Course details
- A level requirements: AAB
- UCAS code: H432
- Study mode: Full-time
- Length: 4 years
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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.
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.
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.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
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.
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.
Fundamental course on circuit analysis techniques.
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.
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%).
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.
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 for students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, to support their technical modules.
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
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
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.
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.
Introduction to aerospace communications and avionic systems for Aerospace Engineering and Avionics/Aerospace Electronics students.
This module covers the design and operation of instrumentation devices as well as the design of continuous time control systems.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For students in EEE who have not studied at XJTLU only.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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This module is for the students in the year in industry.
In your final year, you will undertake an extended individual project in the area of avionics.
The module introduces key techniques and concepts used in the analysis of the trim, stability, and dynamic response characteristics of conventional fixed-wing aircraft. It builds on the point-performance theory taught in year two, but whereas in the latter, point mass models suffice, it now becomes necessary formally to treat rigid-body motion in three dimensions; this is done by introducing angular momentum, rotating frames of reference, and the Newton-Euler equations.
Notions of trim and of static and dynamic stability are introduced using various simplified reduced degree-of-freedom models, axis systems, and state and control variables. The standard six degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) equations of motion of a rigid aeroplane are developed; it is shown how these can be solved numerically to enable accurate flight simulation, and how they can be linearized. The relationship between the linearizations and the aircraft’s natural modes is studied. Also introduced are a several important feedback control design methods, useful for modifying and improving aircraft stability and control characteristics. These include the Root Locus, Bode and Nyquist based design methods, and gain and phase margins as design goals. Also discussed are linear state-space methods.
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
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.
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.
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.
This module covers the fundamentals of how images are generated, represented, compressed and processed to extract features of interest.
This module covers project management for year 3 students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics. Entrepreneurial skills are also be covered.
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.
A broad range of topics are covered. Case studies and example tutorials emphasise the practical aspects of digital control design and optimisation.
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.
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.
Introduction to neural network theory, applications and artificial intelligence.
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.
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.
In this module students gain an understanding of the construction 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Assessment on this course is carried out via a mix of examinations, coursework and projects.
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.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
We are housed in an award-winning building, and the Sir Robin Saxby Laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for digital systems. All of our lecturers are actively engaged in research, ensuring students are given the most up-to-date and commercially relevant education. Your course will be delivered by the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
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A day in the life of Electrical Engineering and Electronics student Manon Sowerby
As a graduate of this programme you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to work in one of the most important sectors of the aerospace industry. The avionics in most aircraft will be upgraded several times during the life of the airframe, making Avionic Systems a major employer both in the UK and internationally.
Some of our graduates go on to work in the industrial sector, in government and in education, whilst others enter non-technical professions such as banking, accountancy, management and law.
If you are seeking a career as a commercial airline pilot, it is possible to work towards the ‘frozen’ Air Transport Pilot’s Licence (fATPL) as part of this course.
Many graduates have moved on to have careers with employers and sectors such as:
100% of electrical engineering and electronics students are in work and/or further study 15 months after graduation.
Your tuition fees, how to pay, and other costs to consider.
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland) | |
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Full-time place, per year | £9,250 |
Year in industry fee | £1,850 |
Year abroad fee | £1,385 |
International fees | |
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Full-time place, per year | £25,750 |
Year in industry fee | £1,850 |
Year abroad fee | £12,875 |
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment, operating University facilities such as libraries, IT equipment and access to academic and personal support.
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.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.
Scholarships and bursaries you can apply for from the United Kingdom
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.
Your qualification | Requirements |
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A levels |
AAB All of our Avionics programmes have the option of a Pilot Studies pathway. This enables you to learn how to fly and obtain a pilot’s license as part of your timetabled activities. For further details see the overview section. Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is ABB with A in the EPQ. You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. |
T levels |
T levels are not currently accepted. |
GCSE | 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics |
Subject requirements |
A level Mathematics and a science subject (Chemistry, Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Physics or Electronics). For applicants from England: For science A Levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a Pass is required. |
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate |
Distinction* in BTEC (any subject) plus AB in A Levels. A Levels must include Mathematics and a science subject (Chemistry, Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Physics or Electronics). |
BTEC Level 3 Diploma |
D*D* in a relevant BTEC considered alongside grade B in A Level Mathematics. |
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma |
D*D*D* and B in A Level Mathematics or D*D*D* including Distinction in ‘Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians’ unit and a pass in the university’s online Mathematics assessment. |
International Baccalaureate |
35 overall, including 5 in Higher Level Mathematics and 5 in a Higher Level science subject. |
Irish Leaving Certificate | H1, H1, H2, H2, H2, H3 including H2 or above in Mathematics and a science subject (Chemistry, Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Physics or Electronics). |
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher |
AAB in Advanced Highers including Mathematics and a science subject (Chemistry, Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Physics or Electronics). |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | Accepted at grade B alongside A Level grades AA in Mathematics and a science subject (Chemistry, Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Physics or Electronics). |
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma | D3 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade A M2 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade B Global Perspectives and Short Courses are not accepted. |
Access | Considered if taking a relevant subject. 42 Level 3 credits at Distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Mathematics is required. GCSE English and Mathematics grade C/4 or above also required. Students will be required to take an online Mathematics assessment, please contact the University for further information. |
International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our direct entry requirements. Although there is no direct Foundation Certificate route to this course, completing a Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, can guarantee you a place on a number of similar courses which may interest you. |
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 3 July 2023 / / Programme terms and conditions /