These programmes cover the most rapidly growing areas of electronic engineering and all aspects of communications. You will learn about microwave and optical systems as well as the design, operation and management of large-scale communication networks for computers and voice and video signals. A range of technical and business modules provides a strong engineering foundation to this specialised degree. The MEng programme has the same first three years as the equivalent BEng, with the inclusion of a team project in the third year. The MEng has an additional fourth year of study of advanced postgraduate modules, on topics such as security, authentication, satellite communications and mobile services. Placement roles must include work that directly relates to your degree subject but can be undertaken across all industry areas in both the private and public sectors. Placement opportunities can be found with large corporations as well as with smaller and medium sized employers. Companies where our students have recently been placed include: IBM, Goldman Sachs, Kurtosys Systems, ITRS Group, Service Now, eBay, Microsoft, Cisco, Accenture, Bank of America, M&G Investments and Insight Software. Classes include lectures, laboratory sessions and tutorial sessions. In lectures, you will learn core material, while in laboratory and tutorial sessions you will work on problem-based learning activities in smaller classes. You will spend 15-20 hours per week in lectures, as well as undertaking independent work and study. You will meet with your personal adviser regularly to ensure that you are settling in and progressing well. Throughout your programme, we highlight issues relevant to the professional context of your studies. We strongly encourage you to get experience of applying your knowledge and skills through paid or unpaid work opportunities or a year-long industrial placement. Assessment for most modules is through a combination of examination and coursework. Coursework can take many different forms appropriate to the individual module. Laboratory-based modules are often assessed through practical assignments, while more theoretical modules may be assessed through exercise sheets or written assignments. This degree programme prepares graduates for careers with major network operators, as well as large commercial organisations that operate their own IT infrastructure. It is also suitable for graduates who are aiming to work in the communications manufacturing business or in smaller research and development companies. Our graduates gain employment with both multinational corporations and small and medium sized enterprises, and some start their own business. For graduates seeking a career in IT, a huge variety of opportunities exists within the IT sector and other sectors, such as: finance, education, health, entertainment and the media. Roles include: systems analyst, web developer, software developer, games designer and IT consultant.