Undergraduate Course

Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Foundation Year
BSc (Hons)

Three circuit boards in a pile.
This degree offers you the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence before you advance to stage one of your honours degree.  
ApplyApplyExplore our Virtual Open DayExplore our Virtual Open DayOrder your prospectusOrder your prospectusContact us Contact us

COVID-19: Information for applicants
Available through Fast Track to Clearing

Course details

Study options

Full-time: 4 years

UK/EU fee

£9,250 per year (2020/21)

International fee

£14,045 per year (2020/21)

UCAS points

72 (September 2020 entry)

Course level

Undergraduate

Qualification

BSc (Hons)

Start date

September

Location

Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

Course description

Why you should study Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Derby

Electricity lights our homes, runs many of our domestic gadgets, and keeps the wheels of industry turning. We often take it for granted, yet it remains a fascinating and developing field of study – all captured in our distinctive BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Prepare for success with a foundation year

Taking a foundation year first is an ideal choice if you have the potential and ambition to study this BEng (Hons) programme but lack the formal entry requirements or feel you are not quite ready to embark on a full honours degree right now.

It is also a smart move if you have changed your mind about your career direction since you chose your A-levels or BTECs and need to improve your skills in a different subject area.

The foundation year will cover general concepts in subjects such as engineering science and electrical and electronic principles. You will also gain essential scholarship skills for technologists, including areas like writing reports and giving presentations.

Build a broad set of skills

On this course, you will study both electrical engineering - where electricity is used to transport and deliver energy - and electronic engineering, where electricity can be used to process, transmit and store information.

Electrical engineering deals with the study of motors and generators and their control, power transmission and distribution systems, as well as the principles that underpin them.

Electronic engineering depends heavily on semiconductor technology, which has advanced significantly since the invention of the transistor, leading to the so-called microchip, the world of mobile phones and laptops, and the Internet of Things. Both electrical and electronic engineering are underpinned by the same fundamental scientific laws, but diverge widely beyond those basics.

Your studies will feature practical learning and experiments in our specialist laboratories dedicated to electrical and electronic engineering.

Vital practical experience

We give you the opportunity to take a placement year in industry as part of this degree. This experience, which takes place between the second and final stage of your honours degree studies, will greatly enhance your career prospects after graduation. A large number of companies seek placement students each year.

In addition, we offer extensive support to boost your employability while you are studying with us: for more information, contact our Careers and Employment Service.

BEng vs BSc – what is the difference?

We offer both a BEng (Hons) and a BSc (Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Each provides an excellent route into professional practice and recognition as a qualified electrical or electronic engineer. The two courses are similar, but the BEng features more analytical study and deeper scientific underpinning.

Both courses are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), under strict rules laid down by the Engineering Council UK. They therefore help prepare you to work either as an Incorporated Engineer or as a Chartered Engineer. See the Engineering Council website for a full definition of these roles.

While the BSc provides the educational requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer, the BEng provides part of the educational requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). The full educational requirement for CEng is met by completing accredited postgraduate study, for example our MSc in Control and Instrumentation. 

Foundation Year - helping you to achieve more

Including a foundation year as part of your four-year study programme will give you a head start in your academic and professional life. The foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence – with extensive support from our expert staff – before you advance to stage one of your honours degree. It could also be beneficial if you are planning a career change and want to get to grips with aspects of subjects which are new to you.

Our degrees with a foundation year are continuous, meaning that you won’t need to apply again once you have successfully completed the first year.

What you will study

Foundation YearFoundation YearYear 1Year 1Year 2Year 2Optional Placement YearOptional Placement YearYear 3Year 3
Core modules
Foundation Electrical and Electronic Principles
Preliminary Mathematics
Scholarship for Technologists
Technology Project
Engineering Science
Core modules
Analogue Digital Electronics
Design and Professional Studies
Electromagnetic Devices
Engineering Workshop
Sustainable Energy Systems
Signal and Circuit Analysis Techniques (Mode B)
Core modules
Circuit Analysis (Mode B)
Electronic Systems (Mode B)
Electrical Machines Technology
Project Management and Team Leadership
Optional modules
Computer Systems and Software Engineering
Electronic Communication Technology
Professional Practice
Control and Instrumentation Technology
Core modules
Applied Professional Practice
Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice
Core modules
Power Systems Technology
Independent Technology Project
Optional modules
Power Electronics Technology
Communication Systems and Digital Transmission
Embedded Systems Technology
Renewable and Smart Energy Systems Technology
Back to Module List

