Engineering - Electronic Engineering - Research

Traditionally the PhD was a 4-year journey deep into a specific topic with the supervisor helping to guide the way. Around 2010, Maynooth University, together with the other Irish universities, decided to adopt a structured PhD programme, whereby the student would still undertake a 4-year research project, but would also be expected to complete 6 taught modules as well, in a range of diverse topics. The motivation here was to avoid a student becoming pigeon-holed, i.e. to avoid the student becoming expert in a very narrow (but deep) topic, which may be disadvantageous to their future career prospects. The module subjects are designed to expand the students horizon, and to equip them with various new skill sets that will benefit the student in their future careers.

In addition to the final thesis, the Structured PhD consists of 6 taught modules

• 3 modules (15 credits) of approved graduate or generic skills /transferable modules that are designed to help develop the student in subjects not aligned with their research project.

• 3 modules (15 credits) of approved subject specific/advanced specialist modules that can support the research topic. Also, see here for more information on these modules.

In addition to a research thesis, the Structured Research Masters (M.Eng.Sc) requires

• 1 module (5 credits) of approved graduate skills /transferable modules.

• 1 module (5 credits) of approved subject specific/advanced specialist modules.



Some modules can span multiple semesters and years, but students must register for the modules in the semester they wish to be assessed. Each module can only be taken once during the programme of study and credit cannot be achieved for the same material in two different modules.

The entry requirements for a PhD in Electronic Engineering is at least a 2:1 Bachelor in Electronic Engineering or a similar disciple applicants - weaker academic results or a different discipline will be considered where there are other beneficial factors, such as work experience.



Minimum English language requirements:

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.



For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see

https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/how-apply/english-language-requirements



Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.

We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.



For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact pgstudies@mu.ie

For queries or support on your application process please contact pgadmissions@mu.ie



If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie

MHJ02: 4 years Full-time

MHJ03: 6 years Part-time

In general, there are two levels of fees payable. EU students from EU countries including Ireland pay a subsidised level of fees for both taught courses and research programmes. Tuition fees for students from outside the EU are not subsidised and are thus somewhat higher than for EU students.

Commences: September (or other agreed time).

Graduates of the PhD programme in Engineering at Maynooth University enjoy an outstanding track record of success, with a 100% employment rate. Many pursue rewarding careers in cutting-edge research roles within industry or academia, leveraging their advanced expertise to drive innovation and solve complex challenges. Opportunities abound in sectors such as renewable energy, medical technologies, wireless communications, robotics, and artificial intelligence, aligning with the department's diverse research strengths.



Beyond academia, our graduates secure influential roles in leading multinational companies, startups, and research institutions, contributing to advancements in areas like sustainable systems, satellite communications, and advanced imaging. Whether designing next-generation medical devices or spearheading pioneering IoT solutions, Maynooth Engineering PhD graduates are well-equipped to shape the future of technology and innovation.

A full list of research areas available in the Department https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/electronic-engineering/our-research.

If you are looking for a specific topic area, please contact the researcher closest to your interest area. All our researchers are open to discussing potential research topics. Our general areas include:


- Analysis of Dynamic Systems

- Machine learning and Data Based Modelling

- Wireless systems (telecommunications)

- Renewable energy (focus on wave energy systems)

- Neural Systems & Rehabilitation Engineering

- Biomedical engineering

- Control systems

- Sound and Speech Signal Processing

- Microelectronic circuits