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Undergraduate course
BEng (Hons)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Foundation Year
Gain a solid grounding in electronic and electrical engineering with a foundation year. Through lectures and lab based practicals you'll build confidence in applied mathematics, physics and electronic engineering, ready to take on the full degree.
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
Hands-on learning
From the very start of your studies, you'll gain practical experience using cutting-edge labs, workshops and tools, ensuring you're well-prepared for industry challenges.
Strong industry connections
Build valuable professional relationships through live consultancy projects, networking events and collaborations with local businesses and social enterprises.
Tackle the challenges of tomorrow
Experience a forward-thinking curriculum that integrates the latest advancements in electrical and electronic engineering, readying you for emerging trends and technologies in the field.
About
Some of the biggest medical breakthroughs have been in electronics including medical imaging, robot surgery and stenting – and your work can make a real difference to society. As a Plymouth student, it’s an exciting opportunity to develop your technical and design skills and build connections with industry who are keen to discover your inventions. Previous student projects have included developing bionic arms for amputees or working in international organisations like the European Space Agency designing satellite systems.
Dr Ian Howard
Associate Professor Computational Neuroscience
What is a foundation year?
A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
Further information on
University of Plymouth courses with Foundation years
.
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
- To build your confidence to study at university level.
- To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
- Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
- You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
- You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
- You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
This course is for you if...
you're curious and keen to try new ideas
you can't wait to put ideas into practice
your inventive nature drives your ambition
you get a buzz from solving problems for others
Details
Progression routes
This foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree and you will benefit from experienced university lecturers.
Whilst successful completion of the foundation year (Year 0) will not lead to a separate award or qualification in its own right, you will be able to confidently progress onto Year 1 of:
Progression is also possible to our other engineering degrees and good performance in the first year entitles you to transfer to the second year of our MEng course.
Foundation year
Taught by University lecturers on campus, you’ll be part of the University from day one. You'll study six modules over the foundation year, including mathematical methods, applied mathematics (mechanics), physics and electronics. The year is geared towards helping you to progress onto one of our degrees in electronic engineering or robotics. You'll take about 17 taught hours per week, and put in at least the equivalent number of hours of independent study.
Core modules
ELEC051
Electronics
20 credits
The module introduces basic electricity and analogue electronics. Lectures, laboratory measurements and practical construction experience underpin the learning. Lecture materials have a close link with practical works in the laboratory.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
MATH051
Mathematical Methods I
20 credits
This module is intended to show how mathematics is a fundamental part of the world of engineering, science and computing as well as of the world around us. Assuming a base of GCSE grade C, the lectures and assessments are designed to lead to an understanding of the application of mathematics to GCE A Level grade C and above.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MATH053
Mathematical Methods II
20 credits
This module is intended to show how mathematics is a fundamental part of the world of engineering and science as well as of the world around us. It extends the mathematics taught in MATH051 to include complex numbers, differential equations and numerical methods.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MATH058
Applied Mathematics
20 credits
This module provides an introduction to applied mathematics. The focus of the module is on the use of mechanics to solve basic problems of an engineering and scientific nature in the real world. Topics studied are: modelling; forces; vectors; kinematics in one and two dimensions; Newton's laws; moments and energy.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
PHYS050
Physics I
20 credits
This module provides an introduction to physics and its applications in science and engineering. This module assumes little previous knowledge of physics.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
PHYS051
Physics II
20 credits
This module continues the work in Physics I, providing an introduction to physics and its applications in science and engineering.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
Year 1
From the start of year one, you will find that there is an emphasis on learning by doing. Group project work will enable you to develop your problem solving and communication skills and you'll use our well-equipped laboratories to develop your knowledge and practical problem solving skills. In our integrating project you'll bring together structured design procedures for both hardware and software.
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Core modules
BPIE112
Stage 1 Electrical/Robotics Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.
ELEC141
Analogue Electronics
20 credits
This module provides an overview of analogue circuit characterisation, analysis and design, linking theory to practice. It will examine how common analogue systems are constructed from elementary components.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
ELEC142
Digital Electronics
20 credits
This is a foundation module in digital electronics and computer control, which introduces digital devices and provides a background in the principles, design and applications of combinational and sequential logic circuits.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
ELEC144
Electrical Principles and Machines
20 credits
This module gives an introduction to the electrical properties of materials, capacitance, Inductance, and electromagnetism. Basic circuit principles and their application in dc and ac circuit analysis are then applied to electrical machines, transformers and energy conversion.
