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Avionic Systems with Year in Industry BEng (Hons)

UCAS code: H432 | Full-time | 4 years

Entry requirements

View entry requirements

UK/Ireland fees:

£9,250 per year

International fees:

£27,200 per year

Starts on:

Not a UK or Republic of Ireland student?
This course is not available in Clearing for international students.

Clearing 2024: find your place at Liverpool

We may have limited places for entry in 2024 for high achieving applicants.

Clearing is open for applications UK and Republic of Ireland students who have their results. Limited places are available for high-achieving students.

About this course

Study Avionic Systems at Liverpool and become part of one of the most important sectors in the aerospace industry. Electronic systems associated with flight are known by the term ‘avionics’, and cover everything from internal control systems to airborne communication.

Introduction

This degree programme aims to prepare you to work in a variety of related disciplines: radar systems, GPS/inertial navigation systems, guidance and control, and avionics systems design.

We have strong links with industry, meaning you will gain experience with industry standard tools, technologies and working methods. A number of undergraduate projects have been generated from actual industrial projects undertaken by staff, including the development of infrared tracking algorithms for missile warning systems and flight control systems for terrain avoidance in low-level flight.

You will spend your third year of study on an industrial placement, working in an engineering company. This is an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience and boost your CV.

Our Avionics programmes give you the option to learn to fly and to build towards either a National Private Pilot’s Licence (NPPL) or a full Joint Aviation Authorities/Private Pilot Licence (JAA/ PPL) in the first year and the ‘frozen’ Air Transport Pilot’s Licence (fATPL) in the second year. If you are seeking a career as a commercial airline pilot it is possible to work towards the fATPL.

What you'll learn

  • The workings of the sophisticated electronics in modern aircrafts
  • How to fly (if you’d like)
  • Real-world awareness through the practical application of concepts and theory
  • Greater in-depth technical knowledge than that offered by mainstream subject areas
  • A basic grounding in all of the necessary technical subjects, plus specialisation within a particular area of avionics
  • Practical industry experience during your engineering placement.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Entry requirements

If you've received your results, you can apply now. You’ll usually need to have achieved BBC or above at A level or meet our requirements for other accepted qualifications. Higher entry criteria may apply for a small number of courses.

If you live in a postcode area where you’re less likely to go to university, or if you’ve spent any time in social care, we’ll take this into account when considering your application. We may be able to make you a reduced offer for the course you want to study.

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

For the optional ‘with Pilot Studies’ time is factored into the timetable to enable you to acquire the flying time. If you are not sure if you wish to take a BEng (Hons) or an MEng (Hons) degree then we advise that you apply for the MEng and make a final decision at the end of Year Two.

Compulsory modules

Digital & Integrated Electronics Design (ELEC143)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module comprises of two parts Digital Electronics and Integrated Electronics. For the Digital part, students are provided with the knowledge of number systems, laws of Boolean algebra and introduced to the basic methods for designing combinational and sequential logic circuits. For the Integrated part, students are introduced to various silicon electronic devices and provided with the opportunity to understand the basic principles of silicon microelectronics designs processes including designing layouts for simple circuit.

Electrical Circuits & Systems (ELEC142)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

Fundamental course on circuit analysis techniques.

Electromagnetism & Electromechanics (ELEC120)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module includes two parts. The first part of this module covers electrostatics, current and permanent electromagnetism. The second part of the module covers electromechanics, including the principles and construction of DC and AC machines, transformers and linear actuators.

Electronic Circuits (ELEC104)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module aims to introduce students to fundamental electronic devices (diodes and transistors), and how these devices are used in amplifier and switching circuits. The module is assessed via two laboratory sessions (20%) and two coursework online assignments (80%).

Experimental Skills (ELEC172)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

Introductory module that teaches practical skills for electrical engineering students, focusing on basic laboratory skills. The practical skills are linked with theory presented in other Year 1 modules including those on analogue and digital electronics. The module also includes an introduction to a technical programming language (MATLAB) and an introduction to some of the ethical and sustainability issues that face modern engineers. 

Introduction to Programming in C (ELEC129)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module is an introductory course to the C computer programming language. The module provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of C programming (variables, data types, operators, pointers, arrays, strings, structures, functions, input/output operations and flow control) and the software development method (specification, analysis, design, implementation/coding and testing).

