Cranfield University

What you'll study

This programme builds advanced mechanical, aerodynamic and systems-level expertise applied to motorsport. Teaching combines core engineering principles with specialist modules and substantial practical work. You will study subjects such as vehicle dynamics and race car handling, motorsport aerodynamics and CFD, high-performance powertrains and driveline systems, sensors and telemetry, control systems and electronics, materials and composites for lightweight structures, and performance simulation and optimisation.

• Core taught modules covering dynamics, aerodynamics, powertrain and control systems
• Practical laboratory work in areas such as simulation, wind tunnel testing, engine test cells and materials testing
• Data acquisition, telemetry and race engineering techniques with hands-on data analysis
• Design for manufacture and lightweight materials including composite technologies
• Advanced computational methods: CFD, multibody dynamics and finite element analysis
• Group design exercises and race-simulation projects that reflect industry practice
• An individual research or industry-sponsored project/dissertation that applies learned techniques to a real-world motorsport challenge

The programme is designed to balance theory and practice. Practical elements include workshops, test days, protyping and opportunities to work with industry partners on live problems. The final major project allows students to demonstrate integrated skills in design, analysis, testing and reporting.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a relevant undergraduate degree in engineering, motorsport engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or a closely related discipline. Candidates with substantial relevant industry experience may also be considered. Typical offers are made to graduates with strong academic performance; where applicants do not meet the standard academic profile, evidence of practical experience and technical competence will be important.

All applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University's English language requirements. Successful applicants should demonstrate numeracy, technical writing ability and experience with engineering software or laboratory work. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to supply a CV, a portfolio of technical work or to attend an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme progress into technical roles across motorsport and high-performance engineering sectors. Common career paths include:

• Race engineer and performance engineer roles within professional racing teams
• Aerodynamicist or CFD engineer in motorsport and automotive performance divisions
• Powertrain and driveline engineer in specialist suppliers and OEMs
• Test and development engineer focused on vehicle dynamics, suspension and tyres
• Simulation, control systems and data-analysis engineer roles using telemetry and modelling tools
• Design engineer for composite structures and lightweight components
• Research and development positions in technology centres or progression to doctoral study

The course is aimed at preparing graduates to enter competitive technical roles where a combination of analytical skills, practical testing experience and industry awareness are required.

Why study at Cranfield University

Cranfield has a long-established reputation for postgraduate engineering education with a practical, industry-led focus. The university’s close links with motorsport teams, manufacturers and specialist suppliers create project and networking opportunities that are integrated into the learning experience. Students benefit from hands-on access to specialist facilities including wind tunnels, engine and driveline test cells, composites workshops and dedicated vehicle dynamics laboratories.

Teaching teams include academic staff with motorsport research expertise and visiting practitioners from the industry, ensuring course content reflects current engineering practice. The campus environment, with its concentration of postgraduate engineering activity, supports collaboration, professional development and exposure to live technical challenges that help prepare graduates for careers in motorsport and high-performance engineering.