Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced taught modules with a substantial independent research or industry project. Core themes include vehicle dynamics and control, powertrain performance, aerodynamics and CFD, materials and manufacturing for lightweight structures, measurement and data acquisition, and simulation techniques used in motorsport engineering.

• Vehicle Dynamics and Control – tyre modelling, suspension kinematics, roll and pitch behaviour, handling analysis and control strategies for performance optimisation.
• Powertrain and Engine Performance – combustion fundamentals, engine mapping, hybrid and electrified powertrains in a motorsport context, calibration and performance testing.
• Aerodynamics and CFD – aerodynamic principles for high-performance vehicles, hands-on CFD workflow, interpretation of results for aerodynamic development.
• Materials, Composites and Manufacturing – selection of lightweight materials, composite design and fabrication methods relevant to chassis and aero components.
• Instrumentation, Data Acquisition and Simulation – telemetry systems, sensor technologies, signal processing, vehicle simulation tools and virtual testing methods.
• Professional and Management Skills – project management, team roles in race operations, ethics and regulation in motorsport, and communication of technical results.
• Research/Industry Project – an extended individual project carried out in collaboration with academic supervisors or industry partners, addressing a practical engineering problem and demonstrating application of taught techniques.

Teaching methods typically include lectures, laboratory sessions in specialised engineering and motorsport workshops, computer simulation laboratories, case studies and group design exercises. Assessment is through coursework, practical reports, examinations and the final project dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, aeronautical engineering, or a closely related technical subject. A UK second-class upper division (2:1) or an acceptable international equivalent is generally required; applicants with a lower-class degree plus relevant professional experience may also be considered.

Applicants without a traditional engineering degree may be required to demonstrate prior learning in mathematics, mechanics and basic engineering principles. Relevant work experience in motorsport or automotive engineering can strengthen an application. All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or equivalent qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme go on to technical and engineering roles across motorsport and the wider high-performance vehicle industry. Typical roles include:

• Race/performance engineer
• Vehicle dynamics engineer
• Aerodynamicist or CFD engineer
• Powertrain/test engineer
• Simulation and controls engineer
• Design engineer for composites and lightweight structures
• Technical or engineering manager in racing teams, suppliers or OEM performance divisions

Graduates are employed by racing teams across categories (single-seater, GT, endurance), engineering consultancies, specialist motorsport suppliers, and manufacturers with performance or electrified vehicle programmes. The project component and industry links help build a professional portfolio and contacts valued by recruiters in Motorsport Valley and beyond.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has a long-established reputation for motorsport and automotive education with strong industry engagement. The university provides dedicated engineering workshops, vehicle labs, and computing facilities equipped for CFD and vehicle simulation. Students benefit from staff with practical motorsport experience, guest lectures from industry practitioners, and links with regional motorsport companies and suppliers.

Its location close to the UK motorsport cluster offers opportunities for industry visits, guest projects and networking with employers. The course emphasises hands-on learning and applied research, preparing graduates to move directly into technical roles within competitive motorsport and high-performance engineering sectors.