Today’s top tech companies are looking for engineers who can do more than just hardware. They want professionals who understand both electronics and software – and know how to bring them together 

The Electronic and Computer Engineering degree programme has been developed in response to these industry demands to develop students' hardware and software engineering skills in an integrated way and the analytical powers to apply them jointly. 

Skills that Set You Apart
Electronic and computer engineering students develop a range of skills including hardware design, software development, integrated system design, problem-solving, analytical thinking, research abilities, teamwork and collaboration, adaptability and ethical and professional conduct through a combination of quality teaching and significant practical laboratory work and projects. These skills enable graduates to effectively design and analyse electronic circuits and systems, develop software for various applications, integrate hardware and software components, solve complex problems, stay updated with emerging technologies, conduct research, collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, and uphold ethical and professional standards.  

Your Unique Edge
Electronic and Computer Engineering students develop distinctive expertise, which empowers them to develop hardware and software specifically tailored for critical tasks, such as control systems, robotics, automotive applications, and Internet of Things devices etc. With this unique edge, electronic and computer engineering students are poised to excel in roles that require the integration of hardware and software to create efficient, smart, and connected solutions. 

Year 1 – Building Your Foundation
Year 1 covers the basics of mathematics and science as they apply in engineering, as well as an introduction to engineering, including engineering graphics and computing. 

Year 2 – Diving into Electronics & Computing
Year 2 covers theoretical and practical foundation in electronics and computing including programming languages, circuit analysis, digital and analogue electronics, sensors and instrumentation, communication technologies and electromagnetics. 

Year 3 – Complex Systems Design and Integration
You make your decision at the start of year three whether to remain on the five-year integrated BE+ME programme or to exit with a BE at the end of year four. Year 3 continues with further training in design of digital and analogue systems, programming languages and database systems, communications and signals and systems.  

Year 4 – Cutting-edge Technologies
Year 4 covers a range of advanced topics in electronic and computer engineering including real time systems, machine learning, integrated circuit design, telecommunications software, digital signal processing and distributed systems and computing. All modules include practical classes to provide you experience of hardware/software tools for circuit design and testing. These skills are developed further in project work. Modules on professional skills such as project management are also included. 

Year 5– Mastery and Research
At the School of Engineering we are focused on ensuring that you will be educated to the highest standards, and will have the necessary qualifications to avail of all of the professional opportunities presented to you, both in Ireland and across the world. You will be enrolled on an integrated five year programme; a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) (four years, Level 8) + a Master of Engineering (ME) (one year, Level 9). Students on the BE+ME pathway will avail of advanced engineering modules, a substantial research and development project, and a work placement.  

Year 5 combines advanced core modules in Electronic & Computer Engineering (sample modules include Artificial Intelligence, Embedded Image Processing, Internet of Things Systems Design, Computer Security and Forensic Computing, and Mobile Device Technologies) with modules on transferrable skills/professional development and an individual capstone research project (nine months long) to develop skills in specialist areas such as biomedical electronics, signal processing, embedded systems and communications. Upon successful completion of the five years of study, graduates will have the educational qualifications required for progression to Chartered Engineer. Full information on the optional 5th Year is provided 

Year 1 

• Fundamentals of Engineering
• Engineering Graphics
• Engineering Design
• Engineering Computing I
• Engineering Computing II
• Engineering Chemistry
• Engineering Physics
• Engineering Mechanics
• Engineering Calculus
• Engineering Mathematical Methods 

 Year 2 

• Mathematics & Applied Mathematics I
• Mathematics & Applied Mathematics II
• Engineering Statistics
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Object-Oriented Programming: Data Structures & Algorithms
• Analogue Systems Design I
• Digital Systems I
• Electronic Instrumentation & Sensors
• Microprocessor Systems Engineering
• Electrical Circuits & Systems
• Communications & Networking Foundations
• Fundamentals of Electromagnetic Theory 

 Year 3 

• Secure & Wireless Communication Technologies
• Digital Systems II
• Signals & Communications 
• Programming III
• Database Systems I
• Analogue Systems Design II
• Engineering Electromagnetics
• Distributed Systems & Co-Operative Computing
• Real Time Systems
• 3rd Year Project 

Year 4 

• Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence for Engineering Applications
• Embedded Systems Applications Programming
• Digital Signal Processing
• Systems on Chip Design I
• Mobile Networks: Architecture & Services
• Software Engineering III
• Project Management for Engineers
• Professional Skills
• Electronic & Computer Engineering Professional Experience Programme (BE+ME) 

Year 5   
See here.  

