Program Overview

MSc 5G Advanced Communications

The MSc 5G Advanced Communications is designed to meet the growing demand for graduates with the skills and expert knowledge needed to shape and drive the next generation of mobile, wireless, and communications technologies and systems.

Why this course?

This MSc is delivered by the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering and offers a rigorous blend of theoretical foundations and practical applications. You’ll explore the practical, theoretical, and technological aspects of 5G communications systems, covering topics such as:

• Mobile & Wireless Standards
• 5G Hardware Systems Design
• Software Defined Radio & Networking Systems
• Cybersecurity Systems
• Big Data & Information Management
• Advanced Digital Signal Processing & Multimedia Systems

The curriculum also examines broad-ranging applications, including:

• Robotics & Autonomous Systems
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
• Immersive & Augmented Reality Systems
• Health Monitoring Technologies
• Cyber-Integrated Systems
• Smart Grids

What you’ll study

The MSc course is structured to provide both depth and flexibility. You'll study a selection of compulsory and optional taught modules focused on mobile, wireless, and 5G systems. These modules are designed to develop advanced technical expertise alongside the leadership, creative, and professional skills essential for success in the global communications and information engineering sector.

Teaching semesters

• Autumn Semester - September to December
• Spring semester - January to May

Modules are delivered across these two semesters, combining lectures, hands-on labs, and project-based learning.

MSc Project

Students who pass all required taught modules will progress to the MSc Project, undertaken between May and August, and culminating with the Poster Presentation Day, where they will have the opportunity to showcase their research. MSc Projects involve an in-depth investigation on a topic chosen by the student within the field of electronic or electrical engineering. Projects may be:

• research-based, aligned with current departmental research themes
• industry-based, conducted as an unpaid internship with one of the department’s partner companies

Learning & teaching

The MSc is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining both in-person and online methods to provide a flexible and engaging educational experience. Teaching methods include:

• lectures (in-person & online)
• problem-solving tutorials
• hands-on, project-based laboratory sessions

Assessment

Each module employs a variety of assessment methods designed to maximise your learning and help you realise your full potential. These methods may include:

• coursework – involving research, design & analysis tasks
• examinations – testing core theoretical knowledge & problem-solving
• lab reports – documenting technical investigations
• presentations – developing the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly & professionally
• group projects – fostering collaboration & innovation skills
• final MSc Project – a substantive piece of independent work demonstrating mastery of a specialist area

Professional development & employability

We are committed to helping you build a strong professional network and enhance your employability. In today’s competitive job market, having the right skills, training, and mindset is essential for career success.

To support your development, the MSc offers:

• access to cutting-edge facilities & state-of-the-art laboratories
• guidance from academic experts who are leaders in their fields
• opportunities for industry engagement through internships, guest seminars, careers events & networking sessions

Entry requirements

• Normally a first-class or second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in electronic, electrical or communications engineering, or a related physical sciences subject from a recognised academic institution.
• If English is not your first language, please visit our English language requirements page for full details of the requirements in place before making your application.

Fees & funding

All fees quoted are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise.

• Scotland: £11,900
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: £11,900
• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• International: £31,100

Careers

Communications impact virtually all areas of society, so graduates of this MSc are well positioned for a wide range of career opportunities in industry, business and academia.

Potential career paths include:

• 5G & Next-Generation Network Engineer
• IoT Solutions Architect
• Cyber-Physical Systems Engineer
• Spectrum & Network Policy Analyst
• Data & Systems Integration Scientist
• Research Scientist or PhD Candidate

Graduates have gone on to professional and technical roles with international companies such as Samsung, Xilinx, British Telecom, MathWorks, Nokia, and Texas Instruments, as well as with innovative local firms including Cirrus Logic, Leonardo, and Stream.