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Would you like to develop the technical, analytical and practical skills required to become an electrical and electronic engineer, with the option of progressing to full Chartered Engineer status?

An electrical and electronic engineer has the ability and knowledge to use principles of science and mathematics to create new products that enhance and improve quality of life across the world. This integrated master’s course will give you an extra edge in today’s competitive job market.  

Northumbria is ranked 3rd in the sector nationally for the sustained employment of Engineering and Technology graduates five years after graduation. (Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) 2017)

The MEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering course will allow you to explore this subject in greater depth, with a specialised final year that leads to a master of engineering qualification.

Thanks to the recovering economy and advancements in technology, graduates are in high demand globally meaning there has never been a better time to enter the industry.

90% of students say the staff on this course are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2018)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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. 

Would you like to develop the technical, analytical and practical skills required to become an electrical and electronic engineer, with the option of progressing to full Chartered Engineer status?

An electrical and electronic engineer has the ability and knowledge to use principles of science and mathematics to create new products that enhance and improve quality of life across the world. This integrated master’s course will give you an extra edge in today’s competitive job market.  

Northumbria is ranked 3rd in the sector nationally for the sustained employment of Engineering and Technology graduates five years after graduation. (Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) 2017)

The MEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering course will allow you to explore this subject in greater depth, with a specialised final year that leads to a master of engineering qualification.

Thanks to the recovering economy and advancements in technology, graduates are in high demand globally meaning there has never been a better time to enter the industry.

90% of students say the staff on this course are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2018)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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. 

Course Information

UCAS Code
H602

Level of Study
Undergraduate

Mode of Study
4 years full-time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

Department
Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering

Location
City Campus, Northumbria University

City
Newcastle

Start
September 2023

Fee Information

Module Information

Department / Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering

Book an Open Day / Experience Electrical and Electronic Engineering MEng (Hons)

Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.

Entry Requirements Entry Requirements Modules Overview Fees, Funding  and Scholarships How to Apply Apply Now

Entry Requirements 2022/23

Standard Entry

120 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Subject Requirements:

A-level Mathematics and another analytical science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Sciences, Physics or Technology), or recognised equivalents.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

There are no additional requirements for this course.

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 5.5 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications 

Entry Requirements 2023/24

Standard Entry

120 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Subject Requirements:

A-level Mathematics and another analytical science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Sciences, Physics or Technology), or recognised equivalents.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

There are no additional requirements for this course.

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 5.5 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Fees and Funding 2022/23 Entry

UK Fee in Year 1: £9,250

* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.


EU Fee in Year 1: £16,500

International Fee in Year 1: £16,500

 

Click here for UK, EU and International scholarship, fees, and funding information.

ADDITIONAL COSTS

There are no Additional Costs

Fees and Funding 2023/24 Entry

UK Fee in Year 1*: £9,250

* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.



EU Fee in Year 1: £19,000


International Fee in Year 1: £19,000


Scholarships for 23/24 have not yet been announced.  For information on scholarships awarded in 22/23, please see the main Funding Pages.


ADDITIONAL COSTS

TBC

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here

How to Apply

Please use the Apply Now button at the top of this page to submit your application.

Certain applications may need to be submitted via an external application system, such as UCAS, Lawcabs or DfE Apply.

The Apply Now button will redirect you to the relevant website if this is the case.

You can find further application advice, such as what to include in your application and what happens after you apply, on our Admissions Hub Admissions | Northumbria University



Modules Overview 2022/23

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one Year two Year three Year four Year five

Year one

KC4010 -

Engineering Mathematics (Core,20 Credits)

The module will provide you with a first level course in engineering mathematics. Fundamentals of algebra, trigonometry and calculus are reviewed. Your knowledge of calculus will be extended, and complex numbers, matrices, vectors and differential equations are studied.

Outline Syllabus
Basic algebra and trigonometry
Transposition, simplification, quadratic equations, simultaneous equations, functions sin, cos, tan, inverses, sec, cosec, cot; identities.

Basic calculus
Derivative as slope and rate of change, standard derivatives; product, quotient and function of a function rules; integration
as reverse of differentiation, standard integrals, area under a curve; solution of simple differential equations by direct integration.

Complex numbers
Addition, subtraction, multiplication, complex conjugate and division in algebraic form. The Argand diagram. Polar form and
exponential form, with multiplication and division. De Moivre's theorem (powers and roots). Locus problems.

Calculus
Implicit, parametric and logarithmic differentiation. Maxima and minima. MacLaurin's series. Partial differentiation, first order change, analysis of errors, method of least squares. Integration techniques (substitution, partial fractions, by parts) and simple applications of integration.

Matrices and Determinants
Second and third order determinants, evaluation, properties, Cramer's Rule for solution of simultaneous equations; matrices, addition, subtraction, multiplication, transpose, inverse (via adjoint), solution of simultaneous linear equations by matrix inversion.

Vectors
Sum, difference, magnitude, components, Cartesian representation in three dimensions; scalar and vector products, angle between vectors, application to simple geometrical and physical problems.

Differential Equations
Solution of first order by separation of variables and integrating factor; second order with constant coefficients, auxiliary
equation, complementary function, particular integral by substitution, applications to, for example, mass-spring-damper and/or L-C-R circuits.

More information

KD4008 -

Computer Programming (Core,20 Credits)

Within this module you will cover the design and development of C based code for both a standard PC and an embedded system (typically the Arduino).

The module syllabus us based but not exclusively on the following:
• Introduction of computer systems, the architecture and types from standard PCs to embedded systems,
• Code development from specifications through Pseudo code to a top-down or bottom-up based design,
• Language operators for example, if-then-else, switch-case, do-while, for,
• Data types for systems including bit length, and data pointer structures and use,
• Use of information hiding in functions, with strongly typed designs,
• File system access for a PC and for an embedded system where files may be more abstract handles,
• Controlling hardware on an embedded system for example and ADC or DAC on a microcontroller,
• The use of IO lines and interrupt structures in low level programming.

Typically, the learning in the module will be based on simple case studies and example such that the above knowledge can be applied to solve a real-world problem within a defined engineering context. An example of such a real-world problem would be a Traffic Light controller, or Home Burglar Alarm system.

More information

KD4009 -

Digital Electronics and Communications (Core,20 Credits)

Within the digital electronics aspect of this module the student will learn

The operation of logic gates AND,NAND,OR,NOR,XOR.
The use of truth tables and logic gates to solve combinational logic problems.
Boolean algebra and the use of Boolean algebra to simplify logic expressions prior to implementation.
The use of Karnaugh maps to simplify logic expressions prior to implementation.
Implementation of adders/subtractors using logic gates.
Using logic gates to implement S-R flip flop, J-K flip flop and D-type flip flop.
Using flip flops to develop asynchronous counters and shift registers.


Within the communication aspects of this module the student will learn

a) Basic telephone systems
Introduction to POTS, ISDN, VOIPand emerging telephone systems.
Telephone line encoding technology, A-law, u-law companding and Analogue to Digital conversion ADC , Digital to Analogue conversion DAC techniques.

b) Basic Network Systems
The OSI 7 layer model for networking.
Ethernet frames and IP addressing.
Current physical layer technologies for example Ethernet, Witeless Ethernet, Bluetooth, Zigbee

More information

KD4010 -

Electricity, Magnetism and Electronics (Core,20 Credits)

This module will introduce you to fundamental electromagnetism, electrical circuit theory and analogue electronics. Through a combination of lectures, labs and

technology-enhanced resources, you will learn to analyse basic DC and AC circuits and to familiarise with fundamental electronic components such as operational

amplifiers and semiconductor diodes. This module will provide you with core knowledge, and experimental, numerical and analytical skills to tackle problems in electrical

and electronic principles, thus establishing firm foundations for future employability.


Electricity and Magnetism (25%)


Electric charge: conductors, insulators and semiconductors. Electrostatics: Coulomb's law and the electric field; Concept of electric potential and its relation to the electric

field; Energy stored in an electric field; Application to a capacitor and link to capacitance. Magnetostatics: Forces arising between wires carrying electric currents; concept

of the magnetic field; Ampere’s Law; geometrical statement of the Biot-Savart law; the B field around a wire; the right-hand rule.


DC and AC Circuit Theory (50%)


Introduction to ideal linear elements: resistor, inductor and capacitor. Transient currents across ideal elements. Current and voltage division rule. Applications of

superposition: Kirchhoff’s law.



Properties of sinusoidal and periodic waveforms, average, RMS values. Phasors and phasor diagrams, and j operator. Complex impedance, impedance diagrams.

Applications to series circuits. Power in AC circuits, power factor, apparent power, active power, and reactive power. Complex admittance and applications to parallel

circuits. Series and parallel RLC circuits. Frequency response and resonance in simple RLC circuits.


Analogue Electronics (25%)


Introduction to the properties of an ideal operational amplifier. Simple inverting and non-inverting applications using virtual earth principles. Properties and parameters of a

non-ideal op-amplifier including gain-bandwidth and off-sets. Op-amplifier applications including summing, integrator and differentiator. Linear and non-linear applications.

More information

KD4011 -

Fundamentals of Energy Systems (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the fundamental concepts of energy and power. The underlying electrical engineering, physics and mathematics is illustrated using examples from electricity generation, distribution and storage. Focus is given to sources of sustainable energy amidst current concerns about climate change, finite natural resources and energy security.

Introduction
Basic SI units. Kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion and force. Work, kinetic and potential energy, and power. Conservation of energy. Circular motion. Basic electromagnetism. Electric charge: conductors, insulators and semiconductors. Electric field. Electrostatic potential energy and potential. Magnetic field of an infinitely long straight wire, magnetic flux density. Forces on a current carrying conductor on a magnetic field. Electric motors. Force on charged particles in a magnetic field. Electromagnetic induction: Faraday’s law and Lenz’s law. Electric generator.

Three phase power and power electronic devices
Production of three-phase power. Phase and line voltages and currents in star and delta systems. Earthing on low-voltage systems. Measurements of three-phase power. Introduction to single-phase transformer: principle, construction, referring of impedances, losses and efficiency, and equivalent circuit. Power electronic switching devices: Rectifiers, MOSFET, transistor, IGBT, and thyristor. Single-phase rectifier circuits,

Power generation, energy efficiency and energy storage
Conventional power generation: gas and coal-fired power stations, combined heat and power, IGCC, nuclear power. Generating plant performance. Load curve and load factor. Fundamentals of power transmission and distribution. Wind energy and the Betz limit. Solar spectrum, p-n junction, solar photovoltaics, solar thermal. Introduction to marine technologies. Efficiency of renewable energy systems. Energy storage technologies.

More information

KD4014 -

Research, Analysis and Presentation (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to gathering research data from either laboratory or reference material, analysing the acquired data in an appropriate manner and then presenting the key findings. Formal training in experimental techniques acquired in this module will support your professional and personal skills.

