Cranfield University

What you'll study

The programme combines core mechatronic engineering principles with specialist automotive topics. Teaching emphasises vehicle-relevant applications of sensors and actuators, model-based control, embedded systems, and software for real-time applications. You will study the interplay between mechanical systems, electronics and software as applied to braking, steering, powertrain and chassis subsystems, with increasing attention to electrification and advanced driver assistance systems.

Typical modules and themes

• Fundamentals of control engineering and signal processing for vehicle systems
• Embedded systems and real-time software development for automotive applications
• Sensors, actuators and CAN/automotive communications
• Vehicle dynamics and mechatronic integration (chassis, steering, braking)
• Electrified powertrains and energy management
• Model-based design, simulation and hardware-in-the-loop testing
• Diagnostics, calibration and test methods for mechatronic systems
• Research methods and a substantial individual MSc project addressing an industry-relevant challenge

Teaching methods mix lectures, laboratory sessions, workshop work and group projects. Practical work typically takes place in specialised laboratories and on test rigs, and the MSc project allows you to tackle a focused experimental, simulation or development problem that demonstrates system-level understanding.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a recognised undergraduate degree in engineering, electronics, mechanical engineering, computer science, physics or a closely related discipline. A good honours degree (or international equivalent) is usually expected; applicants with relevant industrial experience and professional qualifications will also be considered.

Suitable programming experience (e.g. MATLAB/Simulink, C/C++ or Python), a grounding in mathematics and basic control theory are advantageous. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at a level appropriate for postgraduate study (through recognised English language qualifications or equivalent evidence).

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme go on to roles across the automotive and mobility sectors, including vehicle manufacturers (OEMs), tier-one suppliers, specialist engineering consultancies and electronics companies. Typical job titles include Mechatronics Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Embedded Software Engineer, Systems Engineer, Calibration/Test Engineer and R&D Engineer.

The skills developed on the course — system-level thinking, control and software implementation, and hands-on testing — are also applicable to adjacent sectors such as electric mobility, autonomous systems, motorsport and industrial automation.

Why study at Cranfield University

Cranfield is a specialist postgraduate university with a strong emphasis on applied engineering and long-established links to industry. The Automotive Mechatronics MSc benefits from access to dedicated labs and facilities for vehicle systems, powertrain testing and hardware-in-the-loop validation, and from teaching and supervision by staff with industrial experience.

Students typically engage in project work that is closely aligned with industry needs, and the university’s location and partnerships provide opportunities for collaboration with manufacturers, suppliers and technology companies. The combination of practical facilities, research-led teaching and industry-facing projects makes Cranfield well suited to engineers aiming to move into technical and development roles in the automotive sector.