Code: 3EJ501

Foundation Electrical and Electronic Principles

This module aims to introduce knowledge and understanding of electrical principles, theory and circuits, and to develop practical skills in experimentation and measurements. The module begins with analysing DC circuits with resistors in series and parallel configuration. The module then moves on to introduce capacitors and inductors before analysing ac circuits including reactance impedance and phasor diagrams.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3EJ502

Preliminary Mathematics

This module is an introduction to Mathematics in an engineering/technical context. It will concentrate on the principal mathematical tools of Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry and Calculus and will introduce you to the fundamental use of Maths in understanding and predicting the behaviour of engineering and technical processes and systems work.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3EJ503

Scholarship for Technologists

A crucial stage in the development of the student is in the assumption of responsibility for learning. The student must be self-motivated, organised and independent. The development of critical thinking and meticulousness is fundamental to university study. This module provides the student with a variety of scholarly and communication competencies necessary for a successful career in the engineering and technology fields. The module aims to develop the ability of the student to investigate, analyse and communicate technologic concepts effectively.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3EJ504

Technology Project

The module will develop your ability to work independently and safely, to carry out effective investigation within this technical field, and to apply relevant practical techniques.
40 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3ME500

Engineering Science

This module deals with basic engineering science concepts, together with analytical and practical applications in mechanical engineering science, providing a broad foundation of knowledge required by students in engineering and therefore preparing them for further studies in specific fields such as mechanical / manufacturing engineering.

This module also enables students to use fundamental mathematical techniques for the evaluation, analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems. It also aims to develop an understanding of basic electrical and electronic theory and principles.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EJ500

Analogue Digital Electronics

Electronics pervades almost every aspect of our society today, and is an essential aspect of the industrial, music and stage technology worlds. This module aims to introduce and develop knowledge and understanding of analogue and digital electronic principles and their application in a variety of industrially relevant circuits enabling you to predict and analyse the performance and function of both analogue and digital circuits. Analogue and digital circuit design techniques will be investigated resulting in you being able to design circuits to a given specification and function.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EJ501

Design and Professional Studies

This module prepares you for the technological and professional challenges you are likely to face in your chosen careers. Graduate employment is highly competitive and employer expectations are high, behaving without professionalism is not an option. The module highlights those skills that are considered essential and desirable by employers and will help you to fully engage with your subject and personal career development.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EJ502

Electromagnetic Devices

Electromagnetism plays a significant role in electrical and electronic engineering. Understanding the principles of electric and magnetic fields and their interrelation in the form of electromagnetism is vital for understanding the field of electrical and electronic engineering. This includes capacitive and inductive components, radio communications and electrical power generation and transmission as well as physical artefacts such as loudspeakers, motors, CRT displays and relays. This module introduces the principles of electric and magnetic fields and electromagnetism, alongside key mechanical principles, and investigates how they relate to engineering applications.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EJ504

Engineering Workshop

This module gives an introduction to the design, fabrication and commissioning processes of a basic electrical/ electronic engineering product. Basic electronic engineering skills such as soldering, wiring and use of electronic test gear are practiced leading on to printed circuit board (pcb) design, build and commission. These skills will then be used throughout your later studies culminating in the Independent Engineering Project in the final year.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EJ509

Sustainable Energy Systems

Sustainable Energy Systems is a module that addresses the scientific, engineering and technical aspects of global concerns about the availability of energy sources, sustainability of these sources and environmental concerns. Environmental concerns have been highlighted as the greatest challenge facing the world in this century. The module has been designed to provide the necessary knowledge and information of renewable energy resources, technology and their industrial demand. It presents a wide-ranging introduction to the field of renewable energy systems.

