MSc Wireless Communications and Signal Processing

Program Overview

MSc Wireless Communications and Signal Processing

Overview

This MSc covers a range of advanced topics related to wireless communications and communications-related signal processing, including associated enabling technologies. It provides an excellent opportunity for you to develop the skills required for careers in some of the most dynamic fields in wireless communications.

This programme builds on the internationally recognised research strengths of the Communications Systems and Networks group within the Smart Internet Lab. This group conducts pioneering research in a number of key fundamental and experimental work areas, including spatial channel measurements and predictions, information theory, advanced wireless access (cellular and WLAN) and RF technologies. The group has well-equipped laboratories with state-of-the-art test and measurement equipment and first-class computational facilities.

This MSc provides in-depth training in design, analysis and management skills relevant to the theory and practice of the wireless communications industry.

Key Information

• Programme duration: One year full-time
• Start date: September 2025
• Application deadline:
  • Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025
  • Home applicants: 8 August 2025
• Delivery method: On-Campus
• Location: Clifton
• Awards available: MSc

Programme Structure

This programme comprises six core units, followed by a substantial research project, starting during the second term and completed during the summer. Your project may be based at the University or with industrial partners.

World-leading Research

• The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education)
• 94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent

Entry Requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in:

• Communications Engineering
• Computer Networks
• Computer Science and Technologies
• Computer Systems Engineering
• Electrical Engineering with Management
• Electronic and Electrical Engineering
• Electronic System Engineering
• Electronic and Information Engineering
• Electronic Information Science and Technology
• Electronic Science and Technology
• Information and Communications Technologies
• Information Engineering
• Microelectronic Engineering
• Optical Engineering
• Optical Information Science and Technologies
• Optoelectronic Information Science and Technologies
• Telecommunications

Other Engineering degrees might be considered where a UK minimum score of 60% (or international equivalent) is achieved in five modules from the following units:

• Analog Electronic Circuits
• Communication networks
• Computer programming
• Digital Electronics Circuits
• Digital Signal Processing
• Electronic circuits
• Electromagnetic fields and waves
• High frequency electronic circuits
• Image processing
• Internet Technology
• Microelectronics
• Microprocessors
• Microwave Technology
• Optical communication
• Optics
• Principles of Communications
• Programming languages
• Semiconductor devices
• Signals and Systems

Fees and Funding

• Home: full-time £18,400 per year
• Overseas: full-time £35,800 per year

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

Alumni Discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study.

Funding and Scholarships

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career Prospects

This is a challenging taught master's programme, covering aspects of current and future wireless communication systems and associated signal processing technologies. It will prepare you for a diverse range of exciting careers - not only in communications but also in management consultancy, project management, finance and government.

Our graduates have gone on to have rewarding careers in leading multinational communications companies, including Huawei, China Telecom, Toshiba and Intel. Some graduates follow a more research-focused career path, with a number of students going on to study for PhDs at leading universities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc covers a range of advanced topics related to wireless communications and communications-related signal processing, including associated enabling technologies. It provides an excellent opportunity for you to develop the skills required for careers in some of the most dynamic fields in wireless communications. This programme builds on the internationally recognised research strengths of the Communications Systems and Networks group within the Smart Internet Lab. This group conducts pioneering research in a number of key fundamental and experimental work areas, including spatial channel measurements and predictions, information theory, advanced wireless access (cellular and WLAN) and RF technologies. The group has well-equipped laboratories with state-of-the-art test and measurement equipment and first-class computational facilities. This MSc provides in-depth training in design, analysis and management skills relevant to the theory and practice of the wireless communications industry.

Outline:

This programme comprises six core units, followed by a substantial research project, starting during the second term and completed during the summer. Your project may be based at the University or with industrial partners.

Careers:

This is a challenging taught master's programme, covering aspects of current and future wireless communication systems and associated signal processing technologies. It will prepare you for a diverse range of exciting careers - not only in communications but also in management consultancy, project management, finance and government. Our graduates have gone on to have rewarding careers in leading multinational communications companies, including Huawei, China Telecom, Toshiba and Intel. Some graduates follow a more research-focused career path, with a number of students going on to study for PhDs at leading universities.

Other:

The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education). 94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.

UK: full-time £17,700 per year Overseas: full-time £34,200 per year For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.