MSc Microelectronic System Design
The breathtaking advances in the field of microelectronics over the past 20 years has made the implementations and realisations of real-time fast and power-efficient computer systems, digital signal processing (DSP) systems, communication systems, biomedical systems and systems for consumer goods a reality. Circuit complexities of millions of transistors are now common, and advances in silicon processing and geometry reduction are set to continue for many years to come. To be able to take advantage of these advances in microelectronic technology, there will always be a need for suitably qualified engineers with experience and know-how of the latest technological developments, and the tools to support them.
This course aims to give you the skills and knowledge to make a worthy contribution in the VLSI and microelectronic industry, where the outlook remains optimistic despite the problems in the world economy. The delivery of the technical content benefits from the experience of our teaching teams, who are involved in cutting-edge industrial research and development work. The course provides a breadth of view, and experience of implementation details via suitably selected real-life problem-solving, project and simulation work.
Course content
Core modules
Individual Project • Integrated Digital System Design • Microelectronic Circuit Design • SoC and FPGA Design Project
Option modules, choose three from
DSP and Communication Processor Design • DSP Design and Applications • Embedded Media Processing • Embedded System Design • Multirate Signal Processing • Real-Time Environments • Video and Image Processing
We are comprehensively equipped with a wide range of computeraided design (CAD) facilities and hardware development laboratories. These include a network of powerful workstations for designing and simulating electronic systems and integrated circuits, and unique software for the design and analysis of DSP systems. We also have a network laboratory for the design and evaluation of computer network architectures, an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) laboratory for the latest chip creation technology, and an Embedded Systems laboratory for the development of systems using microcontrollers, digital signal processors and general-purpose microprocessors. These facilities are for the exclusive use of students and staff, providing resources that are among the best in the country.
Length of course
One-year, full-time or two to three years, part-time, block mode
Location
Central London (Cavendish)
Fee band
Fee band 1, see fees spreadsheet
Associated careers
This course will enable you to become a valuable engineer in the fast-moving broadband communications and IT industry.
The main emphasis is to merge broadband communication and information networks. You will therefore benefit from the wide choice of career opportunities that are currently growing in these market sectors.
Entry requirements
You should have qualifications equivalent to a good Honours degree from a British university in electronic engineering or a good Honours degree in computer science, mathematics or other technological subject with a knowledge of mathematics and digital systems. Relevant work experience will be taken into account. If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
