Advanced Mechanical Engineering MSc

Study level: Postgraduate
A student working on an engine part.

This course seeks to produce postgraduates with the versatility and depth of understanding to deal with new and unusual challenges in mechanical engineering, alongside the necessary imagination and creativity to innovate.

Year of entry

2023-24

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

1 year full-time
2 years part-time
2 years sandwich

Course code

EECT048

Start date

September 2023

How to apply
Book an Open Day
Download a prospectus
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The information on this page is for 2022-23 entry and should be used as guidance for 2023-24 entry. Please keep checking back on this course page to see our latest updates.

Course overview

The MSc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering is informed by Coventry University’s commercial and academic research in areas such as vehicle dynamics, light weighting, renewable energy technologies of wind and hydro power, advanced simulation and future concepts.

  • Our collaborative links with industry facilitate a programme of guest speakers (subject to availability) who will share the latest technological advances, issues and trends, as well as provide opportunities to engage with companies on ‘live’ collaborative projects2.
  • Coventry University offers modern facilities4 in our £50 million Engineering and Computing Building. Facilities include a Mercedes AMG Petronas wind tunnel, composites lab, metrology lab, shaker rig, flow lab, engine test cell, automotive workshop, fatigue and tensile testing (Instron), a full-size Harrier Jet, three further simulators, civil engineering specialist testing equipment, a range of Computerised Numeric Control (CNC) machinery and a laser workshop amongst others.
  • You will have the option to apply for a ‘work placement’ opportunity2, designed to further develop your skills and knowledge with the aim of maximising your employability prospects. See modules for more information.
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Global ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

Coventry University has a long and prestigious automotive, transport and engineering heritage. Our graduates are employed by automotive vehicle and system manufacturers and design professionals all over the world.

  • This programme is aimed at both new graduates and experienced engineering professionals who wish to develop advanced skills in thermofluids, metrology, design and technology and engineering simulation and analysis.
  • The university’s facilities provide access to a wide range of industry standard commercial engineering software used for computer aided design, finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics. You may have the opportunity to model and analyse engineering systems using stress analysis, heat transfer, dynamics and fluid mechanics.
  • Our current strong links with local industry, which include Jaguar Land Rover, Aston Martin, UNIPART, SAIC, Prodrive, Airbus, Tata, GKN, Ricardo and MIRA, may provide opportunities for industry engagement working on actual projects (subject to availability) which may provide the opportunity to put into practice what you learn, through solving real-life problems. 

Accreditation and professional recognition

This course is accredited1 and recognised by the following bodies:

CMI HE Partner Chartered Management Institute

Chartered Management Institute

As part of this course, you will undertake a professional development module which is currently accredited by the Chartered Management Institute for the 2023-24 intake. Upon successful completion of this module, you will gain the CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice at no additional cost. Coventry University’s accreditation with CMI is currently ongoing for the relevant modules and is regularly reviewed and monitored by the CMI through their quality systems.

Institution of Mechanical Engineers

Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

This degree is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) up to and including the 2025 intakes under licence from the UK regulator, the Engineering Council. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). An accredited degree will provide you with some or all the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng). Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.

Students completing an IMechE accredited degree are deemed to have met part or all of the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered or Incorporated Engineer and are in a strong position to move on to achieve professional engineering status after a period of initial professional development in industry.

The accredited MSc will meet, in part, the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Accredited MSc graduates who also have a BEng (Hons) accredited for CEng will be able to show that they have satisfied the educational base for CEng registration.

It should be noted that graduates from an accredited MSc programme that do not also have an appropriately accredited Honours degree, will not be regarded as having the exemplifying qualifications for professional registration as a Chartered Engineer with the Engineering Council; and will need to have their qualifications individually assessed through the Individual Case Procedure if they wish to progress to CEng.

IMechE Membership Partner

We are a Membership Partner with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

Working in collaboration with the IMechE we aim to ensure our engineers and technical teams meet industry-recognised standards of engineering excellence.

We are committed to the professional development of everyone within our organisation, and recognise that professional registration and recognition are crucial in helping our employees and business grow and excel.

What you'll study

You’ll be encouraged to study the principles of engineering, physics and materials science, alongside the design and analysis, modelling and simulation, manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems.

The course culminates with your individual project, which provides an opportunity to apply the theories and techniques you have learned during your studies. It may focus on one area of study or involve a combination of subjects.

