Electrical Engineering with Foundation Year
Electrical engineering underpins the generation, transmission and use of electrical power, which is the foundation of modern technological civilisation. From the power grids that distribute electricity across continents to the electric vehicles and renewable energy systems that are reshaping how power is generated and consumed, electrical engineers are at the centre of one of the most significant infrastructure transitions of our time. The discipline draws on physics, mathematics and systems design, and its practitioners work across energy, transport, communications and manufacturing at a very large scale.
At the University of Southampton, this four-year full-time programme begins with a foundation year, giving you the mathematical and scientific preparation needed for degree-level electrical engineering before you move into the main programme. You will learn to build the systems and technologies that will grow our power networks for decades to come, studying power electronics, energy conversion, electrical machines, control systems, circuit design, electromagnetic theory and the integration of renewable energy sources into existing grids. The pressing challenges of sustainable energy generation, smart grids, energy storage and the electrification of transport make this an exceptionally timely discipline, and Southampton's strong research activity in power and energy systems means you learn in an environment where real engineering problems are being actively addressed.
Graduates pursue careers in energy companies, utilities, power systems consultancy, national grid operators, electric vehicle development, rail and aviation electrification, defence and electronics manufacturing. Many work towards chartered engineer status with the Institution of Engineering and Technology. The shift to cleaner energy systems is generating sustained demand for electrical engineers across the UK and globally.
Further study at master's level in electrical engineering, power systems, renewable energy or related fields is available at Southampton and elsewhere for those who want to deepen their specialism.