It is mainly focussing on natural green sources of energy which can be easily converted to electrical form, energy in transport, energy and buildings, and energy in various industrial process and applications. It is expected you will gain a clear understanding of the technical implications of providing sustainable electrical energy. The module prepares you for further studies in renewable energy systems, electrical power systems, electrical and electronic engineering.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EJ518

Signal and Circuit Analysis Techniques (Mode B)

Signals and circuits, and physical systems in general, are represented and analysed by a range of techniques which combine an understanding and visualisation of the physical system with an appropriate mathematical technique. This module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of electrical principles, and the mathematics used in their analysis. This module explores how the physical and mathematical worlds are inter-related, and how the latter can be used to represent and analyse the former, using both mathematical modelling and computer-aided design techniques.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ502

Circuit Analysis (Mode B)

This module is designed to develop your competence and confidence in advanced mathematical and circuit analysis techniques. Building on Level 4 studies it will deepen your understanding of circuit theorems, of the underpinning mathematics that is necessary, and of the simulation tools that can be used. The emphasis will be on developing fluency in these mathematical and circuit analysis skills, and increasing the level of complexity and sophistication with which you are able to engage.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ509

Electronic Systems (Mode B)

Electronics pervades almost every aspect of our society today, and is an essential aspect of the industrial, music and stage technology worlds. With the widespread availability of sophisticated and customisable integrated circuits, most electronic design is now done at the system, rather than the component level. This module aims to give you the ability to recognise and apply important electronic sub-systems, and to combine them together to create useful and effective electronic systems. The module aims to build from a clear understanding of electronic principles, showing how these are implemented in current electronic technology. There will be a high dependence on exploring circuit characteristics through simulation. You will however also experience the building and configuring of physical circuits.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ528

Electrical Machines Technology

Electrical machines provide an interface between mechanical systems and electrical systems and allow the conversion of mechanical energy to electrical energy and the reverse. This module provides the opportunity to understand the principles, analyse the characteristics and predict the performance of electrical machines and transformers and discusses their practical operation and disposal.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ530

Project Management and Team Leadership

A successful graduate will almost inevitably work on projects and in teams. He/she is likely to move to a team leadership and then project management role within years of graduating. Part-time students may already be in one of these roles. Engineering tasks and projects need to be delivered to meet client expectations with respect to cost, time, and quality. Participants in the process may be drawn from a variety of disciplines and trades. The success of any project depends on effective management of activities and co-ordination of interdisciplinary efforts. By using innovative and creative project management techniques and working on either current case studies or a live brief this module aims to provide a sound and practical introduction to team work and project management ensuring students are 'real world ready' when they graduate.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ503

Computer Systems and Software Engineering

Computers pervade every area of the modern world. As engineers we are likely to be engaged with specifying and designing computer based systems at a low level of abstraction. This module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of modern computing systems and programming languages. You will be able to discuss and compare the various solutions to a number of hardware and software computing problems and be able to write computer programs. Good programming practices will be emphasised, promoting software reusability, reliability, modular design and maintainability.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ507

Electronic Communication Technology

This module aims to provide a firm theoretical and practical understanding of the principles of analogue and digital signal description, transmission and reception, with an emphasis on the application of such principles relevant to the programme of study.
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ515

Professional Practice

This module provides opportunity to experience professional practice related to a programme of study. This may be achieved either through an industrial placement or a by engaging with a defined project related to the professional practice of an industrial sector. The precise nature of engagement will be defined by the student in consultation with the Module Leader.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ527

Control and Instrumentation Technology

Control and instrumentation play an important role in many areas of science and technology. Instrumentation is the cornerstone for automatic control applications. It comes in many forms ranging from domestic water heaters, automotive and to space applications. In all cases one or more variables, such as temperature, pressure and displacement, can be sensed and fed to a microprocessor or a controller to perform a control operation. Due to the rapid developments in technology and instruments more efficient measurement techniques are constantly being introduced resulting in more accurate and efficient control systems. This module presents a structured introduction to the application and development of such systems. System elements are introduced, and overall system behaviour is considered, using a mix of descriptive and analytical techniques. The systems perspective used will provide a good base for solving control and instrumentation problems over a wide range of applications.
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ886