Mathematics A for Electrical Engineers (ELEC191)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Mathematics for students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, to support their technical modules.

Mathematics B for Electrical Engineers (ELEC192)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

Basic mathematics for students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, concentrating on those groups of students who have, on the average, weaker preparation for University level Maths such as entrants with the BTEC qualification (but not limited to that group). Exam practice is another important component of this module. This module follows on from ELEC191

Optional modules

INTRODUCTION TO AEROSPACE ENGINEERING (AERO110)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

A short module to introduce students to the language and main concepts of the aerospace engineer to provide a solid basis for the remainder of their degree programme

PILOT STUDIES 1 (AERO131)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

The module is designed to provide students, who are contemplating a career as a commercial pilot, with an insight into the practical and intellectual skills required to become a pilot. Classroom lectures covering PPL ground school material are given together with 20 hours of practical flight training at a local flying school.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year two

If you are not sure whether you wish to take a BEng (Hons) or an MEng (Hons) degree then we advise that you apply for the MEng and make a final decision at the end of Year Two.

Compulsory modules

Avionics and Communications Systems (AERO250)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

Introduction to aerospace communications and avionic systems for Aerospace Engineering and Avionics/Aerospace Electronics students.

Instrumentation & Control (ELEC207)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module covers the design and operation of instrumentation devices as well as the design of continuous time control systems.

Electrical Circuits & Power Systems (ELEC209)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module is aimed at equipping students with tools to analyse inter-related electrical circuits and systems and to provide students with an introduction to the components and composition of an electric power system. It also covers the different primary energy sources and the way in which power is delivered to the customers. Teaching and learning are provided through variety of means like formal lectures, problem sheets, supplementary question sheets, worked example sheets along with formative and summative online tests (through CANVAS, the electronic VLE system). Assessment is carried out by means of coursework and final (written) exam.

Digital Electronics & Microprocessor Systems (ELEC211)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

​This module covers two areas.  In digital electronics, it covers topics which build on the basic knowledge gained in the first year digital electronics programme and learning some hardware description language (HDL) programming. In microprocessor systems, it introduces the topic from the basics describing how a microprocessor works and learning some assembly language programming.

Signals and Systems (ELEC270)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Introduces continuous and discrete signal operations and analysis, the frequency domain and spectral analysis, including Fourier Series and Fourier, Laplace and z Transforms. Introduces system quantification and analysis, including pole-zero plots, feedback, basic stability criteria and block diagrams.

Electronic Circuits and Systems (ELEC271)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module concerns the understanding of how electronic amplifier circuits work and some basic ideas on how to design them. This requires an appreciation of linear small-signal equivalent circuits based on device physics and how to use them to assist the design process. Students will also learn how to break down complex circuits into simpler building blocks and how these blocks in turn, represented by linear equivalent circuits, can be combined to achieve the desired functionality. How negative feedback can be applied to produce high performance, stable circuits with high tolerance. The current state of the art is emphasised together with a historical perspective, noting some of the pioneers in the field.

FIELD THEORY AND PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS (MATH283)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

(This module is for those EEE students who have not studied at XJTLU).

Maxwell’s equations elegantly describe the physical laws governing such things as electrodynamics. Related problems may be posed in terms of vector calculus, or in terms of differential equations. In this module, we revise vector calculus and field theory in three dimensions, using Stokes’ theorem and Gauss’ theorem to solve explicit physical problems; we evaluate path, surface and volume integrals, and derive general electrodynamic laws. We also consider both the ordinary and partial differential equations arising from real world problems related to Maxwell’s equations, and solve them using Fourier series methods.

AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE (AERO212)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

To acquaint students with the fundamentals of the performance of fixed-wing aircraft; to develop from first principles the theory required to formulate and solve representative performance problems; to discuss the limitations of the theory; to introduce students to the basics of aircraft stability.

Optional modules

PILOT STUDIES 2 (AERO231)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module aims to give students the knowledge and understanding of commercial aviation operations and requirements. It expands on the material presented in Pilot Studies 1 and provides the students with the opportunity to engage with the ATPL ground school material. The module is mixture of lectures, group presentations and simulation and is assessed via a 2 hour MCQ exam.

PILOT STUDIES 3 (AERO232)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

This module aims to provide students with an appreciation of the principles and systems required to operate commercial aircraft. The module will consist of traditional classroom exercises combined with opportunities to use flight simulators and to interact with commerical pilots. The module will be assessed using an MCQ exam at the end of the semester.

