Embedded systems are the dedicated hardware and software that lie at the heart of modern electronic devices: from aeronautical and automobile engine management systems, to mobile telephones and multimedia devices.

Programme overview

• MSc: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

The MSc comprises two taught semesters, each comprising compulsory and optional courses, and a major project.

Core courses

• Intelligent systems and control
• VLSI design and CAD
• Digital signal processing I
• Real time embedded programming
• Real time embedded systems M
• Wireless sensor networks.

Optional courses

• Computer communications II
• Computer architecture and communications 4
• Security and cryptography 4/M
• Mobile human-computer interaction M
• Computer architecture 4
• Advanced programming M
• Modelling reactive systems 4.

Career prospects

Career opportunities include chip design, embedded system design, telecommunications, CCTV and surveillance, automation and control, software development, development of PC peripherals and FPGA programming and defence.

Academic entry requirements

Entry requirements for postgraduate taught programmes are normally a 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent (eg GPA of 3.0 or above) in a relevant subject unless otherwise specified.

International students with academic qualifications below those required should contact our partner institution, Glasgow International College, who offer a range of foundation courses.

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training):

• overall score 6.5
• no sub-test less than 6.0
• or equivalent scores in another recognised qualification (see below)
   

Common equivalent English language qualifications:

• ibTOEFL: 92; no sub-test less than 20
• CAE (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English): B minimum
• CPE (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English): C minimum
• PTE Academic (Person Test of English, Academic test): 60; no sub-test less than 59

Pre-sessional courses
The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the Language Centre Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:

• Language Centre, University of Glasgow
• BALEAP guide to accredited courses 

FAQs

Visa requirements and proof of English language level

It is a visa requirement to provide information on your level of English based on an internationally recognised and secure English language test. All test reports must be no more than 2 years old. A list of these can be found on the UK Border Agency website. If you have never taken one of these tests before, you can get an initial idea of your level by using the Common European Framework self-assessment grid which gives you a level for each skill (e.g. listening B1/writing B2 etc.) However, please note that this is not a secure English language test and it is not sufficient evidence of your level of English for visa requirements.

If you require a Tier 4 student visa, your qualification must be one of the secure English language tests accepted by UK Border Agency:

• UK Border Agency Tier 4 English Language requirements
• UKBA list of approved English language tests [pdf]

For further information about English language requirements, please contact the Recruitment and International Office: pgadmissions@glasgow.ac.uk

Apply now

For 2013-14

MSc