Photonic and Electronic Systems MRes

London, Bloomsbury

Gain in-depth training in developing integrated systems for information, sensing, and communications with this one-year MRes. You'll acquire advanced research skills and industry-relevant knowledge to succeed in high-demand careers — from finance, high-tech security and 5G/6G communications, to sustainable energy, aerospace and digital technologies.

UK students International students
Study mode
Full-time
UK tuition fees (2025/26)
£6,215
Overseas tuition fees (2025/26)
£39,800
Duration
1 calendar year
Programme starts
September 2025
Applications accepted
All applicants: 14 Oct 2024 – 27 Jun 2025
Applications close at 5pm UK time

Applications open

Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 1

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

If you are intending to apply for a time-limited visa to complete your UCL studies (e.g., Student visa, Skilled worker visa, PBS dependant visa etc.) you may be required to obtain ATAS clearance. This will be confirmed to you if you obtain an offer of a place. Please note that ATAS processing times can take up to six months, so we recommend you consider these timelines when submitting your application to UCL.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree


Innovative photonic and electronic systems are fundamental to future communication, computing and digital technologies.  

Through a blend of specialist-taught modules and mini-research projects, the MRes offers a robust foundation in photonic systems and advanced research methods. The programme provides the essential skills and knowledge needed to progress to a PhD or pursue a career in high-tech industries. 

As a student in UCL Electronic and Electrical Engineering (EEE), you'll join a community renowned for its pioneering research and industry connections, learning from world-leading academics and engaging with brand-new technology. 

On graduating from this MRes, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of photonic and electronic systems and be equipped with the expertise to innovate in areas such as information systems, sensing, communications, manufacturing, and personal healthcare. 

This MRes programme serves as the first step in a 4-year (1+3) doctoral training programme designed for those aspiring to excel in the fields of photonics and electronics, as a researcher or industry professional. 

Students who successfully complete the one-year MRes can choose to progress to a specialist 3-year PhD as part of the 1+3 Centre for Doctoral Training programme in Photonic and Electronic Systems (PES CDT).

The CDT is run in conjunction with the University of Cambridge, which teaches approximately half of the taught options available for the MRes course. UCL's MRes cohort of students is taught alongside the cohort of Cambridge students. Taught modules are available at both UCL and Cambridge.

Who this course is for

This programme is ideal for you if you have a background in science, engineering, or physics and aspire to advance your knowledge in photonic and electronic systems. It is designed for those who wish to gain a Master’s qualification as a foundation for further research at the PhD level.  

What this course will give you

This programme offers you the following benefits and opportunities:

  • A postgraduate degree from a top-ranked university. UCL is consistently ranked among the best universities globally (ranked 9th in the latest QS World University Rankings 2025), providing you with a prestigious qualification that is highly regarded worldwide. 
  • Study within the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Centre for Doctoral Training in Photonic and Electronic Systems (PES CDT), benefiting from academic excellence at UCL and the University of Cambridge. 
  • Gain access to strong collaborations and innovative teaching and learning environments at two world-leading universities. 
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of photonics as a fundamental technology in electronics-based systems and applications within communications, sensing, manufacturing, and biomedicine. 
  • Prepare for a career in the multidisciplinary field of photonic and electronic systems, equipped with the confidence and ability to drive future research, development, and exploitation in photonic technologies. 

The foundation of your career

Graduates of this programme have secured diverse roles such as optical systems developer, fibre laser engineer, technology analyst, and senior photonics engineer, showcasing the wide-ranging opportunities available in the field of photonic and electronic systems. 

Being able to do courses at UCL and the University of Cambridge was a huge advantage as it increased the variety of courses available to us.

UCL Portico building with welcome sign between columns.

Sarwat Baig

MRes Connected Electronic and Photonic Systems

Employability

Through this programme, you'll gain advanced skills applicable to sectors such as communications, biomedicine, and manufacturing. 

Graduates are highly sought after in both industry and academia due to their comprehensive training in cutting-edge photonic technologies. 

Networking

You’ll have regular opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build professional contacts as part of your MRes. 

  • Benefit from the strong collaboration between UCL and the University of Cambridge, connecting you with a broad network of institutions and organisations. 
  • Engage in industry-supervised research projects, gaining hands-on experience and insights. 
  • Access guest lectures and seminars, learning from leading experts and professionals in the field. Past speakers have come from leading organisations such as Airbus, BT, Microsoft, Toshiba, European Space Agency, HUBER+SUHNER Polatis, Shimadzu and more. 
  • Participate in the PES CDT Industry Day, showcasing your work and exploring future collaborations. 
  • Take part in EEE Festival of Research, celebrating student achievements and discussing career opportunities. 
  • Utilise industry facilities, tapping into cutting-edge resources provided by our partners. 

