Artificial Intelligence Plus (AI+) is now a global strategic priority, transforming industry, infrastructure and everyday life. Electronic information engineering underpins this transformation, enabling the integration of digital technologies with real-world systems.
This programme responds directly to these developments. Delivered through the ZJUT–Exeter Joint Institute, it combines the strengths of Zhejiang University of Technology and the University of Exeter. Students develop expertise in integrated sensing and intelligent control, intelligent diagnostics and computational biology, and intelligent networks and communications.
The programme is closely aligned with priority sectors, including service robotics, intelligent manufacturing, healthcare technologies and renewable energy systems. It develops graduates with strong technical knowledge, practical problem-solving skills and an international perspective. They are equipped to tackle complex engineering challenges and contribute to innovation and industrial development at local and regional levels.
The programme draws on Zhejiang University of Technology’s established strengths in Control Science and Engineering, including a doctoral programme, a professional doctorate in Electronic Information and a postdoctoral research station.
Research and teaching concentrate on three main areas: integrated sensing and intelligent control, intelligent diagnostics and computational biology, and intelligent networks and communications.
It is supported by national and provincial research centres and key laboratories, including the Ministry of Education Engineering Center, and by academic staff recognised through major national research awards such as the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars.
Integrating the University of Exeter's international expertise in electronic information fields such as intelligent networks, intelligent sensing and artificial intelligence, with research supported by the UK’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and specialist laboratories focused on next-generation communications including 5G and emerging 6G systems.
Several engineering programmes are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), reflecting recognised international standards in engineering education. Through collaborative innovation between the two universities, a cross-disciplinary approach is developed in areas such as Artificial Intelligence Plus (AI+). The curriculum aligns with international standards, providing opportunities to engage in research-informed and applied learning and preparing graduates who are technically skilled, adaptable and globally aware.
Supported Disciplines: Control Engineering, Communication Engineering, Computer Science and Technology
Multivariable State-Space Control, Robotics and Automation, Probability Theory and Stochastic Process, Modern Signal Processing, Data-Centric Engineering, Nonlinear Control, Professional Ethics, Competence and Commercial Awareness, Network Engineering, Modelling and Management.
Leveraging international cooperation resources with the University of Exeter, students have access to the Centre for Dynamics and Control, where they can undertake practical working areas such as vibration control, structural health monitoring, and industrial robotics.
Utilising the collaborative network of the UK's Alan Turing Institute, the national institute for data science and artificial intelligence, where the University of Exeter is a core partner, students may engage in frontier research projects in data science, machine learning, and computer vision. Through the university's extensive industry partnership network and career support, students have opportunities to undertake international industrial placements in relevant fields.
Supported by research platforms including the Engineering Center for Intelligent Perception and Systems of the Ministry of Education, the Provincial Key Laboratory for Intelligent Perception and Control of Complex Systems, the Zhejiang International Cooperation Base, and the Zhejiang Collaborative Innovation Center, the programme focuses on research and applied practice in integrated sensing and intelligent control, intelligent diagnostics and computational biology, and intelligent networks and communications.
Relying on over 30 practice bases jointly established with leading enterprises such as Huawei and Uniview Technologies, engage with local industry, contribute to projects in intelligent information processing and equipment automation, and develop their research and applied engineering skills.
Building on the established research strengths in electronic information and the international collaboration between the two universities, graduates can apply for doctoral programmes in related fields such as Control Science and Engineering, Information and Communication Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, and Integrated Circuit Engineering at ZJUT, the University of Exeter, and other leading institutions in China and internationally, to continue advanced research in these areas.
Some outstanding students, through joint training pathways, may have the opportunity to progress to doctoral study at the University of Exeter, extending their experience of international research collaboration.
Graduates are well prepared to meet the technical and research demands of major industrial sectors, including manufacturing; information transmission, software and information technology services; and the production and supply of electricity, heat, gas and water.
They align with China’s national 14th Five-Year Plan for digital economy development and wider national and regional digital economy priorities, and represent highly skilled graduates in the electronic information field, with strong research and innovation capabilities and an international perspective.
Career pathways include:
Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Technology, including roles such as machine learning engineer, data engineer, data analyst and intelligent systems developer, working across internet technologies, financial technology, data analysis and intelligent decision-making systems.
Intelligent Robotics and the Industrial Internet, including roles such as robotics engineer, automation engineer and industrial systems engineer within intelligent manufacturing, automation systems and industrial digitalisation.
Next-Generation Communications and Digital Infrastructure, including roles such as communications engineer, network engineer and digital infrastructure specialist, supporting 5G and emerging 6G technologies, digital communications, smart energy systems and future networks.
Smart Healthcare and Health Technology, including roles such as health technology engineer, biomedical data specialist and digital health systems developer, applying digital and intelligent technologies within healthcare systems.
Industrial Digital Integration, including roles such as digital transformation specialist, systems integration engineer and technology solutions consultant, supporting digital innovation and technology solutions across sectors such as retail, government and education.