100% Coursework
ENGR104
Engineering Mathematics
20 credits
This module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills, and techniques, which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
PROJ100
Embedded System Design and Build
40 credits
The module enables students to work collectively to build prototype solutions to real-world problems using both software and hardware. This will include development and verification skills in both hardware and software.
100% Coursework
Optional pathways
Our flexible courses offer the opportunity to choose an integrated masters (MEng) and enrich your undergraduate degree with an additional year at postgraduate level.
What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?
BEng (Hons)
- A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
- Accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
MEng (Hons)
- A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
- Accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) accredited degree
Course-specific academic regulations
This course has unique rules relating to:
- Passing a module
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
High-spec industry facilities
You’ll become an expert in using all our specialist equipment in our innovative laboratories, which includes the
Nanomaterials and Devices Laboratory
, so you’ll graduate with sought-after knowledge and experience.
Expand your knowledge
Using specialist equipment in our Communications and Power Lab, you'll be able to learn how to maximise the energy we get from solar panels.
Compete in challenges
Opportunity to compete in fun challenges such as our first year students taking part in the buggy challenge. Using our labs students designed and built a buggy to complete widths of an arena.
Get hands-on
Learn about nanotechnology and nanoelectronics by getting hands-on experience on projects with cutting-edge staff.
Take a walk through our labs
You can access our cutting-edge laboratories to enhance your learning experience and provide you with the ability to focus on industrial and intellectual robotic systems and high frequency electronics.
Dr Toby Whitley walks through the Electrical and Electronic Engineering lab facilities
Thriving industry connections
We have a long history of working with industry experts to provide you with the connections and opportunities you’ll need to begin your career.
Our relationship with a range of industries, and our local Industry Advisory Group ensure our courses are relevant to industry needs.
Put learning into practice
Take a paid year in industry to help consolidate and develop your engineering knowledge – many of our students receive job offers or sponsorship as a result of their placements.
- From BMW to Babcock, EDF Energy to the Science and Technology Facilities Council, our placement opportunities will help you get a professional confidence and make better career decisions.
- You could earn £15,000 a year or more, and possibly gain sponsorship through your final year(s) at university.
- Build a network of contacts and connections and gain experience that will help you find a job when you graduate.
“I gained a wealth of experience and it gave me the confidence and knowledge to make me more employable.”
Research-informed teaching
Learn from professionals with industry and research expertise.
Benefit from our industry expertise and study a course that is influenced by our innovative research.
Our collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers is focused upon the creation of knowledge and innovative solutions that have a positive impact upon society.
Our
technical staff
are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Adrian Ambroze
Associate Professor of Digital Communications Engineering
Dr David Jenkins
Associate Professor of Nanomaterials and Devices
Dr Paul Davey
Associate Professor in Electronics and Embedded Systems
Make friends and meet like-minded people
The University's Engineering Society provides a platform for you to meet, socialise with and learn from from fellow students across all engineering disciplines.
Socials and events are hosted throughout the year including site visits, guest lectures from industry experts, networking events, workshops, and hands-on projects. These events not only complement your studies but also provide valuable insights into the engineering profession.
Plymouth Engineering Society (EngSoc)
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
The employment fairs organised by the University were an incredible platform from which to start creating a professional network and where to find inspiration for my future after graduation. The support from lecturers and the modules studied gave me all the necessary requirements to be offered a place at ETH Zurich.
Chiara Rivetti, BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering graduate
Open the door to a successful future
Your degree opens doors to sectors as diverse as aerospace, defence, electronics and manufacturing.
Our graduates have gone on to work for Babcock International, Collins Aerospace, Dyson, Hoare Lea, Network Rail, Marlborough Communications Ltd and Leonardo UK.
Discover things to consider when choosing a career or considering further study after studying a electrical and electronic engineering degree.
The thing that I enjoy most – and which attracted me to the course – was the amount of practical work. You learn a lot more from actually building and testing a circuit than just learning the theory.
Mathew Hodgett, graduate
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
The Tamar Engineering Project
The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
- £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
- £1,500 fee waiver per annum
- one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Secure your place this September
Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
32 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above.
A levels
32 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: PPP.
12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma: MP.
12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma: MP.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
International Baccalaureate
24 overall – English and mathematics must be included.
All Access courses
All Access courses: pass Access course (any subject) (including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above or equivalent). For candidates that do not have a science, electrical or technology background please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk for further advice.
T level
Pass – Science/Technology pathways only.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
H613
H613
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
32 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
H613
H613
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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