Research
Research methods will demonstrate where and how to gather information; researching for knowledge and information which can be applied to generate solutions to real world problems. The ability to select from a number of research methods is important for example the ability to research a method to design simple laboratory tests.

Analysis
Correct use of units and symbols for physics and engineering along with the use of data analysis techniques. Specific techniques may include for example: mean and standard deviation, simple regressive techniques, log – log and log linear relationships, and error analysis. Simple measurement techniques for example measuring of velocity, voltage, current and power. Key factors in measurement include the need to analyse the accuracy, errors, resolution and the need for calibration.

Presentation
Key communication skills in report writing, lab book writing (of laboratory data), and the presentation of information both visually via graphs and diagrams and using text. A number of key skills are in focus here namely the highlighting of key findings and drawing suitable conclusions from a piece of work. Both written and oral presentation skills are exemplified.

Computation
You will be introduced to suitable computational packages for data analysis and processing in physics and engineering.

More information

KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year two

KC5002 -

Advanced Engineering Mathematics (Core,20 Credits)

This module is designed to provide You with a basic course in Laplace Transforms, their use in solving ordinary differential equations arising from physical problems, and their use in describing the behaviour of simple control systems. You will be introduced to the concept of the harmonic components of a periodic waveform and be shown how this is useful in matching general solutions of partial differential equations to particular boundary or initial conditions. The solution of systems of linear ordinary differential equations using matrix methods will also be considered.

The module will be delivered using a combination of lectures and seminars.

Assessment is by formal examination.

Outline Syllabus
Laplace Transforms: Definition, simple transforms, linearity. First shift theorem. Inverse transforms, linearity, use of the first shift theorem and partial fractions. Transforms of derivatives. Transforms of an integral. The Heaviside Unit Step function. The second shift theorem. Solution of linear ordinary differential equations with constant coefficients, including systems of such equations. The Delta function and the Impulse Response function; transfer function. Initial and final-value theorems. Convolution and the convolution theorem. Poles of the transfer function and stability. Steady-state response. (50%)

Periodic functions and Fourier series. Full-range and half-range series. Even and odd functions.
Coefficients in complex form. Application to the solution of partial differential equations by the method of separation of variables. (25%)

Matrices, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Algebraic evaluation of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a matrix. Application to the solution of a
system of linear ordinary differential equations. (25%)

More information

KD5064 -

Analogue Electronics and Instrumentation (Core,20 Credits)

You will learn on module key technical content around two themes that of analogue electronics and instrumentation. These are important topics for electrical engineering covering the key basics of analogue design and the use of analogue signals used in instrumentation. Amplifiers and signal conditioning devices will be covered that convert the sensor output into usable signals for typical process control platforms. Operational amplifiers will be used extensively in the module, leading up to an understanding of discrete electronic transistor design.

Operational Amplifiers - Operational amplifier applications applied to instrumentation signals, active filter circuits, and instrumentation amplifiers. Filter considerations including magnitude and phase bode diagrams, and compensation methods.

Sensors - Temperature, strain and light sensor systems looking into devices and signals. Additional sensors considered may also include slot encoders, accelerometers and hall-effect devices.

Instrumentation - Amplifiers and signal conditioning demonstrates the ability for signal conversion and used in real world environments. Operational amplifiers will be expanded upon with the design of the instrumentation amplifier to highlight the performance improvements. Noise analysis will be introduced to show how instrumentation techniques reduce this phenomenon.

Discrete Electronics - Operational amplifiers are made from discrete elements; these building blocks will be explained include the Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs) and the Field Effect Transistor (FET). Biasing and amplifier design for these will be shown, with more advanced introduction to performance analysis using Monticarlo simulations. Transistor applications may include current sources, current sinks, and differential input stages.

More information

KD5065 -

C Programming and Digital Systems (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to further develop your capabilities in the areas of digital systems and C programming, building on the hardware and software design and development techniques covered in previous related module(s).

In the area of digital systems, you will learn how to design, specify and apply digital combinatorial and sequential building blocks in isolation, and also as part of a larger system. The module provides an introduction to an industry standard Hardware Description Language (HDL), and shows how it can be used to describe, at the gate and equation level, digital functions such as decoders, multiplexers, encoders, shift registers and counters. You are given the opportunity to explore designs by means of simulation using industry standard design tools. The underlying architecture and technology of programmable logic devices is covered along with their use as a target for digital designs described using a HDL, the latter activity being covered during the workshops. You will also cover other practical aspects of digital hardware design, such as logic hazards, propagation delays and interfacing.

You will use the C programming language to program a microcontroller to perform hardware control as an alternative to using digital hardware. CAD tools will be used to develop and simulate the C programs, as well as the programming of a microcontroller to implement given specifications. In this way you will learn how modern electronic systems can be programmed for both hardware and software based solutions to meet a range of applications.

Specifically, you will cover the following aspects in the C programming part of the module:
Computing in the C language on a microcontroller platform (such as the Arduino©)
Introduction to the microcontroller; program memory, ram memory, special function registers, I/O ports, control and status registers. Using the C language to program a microcontroller, limitations of a C program using a microcontroller.
Typical microcontroller circuits to read digital inputs and output to digital outputs using the C programming language. Use of C language bit masking to control output bits in a microcontroller system. Use of bit masking in C to read digital inputs in a microcontroller system. Controlling peripheral devices in a microcontroller; such as an Analogue to digital converter (ADC), a Hardware Timer, using serial I/O in a microcontroller. Identifying bit range in ADC devices as well as estimating signal to noise limits in particular applications. Developing microcontroller applications for particular specifications such as a Traffic Lights controller, a Home Alarm system, a system to determine object distance using an Ultrasonic transmitter and receiver. All of the above will enhance your skills and future employability.

More information

KD5066 -

Communication Systems (Core,20 Credits)

In this module you will learn about electronic communications. Within this module you will learn how to transfer information successfully from the sender to the receiver (and vice versa) using a number of mediums including electrical, radio or optical signals. There are two key themes of electronic communications that you will study which are Analogue communication and Digital communication. In both themes you will learn a number of key engineering processes that are fundamental to communications. In analogue communications you will learn the key physical and electronic processes necessary to transfer information in an analogue form. You will also explore current technologies and techniques in radio and satellite communications. In the digital communications topic, the knowledge that you learn in analogue communications will be expanded to a higher level to allow you to understand the key requirements for digital communication.

Three key areas within these two topics are identified:

ANALOGUE COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
Amplitude Modulation; comparison of various forms of AM, demodulation, frequency and phase insertion errors, examples and applications. Frequency modulation; NBFM, WBFM, spectra and bandwidth, examples and applications. Transmission and reception circuits. Attenuation in radio systems. Modern systems and standards.


DIGITAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
Spectra of rectangular waveforms, bit rates, baud rates and relationship to bandwidth. ISI, line codes and shaping. ASK, FSK, PSK, generation and demodulation, spectrum and bandwidth. Comparison of bandwidth and power. Quadrature carrier systems. OSI reference model. Asynchronous and synchronous networks. The serial data link. Protocols. FDM and TDM multiplexing. Parity and CRC principles and implementation. Networks. IP addressing

OPTICAL SYSTEMS
Optical sources; structure, performance and frequency response. Detectors. Fibres; modes, dispersion, optimum wavelength, coupling and splicing.

More information

KD5067 -

Power Machine and Renewable Energy (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to the principles of operation of power systems, and enhance your knowledge of electrical machinery, power electronics andrenewable energy. It will also allow you to consider the interaction between these system components.

A power network typically integrates power generators, distribution grid, transformers, transmission lines, and loads. This module provides you with an introduction to power system structure, and the principles of electrical machines. Moreover, low-carbon energy sources have increasingly contributed to the current power network, and power electronics play a key role in energy conversion. Therefore, the module also provides you with an introduction to renewable energy, and power electronics. Specifically, you will learn the following from this module:

POWER SYSTEMS (30%):
Principles and consturction of single-phase transformers, equivalent circuits, efficiency and regulation, open and short circuit tests, connections of 3-phase transformers, and vector groups. Basics of powers, and power flow. Per unit systems and fundamentals of balanced fault level calculations.

ELECTRIC MACHINES (30%):
Principles and construction of DC machines, equivalent circuit, starting and speed control. Principles and construction of induction machines, expressions for speed of rotating field and slip, rotor power balance, torque-slip curve, and modern control techniques.

POWER ELECTRONICS (20%):
Fundamentals of power electronics and converters (AC-DC, DC-DC, and AC-AC etc.), and PWM control.

RENEWABLE ENERGY (20%):
Overview of electricity generation technologies from new and renewable energy, current contributions and future prospects. Operating principles, types, characteristics and comparison of features for hydro, photovoltaics, wind, combined heat and power, fuel cells, tidal and marine power plants. Applications of rotating machines (generators) and power electronics in renewable energy conversion systems.

More information

KD5080 -

Electrical Product Development (Core,20 Credits)

This module provides you with the knowledge and skills required to research, design, implement and manage the development of an electrical/electronic product. Specifically this will involve:
- Project management and the use of Gantt charts, the product life cycle and project costing.
- The use of NORA to search for current articles, research current market trends, formulate ideas, assist with project development, and the use of Endnote to assist article citation.
- Project specification development, project design, use of simulation tools to prove design, design analysis, design for manufacturing.
- Standards and legal issues -market and technical risk assessment. End of life considerations.
- Ethical aspects, social aspects and environmental aspects of electrical/electronic engineering product development.
- Susceptibility, quality and reliability with regard to electrical/electronic engineering product development.
- Engineering report writing, style and content.

More information

KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year three

AT5004 -

Year in International Business (This is made up of modules studied in Newcastle (Semester 1) & Amsterdam (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Business which is made up of 5 modules which students study in Newcastle (semester 1) and Amsterdam (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ business awareness and their soft skills through a semester of study in the UK followed by engagement in studying in Amsterdam and working on real business projects to further enhance and develop this knowledge, skills and attributes.

Semester 1 in the UK comprises three 20-credit modules aimed at students new to business and management, which also equips the students for a semester in Amsterdam, working in teams on a “real-world”, client facing project. Of the modules studies in Semester 1 provide students with the “soft”, “analytical” and “project management” skills necessary to embark on a “real-world” client-centred consultancy project in Semester 2. In Semester 2, students will work move to Amsterdam and study two modules on Northumbria licensed premises. The first module, Group Business Consultancy Project, is a Level 5 40 credit Consultancy Project providing a supported and challenging experience with real business supervised by Northumbria and possibly Dutch academics. The final module complements the development of business knowledge and application through a contextualised consideration of International Business. This will also add to the Business Consultancy experience, thereby guaranteeing a coherent business experience.

