BAE Systems and the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) have partnered to launch a new Master of Science (MSc) degree programme in Radio Frequency (RF) and Wireless Systems Engineering to address the critical shortage of specialist engineering skills in the UK
The demand for engineers with expertise in this area is outstripping supply, posing a risk to national security, industrial resilience and economic growth. This is because RF technologies underpin various systems that people depend on, such as wireless communications, radar and satellite navigation, medical imaging, power grids, and water systems.
As a result, BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business is collaborating with NMITE to train the next generation of experts by providing the initial investment required to launch the MSc and supplying funding for the first two years of the programme.
Andrea Thompson, group managing director, BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business, said, “Radio frequency engineering underpins both our national security and our modern way of life – from secure communications and advanced sensing to healthcare, transport and next-generation wireless networks. But the demand for highly skilled radio frequency engineers continues to exceed supply.
“This new programme addresses that shortage – helping to develop the next generation of engineers by combining academic teaching with practical industry experience to support the long-term capability and resilience of the UK’s engineering ecosystem.”
Jesse Norman, founder and chair of NMITE and MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire, said, “This partnership between BAE Systems and NMITE is an excellent example of how industry and education can work together to build vital engineering skills. Initiatives like this support high-value careers, strengthen our regional economy and help ensure the UK has the technical expertise it needs for the future.”
The new programme combines academic study with industrial experience, providing graduates with the multidisciplinary skills necessary to design, integrate, and deploy the next generation of wireless technologies. This will prepare students for careers in defence, aerospace, national security, law enforcement, telecommunications, healthcare, and transport. The two organisations have been working to ensure the curriculum reflects current industry practice and emerging trends.
James Newby, president and CEO of NMITE, said, “Having successfully launched our MEng in Autonomous Robotics degree in partnership with the British Army in December 2025, this MSc reflects NMITE’s mission to develop highly capable engineers through close collaboration with industry. It ensures graduates are equipped to make an immediate impact across defence, communications, healthcare, advanced manufacturing and many other sectors that increasingly depend upon sophisticated wireless technologies.
“Working with BAE Systems enables us to create a Master’s programme that is both academically rigorous and deeply connected to the needs of modern industry. Students will benefit directly from engagement with practising engineers and exposure to genuine technical challenges throughout the programme.”
BAE Systems will continue to support the programme’s delivery through guest lectures, collaborative research, masterclasses and mentoring to provide students the opportunity to learn from engineers and technical leaders in the field.
