Electrical engineering is a field at the forefront of technological advancement, and the UK offers some of the best educational opportunities in this field. With a strong focus on innovation, research, and application, UK universities provide world-class electrical engineering courses. In this blog, we will explore the best electrical engineering courses in the UK, their rankings, annual fees for international students, and general admission requirements. These courses are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), a professional body for engineers. It aims to ensure the fulfillment of academic requirements for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and a Chartered Engineer in 148 countries including the UK.
Electrical engineering universities in the UK offer undergraduate and integrated master’s degree programs. Some of the top universities that offer electrical engineering programs in the UK are the University of Southampton, the University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the University of Strathclyde. The UK’s diverse and prestigious electrical engineering courses are sure to set you on a path toward a rewarding career in this ever-evolving field.
Highlights: Best Electrical Engineering Courses in the UK
Number of courses | 67+ |
Number of universities | 88+ |
Course type | Bachelor’s and integrated master’s |
Accreditation | Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) |
Duration | Bachelor’s (3-4 years), master’s (1 year), and integrated master’s (4-5 years) |
Annual tuition fees | £18,000 to 37,000 |
Why Study Electrical Engineering Courses in the UK?
Top-notch education: The UK boasts some of the world’s most prestigious electrical engineering universities, such as the University of Southampton, University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, etc., assuring you of a top-tier education.
Global acknowledgment: Electrical engineering courses in the UK are accredited by IET. Thus, a degree in electrical engineering from a UK university carries international prestige and career prospects both nationally and internationally.
Comprehensive curriculum: Electrical engineering programs in the UK offer a varied curriculum spanning numerous facets of the field, from theoretical principles to hands-on applications.
Access to research: Enrolling in a UK institution grants you access to cutting-edge research amenities, laboratories, and prospects to collaborate on pioneering projects.
Strong industry connections: Numerous UK universities maintain robust connections with engineering enterprises, often resulting in opportunities for internships, work placements, and networking affairs. Working while studying in the UK can significantly amplify your employability.
Cultural diversity: Studying in the UK provides a culturally diverse environment. Interaction with students from various origins and traditions expands your horizons and enriches your personal encounters.
Short duration: Many UK undergraduate programs typically span three years instead of four years. This can translate to savings in terms of time, tuition, and living costs.
Scholarships: UK universities offer a range of scholarships and financial aid for international students to help reduce some of the financial burden associated with overseas education.
Employment opportunities: The UK offers post-study work visas that permit international students to work within the country for a specific duration upon program completion. This can potentially open doors to long-term employment prospects.
Rankings: Top Colleges Offering Electrical Engineering Courses in the UK
University Name | Guardian Ranking (Electrical and Electronics Engineering 2023) |
University of Southampton | 1 |
University of Edinburgh | 2 |
Imperial College London | 3 |
Manchester Metropolitan University | 4 |
University of Strathclyde | 5 |
University of Glasgow | 6 |
Queen’s University Belfast | 7 |
University of Leeds | 8 |
University of Nottingham | 9 |
University of Surrey | 10 |
Universities with the Best Electrical Engineering Courses in the UK
University of Southampton
Founded in 1862, the University of Southampton is a research-intensive university and a founding member of the Russell Group. Globally it ranks 81 in the QS World University Rankings 2023-24. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields such as engineering, health sciences, business, arts and humanities, etc. It has 5 faculties namely the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, the Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, the Faculty of Medicine, and the Faculty of Social Sciences.
Students can apply for the following two courses in the field of engineering at the University of Southampton. Both the courses are accredited by the IET. The BEng is an undergraduate degree program whereas the MEng is an integrated master’s degree program.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng) | 3 years | £27,400 |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (MEng) (integrated master’s degree) | 4 years | £27,400 |
University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is a public research university based in Edinburgh, Scotland. It boasts a rich academic history dating back to 1582. The university is also known for its esteemed faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. The university is divided into three colleges, College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, and the College of Science & Engineering. They host 21 schools which collectively offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines.