The modules are outlined below:

Semester 1
HR9505 Managing People at Work (20 credits)
SM9511 Global Business Environment (20 credits)
AF5022 Financial Decision Making (20 credits)

Semester 2
AT5000 Digital Business (20)
AT5001 Group Business Consultancy Project (40 credits)

In semester 1, students will learn in an environment aligned to that of business students on full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place. In semester 2, in accordance with the experiential learning pedagogical approach in the Business Clinic operated at Newcastle Business School, the group consultancy work will involve students working in groups, facilitated by academics but also independently and amongst their peers in collaborative project work to provide real business consultancy. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Business UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

Please note, in line with the continuous improvement process for all Northumbria University programmes the International Year in Business is currently under review.

More information

KA5029 -

International Academic Exchange 1 (Optional,60 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment and provides you with the option to study abroad for one semester as part of your programme.

This is a 60 credit module which is available between Levels 5 and 6. You will undertake a semester of study abroad at an approved partner University where you will have access to modules from your discipline, but taught in a different learning culture. This gives you the opportunity to broaden your overall experience of learning. The structure of study will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria).

Your study abroad semester will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as an additional 60 credits for Engineering and Environment Study Abroad Semester.

More information

KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

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KL5006 -

Work placement year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment to provide you with the option to take a one year work placement as part of your programme.

You will be able to use the placement experience to develop and enhance appropriate areas of your knowledge and understanding, your intellectual and professional skills, and your personal value attributes, relevant to your programme of study, as well as accreditation bodies such as BCS, IET, IMechE, RICS, CIOB and CIBSE within the appropriate working environments. Due to its overall positive impact on employability, degree classification and graduate starting salaries, the University strongly encourages you to pursue a work placement as part of your degree programme.

This module is a Pass/Fail module so does not contribute to the classification of your degree. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised both in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate.

Your placement period will normally be full-time and must total a minimum of 40 weeks.

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KL5007 -

Study abroad year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment and provides you with the option to study abroad for one full year as part of your programme.

This is a 120 credit module which is available between Levels 5 and 6. You will undertake a year of study abroad at an approved partner University where you will have access to modules from your discipline, but taught in a different learning culture. This gives you the opportunity to broaden your overall experience of learning. The structure of study will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria).

Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

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KL5008 -

Work placement semester (Optional,60 Credits)

This module operates within a partnership between the University, employer and yourself, and provides you with the opportunity to develop core competencies and employability skills relevant to your programme of study in a work based environment.

You will be able to use the placement experience to develop and enhance appropriate areas of your knowledge and understanding, your intellectual and professional skills, and your personal value attributes, relevant to your programme of study, within the appropriate working environments.

This module is a Pass/Fail module so does not contribute to the classification of your degree. When taken and passed, however, the placement is recognised both in your transcript as a 60 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate.

Due to its overall positive impact on employability, degree classification and graduate starting salaries, the University strongly encourages you to pursue a work placement as part of your degree programme.

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Year four

KD6010 -

Power Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and the ability to analyse the components of a modern power system. It allows you to study the components and operation of power systems, highlighting the principles, design, control, performance limits and protection from abnormal conditions. The theory, control and the properties of alternators, transmission lines, switchgear and protection will also be covered. Commercial issues surrounding the economics of power generation, electricity market and quality of supply are also explored.
This module also gives you the opportunity to critically analyse and develop an understanding of practical design and implementation issues, such as load flow, fault and stability studies together with methods for voltage and frequency control, including the use of modern FACTS technologies. These and other topics will be reinforced by the use of real-world examples and case studies, with emphasis on the use of modern technologies in power systems.

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KD6024 -

Individual Engineering Project (40 Credits)

The module aims to provide you with an opportunity to carry out an extended study in a specific area of Engineering, developing your ability to work independently and promoting self-reliance. Guidance on how to source and assess the appropriateness of information is provided to you by the module tutor.

A key aim is to encourage you to apply theoretical and analytical techniques to problem solve. The module also aims to develop both verbal and written communication skills. The project will provide practical experience of drawing up a project specification defining aims, objectives and identifying an envisaged endpoint. With the supervisor’s guidance, you will prepare a project plan that includes a Gantt chart, project background and sourcing previous work and associated theory/simulation to assess whether the aims and objectives are achievable and that your theoretical basis is sound.

To meet University requirements and gain practical experience, you must perform a risk assessment to identify potential risks/hazards associated with the project. You will follow the defined plan to complete the project that will involve the application of appropriate theory and simulations leading to the production of prototype designs.

You will be encouraged to monitor your progress based upon the project plan and complete the design cycle by testing and redesign, if necessary. A final project report and verbal/poster presentation to the supervisor, second markers and peers are required towards the end of the module. You must maintain contact with the supervisor on a regular basis to: discuss/assess progress and obtain advice.

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KD6025 -

Design and Manufacturing Analysis (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to provide you with an analytical approach to the issues around both the design and manufacturing of electronic or electrical products. In this respect you have two clear sections, linked by an analysis approach to determine functionality within the bounds of manufacturability.

Design Analysis
• Operational amplifier construction with a view to component reduction and therefore performance degradation. Analysis is therefore required to pinpoint the performance of sub-optimal designs with suitable engineering compromises being found.
• Differential amplifier structures as applied to Instrumentation design, is explored with mathematical rigor to establish their fundamental performance limits.
• Circuit design (typically filters) with consideration of the circuit performance when non-ideal components are used.
• Other complex analysis methods are introduced including: Sensitivity analysis, Tolerance analysis, and Monticarlo analysis.

Manufacturing Analysis
1. Electronics Manufacturing Yield - the performance of electronic yield predictions, with typical examples provided from Integrated Circuit Manufacture.
2. Reliability in Electronics Manufacturing - electronic reliability under the factors of cost, performance availability
3. Waste Management in Electronic Components - green electronic issues and legislation which affect both electronic product design and
manufacturing aspects,
4. Lean Manufacturing - in manufacturing technology illustrating the philosophy of lean manufacturing

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KD6026 -

Digital Signal Processing Systems (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to make use of the knowledge and analytic skills developed throughout the programme to design modern digital signal processing systems.

In this module you will learn:

• The fundamental concepts of discrete-time signals and systems.
• The fundamental mathematical transforms for time-domain and frequency domain representations.
• The design of digital filters; finite impulse filter and infinite impulse filter.
• The practical implementation of digital filters in simulation and hardware.

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KD6027 -

Embedded Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will learn the architecture, and how to program a high performance microcontroller - ARM M0+ cortex.

Specifically this will include:
- A consideration of the relative merits of a number of commercially available microcontrollers
- A detailed investigation of the ARM cortex series of microcontrollers, including architecture, peripherals and capabilities.
- Using ARM IDE development tools to compose, compile and fault find programs written in a high level programming language ('C').
- Features of the ARM microcontroller that will be considered are:
- Clock generation - internal/external
- GPIO - general purpose input/output
- ADC - analogue to digital converter
- USART, SPI, I2C - serial communications
- Timers
- Interrupt capability

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KD6028 -

Digital System Design and Implementation (Optional,20 Credits)

The module aims to show you how to design and implement digital systems using a range of powerful techniques and tools, such as Finite State Machines (FSMs) and Programmable Logic. A central theme of the module is the use of a Hardware Description Language (HDL), and how it can be used to describe and verify a digital design at a behavioural level. Practical sessions, involving the use of industry standard simulation, synthesis and implementation software, will be used to provide experience of the complete digital system design flow, from concept to realisation. In addition to the use of HDLs, this module also considers some of the key low-level aspects of digital systems, including Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) circuits and their performance and optimisation using circuit-level simulation.

This module also aims to develop your understanding of practical design and implementation issues, such as testing and ‘Design-for-Test’. These and other topics will be reinforced by the use of real-world case examples and designs.

The commercial issues surrounding digital system realisation using a variety of technologies will be explored, with emphasis on Programmable Logic. The design of FSMs is methodically introduced and synchronous and asynchronous FSMs are covered. The Petri Net is also introduced and used to create both sequential and parallel based FSMs. All these FSM methouds are used to synthesise particular digital systems to meet required specifications.

This module will provide you with the skills you require to practice digital system design in an industrial context, making use of real-world design problems and industry standard software. Case studies, based on industrial consultancy work carried out by academic staff, will be used as examples to enhance your employability.

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KD6029 -

Wireless and RF Systems Design (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to the theory, design and analysis of RF and wireless communication systems. Wireless communication will be delivered via two key curriculum themes of Microwave circuit design and Antenna design.

All modern high frequency mobile communication systems can be split into two distinct sections. The first key section if the design of circuitry to generate and modify the performance of RF signals. This part will be covered in the microwave circuit design part of this module and will cover the key concepts of microwave circuit design for wireless and RF systems. Once the RF signal has been generated, it must then be converted to a signal that can be transmitted through air. This is the second key concept to be covered in this module – namely antenna design. The antenna design section covers the key principles of transmitting an RF signal through free space. The antenna design topic also examines the key concepts of antenna design related to modern communication systems, including mobile telephone systems from 1G to 4G.

Two key areas within these two topics are identified:


Microwave circuit design

Transmission Line Basics, Smith Chart, Impedance Matching techniques, Lumped Elements, Impedance / Admittance parameters, ABCD parameters , S-parameters, Passive microwave circuits.

Antenna design
Basic antenna parameters, outline of antenna types, wires, apertures, dishes, patch antennas, antennas required for
mobile systems, Structure of Cellular systems. Base station design, Typical RF transmitter layout, Antenna types for mobile handset and base stations. Factors affecting reception.

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KD6030 -

Optical Communications System Design (Optional,20 Credits)

The module will provide the knowledge and skills for you in two key themes of optical fibre and optical wireless communications. These are essential topics for communications pathway in electrical and electronics engineering programme that cover the fundamentals and advanced optical system designs in both fibre and wireless systems. Optical fibre communications provides the backbone for long-haul and medium range telecommunications that offers ultrahigh data transmission capacity whereas optical wireless communications is an emerging technology that enables data transmission via light, either in infrared or visible light band using laser and/or light emitting diode (LED) for indoor and short range communications system.

Through the module syllabus you will learn:

Fundamental optical fibre/wireless communications includes
- Introduction to the optical wire/wireless communications system and the overall design
- Identification of system elements, subsystems and required specifications
- Optical transmitter design, optical propagation channel, effect on the optical fibre, effect on the optical wireless channel, noise and losses, optical receiver design.

System design includes: multiple access techniques, system design and performance evaluation, analysis of the practical and industrial optical communications system

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KD6031 -

Instrumentation and Control of Dynamical Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module shows you how to use modern control design techniques based on state-space differential equations governing a dynamical system. You will also cover instrumentation techniques that are required for practical implementation of control algorithms. Upon completion of the module, you will be able to design instrumentation and control systems; implement and evaluate them using relevant software packages. There are two main themes:

Control
Classical control design and analysis. PID control and pole placement methods, Bode and Nyquist plots, Laplace transforms and z-transforms. Modelling of dynamical systems including for example: magnetic levitation, chemical processes, sustainable energy systems, particle detection, satellite positioning and the gyroscope. State feedback control design: state-space representation of systems, linear controllability and observability and rank condition. Linear feedback control design. Stability: asymptotic and global asymptotic stability, Lyapunov stability and Lyapunov equation. Estimation: Luenberger observer design. Digital control: Different equations, sampling effect in computers, ADC, DAC, ZOH, Z-transfer function, compensator design, stability analysis. Use of Matlab and Simulink software for simulation of control algorithms. Systems representation of instrumentation systems. Modelling of measurement systems including the effects of sensors.

