Communications engineer : Entry requirements

Employers typically look for graduates with a degree in engineering or in a physical science, particularly:

• electronic/electronic and communication engineering;
• telecommunications;
• computer science;
• physics;
• mathematics;
• information technology.

For chartered status (CEng), an accredited MEng degree or an acceptable combination of other academic awards is essential. This could include a BEng (Hons) that is accredited for CEng, plus an appropriate Masters degree or further learning to Masters level.

A PhD may enable you to enter the profession at a more senior level and may be particularly beneficial if you are interested in pursuing a career as a technical expert.

An HND in a relevant engineering subject might make you eligible to work at technician level. If you hold an accredited HND, you may wish to do a 'top-up' course to convert it into a degree, or consider undertaking further professional experience in order to obtain the status of incorporated engineer (IEng).

For full information and guidance on entry requirements and training routes, contact the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) .

Relevant pre-entry work experience through a sandwich or vacation placement or industrial year out is valuable. Work experience provides the opportunity to work on real projects, show your potential, build up a network of contacts and develop a range of business and specialist skills. There is usually a strong link between placement schemes and graduate recruitment programmes, so if you make an outstanding contribution when you are on placement, you could leave with a conditional job offer.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• technical ability and knowledge;
• a good understanding of networks;
• organisational skills;
• adaptability and the ability to learn new skills quickly;
• good presentation and communication skills;
• the ability to work efficiently and effectively with minimal supervision;
• the ability to concentrate under pressure in order to meet tight deadlines;
• analytical and problem-solving skills;
• business/commercial awareness;
• the ability to work well within a team;
• project and people management skills.

Work in sensitive, security-related industries may debar those with a criminal record or those who do not pass security clearance.

Competition can be fierce, particularly for structured graduate training schemes, so it is very important to have skills or experience that will make your application stand out. Student membership of the IET provides up-to-date industry information, including new developments in the industry, regular newsletters and access to networks and contacts. Reading magazines such as Engineering & Technology  (the monthly magazine of the IET) and Electronics Weekly  will help familiarise you with the latest industry news and opinion.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.