and floorplanning. The preferred programming language will be VHDL while target FPGA devices will belong to the Xilinx family. Students will gain practical experience of a widely employed vendor specific software development environment, such as Xilinx ISE 10.1 or Mentor Graphics ModelSim.
Additionally, the module introduces fundamental skills in digital logic design programming, development implementation and debugging, and students are given the opportunity to understand and use the concept of parallelism, along with developing instincts as to what design approach should be adopted, depending on the targeted application. Students will also acquire experience in using FPGA devices which are fundamental in ASICs development and verification.
On successful completion of the module, students will develop the ability to design digital logic circuits for a range of applications. They will apply state-of-the-art digital logic design development and verification methods, and will learn to use the most prevalent programming language in digital design for Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs), i.e. VHDL. Students will also gain the knowledge necessary to discuss PLDs in general and FPGAs in particular, including the major steps involved in digital circuit design development and implementation. Finally, students will gain the level of understanding required to use practical skills gained from hands-on experience of FPGAs containing development boards.
This module explores a range of topics concerning electrical circuits and power systems. It is separated into two parts, with the first part containing an overview on electrical circuit theory, whilst providing an understanding of the electrical circuit laws, phasor analysis and three-phase circuits. The second part of the module identifies and describes the basic elements of the electric power system such as generation, transmission, distribution, utilisation, stability, protection and electrical safety.
Students will develop the ability to analyse frequency relationships for reactive circuit elements, and will discuss the principles of three-phase circuits. Additionally, students will gain the skillset required to identify different parts of electrical power systems and explain their functions, along with exploring design procedures to locate faults within a power network. Finally, students will learn to discuss the system protection and also electrical safety, and will operate power systems effectively, whilst ensuring system security and quality of supply.
Whilst alternating topic focus, this module explores RF engineering and electromagnetic processes in general. Students will gain knowledge of RF engineering, the decibel scale, and will explore complex number review. Additionally, the module will cover AC circuit analysis, and will provide complex representation of waves and transmission lines, along with seminars in RF transmission of data and basic RF receiver architectures.
The electromagnetic portion of the module will cover Electrostatics, including electric charge, electric field, electric flux density and electrostatic potential. Students will develop knowledge of inverse square law of force, dielectric polarisation and permittivity, as well as capacitance, energy storage, parasitic capacitance and electric screening.
Students will develop the level of understanding necessary to describe the concepts of potential, charge, field and capacitance, and will learn to apply Ampere, Faraday and Coulomb law. Students will also gain an understanding of ferromagnetic materials, and will develop the necessary skillset to calculate the magnitude and direction of the electric field strength, as well as discussing Gauss theorem and the relationship of electric flux to electric charge. Finally, students will be able to carry out noise calculations for RF systems, calculate component values and transmission line dimensions to match impedances, and will gain knowledge in the application of Smith charts to analyse an RF circuit.
This module introduces students to numerate aspects of engineering. It is designed to provide students with a broad and flexible array of mathematical methods for the analysis of data and signals. It also intends to illustrate the essential role of computing in the application of these skills. Students will use calculus for the analysis of trigonometric, non-linear, polynomial and exponential functions, and will sketch multivariable functions with a relation to engineering on three-dimensional Cartesian axes.
Additionally, students will evaluate the significance of differential equations in the description of an engineering system and will apply methods such as Laplace, integration and substitution to find the solution of these equations. They will also develop the ability to analyse systems in both the time and frequency domain using Fourier and Laplace transformations. Students will learn to apply the spectrum of approximate methods that exist for finding the roots of equations, definite integrals and linear approximations.
The matrix representation of coefficients and their correspondence will be applied to arrays in software, including the use of manipulations such as the inverse matrix. Students will use the concept of least squares analysis in order to assess the consistency of data. Finally, they will develop the ability to use a software package such as Excel for multivariable analysis of a given function and to produce appropriate graphical outcomes.
Students will be introduced to a range of key concepts in engineering project management and will put some of these into practice by means of an interdisciplinary group project. This module aims to motivate students to produce and test a functional electro mechanical machine to meet a given specification for example, the development of a mobile robot which follows a line. Students will develop a range of skills including, the ability to describe a mechanical/electrical system at the block diagram level, identifying its power and signal flows and writing an overall performance or functional specification. They will also acquire the knowledge necessary to integrate the functional requirements with other needs such as maintainability, safety, manufacturability, environmental impact and regulatory compliance. The requirements for interface management including spatial, mass, environment, control, failure modes, and energy, will also be discussed.