Instrumentation
Range, span, nonlinearity, hysteresis, resolution, ageing effects. Dynamic modelling of sensors using transfer functions and state-space methods. Signal conditioning: loading effects, bridge circuits, correction of non-linearity, effects of feedback, amplifier limitations. Noise and interference in instrumentation systems and estimation of errors. Signal recovery from noise interference. Computerised data acquisition systems including ADCs and a range of modern instrumentation protocols. Use of microcontrollers and inversion techniques. Use of Matlab and Simulink for simulation of instrumentation systems.

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KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

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Year five

KC7047 -

Applied Engineering Statistics (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will develop and apply the statistical techniques required for the analysis and modelling of engineering systems.

In the first half of the Semester the module is delivered through a series of lectures, with accompanying seminars, on requisite material, followed in the second half by assessed independent and group work associated with two case studies, assessed either by a PowerPoint or poster presentation.

You will receive on-going formative feedback during seminars in the first half of the semester, with both written and verbal feedback of their assessed work in the second half.

The two statistical modelling case studies will focus on regression analysis and time series, which are commonly required in engineering disciplines.

Outline Syllabus
Mathematical modelling
Modelling techniques, development, appraisal and modification. (20%)

Statistical methods
Generalised linear and non linear models. Curvilinear and non linear regression models. Analysis of variance and linear logistic model. Testing of model suitability. (40%)

Operational research and time series
Time series characteristics. Trends, moving averages and stationarity. Autocorrelation and tests of randomness. Queuing theory and its application. (40%)

Use of appropriate statistical software (e.g. R).

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KD7011 -

Wind Energy Conversion Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will consider the current practices and technological advances in the design, control, mathematical modelling, and performance optimisation of modern Wind Energy Conversion Systems. You will gain the necessary knowledge and understanding of the main concepts, methodologies and future developments in this field. The module syllabus includes, but is not limited to, the following topics: wind energy resource; operating principles, characteristics and types of wind turbines; commercial and emerging distributed wind generators; power electronic converter topologies for variable speed systems; turbine aero-dynamics and manufacturing; grid-connected and stand-alone applications; research and development aspects; environmental and social context and issues; regulations and standards; economics, employment opportunities etc.

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KD7019 -

Advanced Embedded System Design Technology (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will cover the broad topic of Microprocessors and Microcontrollers and how they are used in Embedded Systems. This will involve investigating processor architectures, operating modes and interfacing to peripherals. Examples of structures from current industrial vendors such as ATMEL, ARM, and Microchip will be explored and examined. You will consider the hardware design and development of embedded microcontroller systems, including implementations for controlling both internal and external interfaces and peripherals. Careful examination of Real-Time control issues, interrupts and microcontroller interactions will be analysed. This will allow you to be able to design the necessary hardware for microcontroller-based systems to meet a client’s specification.

To support the implementation of hardware designs software development of Embedded Microcontroller Systems will be employed looking at both low level assembly language/machine code programming through to C programming. The techniques employed will cover code generation procedures, structured programming techniques, reusable library functions and top down/bottom up programming methods.
All these techniques will be applied case studies based upon industrial research activities. Typical applications include:

These will cover areas such as temperature monitoring, algorithmic techniques; message passing systems and communication protocols.

Microcontroller technology has a broad range of applications within industry and research environments. Employing the use of a sophisticated ARM module exposes students to the diverse implementations, of such modules, and provides the key technical skills required by industry essential to modern digital and communication systems.

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KD7020 -

Digital Design Automation (Optional,20 Credits)

This module provides you with a working knowledge of the tools, languages and methodologies used in the design and realisation of modern electronic systems.

A central theme of the module will be the use of industry standard Hardware Description Languages, such as Verilog-HDL and its extensions, to capture, at various levels of abstraction, the behaviour and structure of digital, analogue and mixed-signal systems (AMS). Syntax and semantics of digital language will be examined in order to create combinational and sequential building blocks that are compatible with logic synthesis using programmable logic design tools. You will get the opportunity to realise your designs using programmable hardware (CPLD and FPGA) in the workshop.

You will gain experience of System Level Design by learning about, and making use of, an advanced hardware description and verification language such as System Verilog.
The use of simulation, as a means of exploring the complex interactions within a system, will be a central theme of the module.

In addition, design realisation (using Logic Synthesis) and implementation will be used to target programmable logic devices with the digital part of a design.

In Analogue and mixed signal simulation you will develop behavioural models of analogue and mixed-signal components and integrate these into a system model in order to perform verification and exploration of design interactions and trade-offs.

The skills provided by this module are essential academic, practical and professional skills demanded by industry and research for the design of digital and mixed signal systems. This applies both to the general electronic systems but also to communications system development.

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KD7050 -

Photovoltaic System Technology (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module, you will learn about the principles of photovoltaic (PV) system, design, operation and application. This will include consideration of the system components and the design and configuration of the solar array, together with examples of stand-alone, grid-connected and space applications. The module will also help you to appreciate the issues relating to the implementation of photovoltaic systems.

The topics within the module syllabus include:
• PV arrays and system components
• Grid connected PV systems, including large scale and building integrated systems
• Stand-alone PV systems and applications
• Concentrator PV systems
• PV arrays for satellite power supply
• Monitoring and performance analysis
• Operation and maintenance, system lifetime, standards and regulations

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KD7051 -

Interdisciplinary Team Engineering Project (40 Credits)

This module provides you with the opportunity to take an integrated approach to the application of both your specialist and non-specialist knowledge and skills within an industrial or research based project. You will work in a team around a substantial interdisciplinary (e.g. electrical, mechanical and control engineering) project involving the development of a product, from concept to design and fabrication through to critical evaluation and redesign.
This project will provide you with enhanced preparation for professional practice, integrate technical expertise with business, commercial, ethical and social concerns and provide experience of working across engineering disciplines. You will also have the opportunity to develop team leadership attributes.

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KD7063 -

Wireless Communication Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to the concepts, structure and organisation of wireless communications from a system point of view, thus illustrating the theoretical concepts and their application in practical scenarios. Wireless communication systems including the old analogue as well all digital technologies based on the optical and radio frequencies will be introduced. In addition, You will learn about the fundamental theoretical concepts for both radio and optical based wireless communications.

The module syllabus:

• Communication Regulation: Regulating authorities; standards organisation; frequency spectrum, and power usage

• Radio Communication: System and subsystem specifications for radio based communication including antennas and propagation mechanisms; cellular wireless systems, traffic engineering; noise and interference; noise factor and cascaded systems; wireless channel; link budget calculations; frequency re-use; GSM; multi-path propagation.

• Optical Wireless Communications: Including the concept of indoor optical wireless systems; diffused and line of sight links; optical channel characteristics; noise sources; and optical path link budgets.

• Digital Communication: M-ary modulation and demodulation; coherent and non-coherent systems; signalling space and constellation diagrams; BER performance of different modulation formats; matched filter detection.

• Multiplexing and Multiple Access: TDM, FDM, TDMLA, FDMA and CDMA.

The syllabus will allow you to understand and pursue careers of communication system design and deployment within the telecommunications industry. This module together with other modules such as the high level system design and high level digital / analogue circuit design will give you the skills and expertise required within the telecommunications and computer network industries, as well as preparing you to do further studies in the this and relevant fields.

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KD7064 -

Optical Communications System (Optional,20 Credits)

The module will provide you with the knowledge and skills in system design around two key themes of optical fibre and optical wireless communications. These are essential topics for modern telecommunications and cover advanced optical system designs as well as including industrial standards in both fibre and wireless systems. Optical fibre communications provides the backbone long-haul and medium range telecommunications that offers ultrahigh data transmission capacity whereas optical wireless communications is an emerging technology. This technology enables data transmission, either in the infrared or visible light bands, employing lasers or light emitting diodes (LED) for indoor and short range communications system.

The module syllabus covers the technical analysis of optical fibre and wireless communications both at a system and sub-system level. Performance calculations and design considerations are covered, specifically in the areas of optical transmitters and receivers, Careful examination of performance limiters will be defined and methods to offset them will be explored and analysed for optimum design. These limiters include such effects as modulation, noise, dispersion, modal transmission, multipath effects, diffusion, fog, turbulence, smoke etc.

System performance is developed and explored to maximise the capability of a communication channel covering such aspects as link budgets, multiplexing techniques, BER analysis etc. allowing the performance criteria being characterised to meet a system specification

With these developed skills and knowledge you will be able to undertake the design and analysis of a complex optical communication system, making judicial choices and improvements.

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KD7066 -

Analogue Electronic Design (Optional,20 Credits)

Within this module you will learn some of the key design and development skills needed for analogue electronics. The module will run through a number of fundamental building blocks of circuit design to enable you to design and develop from a high level abstraction in circuit design. The module supports this learning though the use of specific tools mixed in with key design theory along with practical lab based skills for the development and design of analogue circuitry using optimisation techniques.

Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Experimentation based on the use and application of an industry standard CAD package (for example, OrCAD or Mentor Graphics). Use of CAD tools to experiment with a number of circuit structures to derive their function and application inside of an abstract CAD environment.
Components, Bipolar device operation and modelling in association with passive components. The design needs for the layout of components, including some of the key parameters needed for modelling inside a CAD environment.

Analogue Design
Design of fundamental analogue cell structures, including switches, active resistors, current sources and current sinks. The design of current mirrors from basic to more advanced supply voltage independent mirrors, and voltage and current references. Integrated circuit level design of the building blocks of communications, for example, low noise amplifiers, mixers, phase locked loops and oscillators.

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KD7069 -

Power Electronics and Drive Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to provide you with thorough understanding and knowledge of existing and new concepts and technologies in electrical power engineering with emphasis on design and industrial applications of power electronics and electric motor drives. You will cover the principles of advanced control techniques as applied to these systems. The module is specifically concerned with the following subjects: power electronics devices and conventional converter topologies; pulse-width-modulation (PWM) techniques; state of the art practical switching power converters; power quality and harmonic analysis of various power conversion systems; power electronics control of renewable energy sources including solar, wind, and fuel-cell energy systems as well as electric and hybrid vehicles; electric machines and drives fundamentals; space-vector theory, control and applications of DC and AC drives; vector and field-oriented control of high performance induction and synchronous motor drives; applications and efficiency of electric drives; regulations, standards and other professional issues.

