Overview

Shape the future of wireless technology with our MSc in Wireless Communications and Signal Processing at the University of Bristol. ​Designed for ambitious students aim​ing for high-impact careers in 5G/6G networks, IoT, satellite communications, and beyond​, this programme equips you with advanced wireless communication theories, cutting-edge signal processing techniques, and practical skills highly valued worldwide at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry.

Benefit from the expertise of the internationally renowned ​Communications Systems and Networks group and ​the Smart Internet Lab. Their research covers ​a number of key fundamental and experimental work areas, including spatial channel measurements and predictions, information theory, advanced wireless access (cellular and WLAN) and RF technologies with well-equipped laboratories, state-of-the-art test and measurement equipment and first-class computational facilities. You’ll develop in-depth knowledge in wireless communications and signal processing, while building design, analysis, and project management skills sought after by leading employers worldwide. ​

Through a substantial capstone project, you’ll have the chance to apply your learning to real-world challenges and build valuable professional connections. Whether you aspire to shape the future of wireless communications or pursue further research, our MSc Wireless Communications and Signal Processing programme will equip you with the expertise and confidence to achieve your goals.

Join a vibrant, global community of innovators and launch your career in one of the most dynamic and impactful sectors of engineering.

Programme structure

This programme comprises six core units, followed by a substantial capstone project that starts after the second term and completes during the summer. The project will allow you to showcase the competencies of an engineer in your chosen discipline. You will bring together everything you have learned during the taught component of your MSc studies, working on a challenging real-world problem in a team of engineers. This will synthesise the skills and knowledge you've acquired so far as you work on identifying an important challenge and coming up with a range of possible solutions.

Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Wireless Communications and Signal Processing.

Entry requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in:

  • Communications Engineering
  • Computer Networks
  • Computer Science and Technologies
  • Computer Systems Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering with Management
  • Electronic and Electrical Engineering
  • Electronic System Engineering
  • Electronic and Information Engineering
  • Electronic Information Science and Technology
  • Electronic Science and Technology
  • Information and Communications Technologies
  • Information Engineering
  • Microelectronic Engineering
  • Optical Engineering
  • Optical Information Science and Technologies
  • Optoelectronic Information Science and Technologies
  • Telecommunications

Other Engineering degrees might be considered where a UK minimum score of 60% (or international equivalent) is achieved in 3 modules from the following units:

  • Analog Electronic Circuits
  • Communication networks
  • Computer programming
  • Digital Electronics Circuits
  • Digital Signal Processing
  • Electronic circuits
  • Electromagnetic fields and waves
  • High frequency electronic circuits
  • Image processing
  • Internet Technology
  • Microelectronics
  • Microprocessors
  • Microwave Technology
  • Optical communication
  • Optics
  • Principles of Communications
  • Programming languages
  • Semiconductor devices
  • Signals and Systems.

We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.

We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.

If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional relevant work experience or qualifications. If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing:

Fees and funding

Home: full-time
£18,900 per year
Overseas: full-time
£36,900 per year

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.

Alumni discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.

Funding and scholarships

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career prospects

This is a challenging taught master's programme, covering aspects of current and future wireless communication systems and associated signal processing technologies. It will prepare you for a diverse range of exciting careers - not only in communications but also in management consultancy, project management, finance and government.

Our graduates have gone on to have rewarding careers in leading multinational communications companies, including Huawei, China Telecom, Toshiba and Intel. Some graduates follow a more research-focused career path, with a number of students going on to study for PhDs at leading universities.