Past student projects have included the following: development of a computer model of Fiat Punto for pedestrian impact simulation; design of novel bone-implant interface medical devices; analysis of fluid-structure interaction with smoothed particle hydrodynamics and a 3D CFD model analysis of urban air flow around high-rise buildings at the Business Centre of La Défense (Paris).

Your project can be industry-based if you are already working or wish to follow the work placement option2. For example, one project commissioned by the US Air Force studied the effect of fatigue and corrosion on the structural integrity of aging aircraft components. 

Modules

  • This module aims to develop understanding of a systematic approach to the design process, design management, and creative problem solving, leading to developing an artefact ready for manufacture. Design as a process will be applied via a series of principles to assist the progression of the project to reach a suitable solution and evaluating that against the initial brief. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to enable the understanding of the use of advanced engineering methods in the investigation of complex problems, like the interaction between aerodynamics phenomena, road loading data and structural integrity. The module will address the use of advanced engineering techniques based on Design of Experiments (DOE) and Optimisation where FEA (Finite Element Analysis) based problems will be addressed. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to enable you to design and evaluate wind and hydro power systems. You will assess wind and hydro power systems as a source of renewable energy, and determine their performance characteristics and social, financial and environmental impacts. Using aerodynamics, hydrodynamics and blade design principles, you will appraise the design and application of different wind and hydro turbine technologies. Moreover, you should gain a comprehensive understanding of the main challenges facing the wind and hydro power industries. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide you with a framework of knowledge and understanding of how to manage change using creativity and innovation in different types of organisational scenarios. You will be given the opportunity to develop an innovative framework to deliver a change management strategy in a changing organisational context. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is for you to apply thermofluids science in the design of different systems. You will also apply the computational fluid flow - CFD commercial software, as a tool for design optimisation and performance evaluation of a fluid flow system component, such as the flow through turbine blades. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims at enhancing the profile of the mechanical engineer or scientist who would like to address current and future challenges in design, analysis and optimisation of components, such as the steel components found in offshore structures for renewable energy. The module combines industry-standard CAE software with advanced mechanics of materials and Design Standards (e.g. Eurocodes, NORSOK). 

    Compulsory

  • This module covers the main areas associated with the design and delivery of mechanical components and systems based on durability and reliability attributes. Special emphasis will be on the structural durability and sustainability of renewable energy technologies such as solar power, hydroelectricity, wind energy and tidal turbines that have the potential to help reduce emissions, mitigate climate change and provide a clean environment as well as clean energy for all generations.

    Compulsory

  • This module prepares you for managing organisational change through projects. It focuses on projects involving major changes, including projects related to new products, new plant and equipment and new operating systems, which will affect the lives of people both within and outside the organisation. The module takes a high level, critical and evaluative view of project management, emphasising managerial and strategic use of the tools and techniques of project management.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to equip you with the necessary skills towards working successfully within a challenging and demanding working group of the future. It also aims to enhance your ability to combine principles from different disciplines (i.e., synthesis). Coursework is formed of two parts. The first part concerns a study with emphasis on the strength, stability and serviceability of the examined design, while the second part concerns a study with emphasis on the reliability and durability of the design. The coursework also addresses the need for the optimization of the design according to constraints described by Design Standards (e.g. EuroCode, NORSOK).

    Compulsory

  • This Individual Project provides an opportunity for you to apply theories and techniques from your taught modules. It may focus on one area of study or involve a combination of subjects. The general aims of the individual project are to give you a realistic exercise in the practice of engineering at a professional level.

    In addition to the work involved for the individual project, you will be taught and assessed in the required research methods and study skills to complete the project. You will also develop a personal development portfolio during the course and submit this together with the project.

    Compulsory

With work placement pathway

The ‘With work placement’ opportunity2 enables you to apply in semester 1 for an optional work placement of up to 12 months, extending the duration of your master’s to 24 months. The placement provides an opportunity for you to develop expertise and experience in your chosen field with the aim of enhancing your employability upon graduation. The work placement would take place in semesters 3, 4 and 5.

Please note that the optional placement modules will incur an additional tuition fee of £4,000. Placement opportunities may also be subject to additional costs, visa requirements being met, subject to availability and/or competitive application. Work placements are not guaranteed but you will benefit from the support of the Talent Team in trying to find and secure an opportunity. Find out more about the work placement option.

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

A wide range of teaching methods will be used including:

  • Lectures
  • Tutorials
  • Case studies
  • Simulations
  • Individual and group exercises and projects

Many of the modules adopt an Activity-Led Learning (ALL) approach, for example, we might investigate flow patterns in a network of channels by computer simulation using commercial packages to improve the design of a thermofluid system. Alternatively, in a practical learning session, you may develop measurement skills in our modern metrology laboratory.