Additionally, students will develop the skill set required to prepare an interface management plan for a complete project and interface specifications for the subsystems/components. They will discuss the project lifecycle including specification, design, manufacture, commissioning, maintenance, modification and disposal. Finally, students will apply the principles of validating the design of a complex system using analysis, sample testing, type testing, commissioning, system tests and acceptance.
This module is designed to enhance students’ understanding of system dynamics and feedback at the block diagram level, by providing tools for the analysis of linear single degree freedom systems. Students will gain the ability to use appropriate instrumentation for feedback and data-logging purposes. The module will enable students to interface devices such as memory, digital IO and analogue IO to a microprocessor or microcontroller. They will also discover how to access such devices from within a program using C and/or Assembler.
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to develop single degree freedom models for simple mechanical, electric and electromechanical systems. They will also be able to discuss the assumptions necessary to develop such linear models and have an awareness of nonlinear and chaotic systems. Additionally, students will develop the ability to analyse 1st and 2nd order models in both the time and frequency domain, including vibrations and asymptotic stability. They will write down the transfer function of a system from its differential equation and understand the significance of the poles/zeros.
Further skills available on the module include the ability to manipulate block diagrams of open and closed-loop systems and the design of proportional, integral, derivative, velocity and multi-term controllers. Finally, students will construct and use Bode diagrams, and will develop the knowledge required to analyse the function and physical operation of a range of common types of transducer, e.g. for the measurement of strain, force, temperature and acceleration.
This module will enhance students’ knowledge of heat transfer calculations and aims to outline where these are essential to engineering design. Students will develop an understanding of electric power systems, including the characteristics of the main types of electric machine. In addition, they will gain the ability to estimate steady-state heat transfer rates and will be able to size simple parallel and contra flow heat exchangers. They will also develop the level of understanding required to estimate temperature distributions within 1-D or rotationally symmetric systems in which there is steady heat flow, as well as correctly sizing cooling fins.
Students will set up appropriate boundary conditions for 3-D heat conduction problems that are to be solved numerically using a software package and will estimate the time it takes for a thermal system to reach a steady state. Finally, they will be able to perform calculations to predict the performance of a single-phase induction motor and will be able to analyse the starting, speed and torque control methods used on induction motors.
Core
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This module introduces time and frequency domain representations of analogue circuits. It examines the principles of analogue integrated circuit and filter design, including linear network transfer functions.
The module will cover a wide range of topics, and will include a look at transistors and transistor circuits for integrated circuits, along with the fundamentals of linear continuous time filters. Additionally, students will gain an understanding of the design of passive and active circuits for synthesis of transfer functions, parasitics and filter precision.
Students will develop the ability to analyse circuits in the time and frequency domains, along with the ability to evaluate fundamental analogue circuit building blocks. They will also gain the knowledge required to describe the composition of active and passive filters.
Students will learn how to process signals using techniques such as Fourier transforms, sampling, discrete time and space domains, and digital filtering, putting their knowledge into practice in MATLAB software which equips students with comprehensive knowledge of digital code used in engineering environments.
This module develops students’ ability to analyse engineering problems by creating and designing solutions to meet real-world industry needs through a combination of critical thinking and hands-on practical skills.
Students will be equipped with a wide range of skills to determine the most appropriate sampling and filtering methods for processing signals whilst also developing their ability to write computer programmes for data analysis, creating recommendations and designing solutions.
This module examines the role of management and its relevance to engineering today. In this context, specific knowledge about manufacturing systems and project financial appraisal will be introduced, together with relevant aspects of law and human resource management, industrial organisation and project costing. Students will receive an outline of company finance and reporting, along with an overview of environmental reporting, quality and safety management.
The module will reinforce students’ understanding of the role of management in industry, as well as how modern manufacturing operations are organised financially. Students will financially evaluate both large and small projects as the basis for major decisions, and will develop knowledge of what quality is and its importance to all organisations. Additionally, students will apply suitable tools for the improvement of quality, and will come to understand the importance of environmental reporting. The module will also enable students to carry out a basic level of safety management.