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KD7070 -

Smart Grids (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to deepen your understanding and ability to study existing electrical power distribution networks and to consider new concepts and technologies for future ‘smart grid’ power networks. Emphasis will be given to the integration of renewable energy resources, electric vehicles, enabling technologies and the quality of supply. The module also covers advanced power electronics controllers and ICT techniques as applied to the smart grid.

This module also gives you the opportunity to critically analyse and develop an understanding of practical design and implementation issues, such as, quality of supply, cost considerations, regulations and standards.

Topics covered will be reinforced by the use of real-world examples and case studies.

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KL7022 -

Engineering Technology Management (Core,20 Credits)

In this module students will learn about Strategic Management, Project Management including Project Definition and its links to Project Success through the Management of Risk as well as Planning and Control of projects. Students will learn about management techniques and professional issues associated with relevant industry and society. They will enhance their critical reflection, analysis and other transferable skills which will aid their studies and support their career progression after graduating.

In addition, students will consider the role of ethics in delivering a Business Strategy and in their role as a manager. The Learning and Teaching strategy will engage students with lectures and online resources, much guided and independent reading about theory and practice as well as seminars where they will develop and improve their abilities and skills through reflection, discussion, and argument. The assessment will seek to move students from passive gatherers of knowledge to active participants in management decision making. Through the process they will refine and improve their own approaches to solving management problems in the subject disciplines. Students are required to critically analyse the management environment and to propose solution based on the module theory.

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Modules Overview 2023/24

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one Year two Year three Year four Year five

Year one

KC4010 -

Engineering Mathematics (Core,20 Credits)

The module will provide you with a first level course in engineering mathematics. Fundamentals of algebra, trigonometry and calculus are reviewed. Your knowledge of calculus will be extended, and complex numbers, matrices, vectors and differential equations are studied.

Outline Syllabus
Basic algebra and trigonometry
Transposition, simplification, quadratic equations, simultaneous equations, functions sin, cos, tan, inverses, sec, cosec, cot; identities.

Basic calculus
Derivative as slope and rate of change, standard derivatives; product, quotient and function of a function rules; integration
as reverse of differentiation, standard integrals, area under a curve; solution of simple differential equations by direct integration.

Complex numbers
Addition, subtraction, multiplication, complex conjugate and division in algebraic form. The Argand diagram. Polar form and
exponential form, with multiplication and division. De Moivre's theorem (powers and roots). Locus problems.

Calculus
Implicit, parametric and logarithmic differentiation. Maxima and minima. MacLaurin's series. Partial differentiation, first order change, analysis of errors, method of least squares. Integration techniques (substitution, partial fractions, by parts) and simple applications of integration.

Matrices and Determinants
Second and third order determinants, evaluation, properties, Cramer's Rule for solution of simultaneous equations; matrices, addition, subtraction, multiplication, transpose, inverse (via adjoint), solution of simultaneous linear equations by matrix inversion.

Vectors
Sum, difference, magnitude, components, Cartesian representation in three dimensions; scalar and vector products, angle between vectors, application to simple geometrical and physical problems.

Differential Equations
Solution of first order by separation of variables and integrating factor; second order with constant coefficients, auxiliary
equation, complementary function, particular integral by substitution, applications to, for example, mass-spring-damper and/or L-C-R circuits.

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KD4008 -

Computer Programming (Core,20 Credits)

Within this module you will cover the design and development of C based code for both a standard PC and an embedded system (typically the Arduino).

The module syllabus us based but not exclusively on the following:
• Introduction of computer systems, the architecture and types from standard PCs to embedded systems,
• Code development from specifications through Pseudo code to a top-down or bottom-up based design,
• Language operators for example, if-then-else, switch-case, do-while, for,
• Data types for systems including bit length, and data pointer structures and use,
• Use of information hiding in functions, with strongly typed designs,
• File system access for a PC and for an embedded system where files may be more abstract handles,
• Controlling hardware on an embedded system for example and ADC or DAC on a microcontroller,
• The use of IO lines and interrupt structures in low level programming.

Typically, the learning in the module will be based on simple case studies and example such that the above knowledge can be applied to solve a real-world problem within a defined engineering context. An example of such a real-world problem would be a Traffic Light controller, or Home Burglar Alarm system.

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KD4009 -

Digital Electronics and Communications (Core,20 Credits)

Within the digital electronics aspect of this module the student will learn

The operation of logic gates AND,NAND,OR,NOR,XOR.
The use of truth tables and logic gates to solve combinational logic problems.
Boolean algebra and the use of Boolean algebra to simplify logic expressions prior to implementation.
The use of Karnaugh maps to simplify logic expressions prior to implementation.
Implementation of adders/subtractors using logic gates.
Using logic gates to implement S-R flip flop, J-K flip flop and D-type flip flop.
Using flip flops to develop asynchronous counters and shift registers.


Within the communication aspects of this module the student will learn

a) Basic telephone systems
Introduction to POTS, ISDN, VOIPand emerging telephone systems.
Telephone line encoding technology, A-law, u-law companding and Analogue to Digital conversion ADC , Digital to Analogue conversion DAC techniques.

b) Basic Network Systems
The OSI 7 layer model for networking.
Ethernet frames and IP addressing.
Current physical layer technologies for example Ethernet, Witeless Ethernet, Bluetooth, Zigbee

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KD4010 -

Electricity, Magnetism and Electronics (Core,20 Credits)

This module will introduce you to fundamental electromagnetism, electrical circuit theory and analogue electronics. Through a combination of lectures, labs and

technology-enhanced resources, you will learn to analyse basic DC and AC circuits and to familiarise with fundamental electronic components such as operational

amplifiers and semiconductor diodes. This module will provide you with core knowledge, and experimental, numerical and analytical skills to tackle problems in electrical

and electronic principles, thus establishing firm foundations for future employability.


Electricity and Magnetism (25%)


Electric charge: conductors, insulators and semiconductors. Electrostatics: Coulomb's law and the electric field; Concept of electric potential and its relation to the electric

field; Energy stored in an electric field; Application to a capacitor and link to capacitance. Magnetostatics: Forces arising between wires carrying electric currents; concept

of the magnetic field; Ampere’s Law; geometrical statement of the Biot-Savart law; the B field around a wire; the right-hand rule.


DC and AC Circuit Theory (50%)


Introduction to ideal linear elements: resistor, inductor and capacitor. Transient currents across ideal elements. Current and voltage division rule. Applications of

superposition: Kirchhoff’s law.



Properties of sinusoidal and periodic waveforms, average, RMS values. Phasors and phasor diagrams, and j operator. Complex impedance, impedance diagrams.

Applications to series circuits. Power in AC circuits, power factor, apparent power, active power, and reactive power. Complex admittance and applications to parallel

circuits. Series and parallel RLC circuits. Frequency response and resonance in simple RLC circuits.


Analogue Electronics (25%)


Introduction to the properties of an ideal operational amplifier. Simple inverting and non-inverting applications using virtual earth principles. Properties and parameters of a

non-ideal op-amplifier including gain-bandwidth and off-sets. Op-amplifier applications including summing, integrator and differentiator. Linear and non-linear applications.

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KD4011 -

Fundamentals of Energy Systems (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the fundamental concepts of energy and power. The underlying electrical engineering, physics and mathematics is illustrated using examples from electricity generation, distribution and storage. Focus is given to sources of sustainable energy amidst current concerns about climate change, finite natural resources and energy security.

Introduction
Basic SI units. Kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion and force. Work, kinetic and potential energy, and power. Conservation of energy. Circular motion. Basic electromagnetism. Electric charge: conductors, insulators and semiconductors. Electric field. Electrostatic potential energy and potential. Magnetic field of an infinitely long straight wire, magnetic flux density. Forces on a current carrying conductor on a magnetic field. Electric motors. Force on charged particles in a magnetic field. Electromagnetic induction: Faraday’s law and Lenz’s law. Electric generator.

Three phase power and power electronic devices
Production of three-phase power. Phase and line voltages and currents in star and delta systems. Earthing on low-voltage systems. Measurements of three-phase power. Introduction to single-phase transformer: principle, construction, referring of impedances, losses and efficiency, and equivalent circuit. Power electronic switching devices: Rectifiers, MOSFET, transistor, IGBT, and thyristor. Single-phase rectifier circuits,

Power generation, energy efficiency and energy storage
Conventional power generation: gas and coal-fired power stations, combined heat and power, IGCC, nuclear power. Generating plant performance. Load curve and load factor. Fundamentals of power transmission and distribution. Wind energy and the Betz limit. Solar spectrum, p-n junction, solar photovoltaics, solar thermal. Introduction to marine technologies. Efficiency of renewable energy systems. Energy storage technologies.

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KD4014 -

Research, Analysis and Presentation (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to gathering research data from either laboratory or reference material, analysing the acquired data in an appropriate manner and then presenting the key findings. Formal training in experimental techniques acquired in this module will support your professional and personal skills.

Research
Research methods will demonstrate where and how to gather information; researching for knowledge and information which can be applied to generate solutions to real world problems. The ability to select from a number of research methods is important for example the ability to research a method to design simple laboratory tests.

Analysis
Correct use of units and symbols for physics and engineering along with the use of data analysis techniques. Specific techniques may include for example: mean and standard deviation, simple regressive techniques, log – log and log linear relationships, and error analysis. Simple measurement techniques for example measuring of velocity, voltage, current and power. Key factors in measurement include the need to analyse the accuracy, errors, resolution and the need for calibration.

Presentation
Key communication skills in report writing, lab book writing (of laboratory data), and the presentation of information both visually via graphs and diagrams and using text. A number of key skills are in focus here namely the highlighting of key findings and drawing suitable conclusions from a piece of work. Both written and oral presentation skills are exemplified.

Computation
You will be introduced to suitable computational packages for data analysis and processing in physics and engineering.

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KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

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Year two

KC5002 -

Advanced Engineering Mathematics (Core,20 Credits)

This module is designed to provide You with a basic course in Laplace Transforms, their use in solving ordinary differential equations arising from physical problems, and their use in describing the behaviour of simple control systems. You will be introduced to the concept of the harmonic components of a periodic waveform and be shown how this is useful in matching general solutions of partial differential equations to particular boundary or initial conditions. The solution of systems of linear ordinary differential equations using matrix methods will also be considered.

The module will be delivered using a combination of lectures and seminars.

Assessment is by formal examination.

