MSc Communication Engineering: The University of Manchester

Course description

This programme provides an up-to-date view of communication and telecommunication engineering from a systems level through to implementation using Microwave, Optical and Semi-Conductor Devices. Emphasis is placed on mobile communications, networks and wireless technologies.

Studies all aspects of communication, from the design of their constituent parts through to the realisation of particular systems. The course covers digital transmission systems, digital signal processing (DSP), radio frequency devices, and design techniques to millimetric wavelengths.

The programme is aimed at those with some previous undergraduate knowledge of communication engineering topics, wishing to enhance their skills to an advanced level compatible with a career in the communications industry. The programme also serves as an excellent introduction and training for further research leading to the degree of PhD.

Module details

The syllabus aims to provide equal emphasis to both microwave and digital techniques. The first semester contains mainly foundation material and most of the lab sessions. In the second semester, you study six advance topics in greater depth and also perform a feasibility study for your dissertation project.

The final four months of the programme are devoted to this dissertation project. Projects with industrial involvement are encouraged. Typical course units include Digital Communications, Analogue Communications, Digital Signal Processing, Microwave, Antennas and Propagation, Codes, Sequences and Cryptography, Communication Networks and Mobile Communications.

First semester course work is examined in January the second semester work is examined in May. Course work marks also contribute to the final assessment. To graduate you need to pass an examination and also a dissertation phase.

Career opportunities

On graduating you will be able to enter directly all areas of the modern communications/telecommunications engineering industry, including the fast growing mobile and wireless technology sectors. You will also be well prepared to begin PhD research programmes, which may lead to careers in research establishments and universities.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview:

The standard academic entry requirements for a Masters course will be a minimum of an upper second class UK honours degree, or international equivalent, in an electrical and electronic engineering discipline.

Applicants should have previously studied communication engineering fundamentals and also have good programming skills (ie C++, Java, MATLAB).

English language:

Students will need to be able to demonstrate competency in the English language and students who do not already possess a recognised English Language qualification will need to take a test such as IELTS or TOEFL and attain a minimum of IELTS 6.5 (with no sub test < 5.5), TOEFL 570 with 5.0 in the TWE (Test of Written English) or CBTOEFL 230 with 5.0 in the TWE.

If you do not currently have an English Language qualification at the required level then it may be possible to arrange a pre-sessional course, the duration of which will depend on your current English language qualification.