Who are the Best UK Universities for Electrical Engineering?

In the UK, there are various types of electrical engineering degrees available, ranging from bachelor's to master's and PhD. Electrical engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems and equipment. This includes everything from power generation and distribution systems to electronic devices and control systems. They also work on improving existing systems and developing new technologies to meet the needs of society.

Electrical engineering is a crucial component of many industries, including telecommunications, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing, and therefore, it provides numerous job opportunities for graduates. It's a dynamic field that offers many exciting career opportunities, and the broad range of skills and knowledge they gain and the potential to work on innovative projects means they have a significant impact on society.

Learn more below about the top electrical engineering universities in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2024) and begin your application to study in the UK by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK.

Top 10 Universities for Electrical Engineering in the UK

Below is the list of the ten best universities in the UK to study electrical engineering, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.

1. Cardiff University

Cardiff University provides students with an exceptional academic environment that learners will benefit from its quality of education and advanced facilities. It is ranked the number one course in the UK for Electrical and Electronic Engineering by The Guardian University Guide 2024. The program is professionally accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council, ensuring that graduates meet the rigorous standards required for professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partially for Chartered Engineer status. The curriculum is designed with input from industry experts, ensuring that students are equipped with the most relevant and up-to-date knowledge and skills. 

• Suggested course: BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Entry requirements: A levels ­– to include Mathematics or Further Mathematics, International Baccalaureate Points: 32-31 and English proficiency test through test IELTS with a score of 6.5 overall
• International fees: £28,200 per year

2. Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University is a public research university located in Manchester, England. It has a diverse student population from over 120 countries. The university's Department of Engineering is home to the Electrical and Electronic Engineering programme, which offers hands-on lab work, practical hardware and software engineering skills, and a showcase project to demonstrate the students' expertise. At Manchester Met, undergraduate electrical engineering students receive a solid grounding in engineering principles before specialising in electrical energy systems and automation. Advanced engineering software is used, and analytical skills are developed. 

• Suggested course: BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Entry requirements: UCAS Tariff points: 104-112, A levels ­– to include Mathematics or Further Mathematics, International Baccalaureate Points: 26 IB Diploma Points including HL Mathematics and HL 4 or SL 5 in English and Mathematics
• International fees: £20,000 per year

3. The University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield, known as the best university in the UK for its electrical engineering degree, maintains a high reputation for academic excellence. Its outstanding reputation and numerous accolades make it an ideal choice for students. Sheffield has consistently excelled in various assessments and is ranked as the number one university in the prestigious Russell Group. Sheffield boasts the UK's top-rated Students' Union, recognised by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for several consecutive years. Students benefit from a century-long legacy of pioneering research and teaching in this discipline at Sheffield. All courses are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology, ensuring that graduates meet the standards for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status. Its commitment to internationalisation has secured its position among the top 50 most international universities worldwide, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 

• Suggested course: BEng Electrical Engineering
• Entry requirements: AAB including Maths and science, IB scores and English language requirements through tests like IELTS
• International fees: £26,950 per year

4. University of Southampton

The University of Southampton is a research-focused institution located in southern England. Its Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering is renowned for its world-class research and teaching in telecommunications, nanotechnology, and renewable energy. The department has close partnerships with industry and offers students access to modern facilities and opportunities for hands-on learning. 

Students will receive education in a highly advanced electronics lab and have access to the Tony Davies High Voltage Laboratory, which conducts pioneering research in electrical power. Additionally, the university partners with the Institution of Engineering and Technology Power Academy, allowing students to apply for a scholarship that includes paid summer work placements, industry mentors, and financial support.

• Suggested course: Electrical Engineering (BEng)
• Entry requirements: AAA including mathematics and either physics, electronics or further mathematics or A*AB including grades A*A in mathematics and physics, electronics or further mathematics and English language requirements through tests like IELTS with an overall score of 6.5.
• International fees: £27,400 per year

5. University College London

University College London (UCL) offers a dynamic and flexible approach to studying electronic and electrical engineering, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a quality education. In the first two years of degree programmes, you'll delve into fundamental concepts crucial to the field. Throughout the studies, students will engage in hands-on project work, including a substantial final-year project that allows for original research and practical application of their skills. UCL's Integrated Engineering Programme (IEP) ensures a well-rounded education combining specialist and interdisciplinary activities. Additionally, the accreditation by professional bodies ensures that the degree meets industry standards, offering a pathway towards becoming a Chartered Engineer. 

• Suggested course: BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Entry requirements: A*AA - A* Mathematics required, IB points: 39 and English language requirement.
• International fees: £37,500 per year

6. Queen’s University Belfast

At Queen's, electrical engineering students collaborate with potential employers, enhancing career opportunities and integrating placement experiences into the curriculum. From the outset, students address real-world issues, blending academic theory with practical application, thereby boosting graduate employability. Students can opt for a paid industry placement year with various companies available. Queen's is among nine UK universities in the esteemed IET 'Power Academy' scholarship scheme. This scheme annually offers scholarships from its fourteen industrial partners to students pursuing BEng and MEng degrees.