Outline Syllabus
Laplace Transforms: Definition, simple transforms, linearity. First shift theorem. Inverse transforms, linearity, use of the first shift theorem and partial fractions. Transforms of derivatives. Transforms of an integral. The Heaviside Unit Step function. The second shift theorem. Solution of linear ordinary differential equations with constant coefficients, including systems of such equations. The Delta function and the Impulse Response function; transfer function. Initial and final-value theorems. Convolution and the convolution theorem. Poles of the transfer function and stability. Steady-state response. (50%)

Periodic functions and Fourier series. Full-range and half-range series. Even and odd functions.
Coefficients in complex form. Application to the solution of partial differential equations by the method of separation of variables. (25%)

Matrices, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Algebraic evaluation of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a matrix. Application to the solution of a
system of linear ordinary differential equations. (25%)

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KD5064 -

Analogue Electronics and Instrumentation (Core,20 Credits)

You will learn on module key technical content around two themes that of analogue electronics and instrumentation. These are important topics for electrical engineering covering the key basics of analogue design and the use of analogue signals used in instrumentation. Amplifiers and signal conditioning devices will be covered that convert the sensor output into usable signals for typical process control platforms. Operational amplifiers will be used extensively in the module, leading up to an understanding of discrete electronic transistor design.

Operational Amplifiers - Operational amplifier applications applied to instrumentation signals, active filter circuits, and instrumentation amplifiers. Filter considerations including magnitude and phase bode diagrams, and compensation methods.

Sensors - Temperature, strain and light sensor systems looking into devices and signals. Additional sensors considered may also include slot encoders, accelerometers and hall-effect devices.

Instrumentation - Amplifiers and signal conditioning demonstrates the ability for signal conversion and used in real world environments. Operational amplifiers will be expanded upon with the design of the instrumentation amplifier to highlight the performance improvements. Noise analysis will be introduced to show how instrumentation techniques reduce this phenomenon.

Discrete Electronics - Operational amplifiers are made from discrete elements; these building blocks will be explained include the Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs) and the Field Effect Transistor (FET). Biasing and amplifier design for these will be shown, with more advanced introduction to performance analysis using Monticarlo simulations. Transistor applications may include current sources, current sinks, and differential input stages.

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KD5065 -

C Programming and Digital Systems (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to further develop your capabilities in the areas of digital systems and C programming, building on the hardware and software design and development techniques covered in previous related module(s).

In the area of digital systems, you will learn how to design, specify and apply digital combinatorial and sequential building blocks in isolation, and also as part of a larger system. The module provides an introduction to an industry standard Hardware Description Language (HDL), and shows how it can be used to describe, at the gate and equation level, digital functions such as decoders, multiplexers, encoders, shift registers and counters. You are given the opportunity to explore designs by means of simulation using industry standard design tools. The underlying architecture and technology of programmable logic devices is covered along with their use as a target for digital designs described using a HDL, the latter activity being covered during the workshops. You will also cover other practical aspects of digital hardware design, such as logic hazards, propagation delays and interfacing.

You will use the C programming language to program a microcontroller to perform hardware control as an alternative to using digital hardware. CAD tools will be used to develop and simulate the C programs, as well as the programming of a microcontroller to implement given specifications. In this way you will learn how modern electronic systems can be programmed for both hardware and software based solutions to meet a range of applications.

Specifically, you will cover the following aspects in the C programming part of the module:
Computing in the C language on a microcontroller platform (such as the Arduino©)
Introduction to the microcontroller; program memory, ram memory, special function registers, I/O ports, control and status registers. Using the C language to program a microcontroller, limitations of a C program using a microcontroller.
Typical microcontroller circuits to read digital inputs and output to digital outputs using the C programming language. Use of C language bit masking to control output bits in a microcontroller system. Use of bit masking in C to read digital inputs in a microcontroller system. Controlling peripheral devices in a microcontroller; such as an Analogue to digital converter (ADC), a Hardware Timer, using serial I/O in a microcontroller. Identifying bit range in ADC devices as well as estimating signal to noise limits in particular applications. Developing microcontroller applications for particular specifications such as a Traffic Lights controller, a Home Alarm system, a system to determine object distance using an Ultrasonic transmitter and receiver. All of the above will enhance your skills and future employability.

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KD5066 -

Communication Systems (Core,20 Credits)

In this module you will learn about electronic communications. Within this module you will learn how to transfer information successfully from the sender to the receiver (and vice versa) using a number of mediums including electrical, radio or optical signals. There are two key themes of electronic communications that you will study which are Analogue communication and Digital communication. In both themes you will learn a number of key engineering processes that are fundamental to communications. In analogue communications you will learn the key physical and electronic processes necessary to transfer information in an analogue form. You will also explore current technologies and techniques in radio and satellite communications. In the digital communications topic, the knowledge that you learn in analogue communications will be expanded to a higher level to allow you to understand the key requirements for digital communication.

Three key areas within these two topics are identified:

ANALOGUE COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
Amplitude Modulation; comparison of various forms of AM, demodulation, frequency and phase insertion errors, examples and applications. Frequency modulation; NBFM, WBFM, spectra and bandwidth, examples and applications. Transmission and reception circuits. Attenuation in radio systems. Modern systems and standards.


DIGITAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
Spectra of rectangular waveforms, bit rates, baud rates and relationship to bandwidth. ISI, line codes and shaping. ASK, FSK, PSK, generation and demodulation, spectrum and bandwidth. Comparison of bandwidth and power. Quadrature carrier systems. OSI reference model. Asynchronous and synchronous networks. The serial data link. Protocols. FDM and TDM multiplexing. Parity and CRC principles and implementation. Networks. IP addressing

OPTICAL SYSTEMS
Optical sources; structure, performance and frequency response. Detectors. Fibres; modes, dispersion, optimum wavelength, coupling and splicing.

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KD5067 -

Power Machine and Renewable Energy (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to the principles of operation of power systems, and enhance your knowledge of electrical machinery, power electronics andrenewable energy. It will also allow you to consider the interaction between these system components.

A power network typically integrates power generators, distribution grid, transformers, transmission lines, and loads. This module provides you with an introduction to power system structure, and the principles of electrical machines. Moreover, low-carbon energy sources have increasingly contributed to the current power network, and power electronics play a key role in energy conversion. Therefore, the module also provides you with an introduction to renewable energy, and power electronics. Specifically, you will learn the following from this module:

POWER SYSTEMS (30%):
Principles and consturction of single-phase transformers, equivalent circuits, efficiency and regulation, open and short circuit tests, connections of 3-phase transformers, and vector groups. Basics of powers, and power flow. Per unit systems and fundamentals of balanced fault level calculations.

ELECTRIC MACHINES (30%):
Principles and construction of DC machines, equivalent circuit, starting and speed control. Principles and construction of induction machines, expressions for speed of rotating field and slip, rotor power balance, torque-slip curve, and modern control techniques.

POWER ELECTRONICS (20%):
Fundamentals of power electronics and converters (AC-DC, DC-DC, and AC-AC etc.), and PWM control.

RENEWABLE ENERGY (20%):
Overview of electricity generation technologies from new and renewable energy, current contributions and future prospects. Operating principles, types, characteristics and comparison of features for hydro, photovoltaics, wind, combined heat and power, fuel cells, tidal and marine power plants. Applications of rotating machines (generators) and power electronics in renewable energy conversion systems.

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KD5080 -

Electrical Product Development (Core,20 Credits)

This module provides you with the knowledge and skills required to research, design, implement and manage the development of an electrical/electronic product. Specifically this will involve:
- Project management and the use of Gantt charts, the product life cycle and project costing.
- The use of NORA to search for current articles, research current market trends, formulate ideas, assist with project development, and the use of Endnote to assist article citation.
- Project specification development, project design, use of simulation tools to prove design, design analysis, design for manufacturing.
- Standards and legal issues -market and technical risk assessment. End of life considerations.
- Ethical aspects, social aspects and environmental aspects of electrical/electronic engineering product development.
- Susceptibility, quality and reliability with regard to electrical/electronic engineering product development.
- Engineering report writing, style and content.

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KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

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Year three

AT5004 -

Year in International Business (This is made up of modules studied in Newcastle (Semester 1) & Amsterdam (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Business which is made up of 5 modules which students study in Newcastle (semester 1) and Amsterdam (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ business awareness and their soft skills through a semester of study in the UK followed by engagement in studying in Amsterdam and working on real business projects to further enhance and develop this knowledge, skills and attributes.

Semester 1 in the UK comprises three 20-credit modules aimed at students new to business and management, which also equips the students for a semester in Amsterdam, working in teams on a “real-world”, client facing project. Of the modules studies in Semester 1 provide students with the “soft”, “analytical” and “project management” skills necessary to embark on a “real-world” client-centred consultancy project in Semester 2. In Semester 2, students will work move to Amsterdam and study two modules on Northumbria licensed premises. The first module, Group Business Consultancy Project, is a Level 5 40 credit Consultancy Project providing a supported and challenging experience with real business supervised by Northumbria and possibly Dutch academics. The final module complements the development of business knowledge and application through a contextualised consideration of International Business. This will also add to the Business Consultancy experience, thereby guaranteeing a coherent business experience.

The modules are outlined below:

Semester 1
HR9505 Managing People at Work (20 credits)
SM9511 Global Business Environment (20 credits)
AF5022 Financial Decision Making (20 credits)

Semester 2
AT5000 Digital Business (20)
AT5001 Group Business Consultancy Project (40 credits)

In semester 1, students will learn in an environment aligned to that of business students on full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place. In semester 2, in accordance with the experiential learning pedagogical approach in the Business Clinic operated at Newcastle Business School, the group consultancy work will involve students working in groups, facilitated by academics but also independently and amongst their peers in collaborative project work to provide real business consultancy. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Business UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

Please note, in line with the continuous improvement process for all Northumbria University programmes the International Year in Business is currently under review.

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KA5029 -

International Academic Exchange 1 (Optional,60 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment and provides you with the option to study abroad for one semester as part of your programme.

This is a 60 credit module which is available between Levels 5 and 6. You will undertake a semester of study abroad at an approved partner University where you will have access to modules from your discipline, but taught in a different learning culture. This gives you the opportunity to broaden your overall experience of learning. The structure of study will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria).

Your study abroad semester will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as an additional 60 credits for Engineering and Environment Study Abroad Semester.

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KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

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KL5006 -

Work placement year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment to provide you with the option to take a one year work placement as part of your programme.

You will be able to use the placement experience to develop and enhance appropriate areas of your knowledge and understanding, your intellectual and professional skills, and your personal value attributes, relevant to your programme of study, as well as accreditation bodies such as BCS, IET, IMechE, RICS, CIOB and CIBSE within the appropriate working environments. Due to its overall positive impact on employability, degree classification and graduate starting salaries, the University strongly encourages you to pursue a work placement as part of your degree programme.

This module is a Pass/Fail module so does not contribute to the classification of your degree. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised both in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate.

Your placement period will normally be full-time and must total a minimum of 40 weeks.

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KL5007 -

Study abroad year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment and provides you with the option to study abroad for one full year as part of your programme.

This is a 120 credit module which is available between Levels 5 and 6. You will undertake a year of study abroad at an approved partner University where you will have access to modules from your discipline, but taught in a different learning culture. This gives you the opportunity to broaden your overall experience of learning. The structure of study will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria).

Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

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KL5008 -

Work placement semester (Optional,60 Credits)

This module operates within a partnership between the University, employer and yourself, and provides you with the opportunity to develop core competencies and employability skills relevant to your programme of study in a work based environment.

