Photonic and Electronic Systems MRes
London, Bloomsbury
This is the programme information for 2025 entry
Study mode
UK tuition fees (2025/26)
Overseas tuition fees (2025/26)
Duration
Programme starts
Applications accepted
Applications open
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.
Making an impact
Case study: Data paints a picture
Our partnership with the National Gallery is using cutting edge data science, machine learning and digital signal processing technology tools to support art conservation of Old Masters paintings.
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.
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.
Where you'll study
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.
Visit us
Online - Open day
Graduate Open Events: Where can a UCL Engineering degree take you - Alumni Perspectives
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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: Electronic and Electrical Engineering
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Join us for a special online event to explore UCL’s innovative postgraduate programmes in Electronic and Electrical Engineering. Learn about our diverse Master's courses, including Telecommunications, Integrated Machine Learning, Nanotechnology, and more. Discover how UCL can help you achieve your academic and career goals in fast-developing engineering fields. Ideal for prospective postgraduate students from India.
Online - Open day
Graduate Open Events: Electronic and Electrical Engineering (afternoon)
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Discover world-class postgraduate opportunities in UCL Electronic and Electrical Engineering. Join our online session to explore cutting-edge research, industry connections, and flexible study options. Hear from department leads, current students and alumni about our programmes and career prospects. You'll also learn about admissions, scholarships, and UCL's interdisciplinary approach. The two sessions - 12:00 noon and 17:00 (GMT) - are exactly the same and repeated for different time zones.
Got questions? Get in touch
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