The MSc in Sensor Technologies and Applications at the University of Cambridge is a cutting-edge postgraduate programme designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of sensor systems, their underlying principles, and their diverse applications across multiple industries. This multidisciplinary course combines expertise from engineering, physics, electronics, and data analysis to prepare graduates for careers in research, development, and innovation in sensor technology. Throughout the programme, students explore the fundamental physics of sensing mechanisms, including optical, electronic, magnetic, and acoustic sensors, alongside advanced topics such as signal processing, data interpretation, and sensor integration into complex systems.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling students to design, develop, and deploy sensor solutions tailored to real-world challenges. Specialised modules cover areas such as sensor fabrication techniques, miniaturisation, wireless and remote sensing, and sensor network architectures, ensuring a well-rounded education in modern sensor technologies. The course also focuses on the rapid advancements in applications like environmental monitoring, healthcare diagnostics, industrial automation, smart cities, and autonomous systems, preparing students to contribute effectively to technological innovation and societal benefit.

Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, fostering hands-on experience through laboratory projects, collaborations with industry partners, and opportunities for interdisciplinary research. The programme encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial skills, enabling graduates to lead the development of innovative sensor solutions. Additionally, the course addresses important issues such as data security, privacy, and ethical considerations in sensor deployment.

Graduates of this programme are well-positioned for careers in academia, industry, and government agencies, with job opportunities spanning sensor design, development, testing, and application across sectors such as healthcare, environmental sciences, agriculture, transportation, and consumer electronics. The MSc in Sensor Technologies and Applications at Cambridge aims to produce highly skilled professionals capable of driving forward the future of sensing technologies in a rapidly evolving digital world.

The course is structured in two phases:  a one-year MRes course followed by a three-year PhD project. The MRes course will include research and transferable skills training aimed at preparing students optimally to carry out an interdisciplinary PhD in sensor technologies and applications.

During the MRes course students are expected to

• attend the foundation course in sensor technologies and applications (approximately 40 lectures)
• choose 4 specialisation modules (16 hours each)
• attend the business and management course and practicals
• attend all practicals (approximately 12 practicals at 2 hours each)
• successfully conduct three extended projects:
  • guided sensor project (~5 weeks in Michaelmas Term),
  • mini research project (~12 weeks in Lent Term) and
  • team challenge (~12 weeks in Easter Term and Summer Vacation).

During the PhD phase students will carry out full-time research in one or more of the participating departments. The research will be complemented by formal and informal training opportunities, e.g. workshops and seminars.

Placements

During the MRes phase students will carry out a number of practicals and a mini research project organised by the participating departments.  Industrial partners might offer the opportunity for MRes or PhD students to carry out parts of their projects in the industrial partner's research facilities.

Feedback

The students' coursework, reports and presentations will be marked, and the students will receive feedback on their progress through termly online reports.  The students will be supervised during their projects and will receive continuous feedback from the project coordinator.

Assessment

Thesis

For students who carry on to the PhD, a thesis must be submitted and will be assessed via an oral examination with an internal and an external examiner.

The thesis will have to comply with the rules and regulations set out by the department in which the student is registered for his/her PhD. The typical length of the PhD thesis will be 60,000-65,000 words.

Essays

For the MRes the students’ progress will be assessed through two project reports of not more than 7,000 words.  Students will also carry out a number of practicals and a mini-research project organised by the participating departments.

Written examination

The students’ progress will be assessed by written examinations, depending on the modules chosen.

Other

For the MRes the students’ progress will also be assessed by coursework, depending on the modules chosen.

Apply using the Applicant Portal

The Apply Online button on the right will take you to the Applicant Portal, where you can create and submit your application, and request references.

An application is only complete when:

1. you have submitted your application via the Applicant Portal and paid the £50 application fee
2. you have uploaded the required supporting documents via the Applicant Self-Service
3. your referees have provided their references.

If you miss the deadlines specified in this section, you will not be able to submit your application.

You must contact us at admin@sensors.cam.ac.uk and email a separate CV (max 2 pages) to inform us when you have submitted your application. 

Selection Process

Sensor CDT studentships

Following the application deadlines published on the Sensor CDT website, applications are considered as part of a gathered field. We aim to interview shortlisted candidates within four weeks after the application deadline.

Interviews will take place in Cambridge or over skype.

The deadline for the first round of applications will be in early December with interviews of shortlisted candidates scheduled for early January. If places remain unfilled after the first round further application rounds will be opened and deadlines published on the Sensor CDT website.

Industry sponsored studentships

We may, in addition, advertise specific industry funded projects on the Sensor CDT website with separate application deadlines. After the successful completion of their MRes, students who are recruited through a specific industry sponsored studentship are expected to carry out their PhD project in accordance with the project description.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.0
• TOEFL Internet Score 100
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• CV/Resumé
• Personal Reference

The Sensor Technologies and Applications program at the University of Cambridge offers a range of financing options to support prospective students in their academic pursuit. There are several scholarships, bursaries, and funding opportunities available for both domestic and international students. These include university-wide scholarships such as the Cambridge Trust Scholarships, which provide substantial financial support based on academic merit and financial need. Additionally, the program-specific funding opportunities are sometimes available, including awards for excellence in sensor technologies and applied sciences. Many students also apply for external scholarships and grants from government bodies, industry partners, and private foundations that support engineering and technology studies.

Students are encouraged to explore the Cambridge Funding Search tool, which provides comprehensive information on available funding sources. The university also offers loan schemes and work-study programs to help manage living expenses and tuition fees. Candidates are advised to check the specific application deadlines for each funding scheme, as these can vary and often require separate applications apart from the program admission process. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance and assistance to applicants in identifying suitable funding routes and completing application procedures. International students may also consider potential sponsorship opportunities from their home countries or industry collaborations facilitated by the university. Overall, the university is committed to promoting access to advanced education in sensor technologies through its diverse financial support mechanisms, ensuring that talented students can pursue their academic and research goals regardless of financial background.

The MSc in Sensor Technologies and Applications at the University of Cambridge is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the development, deployment, and management of sensor systems. This interdisciplinary course focuses on the fundamental principles of sensor design, signal processing, data analysis, and the integration of sensor systems into various applications across industries such as healthcare, environmental monitoring, manufacturing, and aerospace. The program combines theoretical understanding with hands-on experience, enabling students to undertake research projects and lab work that develop their technical competencies and problem-solving abilities.

Students in this program explore cutting-edge topics like nanosensors, wireless sensor networks, IoT (Internet of Things) integration, and machine learning techniques applied to sensor data. The course also emphasizes understanding the communication protocols and embedded systems that facilitate sensing in complex environments. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, engage in interdisciplinary research, and attend seminars conducted by leading experts in sensor technologies. This collaboration aims to prepare graduates for careers in research and development, engineering, consultancy, or further academic pursuit.

The program often involves a mix of lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and project work, culminating in a major research project or dissertation. The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum reflects the university's commitment to fostering innovation at the nexus of electronics, computer science, and engineering. To accommodate diverse backgrounds, the program offers foundational modules as well as advanced topics, ensuring that students without prior specialised knowledge can build a strong foundation while seasoned engineers can deepen their expertise.

Graduates of this program are well-positioned to contribute to the development of smarter, more efficient sensor-based systems that are critical in modern technological ecosystems. The university's strong research environment, combined with state-of-the-art facilities, supports students in their academic and professional growth, preparing them to lead innovations in sensor applications worldwide. With a history of integrating theoretical research with practical engineering, the program emphasizes preparing students to meet contemporary challenges through technological advances and interdisciplinary collaboration.