You will be able to use the placement experience to develop and enhance appropriate areas of your knowledge and understanding, your intellectual and professional skills, and your personal value attributes, relevant to your programme of study, within the appropriate working environments.

This module is a Pass/Fail module so does not contribute to the classification of your degree. When taken and passed, however, the placement is recognised both in your transcript as a 60 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate.

Due to its overall positive impact on employability, degree classification and graduate starting salaries, the University strongly encourages you to pursue a work placement as part of your degree programme.

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Year four

KD6010 -

Power Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and the ability to analyse the components of a modern power system. It allows you to study the components and operation of power systems, highlighting the principles, design, control, performance limits and protection from abnormal conditions. The theory, control and the properties of alternators, transmission lines, switchgear and protection will also be covered. Commercial issues surrounding the economics of power generation, electricity market and quality of supply are also explored.
This module also gives you the opportunity to critically analyse and develop an understanding of practical design and implementation issues, such as load flow, fault and stability studies together with methods for voltage and frequency control, including the use of modern FACTS technologies. These and other topics will be reinforced by the use of real-world examples and case studies, with emphasis on the use of modern technologies in power systems.

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KD6024 -

Individual Engineering Project (40 Credits)

The module aims to provide you with an opportunity to carry out an extended study in a specific area of Engineering, developing your ability to work independently and promoting self-reliance. Guidance on how to source and assess the appropriateness of information is provided to you by the module tutor.

A key aim is to encourage you to apply theoretical and analytical techniques to problem solve. The module also aims to develop both verbal and written communication skills. The project will provide practical experience of drawing up a project specification defining aims, objectives and identifying an envisaged endpoint. With the supervisor’s guidance, you will prepare a project plan that includes a Gantt chart, project background and sourcing previous work and associated theory/simulation to assess whether the aims and objectives are achievable and that your theoretical basis is sound.

To meet University requirements and gain practical experience, you must perform a risk assessment to identify potential risks/hazards associated with the project. You will follow the defined plan to complete the project that will involve the application of appropriate theory and simulations leading to the production of prototype designs.

You will be encouraged to monitor your progress based upon the project plan and complete the design cycle by testing and redesign, if necessary. A final project report and verbal/poster presentation to the supervisor, second markers and peers are required towards the end of the module. You must maintain contact with the supervisor on a regular basis to: discuss/assess progress and obtain advice.

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KD6025 -

Design and Manufacturing Analysis (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to provide you with an analytical approach to the issues around both the design and manufacturing of electronic or electrical products. In this respect you have two clear sections, linked by an analysis approach to determine functionality within the bounds of manufacturability.

Design Analysis
• Operational amplifier construction with a view to component reduction and therefore performance degradation. Analysis is therefore required to pinpoint the performance of sub-optimal designs with suitable engineering compromises being found.
• Differential amplifier structures as applied to Instrumentation design, is explored with mathematical rigor to establish their fundamental performance limits.
• Circuit design (typically filters) with consideration of the circuit performance when non-ideal components are used.
• Other complex analysis methods are introduced including: Sensitivity analysis, Tolerance analysis, and Monticarlo analysis.

Manufacturing Analysis
1. Electronics Manufacturing Yield - the performance of electronic yield predictions, with typical examples provided from Integrated Circuit Manufacture.
2. Reliability in Electronics Manufacturing - electronic reliability under the factors of cost, performance availability
3. Waste Management in Electronic Components - green electronic issues and legislation which affect both electronic product design and
manufacturing aspects,
4. Lean Manufacturing - in manufacturing technology illustrating the philosophy of lean manufacturing

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KD6026 -

Digital Signal Processing Systems (Core,20 Credits)

This module aims to make use of the knowledge and analytic skills developed throughout the programme to design modern digital signal processing systems.

In this module you will learn:

• The fundamental concepts of discrete-time signals and systems.
• The fundamental mathematical transforms for time-domain and frequency domain representations.
• The design of digital filters; finite impulse filter and infinite impulse filter.
• The practical implementation of digital filters in simulation and hardware.

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KD6027 -

Embedded Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will learn the architecture, and how to program a high performance microcontroller - ARM M0+ cortex.

Specifically this will include:
- A consideration of the relative merits of a number of commercially available microcontrollers
- A detailed investigation of the ARM cortex series of microcontrollers, including architecture, peripherals and capabilities.
- Using ARM IDE development tools to compose, compile and fault find programs written in a high level programming language ('C').
- Features of the ARM microcontroller that will be considered are:
- Clock generation - internal/external
- GPIO - general purpose input/output
- ADC - analogue to digital converter
- USART, SPI, I2C - serial communications
- Timers
- Interrupt capability

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KD6028 -

Digital System Design and Implementation (Optional,20 Credits)

The module aims to show you how to design and implement digital systems using a range of powerful techniques and tools, such as Finite State Machines (FSMs) and Programmable Logic. A central theme of the module is the use of a Hardware Description Language (HDL), and how it can be used to describe and verify a digital design at a behavioural level. Practical sessions, involving the use of industry standard simulation, synthesis and implementation software, will be used to provide experience of the complete digital system design flow, from concept to realisation. In addition to the use of HDLs, this module also considers some of the key low-level aspects of digital systems, including Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) circuits and their performance and optimisation using circuit-level simulation.

This module also aims to develop your understanding of practical design and implementation issues, such as testing and ‘Design-for-Test’. These and other topics will be reinforced by the use of real-world case examples and designs.

The commercial issues surrounding digital system realisation using a variety of technologies will be explored, with emphasis on Programmable Logic. The design of FSMs is methodically introduced and synchronous and asynchronous FSMs are covered. The Petri Net is also introduced and used to create both sequential and parallel based FSMs. All these FSM methouds are used to synthesise particular digital systems to meet required specifications.

This module will provide you with the skills you require to practice digital system design in an industrial context, making use of real-world design problems and industry standard software. Case studies, based on industrial consultancy work carried out by academic staff, will be used as examples to enhance your employability.

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KD6029 -

Wireless and RF Systems Design (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to the theory, design and analysis of RF and wireless communication systems. Wireless communication will be delivered via two key curriculum themes of Microwave circuit design and Antenna design.

All modern high frequency mobile communication systems can be split into two distinct sections. The first key section if the design of circuitry to generate and modify the performance of RF signals. This part will be covered in the microwave circuit design part of this module and will cover the key concepts of microwave circuit design for wireless and RF systems. Once the RF signal has been generated, it must then be converted to a signal that can be transmitted through air. This is the second key concept to be covered in this module – namely antenna design. The antenna design section covers the key principles of transmitting an RF signal through free space. The antenna design topic also examines the key concepts of antenna design related to modern communication systems, including mobile telephone systems from 1G to 4G.

Two key areas within these two topics are identified:


Microwave circuit design

Transmission Line Basics, Smith Chart, Impedance Matching techniques, Lumped Elements, Impedance / Admittance parameters, ABCD parameters , S-parameters, Passive microwave circuits.

Antenna design
Basic antenna parameters, outline of antenna types, wires, apertures, dishes, patch antennas, antennas required for
mobile systems, Structure of Cellular systems. Base station design, Typical RF transmitter layout, Antenna types for mobile handset and base stations. Factors affecting reception.

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KD6030 -

Optical Communications System Design (Optional,20 Credits)

The module will provide the knowledge and skills for you in two key themes of optical fibre and optical wireless communications. These are essential topics for communications pathway in electrical and electronics engineering programme that cover the fundamentals and advanced optical system designs in both fibre and wireless systems. Optical fibre communications provides the backbone for long-haul and medium range telecommunications that offers ultrahigh data transmission capacity whereas optical wireless communications is an emerging technology that enables data transmission via light, either in infrared or visible light band using laser and/or light emitting diode (LED) for indoor and short range communications system.

Through the module syllabus you will learn:

Fundamental optical fibre/wireless communications includes
- Introduction to the optical wire/wireless communications system and the overall design
- Identification of system elements, subsystems and required specifications
- Optical transmitter design, optical propagation channel, effect on the optical fibre, effect on the optical wireless channel, noise and losses, optical receiver design.

System design includes: multiple access techniques, system design and performance evaluation, analysis of the practical and industrial optical communications system

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KD6031 -

Instrumentation and Control of Dynamical Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module shows you how to use modern control design techniques based on state-space differential equations governing a dynamical system. You will also cover instrumentation techniques that are required for practical implementation of control algorithms. Upon completion of the module, you will be able to design instrumentation and control systems; implement and evaluate them using relevant software packages. There are two main themes:

Control
Classical control design and analysis. PID control and pole placement methods, Bode and Nyquist plots, Laplace transforms and z-transforms. Modelling of dynamical systems including for example: magnetic levitation, chemical processes, sustainable energy systems, particle detection, satellite positioning and the gyroscope. State feedback control design: state-space representation of systems, linear controllability and observability and rank condition. Linear feedback control design. Stability: asymptotic and global asymptotic stability, Lyapunov stability and Lyapunov equation. Estimation: Luenberger observer design. Digital control: Different equations, sampling effect in computers, ADC, DAC, ZOH, Z-transfer function, compensator design, stability analysis. Use of Matlab and Simulink software for simulation of control algorithms. Systems representation of instrumentation systems. Modelling of measurement systems including the effects of sensors.

Instrumentation
Range, span, nonlinearity, hysteresis, resolution, ageing effects. Dynamic modelling of sensors using transfer functions and state-space methods. Signal conditioning: loading effects, bridge circuits, correction of non-linearity, effects of feedback, amplifier limitations. Noise and interference in instrumentation systems and estimation of errors. Signal recovery from noise interference. Computerised data acquisition systems including ADCs and a range of modern instrumentation protocols. Use of microcontrollers and inversion techniques. Use of Matlab and Simulink for simulation of instrumentation systems.

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KL5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

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Year five

KC7047 -

Applied Engineering Statistics (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will develop and apply the statistical techniques required for the analysis and modelling of engineering systems.

In the first half of the Semester the module is delivered through a series of lectures, with accompanying seminars, on requisite material, followed in the second half by assessed independent and group work associated with two case studies, assessed either by a PowerPoint or poster presentation.

You will receive on-going formative feedback during seminars in the first half of the semester, with both written and verbal feedback of their assessed work in the second half.

The two statistical modelling case studies will focus on regression analysis and time series, which are commonly required in engineering disciplines.

Outline Syllabus
Mathematical modelling
Modelling techniques, development, appraisal and modification. (20%)

Statistical methods
Generalised linear and non linear models. Curvilinear and non linear regression models. Analysis of variance and linear logistic model. Testing of model suitability. (40%)

Operational research and time series
Time series characteristics. Trends, moving averages and stationarity. Autocorrelation and tests of randomness. Queuing theory and its application. (40%)

Use of appropriate statistical software (e.g. R).