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, projects, seminars and laboratory work. 

Your assessment for taught modules is through unseen written examination and coursework (assignments, presentations and design work). 

Contact hours on this programme will vary according to the student's module and project selections.

This is a full-time course which means students should expect a working schedule of approximately 35-40 hours a week divided between contact hours and self-directed learning.

Modules

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits: 2 compulsory research projects (45 credits each), 1 transferable skills module (15 credits), 2 optional modules (15 credits each), 1 business module (15 credits) and 2 elective modules (15 credits each).

Students also attend a non-credit bearing workshop in Responsible Research and Innovation and a series of seminars.

Upon successful completion of 180 credits, students will be awarded an MRes in Photonic and Electronic Systems.

Taught modules

Students may choose taught modules at UCL and/or University of Cambridge.

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.

Optional modules

  • Radio frequency circuits, devices and systems
  • Embedded system for the Internet of Things (IoT)
  • Photonic systems and subsystems
  • Optical fibre communication and transmission networks
  • Advanced photonic devices
  • Wireless communications
  • Electronic sensors and instrumentation
  • Management of Technology
  • Telecommunication business environment

Elective modules

  • Quantum and nanotechnology
  • Biosensors and Bioelectronics
  • Computer vision
  • Advanced information theory and coding
  • Physics and optics of nanostructures
  • Broadband technologies and components
  • Broadband communication lab
  • Applied machine learning systems
  • Software for network and services design
  • Internet of things (IoT)
  • Image coding and processing

Research projects

Students undertake 2 mini research projects: 1 part-time (45 credits) and 1 full-time (45 credits). 1 research project is based at UCL and 1 at University of Cambridge.

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services team.

Where you'll study

Two students working at desk opposite each other in room filled with computer equipment and wires

UCL Electronic and Electrical Engineering’s facilities feature a variety of test equipment, including soldering stations, microscopes, and reflow ovens. Workstations offer test software, oscilloscopes, waveform generators, and digital multimeters. We provide 3D printers and a benchtop laser cutter for rapid prototyping of mechatronic designs. Our PCB Facility, staffed by experts, produces PCBs like RF, multilayer, and flexible circuits, using CNC machines, electroplating, laser ablation, and etching equipment. The department includes a computer lab and CPU/GPU servers. Research labs feature cleanrooms, nanoscale labs, quantum measurement labs, an anechoic chamber, and photonic and optical communication labs, supporting final-year projects and advanced research.

Online - Open day

Graduate Open Events: Where can a UCL Engineering degree take you - Alumni Perspectives

Where can a UCL Engineering degree take you? Join us for a panel and Q&A event with UCL Engineering alumni. You'll learn what you can expect from postgraduate study at UCL Engineering and get application advice from previous students! This is an opportunity for all applicants to hear personal experiences of studying with us, but may be most relevant to those applying from the USA, Latin and South America.

Online - Open day

Graduate Open Events: Where can a UCL Engineering degree take you - Alumni Perspectives

Where can a UCL Engineering degree take you? Join us for a panel and Q&A event with UCL Engineering alumni. You'll learn what you can expect from postgraduate study at UCL Engineering and get application advice from previous students! This is an opportunity for all applicants to hear personal experiences of studying with us, but may be most relevant to those applying from the USA, Latin and South America.

Fees and funding

Fees for this course

UK students International students
Fee description Full-time
Tuition fees (2025/26) £6,215
Tuition fees (2025/26) £39,800

Additional costs

Students may be required to travel between UCL and University of Cambridge to attend in-person classes, lectures, seminars and for project work. Travel costs will vary depending on an individual student's module and project selections and the frequency of travel required for in-person attendance. For an indication of travel costs, please visit the National Rail website.

UCL’s main teaching locations are in zones 1 (Bloomsbury) and zones 2/3 (UCL East). The cost of a monthly 18+ Oyster travel card for zones 1-2 is £114.50. This price was published by TfL in 2024. For more information on additional costs for prospective students and the cost of living in London, please view our estimated cost of essential expenditure at UCL's cost of living guide.

Funding your studies

EPSRC funded studentships are available for UK students who meet residency requirements.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.

Next steps

Candidates should submit a pre-application screening form before making a formal application to UCL. This allows us to assess a candidate's suitability for the programme and their eligibility for EPSRC funded studentships.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2025-2026

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students.