Applied Professional Practice

This module provides a framework for the development of “lifelong learning” skills appropriate to all areas of professional practice; including objective setting, planning, negotiating, implementing, demonstrating and reflecting. The emphasis in this module is on the analysis and evaluation of the work completed within the organisation. This module also gives students an opportunity to relate their academic knowledge to the work environment.
40 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EJ887

Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice

Students need to be aware of the commercial realities and external factors that influence the success of an organisation. This module provides opportunities for students to acquire an understanding of contemporary issues that may impact on industrial and professional practices relevant to a career within their chosen discipline. During this period of work experience, students can gain a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities arising from both corporate and individual responses to such issues, thus enabling them to relate to the wider world when exploring a personal direction for potential career development.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EJ529

Power Systems Technology

This module addresses the main elements of electrical power systems and its industrial utilisation. It explains in depth the basic structure of power systems, fundamentals of AC power circuits, three-phase systems balanced and unbalanced, per unit systems, the main components of power systems: generators, transmission lines, transformers and protection units, symmetrical components and short circuit calculations. Power flow problems and techniques are discussed. The module concludes with some industrial case studies of industrial applications and power system stability. Industrially relevant hardware and software design skills are developed; including the use of industrial power systems test rigs, and MATLAB, SIMULINK and PSS SIGNCAL tools.

A major practical and computer simulation assignment adopts a Problem Based Learning approach, with student teams being required to develop electrical power applications, to meet given tasks design specifications. There will be also a series of industrial visit to gain the practical sense of the actual system in power station.

More information
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EJ994

Independent Technology Project

The Independent Project is a major element of accredited engineering or technical degree. It provides the necessary evidence that you are technically competent and capable of entering the world of work as a professional technologist. The aim is to develop your ability to work independently, in a chosen topic, using relevant technical design and development concepts, and analytical, test, measurement and evaluation techniques, in order to produce a finished artefact or product. You will be expected not merely to apply technical expertise, but also to exhibit other skills such as the ability to plan, manage and produce a significant technical piece of work.
40 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EJ527

Power Electronics Technology

The control and conversion of electric power using solid-state techniques are now commonplace in both the domestic and industrial environments. Power electronics is the enabling technology to efficiently use and distribute electrical energy. Many market segments such as domestic and office appliances, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, digital consumer, communication, factory automation and drives, traction, automotive and renewable energy, can potentially benefit from the application of power electronics technology. Power electronics influences and enables systems for power quality and energy saving, for intelligent automation and motor control, for efficient and clean automotive and transportation systems. Knowledge and understanding of the diverse disciplines encompassed by power electronics: devices, converters, control theory, and motor drive systems, is now essential to all power engineers.

This module provides the current development in power electronics and drives techniques covering key fundamental principles along with modern applications and current practices. A project-based assessment, in which you will use appropriate design techniques, components and software tools to implement a converter suitable for a solar powered model car, is adopted. This will develop industrially relevant hardware and software design skills and integration of real time sub-systems.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EJ539

Communication Systems and Digital Transmission

Digital communications are an essential aspect of society, and of broadcast and electronic engineering. This module introduces and explores digital communications systems, using broadcast systems as the primary vehicle of study.

Broadcast transmission systems are often referred to as the last leg of the broadcast chain; they take the produced content from the broadcast site and distribute it to the homes of millions of viewers either through radio waves (including satellite) cable or optical fibre. Lectures will introduce a theoretical understanding of current broadcast systems, including digital video broadcasting (DVB) standards. Laboratory-based sessions will evaluate the signals and error management of such signals. Site to site transmission will also be investigated for multi-site broadcasting, satellite links, direct IP (Internet Protocol) links and radio wireless connections.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EJ541

Embedded Systems Technology

Embedded Systems are products or sub-systems in which tiny computers are hidden in order to undertake a control function. They appear in a wide variety of forms today, including the motorcar, domestic appliances, stage, office and medical equipment, the sound studio, and industrial machinery. Embedded systems often exist in networked configurations and are a key feature of the Internet of Things phenomenon.

