Advanced Mechanical Engineering MSc



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Overview

In the MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering, we ensure that students develop comprehensive views of their subject beyond one single perspective or worldview. We incorporate different perspectives across the disciplines and highlight the fact that to become an industry leader of the future, the engineer needs to have a broad knowledge of all the related disciplines and know how to use them individually or combined to tackle technical problems with confidence.

Component materials, design, computational analysis, efficient production and unmanned manufacturing methods are the most important aspects that a mechanical engineer should master. In addition, studying in a multicultural environment with students coming from different backgrounds will give you a real view of how industry works.

You will have the opportunity to experience this in your Group Design Project module, where students will propose a multidisciplinary project and will work together to deliver it. Findings will be given to a panel of experts in the form of a collaborative oral presentation and a technical report. The Global Outlook integrated into this programme has been designed in consultation with key industry players and following their recommendations.

 
Mechanical Engineering student Thomas working with equipment in the Sports lab.

Mode of Study:

Full-time

Duration:

1 years

Start date:

JanSep

Course details

This programme aims to develop your interest in and knowledge and understanding of Advanced Mechanical Engineering & Design to succeed in a fast-changing sector by covering topics such as CAD and Finite Element modelling, Design for Manufacture and Sustainability, and Control and Materials Engineering, to enable you to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge that covers and integrates the main features, boundaries, terminology and conventions associated with Cost-effective, Efficient, Structurally Optimum and Sustainable Design of Mechanical Components and Machines
  • Use a significant range of the principal professional skills, techniques, practices and/or materials associated with Advanced Mechanical Design and Manufacturing
  • Apply critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis to forefront issues, or issues that are informed by forefront developments in key industry sectors, such as energy and infrastructure.
  • Communicate, using appropriate methods, to a range of audiences with different levels of knowledge or expertise
  • Exercise substantial autonomy and initiative in professional and equivalent activities.
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    How you’ll be taught

    This MSc is a project-based programme where the students will work on the virtual environment as well as with hands-on models that will help them develop the necessary skills to succeed as an engineer in the industry of the future. Finite element simulation, LCA, statistical analysis, industrial plant layout, reverse engineering projects and robot programming are some of the topics to be covered in this provision.

    Typically, you will receive two hours of lectures and two hours of tutorials/practice sessions per module per week where you will be taught following a project-based approach.

     
     
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    Assessments

    You will sit exams, produce practical work in the lab and through computational simulations, and work on a final research project based on a selected realistic engineering topic.

     
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    Facilities

    The university facilities available to you will include library, VLE, ENSA and all practical engineering facilities including dedicated computer labs with the relevant software [CAD, materials selection, LCA and FEA etc.], mechanical testing, manufacturing facilities and materials characterisation equipment. Each facility will be utilised through the modules and are available for you to use with appropriate training and health and safety documentation during your project.

     

Modules

Modules that you will study* as part of this course

Automation and Robotics ( MEC11107 )

This module explores automation and robotics in industry. This module covers the kinematics modeling of robotic arms and different controllers for robotic arms. The module also includes the use of industry-level programming tools and simulators, as well as the control of physical robots. You will engage with both physical and simulated robots to solve manipulation and navigation tasks in industrial settings. Practical sessions will utilize Siemens Melfa Basic, Festo Infodicatic graphical language, and MATLAB to provide hands-on experience.

Further information

Ceramic and Composite Materials ( MEC11109 )

This module allows the student to have a critical knowledge of engineering ceramics and composites. Engineering ceramics and glasses are in important classification of material and an understanding of these materials from their crystal structure and imperfections to their many astonishing applications including – thermal, electrical, mechanical and optical properties are explored. To evaluate the properties and gain knowledge of the various ceramic and glass structures and manufacturing processes must be characterised.Composites in engineering are an amalgamation of metals, polymers or ceramics in various compositions or structures. This module will investigate the various manufacturing methods and properties of the different families of composites; metal matrix composites, ceramic matrix composites, polymer matrix composites, natural and structural composites. Applications of composite materials are very important in the world today due to the nature of the composites being tailored for a specific job.

