MSc Mechanical Engineering with Advanced Practice
2 Years Full-Time | September and January Start

How will I learn during the Mechanical Engineering course?

The initial semesters of this course focus on taught subjects that cover topics such as computational fluid dynamics and heat transfer, multidisciplinary design and engineering optimisation, composite materials and lightweight structures, advanced stress and analysis and thermo-mechanical energy conversion systems.

Teaching is primarily delivered by lectures, seminars, and workshops, all of which are assessed by methods such as assignments, exams, and technical reports. All of this course’s assessments have been devised to closely mirror the outputs required in a real working environment.

On completion of the taught modules, you will undertake a substantial piece of research related to an area of mechanical engineering that particularly interests you. Our teaching team will be on-hand to offer support and guidance throughout every stage of your course. The Advanced Practice semester will be assessed via a report and presentation about your study abroad or research group activities.

Who teaches the Mechanical Engineering course?

You’ll be taught by tutors who have many years of experience in the various aspects of the engineering industry. Their experience, combined with their on-going active research, will provide an excellent foundation for your learning.

The quality of their research has ranked Northumbria University in the top 25 in the UK for the research power in engineering, with 90% of research outputs being rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2021).

Our reputation for quality is reflected by the range and depth of our collaborations with industry partners. We’ve built up numerous industrial links during the 50+ years that we’ve been offering engineering courses. These links help ensure high quality placements and collaborative projects.

Northumbria has the advantage of being located in the North East of England, which is a centre of manufacturing and technical innovation. As well as Nissan, the region’s #1 company, there is a strong concentration of automotive, engineering, chemicals, construction, and manufacturing companies.

Where will I learn throughout my course?

Throughout the duration of your course, you will have access to our dedicated engineering laboratories that are continuously updated to reflect real-time industry practice.

Our facilities include mechanical and energy systems experimentation labs, rapid product development and performance analysis, materials testing and characterisation, 3D digital design and manufacturing process performance.

You will be given the opportunity to get hands-on with testing, materials processing, moulding, thermal analysis, and 3D rapid manufacture to help you create the products and systems required for the projects you will work on during your course.

Your learning journey will also be supported by technology such as discussion boards and video tutorials. You will also participate in IT workshops where you will learn how to use the latest industry-standard software.

Videos of lectures will on many occasions be made available through Panopto video software to further support teaching delivery.

You will also have access to all Northumbria University’s state-of-the-art general learning facilities such as dedicated IT suites and learning areas.

How is Engineering research applied to teaching throughout my course?

When studying at Northumbria University you will be taught by our team of specialist staff who boast a wealth of multi-dimensional expertise.

Our teaching team includes a dynamic mix of research-active industrial practitioners, renowned researchers and technologists, whose combined knowledge ensures you leave with an in-depth understanding of key mechanical engineering practice and research.

You will be encouraged to undertake your own research–based learning where you will evaluate and critique scientific papers and write research-based reports based on the information gathered.

We aim to regularly welcome industry specialists to deliver guest lecturers to further enable you to understand real-world issues and how they link to the concepts, theories and philosophies taught throughout your course.

The department of Mechanical and Construction Engineering is a top-25 Engineering research department with 90% of our outputs ranked world-leading or internationally excellent according to the latest UK-wide research assessment exercise (REF2021, UoA 12).

How will my course provide me with the skills needed for my career?

The MSc Mechanical Engineering course will equip you with all of the skills required to progress within the engineering industry and competition of your master’s degree will give you a competitive edge thanks to the additional skills and knowledge you will acquire.

Our accreditation with the IMechE ensures that this course’s content is in-line with the latest developments within this sector, making our course highly valued by employers. By completing this course, you will have completed the academic requirement to become a Chartered Engineer, a status that is associated with improved employability and higher salaries.

Employability is embedded throughout all aspects of your course, and you will leave with enhanced key skills such as communication, computing, and teamwork.

The Advanced Practice semester will help you develop a track record of achievement that will help you stand out from other job applicants. A two-year master’s course, like this one, will carry particular weight with employers. They’ll understand that you’ll have a deeper understanding of topics as well as more hands-on practical experience.

What kind of career can I have after my studies?

Mechanical Engineering overlaps with a number of engineering disciplines meaning there are many career paths available to you once you have completed this course.

Many graduates choose to pursue a career in the expansive engineering sector, in roles such as designers, analysts, project managers or consultants.

You may also wish to progress your knowledge to PhD level and this course will provide you with a solid foundation that you can easily build on and advance to an even higher level.