Course Overview

This course has been written to provide you with a wide technical background to support a range of careers in electronic and communications engineering. Communications Engineers design, install and maintain electronics and communications equipment for a range of industries in the sector, including television and radio broadcast, mobile networks, rail, aerospace and IT. This is a dynamic industry and this course has a strong technical element that will help you develop the skills you need to succeed. If you are employed in the industry this course will provide you with advanced knowledge and skills which will enhance your career prospects. If you are not employed, the course will provide you with a good grounding to help you to find employment in the field.

In your first year, your study will include a range of subjects at Level 4 providing a good grounding in the fundamentals. This includes maths, electrical and electronic principles, electronics and management. You will also design electronic circuits and test them by simulation and develop programmes using Arduino systems and study radio frequency communication techniques.

In Year 2, your study is at Level 5 and builds on the knowledge and skills gained in Year 1. You will carry out more advanced electronic design and study digital communication techniques and data communication over networks. An important part of Year 2 is the completion of a work-based project which will give you the opportunity to carry out a project of commercial significance linked to your employment.

Entry Requirements

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS UCAS Tariff Points: Pre-2017 Entry - 160 points, Post-2017 Entry - 64 points

The tariff points can be made up of:

• A Levels (GCE and VCE): 2 A Levels at Grade C
• BTEC Extended Diploma: Grade MPP
• BTEC Diploma: Grade MM
• BTEC 90 Credit Diploma: Grade DM
• Access to HE: Grade P45 (to include 45 credits at Level 3 and 15 credits at Level 2, totalling 60 credits)

If the Level 3 qualification is made up of A Levels one A Level must be Maths or Physics. All other qualifications must be an engineering, science or IT subject. Minimum number of GCSEs at Grade C or above: 5 which must include: GCSE English: Grade C or 4 GCSE Maths: Grade C or 4

Are Level 2 equivalents accepted?: Yes We encourage applications from students who do not meet the entry requirements outlined but can demonstrate ability through work experience, portfolio of evidence or successful interview.

Delivery & Assessment methods

A range of assessment methods are used including assignments, examinations, case studies, projects and presentations. There will also be the opportunity to develop team-working skills which are valuable in the world of work.

Progression

Students successfully completing the Foundation Degree with merit grades or higher will be able to progress on to the final stage of an honours degree (this component will take 2 years part-time). Students passing the course but not achieving this grade profile will be able to progress on to the 2nd year of the honours degree. Alternatively you will enter a career as an engineer and be responsible for maintaining and testing electronic and communication circuits and systems in a wide range of industries.

Career Opportunities

• Engineering Technicans
• Manufacturing Technicans
• Aeronautical Engineers
• Electricians
• Telecommunication Specialists