Automation and control is concerned with the design and operation of control systems used to monitor and control production processes. It has applications in industry, transport, defence and other technologies, leading to demand for graduates in this area. In Stages 1 and 2 you study a common syllabus, developing your expertise in electrical machines and electronic communications systems. In Stage 3 you take specialist topics, such as: industrial automation robotics control system design You complement these with a large individual design project - for example, developing a robot vehicle - to showcase your skills to future employers.

In addition to the technical and practical expertise that you will gain from studying electrical, electronic and computer engineering, you will discover that our degrees are designed to provide you with opportunities to learn and develop transferable skills, such as analytical and problem-solving, project-working both as part of a team and on your own, communicating with others, planning and time management, and of course computer literacy, all of which are vital for the employment market. Electrical and electronic engineers are in demand with employers within the UK and overseas. Within electrical engineering the main employment areas include electrical supply and distribution, power systems, transport and electrical machinery. Opportunities within electronics exist in electronic circuit design, instrumentation and control for safety on industrial plants, e.g. manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceutical, telecommunications, mobile technology, automotive and aviation electronics and medical systems. Some graduates enter a related field as IT professionals. Popular areas outside of engineering include commercial, industrial and public sector management. Graduate engineering posts will usually give you the opportunity to work towards incorporated or chartered engineer status. Electrical and electronic engineers are expected to make a quick and useful contribution at work, so it may not be enough to rely on your technical expertise. Relevant vacation work experience and industry placements will greatly increase your level of employability.