This module teaches the main elements of embedded systems hardware and software, using a current commercially available microcontroller as a focus of study. Industrially relevant hardware and software design skills are developed, including the use of C programming. A major practical assignment adopts a Problem Based Learning approach, with student teams being required to develop an embedded system to meet a given design requirement. A taught introduction is given to some of the wider contexts with which embedded devices are developed, for example relating to real time, low power, or high reliability.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EJ542

Renewable and Smart Energy Systems Technology

This module explores the fascinating world of emerging electrical energy supply systems, in which conventional and renewable generation technologies, along with energy storage technologies, are combined together using “smart” monitoring and control techniques, to create a supply grid of maximum efficiency and minimum negative environmental impact. Analytical and simulation techniques are used to evaluate these complex systems
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

Side-on black and white portrait of a young student looking to the sky for inspiration with bokeh lights

Undergraduate Live Online Events

While we’re not able to welcome you in person to our campuses at the moment, we’re not going to let that stop us showing you all the great things about studying at Derby.

We’re currently planning our autumn Open Events to bring you the best possible online and on-campus experience.

Book your Live Online EventBook your Live Online Event

Virtual Open Day

Delve deeper into the course with our Virtual Open Day, packed with subject and course information to help you make your choice, including tours of facilities, 360° views of award-winning accommodation plus advice and insight from students and academics.

Explore our Virtual Open DayExplore our Virtual Open Day

How you will learn

Alongside practical work in the labs, you will learn through a mixture of lectures and tutorials.

How you are assessed

You will be assessed through a blend of assignments and examinations. Assignments may relate to work at the computer or in the laboratory, or may entail a piece of written or analytical work.

EEE students in lab

Personal academic tutoring

Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.

Find out more about personal academic tutoring

Entry requirements

September 2020 typical entry requirements

RequirementWhat we're looking for
UCAS points72 (up to 16 from AS-levels)
Specific requirements at A-levelN/A
Specific requirements at GCSE

GCSE Maths and English are preferred, however if you don't have these qualifications you will be able to undertake Maths and English at L2 as part of your course of study.

IELTS6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area)
Interview / AuditionN/A
PortfolioN/A

Alternative entry qualifications:

We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.

Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.

September 2021 typical entry requirements

RequirementWhat we're looking for
UCAS points72
Specific requirements at A-level

No specific subject requirements

Specific requirements at GCSEGCSE Maths and English Grade C/Grade 4 (or above) or equivalent qualification
IELTS6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area)
Interview / AuditionN/A
PortfolioN/A

Alternative entry qualifications:

We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.

Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.

Fees and funding

2020/21 Fees

 Full-timePart-time
UK/EU

£9,250 per year

N/A

International

£14,045 per year

N/A

Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to.

How to apply

UK/EU students

Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.

Apply through UCASApply directly to the University

Guidance for EU students post-Brexit

International students

Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.

Apply through UCASApply directly to the University

Guidance for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree

Male student with glasses against a bright pink backdrop

Fast track to Clearing

If you don’t have a place at uni, have had a change of heart about your course, or maybe your gap year plans are on hold – don’t worry. Register with us today and fast forward to your future.

Register now for ClearingRegister now for Clearing

Careers

This course opens doors to a wide range of employment opportunities in electrical and electronic engineering.

You could move into development, installation or maintenance roles in areas as diverse as avionics, medical electronics, automotive electrical and electronic systems, electrical power generation, mining or the rail industry. It may not be long before you become a team or project leader, managing significant budgets as well as the work of others.

Derby graduates can be found working in railway signalling, train construction and maintenance; managing oilfield instrumentation systems; and developing microprocessor systems in cars, safety systems for forklift trucks or aircraft engine controls.

The numeracy and problem-solving skills you develop during our BSc (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering will also pave the way to a wide range of alternative career options, including teaching, banking, accountancy, technical sales or management. 

Electrical and Electronic Engineering student using equipment

Contact us

If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.

Contact us Contact us

Additional information about your studies

Teaching hours

Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.

Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.

Discover Uni

Full-time

You might also like