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KD7011 -

Wind Energy Conversion Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will consider the current practices and technological advances in the design, control, mathematical modelling, and performance optimisation of modern Wind Energy Conversion Systems. You will gain the necessary knowledge and understanding of the main concepts, methodologies and future developments in this field. The module syllabus includes, but is not limited to, the following topics: wind energy resource; operating principles, characteristics and types of wind turbines; commercial and emerging distributed wind generators; power electronic converter topologies for variable speed systems; turbine aero-dynamics and manufacturing; grid-connected and stand-alone applications; research and development aspects; environmental and social context and issues; regulations and standards; economics, employment opportunities etc.

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KD7019 -

Advanced Embedded System Design Technology (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module you will cover the broad topic of Microprocessors and Microcontrollers and how they are used in Embedded Systems. This will involve investigating processor architectures, operating modes and interfacing to peripherals. Examples of structures from current industrial vendors such as ATMEL, ARM, and Microchip will be explored and examined. You will consider the hardware design and development of embedded microcontroller systems, including implementations for controlling both internal and external interfaces and peripherals. Careful examination of Real-Time control issues, interrupts and microcontroller interactions will be analysed. This will allow you to be able to design the necessary hardware for microcontroller-based systems to meet a client’s specification.

To support the implementation of hardware designs software development of Embedded Microcontroller Systems will be employed looking at both low level assembly language/machine code programming through to C programming. The techniques employed will cover code generation procedures, structured programming techniques, reusable library functions and top down/bottom up programming methods.
All these techniques will be applied case studies based upon industrial research activities. Typical applications include:

These will cover areas such as temperature monitoring, algorithmic techniques; message passing systems and communication protocols.

Microcontroller technology has a broad range of applications within industry and research environments. Employing the use of a sophisticated ARM module exposes students to the diverse implementations, of such modules, and provides the key technical skills required by industry essential to modern digital and communication systems.

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KD7020 -

Digital Design Automation (Optional,20 Credits)

This module provides you with a working knowledge of the tools, languages and methodologies used in the design and realisation of modern electronic systems.

A central theme of the module will be the use of industry standard Hardware Description Languages, such as Verilog-HDL and its extensions, to capture, at various levels of abstraction, the behaviour and structure of digital, analogue and mixed-signal systems (AMS). Syntax and semantics of digital language will be examined in order to create combinational and sequential building blocks that are compatible with logic synthesis using programmable logic design tools. You will get the opportunity to realise your designs using programmable hardware (CPLD and FPGA) in the workshop.

You will gain experience of System Level Design by learning about, and making use of, an advanced hardware description and verification language such as System Verilog.
The use of simulation, as a means of exploring the complex interactions within a system, will be a central theme of the module.

In addition, design realisation (using Logic Synthesis) and implementation will be used to target programmable logic devices with the digital part of a design.

In Analogue and mixed signal simulation you will develop behavioural models of analogue and mixed-signal components and integrate these into a system model in order to perform verification and exploration of design interactions and trade-offs.

The skills provided by this module are essential academic, practical and professional skills demanded by industry and research for the design of digital and mixed signal systems. This applies both to the general electronic systems but also to communications system development.

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KD7050 -

Photovoltaic System Technology (Optional,20 Credits)

In this module, you will learn about the principles of photovoltaic (PV) system, design, operation and application. This will include consideration of the system components and the design and configuration of the solar array, together with examples of stand-alone, grid-connected and space applications. The module will also help you to appreciate the issues relating to the implementation of photovoltaic systems.

The topics within the module syllabus include:
• PV arrays and system components
• Grid connected PV systems, including large scale and building integrated systems
• Stand-alone PV systems and applications
• Concentrator PV systems
• PV arrays for satellite power supply
• Monitoring and performance analysis
• Operation and maintenance, system lifetime, standards and regulations

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KD7051 -

Interdisciplinary Team Engineering Project (40 Credits)

This module provides you with the opportunity to take an integrated approach to the application of both your specialist and non-specialist knowledge and skills within an industrial or research based project. You will work in a team around a substantial interdisciplinary (e.g. electrical, mechanical and control engineering) project involving the development of a product, from concept to design and fabrication through to critical evaluation and redesign.
This project will provide you with enhanced preparation for professional practice, integrate technical expertise with business, commercial, ethical and social concerns and provide experience of working across engineering disciplines. You will also have the opportunity to develop team leadership attributes.

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KD7063 -

Wireless Communication Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to introduce you to the concepts, structure and organisation of wireless communications from a system point of view, thus illustrating the theoretical concepts and their application in practical scenarios. Wireless communication systems including the old analogue as well all digital technologies based on the optical and radio frequencies will be introduced. In addition, You will learn about the fundamental theoretical concepts for both radio and optical based wireless communications.

The module syllabus:

• Communication Regulation: Regulating authorities; standards organisation; frequency spectrum, and power usage

• Radio Communication: System and subsystem specifications for radio based communication including antennas and propagation mechanisms; cellular wireless systems, traffic engineering; noise and interference; noise factor and cascaded systems; wireless channel; link budget calculations; frequency re-use; GSM; multi-path propagation.

• Optical Wireless Communications: Including the concept of indoor optical wireless systems; diffused and line of sight links; optical channel characteristics; noise sources; and optical path link budgets.

• Digital Communication: M-ary modulation and demodulation; coherent and non-coherent systems; signalling space and constellation diagrams; BER performance of different modulation formats; matched filter detection.

• Multiplexing and Multiple Access: TDM, FDM, TDMLA, FDMA and CDMA.

The syllabus will allow you to understand and pursue careers of communication system design and deployment within the telecommunications industry. This module together with other modules such as the high level system design and high level digital / analogue circuit design will give you the skills and expertise required within the telecommunications and computer network industries, as well as preparing you to do further studies in the this and relevant fields.

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KD7064 -

Optical Communications System (Optional,20 Credits)

The module will provide you with the knowledge and skills in system design around two key themes of optical fibre and optical wireless communications. These are essential topics for modern telecommunications and cover advanced optical system designs as well as including industrial standards in both fibre and wireless systems. Optical fibre communications provides the backbone long-haul and medium range telecommunications that offers ultrahigh data transmission capacity whereas optical wireless communications is an emerging technology. This technology enables data transmission, either in the infrared or visible light bands, employing lasers or light emitting diodes (LED) for indoor and short range communications system.

The module syllabus covers the technical analysis of optical fibre and wireless communications both at a system and sub-system level. Performance calculations and design considerations are covered, specifically in the areas of optical transmitters and receivers, Careful examination of performance limiters will be defined and methods to offset them will be explored and analysed for optimum design. These limiters include such effects as modulation, noise, dispersion, modal transmission, multipath effects, diffusion, fog, turbulence, smoke etc.

System performance is developed and explored to maximise the capability of a communication channel covering such aspects as link budgets, multiplexing techniques, BER analysis etc. allowing the performance criteria being characterised to meet a system specification

With these developed skills and knowledge you will be able to undertake the design and analysis of a complex optical communication system, making judicial choices and improvements.

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KD7066 -

Analogue Electronic Design (Optional,20 Credits)

Within this module you will learn some of the key design and development skills needed for analogue electronics. The module will run through a number of fundamental building blocks of circuit design to enable you to design and develop from a high level abstraction in circuit design. The module supports this learning though the use of specific tools mixed in with key design theory along with practical lab based skills for the development and design of analogue circuitry using optimisation techniques.

Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Experimentation based on the use and application of an industry standard CAD package (for example, OrCAD or Mentor Graphics). Use of CAD tools to experiment with a number of circuit structures to derive their function and application inside of an abstract CAD environment.
Components, Bipolar device operation and modelling in association with passive components. The design needs for the layout of components, including some of the key parameters needed for modelling inside a CAD environment.

Analogue Design
Design of fundamental analogue cell structures, including switches, active resistors, current sources and current sinks. The design of current mirrors from basic to more advanced supply voltage independent mirrors, and voltage and current references. Integrated circuit level design of the building blocks of communications, for example, low noise amplifiers, mixers, phase locked loops and oscillators.

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KD7069 -

Power Electronics and Drive Systems (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to provide you with thorough understanding and knowledge of existing and new concepts and technologies in electrical power engineering with emphasis on design and industrial applications of power electronics and electric motor drives. You will cover the principles of advanced control techniques as applied to these systems. The module is specifically concerned with the following subjects: power electronics devices and conventional converter topologies; pulse-width-modulation (PWM) techniques; state of the art practical switching power converters; power quality and harmonic analysis of various power conversion systems; power electronics control of renewable energy sources including solar, wind, and fuel-cell energy systems as well as electric and hybrid vehicles; electric machines and drives fundamentals; space-vector theory, control and applications of DC and AC drives; vector and field-oriented control of high performance induction and synchronous motor drives; applications and efficiency of electric drives; regulations, standards and other professional issues.

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KD7070 -

Smart Grids (Optional,20 Credits)

This module aims to deepen your understanding and ability to study existing electrical power distribution networks and to consider new concepts and technologies for future ‘smart grid’ power networks. Emphasis will be given to the integration of renewable energy resources, electric vehicles, enabling technologies and the quality of supply. The module also covers advanced power electronics controllers and ICT techniques as applied to the smart grid.

This module also gives you the opportunity to critically analyse and develop an understanding of practical design and implementation issues, such as, quality of supply, cost considerations, regulations and standards.

Topics covered will be reinforced by the use of real-world examples and case studies.

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KL7022 -

Engineering Technology Management (Core,20 Credits)

In this module students will learn about Strategic Management, Project Management including Project Definition and its links to Project Success through the Management of Risk as well as Planning and Control of projects. Students will learn about management techniques and professional issues associated with relevant industry and society. They will enhance their critical reflection, analysis and other transferable skills which will aid their studies and support their career progression after graduating.

In addition, students will consider the role of ethics in delivering a Business Strategy and in their role as a manager. The Learning and Teaching strategy will engage students with lectures and online resources, much guided and independent reading about theory and practice as well as seminars where they will develop and improve their abilities and skills through reflection, discussion, and argument. The assessment will seek to move students from passive gatherers of knowledge to active participants in management decision making. Through the process they will refine and improve their own approaches to solving management problems in the subject disciplines. Students are required to critically analyse the management environment and to propose solution based on the module theory.

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To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.

Electrical and Electronic Engineering MEng (Hons)

Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS

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International applicants please apply using the links below

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Any Questions?

Our admissions team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901.

Contact Details for Applicants:

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All information on this course page is accurate at the time of viewing.

Our Campus based courses starting in 2022 and 2023 will be delivered on-campus with supporting online learning content. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to adjust the delivery of our education accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.

On-campus contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with any additional restrictions, which may be imposed by the Government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors. This could potentially mean increased or fully online delivery, should such restrictions on in-person contact time be required.

 

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We continuously review and improve course content in consultation with our students and employers. To make sure we can inform you of any changes to your course register for updates on the course page.


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