University of Warwick

What you'll study

The MPhil/PhD in Engineering (WMG) is a predominantly research-led programme in which you undertake an original, supervised research project leading to a thesis. Projects reflect WMG’s applied orientation and often sit at the intersection of engineering, digital technologies and systems integration. Typical research themes include advanced manufacturing and production systems, materials and composites, automotive and transport engineering, electric and hybrid powertrains, battery and energy storage systems, energy systems and decarbonisation, digital manufacturing, robotics and automation, and supply‑chain and operations engineering.

Although the core of the programme is independent research, you will normally take part in a structured training programme covering research methods, statistics, computational and experimental techniques, and professional skills such as project management, academic writing and ethics. Depending on your project and background, additional taught modules or short courses may be recommended to fill knowledge gaps (for example advanced materials characterisation, control systems, machine learning for engineers, or modelling and simulation techniques).

Research is carried out within WMG (Warwick Manufacturing Group), where projects commonly involve close collaboration with industrial partners, other university departments, and interdisciplinary research centres. You will be expected to disseminate results through conferences, publications and knowledge-transfer activities, and contribute to the WMG research environment through seminars and group meetings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant masters degree with substantial research content (for example MEng, MSc, or equivalent) or a strong upper second-class honours (2:1) undergraduate degree plus demonstrable research experience. A strong technical background in an engineering or science discipline aligned with the intended research area is essential. Candidates with appropriate industrial experience and evidence of independent technical work may also be considered.

Applications must include a research proposal or indication of research interests, academic transcripts, references (including at least one academic referee where possible) and a CV. Candidates whose first language is not English will need to meet the University’s English language requirements. Shortlisted applicants will normally be interviewed by the proposed supervisory team.

Career prospects

Graduates from WMG doctoral programmes move into a range of roles in industry, academia and the public sector. Common career paths include research and development positions in manufacturing and automotive companies, engineering and technology leadership roles, specialist technical consultancy, roles in energy and sustainability, and product development or systems integration functions. Many alumni also pursue academic careers as postdoctoral researchers and lecturers, or work in policy, standards organisations and applied research institutes. The emphasis on industry collaboration and knowledge transfer also supports entrepreneurship and technology commercialisation.

Why study at University of Warwick

WMG is an interdisciplinary research and education centre with a long track record of close engagement with industry and applied engineering research. Studying at Warwick gives access to purpose-built facilities, academic and technical expertise across engineering, materials, digital systems and business engagement, and opportunities for collaborative projects with commercial partners. The university provides a supportive doctoral training environment with research development programmes, transferable skills training and networking opportunities across campus and with the broader UK and international engineering community. Supervision teams are drawn from experienced researchers within WMG and the wider faculty, offering strong mentorship for both technical and professional development.