Electromagnetics (ELEC210)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

The objective of this module is to further enhance the students knowledge of electric field/magnetics field and use of Maxwells equations and their use in practical EM applications.

Problem Solving & Industrial Awareness (ELEC224)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

The aim of this module is to provide students with practical work which underpins, confirms and gives application focus for academic study, while testing a wide range of skills.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year three

This is the placement year, during which you will spend time working in an engineering company. The placement is assessed by two reports, a poster and an oral presentation.

Preparation for the placement is provided by the University’s Careers and Employability service, who will assist in finding a placement, creating a professional-looking CV and preparing you for interview. Placements can be local, located nationally within the UK, or even take place abroad in the likes of Europe and China.

Compulsory modules

UG Placement in Year3 (ELEC299)

Credits: 120 / Semester: semester 3

​This module is for the students in the year in industry.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year four

In your final year, you will undertake an extended individual project in the area of avionics.

Compulsory modules

FLIGHT DYNAMICS AND CONTROL (AERO317)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

The module introduces key techniques and concepts used in the analysis of the trim, stability, and dynamic response characteristics of conventional fixed-wing aircraft.
Also introduced are a several important feedback control design methods, useful for modifying and improving aircraft stability and control characteristics, including Root Locus, Bode and Nyquist based design methods for PID control.
As part of the module, students will undertake a flight test course in the National Flying Laboratory Centre to assess the performance and stability qualities of a real aircraft in flight.

Avionic Systems Design (AERO350)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

Avionics includes pretty much all of the electrical sensors and systems that are present on modern aircraft. The aim of tbis module is to provide the opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and creative skills to design and evaluate a practical design solution to meet a given requirement and to further develop their team-working and presentation skills. The module includes 5 weeks lectures to review the fundamentals of avionic systems, and 5 week group project to study/design one of the following 3 avionic systems:i) Instrument Landing System (ILS) ii) Automated Direction Finding (ADF)iii) Distress Frequency Monitoring

RF Engineering and Applied Electromagnetics (ELEC311)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to the fundamental concepts of high frequency electromagnetics, and circuit design techniques that must be considered in the design of high frequency circuits and systems.

Students will learn in-depth knowledge of transmission lines, the Smith Chart, standing waves and scattering parameters etc.

After this module, students will be able to appreciate the microwave and RF circuit design for contemporary communication systems.

Antennas (ELEC312)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

This module is to introduce antenna theory and applications.

Students will learn the fundamentals of the antenna theory and design, and understand the most important antennas.

Electronics for Instrumentation & Communications (ELEC317)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module introduces basic concepts of the electronic circuits required for instrumentation and communication. It deals with a wide range of amplifiers and the problems that might be encountered in a actual application. It also deals with circuitry needed in communication for example oscillators and phase-locked-loops.

Image Processing (ELEC319)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module covers the fundamentals of how images are generated, represented, compressed and processed to extract features of interest.

Engineering Management & Entrepreneurial Skills (ELEC352)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

​This module covers project management for year 3 students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics.  Entrepreneurial skills are also be covered.

BEng Project (ELEC340)

Credits: 30 / Semester: semester 3

​Students undertake an extended individual project.  Projects are specified by academic staff and cover the whole range of Electrical and Electronic Engineering including hardware (both analogue and digital), software and simulation or a mixture of these.  Students can also suggest their own projects which need to be approved by an academic supervisor.  Students work closely with their academic supervisor to realize their project aims and assessment is split between a preliminary report, an oral presentation, the bench inspection and the final report.

Optional modules

Digital Control and Optimisation (ELEC303)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

A broad range of topics are covered. Case studies and example tutorials emphasise the practical aspects of digital control design and optimisation.​

Signal Processing and Digital Filtering (ELEC309)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is aimed at developing the basic framework for signal processing and to demonstrate its applications. Also, the module provides students with a good understanding of the types, behaviours and design of FIR and IIR digital filters.

Teaching and learning are provided through a variety of means like formal lectures, problem sheets, supplementary questions, along with formative and summative online tests (through CANVAS, the electronic VLE system).

Assessment is carried out by means of two assignments and final (written) exam.