• Suggested course: BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Entry requirements: A Levels ABB, IB 33 points overall, including 6,5,5 at Higher Level 
• International fees: £25,300 per year

7. University of Nottingham

At the University of Nottingham, the first two years of the electrical engineering course are identical, allowing students in the third year to delve into their areas of interest. BEng graduates have diverse pathways. They can register with the Engineering Council as an Incorporated Engineer or advance towards Chartered Engineer status. The course equips students with essential engineering skills, preparing them for industry roles or other professions. The course has a great reputation, ranked 7th in the UK for Electrical and Electronic Engineering by The Guardian University Guide 2024 and 8th by The Times Good University Guide 2024. The course holds accreditation from the esteemed Institution of Engineering and Technology, affirming its alignment with industry standards and best practices. Accreditation enhances the qualification's credibility and opens doors to various career opportunities.

• Suggested course: Electrical Engineering BEng
• Entry requirements: A level ABB, IB 23 points
• International fees: £28,600 per year

8. University of Leeds

The University of Leeds' electrical engineering course holds accreditation from the Institution of Engineering and Technology. With a century-long legacy in groundbreaking research, the engineering school at Leeds has been pivotal in innovating new technologies and spearheading industry-driven advances. This rich research heritage influences the course, keeping the curriculum updated. Students can also enhance the university experience by joining ShockSoc, a student society dedicated to electrical engineering. Here, students can meet peers, attend technical visits, enjoy social events, and even participate in our Robot Fighting League (RFL).

Students benefit from top-tier instruction by a team comprising experts and researchers specialising in diverse electronic and electrical engineering areas. Emphasising hands-on experience, students utilise specialist facilities, including lecture halls and labs with the latest industry-standard apparatus and technology.

• Suggested course: Electronic and Electrical Engineering BEng
• Entry requirements: A-level: AAA including Mathematics, IB 18 points at Higher Level
• International fees: £27,500

9. Imperial College London

Imperial College London is a leading public research university in London, UK. It was founded in 1907 and is known for its excellence in science, engineering, medicine, and business. The Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Imperial College offers a BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, where students can acquire a practical engineering toolkit through experiential lab work, hardware and software training, and a culminating showcase project.

The first year of Imperial Electrical Engineering and Electronic and Information Engineering programmes are shared, allowing students to explore both before choosing their stream. Labs and problem-solving classes offer theoretical and practical engineering skills. In the second year, students complete a core programme tailored to their selected route. In the final year, students can choose advanced technical modules and apply their skills to project work, culminating in a final-year project.

• Suggested course: BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Entry requirements: A* in Mathematics, A*/A in Physics (A* is required if applying with three A-levels. At least an A is required if using with four A-levels), A in a third and fourth subject, IB scores, and English language requirements.
• International fees: £40,940 per year

10. University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is a world-renowned research university in Scotland's capital. It was founded in 1583 and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence.  The Department of Electrical Engineering is a leading department within the University known for its pioneering research and high-quality teaching. Among its undergraduate courses, BEng Electronics and Electrical Engineering are undergoing ongoing curriculum renewal, involving industrial partners, accreditation bodies, and students to prepare them for a dynamic engineering career. Upon completion, students can progress to a BEng or MEng degree. Year 4 offers further specialisation in thematic areas, including bioelectronics.

• Suggested course: BEng Electronics and Electrical Engineering
• Entry requirements: SQA Highers: AAAA - AAAB (achievement by the end of S5 preferred). BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6, A Levels: AAA - ABB.
• International fees: £34,800

Study Electrical Engineering in the UK

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Electrical Engineering Degree FAQ

What are the admission requirements for electrical engineering?

For admission into an electrical engineering university, the requirements typically include A-levels in Mathematics and Physics. Other desired subjects might include Further Mathematics, Design Technology, or Computer Science. Specific grade requirements can vary among universities. Additionally, some electrical engineering courses might require prospective students to sit for an entrance exam or attend an interview.

What is the highest salary for an electrical engineer?

An electrical engineering salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific sector of employment. While starting salaries for graduate electrical engineering jobs can be competitive, experienced electrical engineers can earn significantly more. The highest salaries are often associated with management roles, specialised sectors, or working in regions with a high demand for electrical engineering expertise.

Is it worth studying electrical engineering?

Studying electrical engineering provides a solid foundation in a field that's integral to many modern technologies and industries. Graduates from electrical engineering courses have a broad range of electrical engineering careers available to them, from renewable energy to telecommunications.

How many years are there in an electrical engineering degree?

Typically, an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering lasts for 3 to 4 years. However, if a student opts for a sandwich course that includes an industrial placement or if they pursue a master's degree integrated course, it might extend to 5 years. Postgraduate studies, such as a Master's or PhD, can add additional years.

What are the career opportunities for an electrical engineer?

There are many electrical engineering careers available for an electrical engineer. This includes roles in power generation, telecommunications, electronics design, aerospace, and automotive industries, to name a few. Additionally, there are opportunities in research and development, consulting, and even teaching in the best electrical engineering universities.