Communications Engineering PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships for Self-funded Students

PhD candidates in Communications Engineering research the technologies we use to communicate with one another, such as mobile networks, internet, radio and audio-visual appliances. Research in the field seeks to improve and maintain high-speed data transmission services, used for anything from interpersonal phone calls to space-based satellite communication.

What’s it like to study a PhD in Communications Engineering?

As a PhD student in Communications Engineering, much of your time will be spent conducting lab-based research, working on your thesis and attending supervisory meetings. You’ll likely work as part of a research group, either under a single supervisor or supervisory team. Your research may include employing a range of technologies such as signal processing, machine learning and optical systems.

Possible research areas include:

• Space to ground laser communication
• Radar antenna systems
• The Internet of Things (IoT)
• Advanced cellular communication technology
• Social networking
• Machine-to-machine communication

You may also be provided with training in areas such as research methodologies and presentation skills, and have the opportunity to attend conferences, publish papers and teach undergraduate students.

PhD in Communications Engineering entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement for a PhD in Communications Engineering is usually a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant engineering or computing discipline. A Masters may occasionally be required.

PhD in Communications Engineering funding options

The main body funding PhDs in Communications Engineering in the UK is the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). Projects will almost always have funding attached, meaning that successful applicants will automatically be awarded coverage of tuition fees, a living cost stipend, and often an extra research grant.

It may be possible to self-fund a PhD in Communications Engineering, but this is uncommon. Students who self-fund an Engineering or Computer Science PhD generally do so through combining the UK’s doctoral loan with additional sources of funding such as support from their university or from a charity or trust.

PhD in Communications Engineering careers

Communications Engineering is a field that underlies much of makes modern life possible – meaning that is plenty of demands for experts in the area! You could apply for a specialist position within sectors such as internet and computing technologies, telecommunications or radio, or continue your research career to help develop and improve communications systems.