University of Warwick

What you'll study

The programme centres on an extended, supervised research project that typically occupies the majority of the year of study. Projects are available across the School of Engineering’s strengths, including systems and control; materials and manufacturing; fluid mechanics and aerodynamics; biomedical engineering; energy and power; and computational engineering. Research is carried out under the guidance of an academic supervisor (and where appropriate co-supervisors from university research centres or industry partners) and is expected to produce a substantial dissertation containing novel analysis, experimental results or simulation work.

Alongside the principal research, students follow tailored research training which may include modules or short courses in research methods, advanced numerical methods, experimental techniques, data analysis, scientific computing, and professional skills such as project management, research ethics and academic writing. Depending on the project, students may spend time in specialist laboratories or research centres such as WMG, the Materials Research Centre, high-performance computing facilities, or collaborating industrial sites. The programme finishes with the submission of a thesis and an oral examination (viva voce).

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in engineering, physical sciences, mathematics or a closely related discipline — typically at least an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or an overseas equivalent. Candidates with a lower second-class degree plus relevant research experience, or those holding a relevant postgraduate qualification, may also be considered.

Successful applicants will normally have a clearly articulated research proposal or a demonstrated interest in a specific research area and must identify potential supervisors during the application process where required. Relevant professional experience in engineering or a technical role can strengthen an application, particularly for industry-linked projects.

International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. Evidence of competence in academic English at the level expected for postgraduate study is required and equivalent qualifications or test scores accepted by the university can be used to satisfy this requirement.

Career prospects

Graduates use the MSc Engineering by Research as a springboard into a range of research and technical careers. Many proceed to doctoral study (PhD) either at Warwick or other leading institutions. Others move into R&D and specialist engineering roles in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, biomedical devices, advanced manufacturing and software-intensive systems.

Typical roles include research engineer, design engineer, development engineer, data scientist/engineer, technical consultant and project or product manager. The programme’s focus on independent research, problem solving and transferable skills also prepares graduates for roles in innovation management, technology strategy and start-up ventures.

Why study at University of Warwick

Warwick’s School of Engineering combines strong fundamental departments with applied research centres, offering access to interdisciplinary expertise and well-equipped laboratories. The university has established links with regional and international industry partners that provide opportunities for collaborative projects, placements and technology transfer.

Students benefit from dedicated supervision, structured research training and access to central services such as high-performance computing, advanced microscopy and testing facilities. Warwick’s research environment emphasises career development for postgraduate researchers, with support from the university’s careers service and graduate school to help bridge academic research and professional pathways.