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

• The Electronic & Computer Engineering programme is designed to meet the demands of modern industry by developing both hardware design and software development skills in an integrated way. 

• This field is at the forefront of innovation, shaping advancements in consumer electronics, automotive technology, robotic automation, telecommunications, medical devices, renewable energy, and more. 

• Students engage in individual and group project work from their first year, applying theoretical knowledge to design and build innovative electronic and computer systems. 

• The curriculum covers a wide range of advanced topics, including real-time systems, machine learning, integrated circuit design, telecommunications software, digital signal processing, and Internet of Things (IoT) systems design. 

• Students benefit from a paid work placement, providing invaluable industry experience. 

Graduates with a degree in Electronic and Computer Engineering have access to diverse national and international career opportunities. The increasing use of Information Communications Technology (ICT) across all aspects of life ensures the continued relevance and strong demand for Electronic and Computer Engineering graduates. 

Our graduates are highly sought after in a wide range of industries, including: 

• Software/ICT: developing innovative software solutions and integrated systems.
• Microelectronics: designing and manufacturing the core electronic components that power modern technology.
• Medical Systems and Healthcare: creating advanced medical devices and healthcare technologies.
• Telecommunications: shaping the future of communication networks and wireless technologies.
• Automotive Electronics: designing the intelligent electronic systems in modern vehicles.
• Industrial Automation and Robotics: developing smart and connected solutions for various industries.
• Consumer Electronics: contributing to the design and development of everyday smart gadgets. 
• Energy Management Systems: working on sustainable and renewable energy solutions. 

Electronic and Computer Engineering graduates develop a robust set of skills including hardware design, software development, integrated system design, problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork. This expertise, particularly int tailoring hardware and software for critical tasks like control systems, robotics and IoT devices, positions them to excel in roles requiring efficient, smart, and connected solutions, enabling you to assume leadership roles in research, design, and management.  

As part of our commitment to global learning, selected students will have the chance to spend a year studying at a partner institution in the United States. This unique opportunity offers academic enrichment, cultural exchange, and the experience of a lifetime. 

As part of the Engineering degree at the University of Galway, students register for an integrated 5-year BE+ME programme. This means students will achieve a Level 9 Master's in Engineering after 5 years while also earning a Level 8 Bachelor's in Engineering after 4 years. Successful completion of all 5 years ensures graduates the full educational qualifications required for progression to Chartered Engineer Status.  

All Engineering students undertake a paid work placement as an integral part of their programme. This provides invaluable industry exposure with a diverse range of employers, for example ARM, Analog Devices, Valeo, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, IBM, Jaguar, Fidelity Investments, Cadence ESB, SSE, Thermo King, Aerogen, and EirGrid.  Some students use this opportunity to pursue an international work placement.  

The duration of this placement varies depending on student pathway choice, made at the beginning of 3rd year.    

• Students on the 5-year BE+ME pathway: you will engage with advanced engineering modules, undertake a substantial research and development project, and complete an 8-month paid placement during 4th year.
• Students opting for a 4-year BE only: a shorter paid placement will occur during 3rd year. 

All Engineering Degrees at University of Galway are professionally accredited by the statutory professional body, Engineers Ireland. This means that the degree has been assessed and approved to meet the educational requirements for professional Engineers.   

• Under an international agreement (Washington Accord), any Degree accredited by the National professional body (Engineers Ireland) is recognized internationally. So having an “Accredited” degree means that employers outside of Ireland can (1) understand the quality/education achieved by a graduate and (2) know that it is equivalent to their own Education system/standards, and (3) can offer appropriate employment on this basis. 
• Engineers Ireland require a Masters (Level 9) qualification as the education standard required for Registered Professional Titles of Chartered Engineer* The standard European engineering qualification (degree or diploma) is at level 9, and European industry maintains a strict differentiation between those engineers qualified at level 9 and those qualified at level 8. Any graduate interested in working in Europe/Worldwide is now strongly advised to get an accredited level 9 award.   