It offers undergraduate and integrated master’s degree programs in electrical engineering. All 4 courses have accreditation from the IET.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
BEng Electrical and Mechanical Engineering | 4 years | £34,800 |
BEng Electronics and Electrical Engineering | 4 years | £34,800 |
MEng Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (integrated master’s degree) | 5 years | £34,800 |
MEng Electronics and Electrical Engineering (integrated master’s degree) | 5 years | £34,800 |
Imperial College London
It is a renowned institution of higher education located in the heart of London. Established in 1907, Imperial College London has earned a global reputation for excellence in science, engineering, medicine, and business. Imperial consistently ranks among the world’s top universities and is known for its cutting-edge research, innovative technology advancements, and contributions to solving real-world challenges. With a diverse and international student body, Imperial offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering entrepreneurial spirit makes it a hub for groundbreaking discoveries and innovation.
The following electrical engineering courses are delivered by the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the Imperial College London.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng) | 3 years | NA |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Management (BEng) | 3 years | NA |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (MEng) (integrated master’s degree) | 4 years | NA |
Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester Metropolitan University, often referred to as MMU, is a prominent higher education institution in the heart of Manchester, UK. With a rich history dating back to 1824, it offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various disciplines, including business, arts, science, and humanities. MMU is known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability, fostering a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. It boasts modern facilities, strong industry links, and a global outlook, making it a popular choice for students seeking a dynamic and academically enriching experience in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
BEng (Hons)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering |
3 years | £18,500 |
MEng (Hons)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (integrated master’s degree) |
4 years | £18,500 |
University of Strathclyde
The University of Strathclyde, located in Glasgow, Scotland, is a renowned institution known for its commitment to research, innovation, and academic excellence. Founded in 1796, it has a rich history of producing leaders in various fields. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across diverse disciplines, including engineering, business, science, and the humanities. It is particularly acclaimed for its strong emphasis on industry collaboration and practical learning, making it a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. With a vibrant campus and a global outlook, Strathclyde continues to be a top choice for students seeking a world-class education.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
BEng Hons
Electronic & Electrical Engineering |
4 years | £23,750 |
MEng
Electronic & Electrical Engineering (integrated master’s degree) |
5 years | £23,750 |
MEng
Electronic & Electrical Engineering with International Study (integrated master’s degree) |
5 years | £23,750 |
Admission Requirements for Electrical Engineering Courses in the UK
Undergraduate (and integrated masters)
- High school education (A Levels, IB, GCSEs, or equivalent international qualifications)
- English language competency (IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component, TOEFL-iBT 92, or PTE Academic 62)
- A personal statement discussing the motivation for choosing the program
- Reference letters
- Student visa
- Personal interview
Postgraduate
- Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field
- A personal statement discussing the motivation for choosing the program
- English language requirement (IELTS 6.5 to 7.0 overall, TOEFL IBT 100 overall)
- Reference letters
- Student visa
- Personal interview
Career Opportunities
Electrical engineering courses in the UK provide a strong foundation for a wide range of career opportunities, offering excellent prospects for those interested in technology, innovation, and problem-solving in the modern world. Graduates can embark on their career journey in the following fields:
- Electronics and Telecommunications
- Power Generation and Distribution
- Renewable Energy
- Automotive Industry
- Automation and Robotics
- Aerospace and Defense
The average salary of electrical engineers in the UK is £45,493 per year. Fresh graduates can expect to earn starting from £37,000 per year and experienced graduates can earn up to £56,000 a year depending on their job type and role (source: Glassdoor).
Conclusion
In summary, the UK offers a plethora of exceptional electrical engineering courses that cater to the needs and aspirations of aspiring engineers. Some of the best electrical engineering programs in the UK are offered by the University of Southampton, the University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the University of Strathclyde. With world-class faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a diverse cultural experience, studying electrical engineering in the UK can be a transformative educational journey. To make the most of these opportunities, it’s crucial to research each program’s specific offerings and align them with your career goals. Ultimately, the UK’s electrical engineering courses open doors to a promising future in a rapidly evolving field. For more information, contact Gyanberry Gyanberry by booking a free video appointment.