University of Tromsø

What you'll study

This two-year master's programme combines theoretical engineering design methods with hands-on practice in computer-aided engineering and prototyping. Teaching emphasises the full product development cycle: requirements analysis, conceptual design, detailed design, evaluation and manufacturing, with attention to sustainability and life-cycle thinking.

• Core topics: engineering design methodology, product development processes, design for manufacturing and assembly, materials and joining technologies.
• Modelling and simulation: finite element analysis, multibody dynamics, computational modelling and optimisation techniques.
• Digital design tools: advanced CAD, computer-aided engineering (CAE), rapid prototyping, and simulation-driven design workflows.
• Systems and user-centred design: systems engineering, human factors, usability and integration of complex technical systems.
• Sustainability and lifecycle assessment: design for durability, recyclability, energy efficiency and environmental impact assessment.
• Project work and thesis: team-based design projects with industry or research partners, culminating in an independent master's thesis that typically involves experimental work, simulation or a combined approach.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering, industrial design, mechanical engineering or a closely related technical discipline. Adequate grounding in mathematics, mechanics and basic engineering design is expected.

• Academic transcripts: documentation of completed undergraduate studies and course content.
• Language proficiency: evidence of English proficiency if your previous education was not in English (accepted tests and levels follow university regulations).
• Supporting documents: CV, statement of purpose describing your motivation and interests within engineering design, and references or letters of recommendation.
• Additional qualifications: relevant work experience, project portfolio or prior exposure to CAD/CAE tools can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles in product development and systems engineering across multiple industries. Typical career paths include positions as design engineers, R&D engineers, product developers, simulation engineers, and project managers.

• Employment opportunities in maritime, offshore and renewable energy sectors where robust design for harsh environments is critical.
• Roles in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, medical devices and consumer product companies focused on innovation and manufacturability.
• Consultancy and technical advisory positions in engineering design firms or firms offering CAE services.
• Further academic or industrial research through PhD study or research engineer roles, often linked to thematic areas such as Arctic technologies and sustainable design.

Why study at University of Tromsø

UiT The Arctic University of Norway offers a unique setting for engineering design education, combining modern teaching facilities with research strengths in technologies adapted to Arctic and maritime conditions. Students benefit from hands-on laboratories, access to digital engineering tools, and opportunities for collaboration with regional industry and applied research projects.

• Research-informed teaching that addresses design challenges in cold-climate and maritime contexts.
• Strong links to regional industry and public research organisations, providing project, internship and thesis opportunities.
• A supportive research community and supervision for master's theses, enabling interdisciplinary approaches and applied experimentation.