Telecommunication Engineering (including foundation year)

The BSc Telecommunications Engineering program at the University of Essex is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the rapidly evolving field of telecommunications technology. This undergraduate course offers an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles of telecommunications systems, covering areas such as signal processing, network architectures, wireless communication, and data transmission. Students will gain hands-on experience with modern communication tools and technologies, preparing them for a competitive career in the telecommunications industry or related fields. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, ensuring graduates are well-versed in designing, managing, and optimizing complex communication networks. Throughout their studies, students will engage in cutting-edge research, collaborative projects, and industry placements that enhance their problem-solving abilities and technical expertise. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements in technologies like 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and cybersecurity within telecommunications. Additionally, the program fosters critical thinking, innovation, and professional development through seminars, workshops, and partnerships with leading technology companies. Graduates of the BSc Telecommunications Engineering program are prepared for diverse roles such as network engineer, systems analyst, RF engineer, or telecommunications consultant. They also have the option to pursue postgraduate studies in related fields. The University of Essex provides a supportive learning environment, state-of-the-art laboratories, and dedicated academic staff committed to student success. With a strong focus on employability and industry relevance, this program helps students build a solid foundation for a dynamic career in telecommunications and related technological sectors.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking science and engineering subjects, then these options are slightly restricted because our science modules tend to rely on previous knowledge of the subject.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BSc, then you are qualified to enter the second year not only of that course but also of a range of other courses: for example, if you are a BSc student who takes economics, politics, philosophy and sociology in your first year, then you have a choice of at least two courses and, in some cases, as many as five. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you. Some of our science courses offer an optional extra year of an industrial placement.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1
Professional Development;
Mathematics for Electronics and Telecommunications;
Introduction to Programming;
Network Fundamentals;
Digital Systems Architecture;
Digital Electronic Systems;
Foundations of Electronics I; and
Foundations of Electronics II

Year 2
Electronics and Telecommunications Project and Industrial Practice;
Engineering Mathematics;
Analogue Circuit Design;
Digital Systems Design;
Telecommunication Principles;
Engineering Electromagnetics;
Signal Processing; and
one from: C++ Programming, Embedded Processors and Systems, Electronic Devices, or High Level Digital Design

Year 3
Year studying abroad

Year 4
Individual Project (double module);
Embedded Systems Design;
Advanced Digital Systems Design; and
four from: Mobile Robotics, Image Processing and Computer Vision, Large Scale Software Systems, Network Security, 3D Computer Graphics, RF Systems, Telecommunication Networks, Digital Signal Processing, Audio Electronic Systems and Design, or Photonic Networks and Devices
We offer you a wide range of interesting modules to choose from throughout your time at Essex. All modules include a significant coursework element, while teaching draws on the most up-to-date and exciting research. (Please note that modules with a 4 in the middle of their module code are for first-year undergraduates, those with a 5 are for second-year undergraduates and those with a 6 are for third-year undergraduates).

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A-levels: ABB-BBB, including Mathematics (please note we are unable to accept A-level Use of Mathematics in place of A-level Mathematics)
GCSE Mathematics and Science: C
GCSE English: C or above or equivalent
BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, including Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians
IB: 32-30 points, including a 5 in Higher Level Mathematics and a 4 in Standard Level Science (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above). A-level Mathematics is also required.
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The University of Essex offers a comprehensive degree program in Telecommunication Engineering, designed to equip students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of telecommunications technology. The program covers a wide range of topics including communication systems, digital signal processing, network infrastructure, wireless communication, and data transmission. Students are introduced to core engineering concepts through theoretical coursework complemented by practical laboratory sessions, enabling them to develop both technical knowledge and hands-on skills. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of innovation and emerging technologies in the telecommunications sector, preparing graduates to meet industry demands and contribute to technological advancements.

The foundation year is intended for students who do not meet the standard entry requirements but demonstrate the potential to succeed in engineering studies. During this year, students undertake an introductory program that covers essential mathematics, physics, and computing principles. This preparatory phase ensures that students acquire the necessary academic skills and technical understanding to progress seamlessly into the subsequent bachelor’s degree components.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in research projects, industry placements, and collaborative initiatives, fostering a practical understanding of real-world telecommunications challenges. The university’s focus on research-led teaching means that students are exposed to the latest developments in telecommunications technology and innovation. The program also offers specializations or elective modules in areas such as mobile networks, cybersecurity, optical communications, and network security, allowing students to tailor their learning experience according to their interests and career aspirations.

Graduates of the Telecommunication Engineering program at the University of Essex are well-prepared for careers in telecommunications companies, network service providers, research institutions, and technology development firms. They possess a strong technical foundation combined with practical skills in designing, managing, and optimizing communication systems. Additionally, the program equips students with critical problem-solving abilities and teamwork skills, which are essential in dynamic and fast-evolving industries.

The university’s location and industry connections provide valuable networking opportunities, internships, and placements that enhance employability after graduation. The program also encourages student participation in seminars, workshops, and professional development activities aimed at fostering lifelong learning and continuous professional improvement in the telecommunications field. Overall, the University of Essex’s Telecommunication Engineering program offers a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and industry relevance, making it an excellent choice for aspiring telecommunications engineers.