FdSc Engineering (Photonics and Optical Electronics)

We consider a variety of qualifications and relevant experience, and each application is assessed on its own merit.
To enrol on this course, you will usually be required to have a minimum of 48 UCAS points, from at least one of the following: A Levels, BTEC Nationals, Access to Higher Education Diploma, NVQ Level 3 or equivalent qualifications.

If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 7.0 with a minimum score of 6.5 in each component (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking or an equivalent English Language qualification).

Each module is worth a specified number of credits: you take a combination of compulsory (and if available optional modules) enabling you to cover key subject knowledge while developing your own interests. For full time students a total of 120 credits will be studied in each academic year. In the majority of cases this will consist of 6 modules. For part time students it will depend on the intensity of your studies.

Year 1 Modules

• Mathematics and science for engineers
• Materials and manufacture
• 3D Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Engineering
• How to undertake and apply business-led projects
• Laser and Light systems

Year 2 Modules

• Understanding actuators and sensors
• Electrical and electronic principles and electronic devices and applications
• Product improvement and engineering project management
• Digital electronics with microprocessors
• Laser and Fibre optics

Timetables are normally available one month before the commencement of your studies. As a guide, In 2020/21 the first year of this programme was timetabled on: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday (Friday practical element)

When studied part-time, the duration of the course depends on the speed at which you wish to progress through it. This is called the ‘intensity of study’. For example, studying half-time would be equivalent to 50 per cent intensity of study and would typically double the length of the course from three to six years. Please note that this does not necessarily mean that the modules you take in Year 1 will equate to 2.5 full days’ attendance. As part-time study will mean attendance of some modules that are on the full-time timetable, it may mean that you will be required to attend modules timetabled over five days of the week. You may be able to change the intensity of study during your course. Please note that the four-year version of the course is not currently available on a part-time basis. Not all intensities of study are available for all programmes

This programme will provide you with the opportunity to undertake a work placement during the academic year if you wish. South Devon University Centre can support you if required in locating you a work placement. Associated costs relating to travel to your placement is your responsibility and can be supported by your first year bursary.

There are two formal or summative assessed pieces of work for each module. Assessment methods can include written examinations and a range of coursework assessments such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations and projects. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark. In addition to formal assessments throughout modules of study there will be developmental (formative) assessments to support you with developing greater understanding of your progress.

The balance of assessment by examination/test, coursework and practical depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose.

South Devon University Centre recognises feedback as an essential component of your learning and progression. It adopts a feed-forward approach whereby feedback is given in a developmental manner to support your continued progression. You will receive feedback on all assessments within 20 working days.

Our dedicated teaching teams will support with your application of theoretical and practical knowledge and will be invaluable to your development. Their passion and enthusiasm is exceptional, with dedicated support and tutorial time available so that you can make the most of your studies. This support has been crucial to the success of many past students who may not come from a traditional education pathway, and helps ensure your success.

You will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. The team includes academic staff, professional practitioners with industry experience, and where relevant, technicians. Postgraduate students undertaking teacher training may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader. Our teaching is informed by research, professional practice and industry experience to provide you with the most up to date and relevant learning opportunities.

When not attending lectures, seminars or practicals you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations where applicable. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities, including the library, the South Devon University Centre Research Centre, and our course specific environments.

Your overall workload at Level 4 consists of class contact hours, of approximately 15 hours’ per week, plus independent learning, and assessment activity. Together, this equates to approximately 36 hours per week. While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.

Level 4: 43% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity. 57% is spent on independent learning and assessment related activity.
Level 5: 43% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity. 57% is spent on independent learning and assessment related activity.

A key feature of our university level programmes is the exceptional support we provide for students. We are passionate about providing dedicated and bespoke support services to help you make the most of your time here and to maximise your potential. We have an experienced team who offer a range of services, and regular 1:1 contact time with your personal tutor guarantees your professional and personal development. We can provide help with study skills, written English, academic writing, research skills, critical thinking, and revision.

We hold the principles of equality and opportunity for all in the highest regard. That’s why our degrees are designed to be accessible for anyone, regardless of your personal circumstances. We endeavour to make reasonable adjustments and remove any barriers to your learning. We also offer more flexible timetables than other institutions to minimise the impact studying has on your personal life and responsibilities.

Upon successful completion of this foundation degree you may progress to the final year of the BSc (Hons) Integrated Technologies Engineering degree at South Devon University Centre, or an associated course at the University of Plymouth. Please note that there is a deadline for progression applications and places may be subject to availability.

Potential Job Roles

• Photonics Electronic Engineer
• Optical electronics Engineer
• Research and Development Engineer within Optics or Photonics

Find out more about the industry by visiting the Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster website. 

Funding is available to help you with living costs during your studies via Student Finance England. We are committed to supporting our students with a number of bursary packages, which you will receive if you meet particular criteria, and does not need to be repaid. Bursaries are awarded in addition to any funding received from Student Finance England.

Course Related Costs Included

• Equipment to support practical sessions related to your programme of learning
• Compulsory visits related to your programme of learning
• Annual £10 printing allowance
• Access to e-books and e-journals relating to your programme of study

Course Related Costs Not Included

• Additional printing over the initial allowance
• Personal protective equipment related to practical modules
• Optional overseas and UK based field trips
• The cost of books you may wish to purchase
• An annual parking fee or bus pass for travel to South Devon University Centre