University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme combines core engineering principles with advanced topics in manufacturing technology, automation and production systems. Teaching is delivered through lectures, laboratory classes, case studies and a substantial individual project or dissertation that applies theory to realistic industrial problems.

• Advanced manufacturing processes — machining, forming, additive manufacturing, surface engineering and process selection for high-value components.
• Automation and robotics — industrial robot programming, cell design, human–machine interaction and deployment of automation in production lines.
• CAD/CAM and digital engineering — product data management, computer-aided design and manufacturing, process simulation and virtual commissioning.
• Industry 4.0 and digital manufacturing — cyber-physical systems, IoT for manufacturing, sensor integration, data analytics and digital twins.
• Metrology and quality engineering — measurement techniques, statistical process control, quality assurance and reliability.
• Production systems and operations management — production planning, lean principles, supply chain considerations and factory layout.
• Materials and process selection — structure–property relationships, material selection for manufacture and joining technologies.
• Research project / dissertation — an extended individual research or industry-linked project enabling students to demonstrate practical application of learned concepts.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a good honours degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, materials engineering, mechatronics or a closely related discipline. Applicants with substantial relevant industrial experience may also be considered.

• Academic requirement: UK honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate engineering or technology subject.
• Professional experience: relevant work experience can strengthen applications where academic qualifications differ from the typical entry profile.
• English language: non-native speakers will need to meet the University's English language proficiency standard for postgraduate study.
• References and personal statement: applicants should provide academic or professional references and a statement that outlines motivation and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates gain the technical and systems-level knowledge sought by advanced manufacturing employers. Career paths commonly followed include:

• Manufacturing/process engineer or process development engineer
• Automation, controls or robotics engineer
• Production and operations manager
• Quality, metrology or reliability engineer
• Applications or product development engineer for equipment suppliers
• Consultant roles in manufacturing strategy, digital transformation and supply chain optimisation
• Research and development roles in industry or further study towards a PhD

Why study at University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde has a long-standing reputation in engineering and manufacturing education, with strong links to industry across Scotland and beyond. Students benefit from access to specialist facilities and centres working on advanced manufacturing, opportunities for industry projects and collaboration, and teaching delivered by staff active in manufacturing research.

• Industry engagement: close partnerships with manufacturing companies and access to real industrial problems for project work.
• Specialist facilities: proximity to national and university-based manufacturing centres and labs that support hands-on learning and experimentation.
• Applied focus: a curriculum designed to develop practical skills in automation, digital manufacturing and systems integration valued by employers.
• Research-led teaching: faculty research informs teaching and provides routes to further study or collaborative industry research projects.