Engineers’ Ireland accreditation can be obtained at the following levels:   

• Level 8:  4-year honours degree – associate engineer   
• Level 9:  5-year masters degree – chartered engineer   

A Chartered Engineer holds the highest professional qualification in engineering. They are trusted to take full responsibility for the development and application of engineering across areas like research, design, construction, manufacturing, management, and education. Their work is intellectually challenging and varied, requiring original thinking, sound judgment, and leadership of both technical and administrative teams.   

Further information on Engineering Accreditation  

Prof. Martin Glavin
Prof. Edward Jones
Prof. Peter Corcoran
Prof. Maeve Duffy
Prof. John Breslin
Prof. Martin O’Halloran
Mr Liam Kilmartin
Dr Adnan Elahi
Dr Brian Deegan
Dr Soumyajyoti Maji 

The Electronic and Computer Engineering programme at the University of Galway provides a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience, integrating theoretical knowledge and practical application.  

Once you have mastered the fundamental basics of mathematics and science relevant to engineering, you will delve into the theoretical and practical foundations of electronics and computing. As you continue you on your journey, you will be trained in the design of digital and analogue systems, programming languages, database systems, and machine learning.  

Towards the end of your academic journey, you will explore advanced modules such as Artificial Intelligence, IoT Systems Design, and Forensic Computing. Your education will culminate in a significant capstone research project, ensuring you are educated to the highest standards, ready to innovate and lead in a technologically driven society. 

Course queries: 
electronic@universityofgalway.ie   

Programme Director(s):  
Dr Adnan Elahi  
Programme Director, Electronic & Computer Engineering 
School of Engineering
College of Science & Engineering
E: adnan.elahi@universityofgalway.ie 

 

Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 Level in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish, English, Mathematics, a laboratory science subject (i.e., Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint), Agricultural Science or Computer Science) or Technology, and any two other subjects recognised for entry purposes. Additional requirements: Minimum H4 in Mathematics or, alternatively, obtain a pass in the Engineering Maths Qualifying Exam (held in the University). 

Additional Requirements 
Students must obtain a minimum of Grade H4 in the Higher Level Leaving Certificate paper in Mathematics or, alternatively places available (which may vary in number year to year) may be allocated to those candidates who have achieved the points requirement for the programme that year, who satisfy the general requirements for Matriculation in the College of Engineering and Informatics and who attain a Pass in the Engineering Maths Qualifying Examination. The places available will be allocated in strict order of merit based points attained in the Leaving Certificate. Due to capacity constraints, not all candidates who achieve a pass in the examination may receive an offer.  

For A-Levels - A minimum of Grade C in A-Level Mathematics is required.

Alternative Pathways 
The Access Centre at University of Galway provides a number of alternative entry routes to undergraduate programmes. See below some useful links: 

• QQI/FET/FETAC Places
•  Mature Students
•  Access and Foundation programmes
•  HEAR Scheme
•  DARE Scheme 

Other Qualifications
If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:  

• A Level students
•  International Baccalaureate students
•   EU students 

For applicants whose first language is not English, it is important to check our English Language Requirements.  

Admissions Office  
Our Admissions Office provides additional detail relevant to CAO applicants including key dates, FAQs and instructions for non-school leavers.  

 

 

 

 

Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.  

Mature Applicants  
Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry. Further information available here.  

QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants  
Apply via the CAO. See our QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants page for information on places available and entry requirements.  

 

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
	All	€4,268	€3,000	€27,000	€140	€3,140	€7,408	€27,140

• Most EU students applying through the CAO will be eligible for the ‘Free Fees Initiative’. You can find out more here.
• If you are eligible for a means tested SUSI grant this may cover 100% of this Student Contribution Charge. If you are 100% eligible SUSI will pay the Student Contribution Charge of €3,000 on your behalf. 
• The Student Levy It is payable by all students and it is not covered by SUSI
• Where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing year fees. This applies to non-EU fees.
• You can find additional detail on the Fees Office webpage including FAQs and how fee status is assessed.

Equipment   
Some modules incorporate practical laboratories and for these, you may be required to purchase basic safety items such as a laboratory coat and safety goggles (approx. cost of €50).  

High-achieving undergraduate students are encouraged to apply for a range of prestigious scholarships that recognise academic excellence and support students in reaching their full potential. Click here for further Information. 

Application Process 
Students applying for full undergraduate degree programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), and who are liable for full non-EU tuition fees, should apply online via Apply to University of Galway. Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 
Please visit the international application webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.  

Discover more about the School of Engineering at the University of Galway on our website.