The aim of this module is to give students experience in managing a research project and help them develop an in depth knowledge of a specific, specialist area of their subject. Students will have the opportunity to learn professional software, research, design or experimental skills consistent with their subject. They will be assigned a project title and a project supervisor who will guide and advise them throughout the project. The project involves the production of a literature review, project plan, an oral presentation, a final report and a poster.
The module will offer different outcomes depending on which topic students choose to work on. For example, they can gain knowledge of the scientific principles and methodology necessary to underpin their education in the engineering discipline.
Students can also acquire the ability to apply and integrate their understanding of other engineering disciplines, to support the study of their own engineering discipline. Alternatively, students are offered the opportunity to gain an understanding of engineering principles and the ability to apply them to analyse key engineering processes.
There will be an opportunity for students to apply quantitative methods and computer software, relevant to their engineering discipline, to solve engineering problems. On the other hand, students may decide to strengthen their understanding of customer and user needs and the importance of considerations such as aesthetics. They could also take the opportunity to reinforce their workshop and laboratory skills.
This module provides an introduction to integrated circuit engineering and integrated circuits, including key methods for their design, fabrication and testing. In this regard, the module will examine the principles of very large scale integrated circuit engineering and the digital design process. Among a vast range of topics, this module will address CMOS circuit engineering, and will focus on MOSFET short channel effects, switch model, digital design metrics and the design of logic elements.
Additionally, students will become familiar with arithmetic building blocks, memory elements classification, array structure and timing issues.
Students will develop the ability to analyse simple performance metrics and will derive circuits to implement simple functions, and will learn how to use an industrial tool to model, analyse and construct digital circuits.
This module introduces the fundamental components of optical communication and wireless systems and information theory, including the physical propagation of signals, electromagnetism and signal analysis. Students will learn the theory of using optoelectronics and radio waves for telecommunications, and will examine the main types of antenna and their properties. The module offers a rounded overview of optoelectronics, including optical communication systems, optical components and optical sources. A portion on wireless communications will introduce electromagnetic spectrum, elements of radio waves propagation, transmitter and receiver.
Students will also gain knowledge of link budget, types of wireless networks, and antennas, in addition to revisions of information theory and modulation. Additionally, students will discover access, and system case studies, which will discuss internet fibre cables backbone, radio and TV broadcasting.
In addition to this, students will gain the level of knowledge required to define the main optical components in a communication system. They will be able to explain the fundamentals of wireless systems, transmitters and receivers, and will carry out calculations on radio transmission antennas and coding. Ultimately, students will be able to explain the reasons for the design choices made in a variety of communications systems.
This module aims to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of power electronics and applications by learning methods of converting and inverting voltage signals and how to use them to drive electric motors. As electric vehicles and renewable sources of power are becoming increasingly important, the module will also cover applications in electric power utilities and renewable power, including wind and solar.
Students will develop an understanding of scientific principles and methodology of power semiconductor devices, power electronic converters, dc/ac motor drives and the applications and needs for high power electronic switches/converters in the electric power utility industry.
On completion of this module, students will be equipped with industry knowledge to apply their skills to meet real world engineering needs with confidence and professional and ethical responsibility.
Fees and funding
Our annual tuition fee is set for a 12-month session, starting in the October of your year of study.
It will be necessary for students to purchase clothing for use in laboratories which is approximately £30. The University pays for student membership of the Institute of Engineering and Technology where appropriate plus contributes to specialist software and workshop materials.
There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.
Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.
College fees
Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small college membership fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.
For students starting in 2025, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses.
Computer equipment and internet access
To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.
The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.
Study abroad courses
In addition to travel and accommodation costs, while you are studying abroad, you will need to have a passport and, depending on the country, there may be other costs such as travel documents (e.g. VISA or work permit) and any tests and vaccines that are required at the time of travel. Some countries may require proof of funds.
Placement and industry year courses
In addition to possible commuting costs during your placement, you may need to buy clothing that is suitable for your workplace and you may have accommodation costs. Depending on the employer and your job, you may have other costs such as copies of personal documents required by your employer for example.
The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status.
Home fees are subject to annual review, and may be liable to rise each year in line with UK government policy. International fees (including EU) are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about fees in subsequent years.
