How to apply for the MSc programme (International students)

University of Leicester

We explain how to apply for the MSc programme in Reliable Embedded Systems from the University of Leicester on this page.

Please note that the information on this page applies mainly to students from outside the European Union (that is, people who are classed as “International” students for fee purposes by the University of Leicester) who wish to study for an MSc in the UK.

UK” and “EU” students who wish to study in the UK should refer to the Main Application Page for details.

Applicants who wish to study in Malaysia should also refer to the Main Application Page.


What’s this course all about?

Please refer to the main MSc page for further information about this popular MSc programme.

You can also download an MSc brochure


Why should I join this MSc programme?

If you are an International student, why should you join this programme?

  • If successful, you’ll obtain an “executive MSc” qualification from a top UK University;
  • Your MSc degree result from the University of Leicester will be widely recognised and highly respected;
  • As the degree programme is taught on a “blended learning” basis, you will benefit from face-to-face interactions with highly-experienced University of Leicester staff 3 times a year in the UK. A distance-learning programme simply cannot provide this level of interaction;
  • Compared with a typical full-time degree programme from a top UK or US University, the costs of this part-time programme are comparatively low. In addition, you can spread the costs over two years — and you can continue to work while you study;

How is the MSc delivered?

All students (International, EU, UK) take this popular MSc programme on a part-time basis.

Within the University of Leicester, this type of part-time teaching programme is referred to as an “executive MSc”: rather like an MBA programme, most “students” on the programme have several years of experience in industry before they join the MSc in Reliable Embedded Systems. The level of teaching (and — in particular — the nature of the discussions in the interactive teaching seminars) reflects the high level of experience in the classroom.

This type of advanced MSc programme is delivered on a part-time basis simply because most of the people on the programme have full-time jobs at a senior level in wide range of organisations: these individuals are not in a position to give up work for 1-2 years to study on a full-time basis. The training structure reflects this.

Most students take 3 weeks off work each year (over a two year-period) to attend intensive MSc modules. During the rest of the year, they work as normal (and make time to complete their MSc project, usually at work).

We find that most companies are very supportive of employees who wish to undertake the MSc programme in Reliable Embedded Systems.

Of course, the teaching arrangements for International students are no different from those for UK / EU students.

In most cases, we expect International students to be in full-time employment with companies based outside the EU. These students will conduct an agreed MSc project while working in their home country. (University teaching staff provide project suggestions and support throughout the project period.)

Please note that — as this is a part-time programme — UK visa restrictions mean that International students must travel to the UK (usually 3 times a year) to attend the intensive MSc (one-week) training modules and take exams: they cannot remain in the UK for the duration of the MSc programme (and they cannot work in the UK during the MSc programme).


Can you help me obtain a visa for entry to the UK?

The MSc in Reliable Embedded Systems is a part-time MSc programme.

As students are not studying full time, they cannot be sponsored through the “Tier 4” student route. However, students can travel to the UK (three times a year) on a Student Visitor Visa (SVV).

Official University letters supporting entry to the UK will be issued for each of the six MSc modules to students who meet the following criteria:

  • They have completed the MSc application process and received an unconditional offer of a place on the MSc programme;
  • They have paid their fees for the corresponding year of the programme.

To be clear: the first visa letters will only be issued to students once the University fees for the first year have been paid.


What is the required academic background?

To undertake the University of Leicester programmes, the University has certain entry criteria.

In most cases, candidates are expected to hold an undergraduate degree (e.g. BSc, BEng) in an appropriate discipline (from a recognised institution), at the level of Second Class Honours (2:2) or equivalent.

Please note that all courses will be taught in English. Evidence of proficiency in English may be required if your first degree was not taught in English.


How much does the MSc programme cost?

Attending the MSc in Reliable Embedded Systems in the UK costs a total of £4582.50 per year (for two years). This fee includes VAT.

Please note that the fees are the same for all students (UK / EU / International).

For further information, please contact us.


What’s included in the fees?

The fees (for both the complete MSc and individual short courses) include:

  • All training services;
  • Detailed course notes;
  • Copies of all software required to complete the modules;
  • Use of hardware for the duration of each module (5 days);
  • Books and other material for background reading;
  • Refreshments (morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea) during the intensive teaching weeks.

If required, we can assist you in finding accommodation during the teaching weeks in Leicester or Penang (accommodation costs are not included in the course fee).

Please contact us for further details.


How do I apply?

To apply for a place on the MSc in Reliable Embedded Systems, you need to complete the University application form (which is available in PDF format).

The completed application form should be returned to:

Dr. Anjali Das, Technical Training Manager, TTE Systems Ltd, 106 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EAUK.

(Documents can be returned by post or sent by e-mail: please contact us if you require assistance.)

Please:

  • Do not attempt to send any payment with your application (if your application is accepted by the University, you will be sent payment details).
  • Do not return your paperwork directly to the University: this will simply cause a delay in the application process.
  • Remember to enclose copies of certificates (please don’t send original degree certificates at this time, but please bring these with you when you join the MSc).
  • Enclose references which should have been completed by your referees and placed in a signed and sealed envelope.
  • Ensure that you provide a valid e-mail address so that we can acknowledge receipt of your application.

Successful applicants will receive a formal offer letter from the University of Leicester.

Please note that all offer letters will be “Conditional” until payment of course fees is received for the first year of the programme.

For further information (or to make an application for multiple seats), please contact us.


What’s the deadline for applications?

You can begin the programme with the Module A1a any time this module runs (this module usually runs at least 6 times per year).

Please ensure that we receive your completed application at least 6 weeks before your intended start date (to allow time to process yoiur application, process your fees and issue a visa letter).


Can International students take the first MSc module as a Taster module?

We regret to say that — because of current UK visa restrictions — International students cannot be issued with visa letters to support entry to the UK to take the first MSc module on a trial basis.

Full MSc fees (for the first year) must be paid before visa letters can be issued.


Are there any sponsored MSc places for International students?

We regret to say that — because of current UK visa restrictions — International students are not eligible to apply for industry-sponsored places on the MSc programme.

Please note that these matters are not under our control and no exceptions are possible (sorry).