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Avionic Systems

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The deadline for international students is 30 June 2024.

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Bachelor of Engineering

A Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) is a bachelor’s degree awarded for an undergraduate programme in engineering.

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Course overview

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.

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

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.

Accreditations in detail

Teaching Excellence Framework 2023

We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a Gold rating for educational excellence.

Accreditations

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.

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: whole session

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: whole session

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.

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.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide.

What's available on this course?

Year in China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.

  • Learn Chinese
  • Study in a bustling world heritage city
  • Improve employment prospects
  • Study Chinese culture
  • 30 minutes from Shanghai
  • Learn new skills

Read more about Year at XJTLU, China

Year in industry

Year in industry placements give you an in-depth workplace experience where you can develop your skills and apply your learning.

  • Develop key employability skills that graduate employers are looking for
  • Experience and understand workplace culture and disciple
  • Understand the relationship between academic theory and real world application
  • Begin your professional network
  • Gain industry insight and insight into potential career options.

If you'd like to undertake a year in industry, you can transfer to Avionic Systems with Year in Industry BEng (Hons) during your studies, subject to meeting the academic requirements of your course.

View Avionic Systems with Year in Industry BEng (Hons)

To spend a year in industry, you'll need to secure a placement with an organisation. If you're unable to find a placement, you'll continue with the standard version of the course without a year in industry.

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Study as a master's degree

This course is also available as a four year MEng programme.

View Avionic Systems MEng

Your experience

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. Students also have access to careers education and opportunities to work, as well as excellent library facilities.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Careers and employability

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:

  • Avionics/Aerospace Sector: ARM Holdings Ltd, Deva Electronic Controls, Ericsson Ltd, Marconi, Siemens UK.
  • Energy/Utilities Sector: British Nuclear Group, Energetix Group PLC, Scottish Power, United Utilities PLC
  • Technology/IT Sector: Logica CMG.
  • Government/Defense Sector: Ministry of Defence, Science and Technology Facilities Council, The Highways Agency.
  • Healthcare Sector: Royal Liverpool University Hospital (Clinical Engineering).

100% of electrical engineering and electronics students are in work and/or further study 15 months after graduation.

Discover Uni, 2018-19.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, 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 abroad fee £13,600
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 and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies..

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.

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.

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

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom. Change it here

Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

AAB including Mathematics and a science subject (Chemistry, Computer Science, Further Mathematics, Physics or Electronics). For applicants from England, science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a Pass is required.

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.

If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course.

Available foundation years:

T levels

T levels are not currently accepted.

GCSE 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics
Subject requirements

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.

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 entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT 78 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19
Duolingo English Test 105 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic 59 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 65 overall, with no skill below 60
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate.
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 0510: Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade C overall.
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 0993: Grade 5 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 5 overall.
International Baccalaureate Grade 5 at Standard Level or grade 4 at Higher Level
Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced 169 overall, with no paper below 162

PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH

Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Find out the length of Pre-Sessional English course you may require for this degree.

Pre-sessional English

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-Sessional English course length On campus or online
5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 6 weeks On campus
5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 10 weeks On campus and online options available
5.0 overall, with no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 20 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.0 overall, with no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-Sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-Sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.0, with no component below 5.5, for further details.

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

Changes to Avionic Systems BEng (Hons)

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.