We will charge tuition fees to Home undergraduate students on full-year study abroad/work placements in line with the maximum amounts permitted by the Department for Education. The current maximum levels are:
Students studying abroad for a year: 15% of the standard tuition fee
Students taking a work placement for a year: 20% of the standard tuition fee
International students on full-year study abroad/work placements will be charged the same percentages as the standard International fee.
Please note that the maximum levels chargeable in future years may be subject to changes in Government policy.
Scholarships and bursaries
You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.
You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status:
Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.
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We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.
A generous donation from the family of Tom Millen will enable two outstanding Engineering students to benefit from a bursary of £1,500.
This award is in memory of Tom Millen, who served as Superintendent of Laboratories and Workshops in the School of Engineering at Lancaster University. He began working for the School in 1969 and retired in 1977. He believed passionately in the value of education and his family are generously supporting the award to recognise and support social mobility and widening access to higher education.
Each year, a £1,500 bursary will be offered to support two Engineering students who have performed at a high academic level at the start of their studies at Lancaster. It will be awarded to two first-year students during their second year who meet the following criteria:
The recipients must be home fee-paying students
The recipients must be in receipt of the Lancaster Opportunity Scholarship or Lancaster Bursary
The recipients must pass all modules in the academic year on the first attempt and achieve the highest overall aggregate score from all modules
The award will normally be given to one male and one non-male recipient
The bursary will be given in three £500 instalments over the course of the academic year. You do not need to apply for the scholarship - the selection process is internal.
A place for Anna
I chose to apply to Lancaster University because of the beautiful, diverse, and safe campus. After seeing the Engineering Building and learning about the high staff to student ratio I knew Lancaster was for me.
I really loved the opportunity to have the whole of the first general year to get acquainted with the different branches of engineering; it made me feel more confident in my choice of studying Electronic & Electrical Engineering because by the end of the first year I had a lot of hands-on experience.
The amount of support available on campus has been very valuable to me as an international student - I’ve had immense help with my visa, employment, accommodation, mental health and learning support from the University.
Anna Teterina, BEng Hons Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Keep your options open
If you're unsure of which area of specialisation you'd like to go into upon application, you can use the UCA code H100 Engineering to leave your options open. The common first year lets you change your specialisation allowing a more informed choice at the end of year one, subject to meeting the requirements of that course.
Our Facilities
Main Lab
Our Main Engineering Lab is a large and spacious, double-floored room home to the Engineering Strongfloor, Robotics area, and Wind Tunnel. Here is where you'll get the opportunity to load test materials and constructions, and work on projects involving robotics or renewable energy.
Electronics Lab
Our Electronics Lab is equipped with equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, and power supplies to allow you to undertake prototyping and practical work in electronics.
Additive Manufacturing Lab
Our Additive Manufacturing Lab comes equipped with a number of 3D printers and laser-based additive machines to fabricate items that wouldn't be possible using more traditional subtractive methods.
Chemical Engineering Lab
The Chemical Engineering Teaching Lab is where you'll in small groups to rotate around an assortment of experimental apparatus to engage and learn about industrial processes along with the associated health and safety, COSHH assessment, and substance controls.
Teaching Lab
Our Teaching Lab houses a variety of engineering apparatus that you'll get to use throughout your degree, from 3D printers and robotics arms, to CNC machines.
Mechanical Engineering Lab
In the Mechanical Engineering Lab, you'll be able to join your peers working on the Formula Student project. Formula Student is an international racing competition for a single-seater racing car covering a number of static judging (design, marketing and cost) and different dynamic (acceleration, sprint, endurance) events.
Breakout Space
Within the School of Engineering, we have a dedicated Breakout Space for you to get together with other students and collaborate on work, or otherwise socialise in your downtime between lectures, workshops, and labs.
Computer Lab
The School's Computing Lab comes fully equipped with all of the software you'll need in order to create virtual prototypes of your projects, or work on electronic or embedded systems.
Engineering Projects Lab
Engineering Projects make up a significant proportion of most of our Engineering degrees and involve a great deal of collaboration with your peers. This space is dedicated for you to work on these projects, allowing you the room to create and test prototypes.
The information on this site relates primarily to 2025/2026 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.
The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.
More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information.
Our Students’ Charter
We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. View our Charter and other policies.
Our historic city is student-friendly and home to a diverse and welcoming community. Beyond the city you'll find a stunning coastline and the picturesque Lake District.
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