Further information

Design for X ( MEC11128 )

Design for X is short for ‘Design for excellence'. X refers to the multitude of aspects that should be considered when engineering a product. In previous design modules, you have considered some aspects, such as manufacturing, assembly, and modularity in design. In this module, you will develop a deeper understanding of many other aspects beyond product design functionality. You will develop your knowledge about integrated product design, considering several topics such as realisation of design intent in manufacturing, commercialisation, ergonomics, supply chain and quality. You will work on futureproofing of product designs by applying technology 'road-mapping' techniques in the design process. The interaction of the product with the surroundings is then explored, you will learn how to design for safety to operators and other objects and to consider the wider impact of the production and operation on the environment. Finally, you will analyse how different requirements can be in conflict and learn how to reach an informed decision that would achieve the best possible product.

Further information

Group Design Project ( MEC11129 )

An engineering design project is a project type that applies engineering principles to create and develop a new product, system, or process. It typically unfolds in several stages: problem identification, conceptual design, detailed design, prototyping, testing and validation, and implementation.The problem identification stage is about recognizing a need or problem to be solved and setting the project's goals and objectives.The conceptual design stage involves brainstorming various solutions to the problem and assessing the feasibility and compromises of each.The detailed design stage includes producing comprehensive drawings, specifications, and instructions detailing how to construct, test, and operate the end product, system, or process.The prototyping stage is when a model or prototype is built to test and confirm it fulfills the project's goals and objectives.The testing and validation stage is dedicated to ensuring the prototype meets the design requirements and any applicable standards.The implementation stage is where the final product, system, or process is constructed and put into use.Engineering design projects span numerous fields, including mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering.Examples of such projects are the design of a novel wind turbine, the development of a new manufacturing process, or the design of an innovative bridge. These projects may also encompass research, development, and innovation, and be backed by various sponsors like companies, research institutions, and government bodies.In essence, an engineering design project is a multidisciplinary endeavor that applies engineering principles to conceive, develop, and execute a new product, system, or process to meet a particular need or challenge.During this module we will approach this process as a consultancy with your group(s) as the consultancy and the academics as client [and support] taking a chosen project through the stages to the point of potentially prototyping.

Further information

MSc Project ( ENG11100 )

The student will learn about important elements of project management, such as planning, control, cost, problem solving skills, report writing and defend the outcome during a viva session. The project is normally completed during 13 weeks of full time research or part time equivalent, 26 weeks.

Further information

Mechanical Computer Aided Engineering ( MEC11130 )

The aim of the module is to provide advanced skills in mechanical computer-aided engineering, and to apply the skills using suitable software tools to solve realistic engineering problems. Several techniques will be explored, such as using bespoke mathematical models for complex part creation. Improving the productivity of using CAE packages by defining parameter relationships, parameterization, and design reuse. In the second half of the module, machine kinematics and kinetics will be explored and applied in the context of real-life examples. Finally, the structural integrity of components will be critically assessed considering the dynamics of machine operation.

Further information

Metallic Materials ( MEC11115 )

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of metallic structures and their processing. Key topics include:• Metallic Structures: Explore slip systems, imperfections, dislocation production and movement, and diffusion processes.• Phase Diagrams and Transformations: Study eutectic, solid solution, partial, and intermediate compounds, along with structural transformations, hardenability, and various heat treatments.• Deformation: Understand formability, superplasticity, and the mechanisms of hot and cold working processes, as well as hardening and strengthening techniques.• Metal Processing: Delve into the extraction and physical metallurgy of various metals and alloys, with a focus on metal extraction and bulk deformation processes.This module aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and improve the properties and performance of metallic materials in engineering applications.

Further information

Operations and Production Management ( MEC11127 )

The module gives the students the opportunity to acquire skills in the use of digital manufacturing methods and their integration with computer aided design (CAD). The module covers Location strategy and its impact on the attainment of corporate objectives; the criteria for evaluating location decisions, computerised location and distribution planning. Consideration is given to the range of processes and equipment selection including quality and reliability issues as well as facilities layout and layout patterns including job shop, batch, assembly lines and group technology.You will apply operations scheduling and production activity control techniques to a variety of production systems.You will use appropriate digital tools and techniques to support all of the major decisions made in manufacturing planning including: assembly process validation, ergonomics and human task analysis, line balancing, automation and factory simulation.You will also apply a range of quality improvement techniques including: pareto charts, histograms, cause and effect diagrams, SPC, and lean six sigma in a Total Quality Management framework.

