Electrical and electronic engineering

Study electrical and electronic engineering for a hands-on look at technology's building blocks, from circuits and systems to cutting-edge innovations, unlocking the potential to reshape our digital future.

Electrical and electronic engineering brings together innovation and technology with many applications that define our modern world. From designing integrated circuits and power systems to developing cutting-edge communication technologies, electrical and electronic engineering is at the forefront of technological advancement.

Graduates find themselves in roles including telecommunications, robotics, renewable energy, and semiconductor industries. With a foundational understanding of electrical systems and electronics, professionals in this field contribute to solving complex challenges, driving advancements in automation, and playing important roles in the development of smart cities. It can also lead to leadership roles in research and development, project management, and entrepreneurship.

The impact you could make

  • Drive technological innovation by contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies.
  • Develop and improve renewable energy technologies such as solar power, wind energy, and energy storage.
  • Contribute to the development of automation and robotics technologies.

What you could study

  • Circuits and analysis
  • Electrical and information engineering
  • Electrical power and machines
  • Electromagnetism
  • Engineering computation
  • Mathematics for engineers and scientists
  • Semiconductor electronics
  • Structures and mechanics

Study options

Options to study in this field include:

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Example module

"My favourite module is Analogue Electronics, and specifically with a view to signal processing. It hits the sweet spot for me between the fundamental physics of electronics, and some of the larger applications too."

Second year electronic engineering student, University of Warwick

Example project

“One project I completed was an automated greenhouse concept. It used various sensors and components connected to an Arduino to regulate temperature and soil moisture levels to within a consistent tolerance.”

Third year electronic engineering student, Ulster University

Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Some electrical and electronic engineering courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.

Maths

Science

Engineering

Technology

Hard skills you'll develop

  • circuit analysis skills
  • Power systems knowledge
  • Understanding electromagnetic theory
  • CAD software experience

Soft skills you'll develop

  • Problem-solving attitude
  • Creativity and innovation
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Patience and persistence

Careers: Where it can take you

Find out more about your career prospects from studying electrical and electronic engineering. The following information is based on a typical electrical engineer role.

Available jobs

37,534 vacancies in the past year

1.37% growth over next eight years

Average salary

£50,599

Up to £76,834

Robotics engineers in workplace

What is a... robotics engineer?

Sitting at the cutting-edge of designing and creating intelligent machines, these engineers combine expertise in electrical and electronic engineering, computer science, and mechanical engineering to develop robotic systems used in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration. They may design and program robotic arms for precise manufacturing processes, develop autonomous vehicles for navigating complex environments, or create robotic systems for medical procedures. Their role contributes to the ongoing evolution of technology and its integration into everyday life.

Getting in: Entry requirements

Find out more about what you'll need to study electrical and electronic engineering at university or as an apprenticeship.

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from electrical and electronic engineering applicants.
 

A levels

BBC – BBB

Scottish Highers

ABBB

Vocational

BTEC DMM

Let’s talk about... engineering apprenticeships

Listen to our brand new podcast all about degree apprenticeships in engineering. Find out about funding, what day-to-day life is like, making friends, and more from our expert panel.

Considering an apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:

Paragraph Timeline

  1. 1

    Deadline

    Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer.
  2. 2

    Where to apply

    You apply directly through the employer.
  3. 3

    No limits

    You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like.
  4. 4

    Apply to university and apprenticeships

    There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies.
  5. 5

    Find out more

Explore further

Go deeper into topics around electrical and electronic engineering with the following:

Paragraph Timeline

  1. 1

    Engineering Design Show

    Have a day out at the UK’s biggest show dedicated to mechanical, electronics and embedded design.
  2. 2

    The Embedded podcast

    This weekly podcast delves into the how, why, and what of engineering, focusing mostly on electrical devices. Perfect if you’re curious about how things work.
  3. 3

    Keep up-to-date with the latest news

    You'll find all the latest news and research on The Institution of Engineering and Technology website.

Chat to a current electrical and electronic engineering student

Chat to a current electrical and electronic engineering student using UniBuddy.

Some conversation starters for you:

  1. Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
  2. Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
  3. Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
  4. Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
  5. Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?
     

60% of students

studying electrical and electronic engineering would recommend the subject to others

(UCAS subject guide survey 2023)

Application advice

Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our application advice will help you get ahead in your electrical and electronic engineering journey.

Skills, experiences, and interests to mention

  • Express your interest in emerging technologies within electrical and electronic engineering, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, Internet of Things, or renewable energy.
  • If you've attended engineering conferences or workshops, or if you've had the opportunity to talk to professionals in the industry, discuss how these experiences inspired your career goals.

  • Mention any programming languages you’re familiar with, especially those relevant to electrical and electronic engineering such as Python, C, or MATLAB.
  • Showcase your ability to analyse complex problems and develop effective solutions.
  • If you’ve done independent study or research projects related to electrical and electronic engineering, discuss the topics, methodologies, and outcomes.

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