This course can be offered on a part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Therefore, the part-time teaching arrangements vary. Request further information about part-time study.

Teaching contact hours

The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 12 contact hours per week in the taught semesters. Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study approximately 35 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

Your project-based semester will be supervisor supported, self-directed study in the region of 45 hours per week as well as supervisor meetings around 1 hour per week and optional workshops supporting your project, which can add around 10 additional hours across your project semester.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include reports, tests, exam, practical coursework and presentations.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards the achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

An honour’s degree (with a minimum of a second-class honour's) in a mechanical or automotive related subject or have an equivalent professional background.

Each application will be considered on its merits and the final decision will be made by the course director. 

We recognise a breadth of qualifications; speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international pre-master's. Upon successful completion our International Pre-Master's - Engineering will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this postgraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

Some international students may require an ATAS certificate to study this course. For further information see our ATAS certificates page.

Additional entry requirements

To enter the course you need to hold an honour's degree (with a minimum of a second class honour's) in a mechanical or automotive related subject, or have an equivalent professional background.

Each application will be considered on its merits and the final decision will be made by the course director. 

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £11,200 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee)   Request fee information
International £20,500 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee)   Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees3 and student loans visit our Postgraduate Finance page and see the university's Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Our aim is to offer you sector-leading facilities4.

Factory on the floor

Faculty on the factory floor

AME brings together academia, industry, and research and development in a ‘live’ manufacturing environment. Our partnership with Unipart gives you the opportunity to work with some of the most talented engineering professionals in the UK.
 

High performance engineering centre

High Performance Engineering Centre (HPEC)

Situated on the ground floor of our Engineering and Computing Building, the centre houses flight and driving simulators, a chassis design assembly and test facility, wind tunnels and a fleet of CNC manufacturing machines.

Metals workshop

Metals Workshop

Participate in technical work in a hands-on way. The workshop includes lathes, milling machines, fabrication equipment for sheet metal work, CNC machines, work benches, welding lines and a fitting assembly area.
 

Careers and opportunities

On successful completion, you will have knowledge of:

  • The function, materials, manufacture and assembly of a wide range of engineering products.
  • The principles of engineering science and mathematics and their application and capability in defining and proving the performance of innovative engineering products.
  • Aspects of innovative mechanical design, including the design process, design standards and codes, selection of materials and methods of manufacture.
  • Design tools for optimised performance, reliability, weight, cost and sustainability.
  • Power generation by wind and hydro renewable resources and by conventional gas turbines.

On successful completion, you will be able to:

  • Develop and test strategies for engineering products involving appropriate instrumentation, experimental methods, and data analysis techniques.
  • Manage people, processes and engineering projects to promote the commercial success of an engineering enterprise.
  • Model and analyse innovative engineering systems using appropriate engineering science and mathematical analysis techniques, such as analysis of aerodynamics, thermodynamic cycles, stress and dynamics.
  • Synthesise solutions to innovative engineering design problems.
  • Select appropriate instrumentation for the functional design of innovative engineering products and systems and to support development and test work.
  • Search for and evaluate information sources to identify information essential to solving engineering problems.
  • Use test equipment and machines, including 20% scale model wind tunnel, composites lab, metrology lab, four-pot shaker rig, flow lab, AVL engine test cell, automotive workshop, fatigue and tensile testing (Instron), Modal analysis hardware and software, for experimental work to support product development.
  • Use commercial software in the solution of engineering problems, such noise and vibration, aerodynamic drag and lift and stress analysis.
  • Communicate graphically the design of a component or system through sketches, CAD etc.

A global skills shortage continues to ensure engineers remain among the most in-demand professions. Skilled engineers are increasingly sought after and there just simply are not enough engineers to go around.

A wide range of potential careers could be open to you after successful completion, including the opportunity to work as a mechanical engineer in the automotive and aerospace industries. Mechanical engineers are employed in all sectors of industrial operation; their analytical and management skills are keenly sought in a wider commercial context.

Coventry University has a long and prestigious automotive, transport and engineering heritage and we will actively encourage and support you to make the most of this demand and prepare you for the world of work.

Where our graduates work

Our Engineering master’s courses provide a route into many careers with the global automotive engineering industry. Many of our graduates have gone on to work for ExxonMobil, Airbus, JLR, Bentley, Lotus, Unipart, Aston Martin Lagonda and many OEMs. Others have continued to PHD studies and moved into research. 

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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