Engineering - Mechanical Engineering with or without Applied Research

This is a specialist programme which develops your knowledge and understanding of key theories and methods that underpin mechanical engineering, and their intelligent application to solving industrial problems. This includes development of new technologies to meet engineering challenges of the future.

Driven by our industrial work and research, the course draws upon the heritage of mechanical engineering in the region, and internationally recognised research in areas such as aerospace composites, polymers, advanced metal forming, and nanotechnology.

You will build your skills and knowledge in finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics, advanced manufacturing and design optimisation of mechanical systems (with the opportunity to specialise in manufacturing systems), computer-aided engineering for managers, polymer technology, composite optimisation, product process optimisation, entrepreneurship, and quality improvement.

You will demonstrate advanced depth and integration of specialist mechanical engineering knowledge by successfully undertaking a major dissertation based on original research or the implementation of new and advanced processes, procedures, and technologies into the industrial environment.

Work placement / study abroad
Part-time students can undertake work based learning modules.

For further course details please see "Course Web Page".

Year one
Research Methods and Management
Intelligent Manufacturing
Advanced Thermal Fluid Sciences and CFD
Design Optimization of Mechanical Systems
Manufacturing systems
Masters Dissertation
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Engineering This module is optional
Quality Improvement This module is optional
Research Project This module is optional
Work based learning This module is optional
Polymer Technology This module is optional
Composite Engineering This module is optional
Process Product Optimisation This module is optional

Standard entry conditions
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

PgDip - Normally, an Honours or non-Honours degree or postgraduate diploma/certificate in a relevant engineering, technology or science discipline. In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant working/industrial experience, a portfolio of written evidence may be considered as an alternative entrance route. It is possible to transfer onto the MSc version of the course after successfully completing the PGDip. MSc - Specific details on the admission criteria can be found at the course webpage provided below. Normally, a second class honours degree or better in a relevant engineering, science, physics or technology discipline. Or a postgraduate diploma/certificate in a relevant engineering or technology discipline. In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant working/industrial experience, a portfolio of written evidence may be considered as an alternative entrance route.

If you require a Student Route Visa you will need a valid ATAS Certificate.

Your Application
Application is through the University's online application system (see "Application Weblink").

Attendance
Full-time students take four modules per semester for semesters 1 and 2 and then undertake the dissertation during the summer. Part time students generally take two modules per semester but this can be altered as required. Part time students typically attend on Fridays during term time and some of the modules run in the evening.

Start Date: September 2024 and January 2025.

Career options
Upon successful completion of the programme, students will be more employable, particularly in Northern Ireland’s thriving advanced manufacturing, materials and engineering sectors. For those already working in the sector, the MSc is an effective step to career progression or as preparation for PhD studies or research positions.

Another important opportunity for MSc students is the academic career and/or research career through a PhD programme such as those offered in the Engineering Research Institute (ERI) which hosts the MSc programme.