Photonics and Optical Information Systems (ELEC313)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

​The aims of this module are: To introduce students to the fundamental principles of opto/electronic systems for the transfer of information. To introduce the duality of light as both wave and ray.  To show intensity and phase related optical principles. ​To demonstrate optical information transfer through a number of applications.​

Neural Networks (ELEC320)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

Introduction to neural network theory, applications and artificial intelligence.

Drives (ELEC331)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module introduces students to a range of electrical machines (AC & DC) using the concepts of rotating magnetic fields and co-energy. This allow students to model their behaviour and select the most appropriate electrical machine for their application.

Application Development with C++ (ELEC362)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This course will help student to understand the object-oriented design concept and to gain knowledge and practical skills of C++ as an advanced programming language.

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to understand/design/develop C++ applications (both console and GUI-based) with a specific emphasis on developing GUI-based applications.

Low Power Computer Architecture (ELEC370)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

In this module students gain an understanding of the architecture and operation of embedded computer systems and their components. Furthermore, they gain an understanding of how computer performance is dependent upon the design of computer architectures and sub-circuits.

Electromagnetic Compatibility (ELEC382)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

This module is aimed at developing an in-depth understanding of EMC, the scope of EMC, standards, typical EMC problems and solutions.

Based on the theory, the students are expected to be able to analyse and solve EMC problems, and also use relevant equipment for conducting EMC measurements. 

ADVANCED MODERN MANAGEMENT (MNGT352)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

The Aims of this module are as follows:

To introduce the student to various aspects of advanced modern management.

To develop a knowledge and understanding of modern management tools.

To stimulate an appreciation of management and its importance in organisational success.

Digital System Design (ELEC373)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module introduces students to the digital design techniques used in industry and research. The methods for describing digital systems using the Verilog Hardware Description Language (HDL) are introduced. Student will examine the operation of the MIPS Processor and will also be introduced to Altera’s NIOS-II Processor. The module is assessed via 4 assignments and two class tests. Altera’s Quartus package is used for synthesising the digital systems.

Power Systems and Power Electronics (ELEC301)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

A core module of electrical engineering for delivering fundamental principles of power systems: including electricity generation, transmission and distribution, and power electronics for conversion of electricity with different frequency and magnitude.

Plasma System Engineering (ELEC391)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

The module introduces to the students the basic concepts of electrical plasmas and how they are used in industry. It concentrates on the engineering principles behind plasma technology rather than the physics of the discharge, however some mathematical approaches are explored so that quantification of the action of plasmas upon material surfaces can be made. The module explains how a gas can turn into a plasma and how high energy ions in the plasma can be generated to process a substrate, such as silicon wafer in micro-electronics fabrication. The module is taught by a mixture of power points notes and chalk and talk. There are a number of question sheets given out to help the students understand the basis plasma-material processes. On completion, students will understand how plasmas are used in industry, they will have an appreciation of some aspects of simple design and how plasmas can be configured for the next generation of fusion power stations.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching and assessment

How you'll learn

All programmes are taught over two semesters, with examinations at the end of each semester. Modules can vary from those which assessed by examination only, to others which are continuous assessment only. All programmes incorporate a substantial practical component, with an increasing emphasis on project work as you progress through to the final year.

How you're assessed

Assessment on this course is carried out via a mix of examinations, coursework and projects.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, how to pay, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £27,200
Year in industry fee £1,850
Fees are correct for the academic year 2024/25. Please note that the Year Abroad fee also applies to the Year in China.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment, operating University facilities such as libraries, IT equipment and access to academic and personal support.

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. All safety equipment, other than boots, is provided free of charge by the department. An additional fee of approximately £3,400 is required to cover the costs of the mandatory 20 hours pilot training that is required for all students who choose the Pilot Studies pathway and work towards the NPPL, JAA/PPL and fATPL.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. All safety equipment, other than boots, is provided free of charge by the department. An additional fee of approximately £3,400 is required to cover the costs of the mandatory 20 hours pilot training that is required for all students who choose the Pilot Studies pathway and work towards the NPPL, JAA/PPL and fATPL.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to provide tuition fee discounts and help with living expenses while at university.

Check out our Liverpool Bursary, worth up to £2,000 per year for eligible UK students. Or for international students, our Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship offers a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for eligible international students starting an undergraduate degree from September 2024.

Discover our full range of undergraduate scholarships and bursaries

Contact us

Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.

Last updated 10 July 2024 / Programme terms and conditions