Further information

Plastics Materials ( MEC11116 )

In this module you should expect to cover the following topics; Structure, properties and applications of commodity, engineering and high performance thermoplastics and thermosets. This will include Polymer blends, materials & process selection and manufacturing with polymers including Injection moulding, thermoforming and extrusion.

Further information

* These are indicative only and reflect the course structure in the current academic year. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Disclaimer

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Full information is available in our disclaimer.

Entry requirements

What are the entry requirements for Advanced Mechanical Engineering?

The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at a 2:2 or above. We look for applicants to have a background related to mechanical, structural, manufacturing or aeronautical engineering.

We may also consider lesser qualifications if you have sufficient relevant work experience within the mechanical/manufacturing engineering industry.

Please note, nationals of particular countries who receive an offer for this course are required to apply for an ATAS certificate. More information about this can be found on the GOV.UK website.

Can I get admission into Advanced Mechanical Engineering based on my working experience in this sector?

This course has academic entry requirements which are assessed alongside relevant work experience. Full details of any relevant work experience, including references should be submitted with your application and may be considered for entry where the minimum academic entry requirements are below those required.

Usually, unrelated work experience is not considered sufficient for entry without meeting the minimum academic entry requirements. Please contact us with your specific circumstances by submitting an enquiry form above and we will be happy to discuss your options.

Can I make an appointment with an advisor to discuss further about the admission process?

If you want to get more information on the admission process, please get in touch with the postgraduate admissions team by submitting an enquiry form above.

If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test and our minimum English language requirements will apply.

This may not apply if you have completed all your school qualifications in English, or your undergraduate degree was taught and examined in English (within two years of starting your postgraduate course). Check our country pages to find out if this applies to you. 

ATAS

Please note this course requires an ATAS certificate unless you are a UK, EEA or Swiss national. The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) is designed to provide additional security checks on students who study certain courses in Science and Engineering. The scheme is managed by the ATAS Team based at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).

Our entry requirements indicate the minimum qualifications with which we normally accept students. Competition for places varies from year to year and you aren't guaranteed a place if you meet the minimum qualifications.

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.
Entry requirements by country

Please note that international students are unable to enrol onto the following courses:
  • BM Midwifery/MM Midwifery
  • All Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

See who can apply for more information on Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study. 

Our admissions policies will help you understand our admissions procedures, and how we use the information you provide us in your application to inform the decisions we make.

Undergraduate admissions policies
Postgraduate admissions policies

Fees & funding

The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you will depend on a number of factors including your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying. We also have a number of bursaries and scholarships available to our students.

Tuition fees
Students from 2024/25 2025/26
Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland £7,280 £7,650
Overseas and EU £20,395 £21,430
Tuition fees are subject to an annual review and may increase from one year to the next. For more information on this and other tuition fee matters, please see our Fees and Funding links above.
The University offers a 20% discount on Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes to its alumni. The discount applies to all full-time, part-time and online programmes. The discount can only be applied to year one of a full-time Postgraduate degree, any additional years are exempt from the discount. For part time Postgraduate degrees the discount will apply to years one, two and three only and any additional years will be exempt from the discount. Please read our full T&C here
Please note that the tuition fees liable to be paid by EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be the Overseas fee rate. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here.


Careers

On successful completion of this programme, you will have the knowledge, understanding and skills to opt for a career in both the private and public sectors. This will include:

  • Automotive
  • Energy
  • Manufacturing
  • Aerospace
  • Education
  • Engineering consultancy
  • Engineering design
  • Engineering management
  • Engineering research

Alternatively, you will be eligible to apply to doctoral-level study in mechanical/structural engineering, computational modelling, energy, manufacturing and engineering design at the University or to seek entry to doctoral-level study at another higher education institution.

Engineer working on a motorbike