Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This top-up master’s year builds on prior undergraduate or HND-level study to deliver advanced technical knowledge, systems thinking and professional skills. Teaching combines taught modules, laboratory and workshop sessions, case studies and a large individual research and design project.

• Advanced Engineering Design and Integration — multidisciplinary design processes, systems integration, design for manufacture, tolerance and risk analysis.
• Digital Engineering and Simulation — advanced CAD, finite element analysis, computational modelling, digital twins and data-driven simulation techniques.
• Advanced Materials and Manufacturing — selection and behaviour of engineering materials, additive and subtractive manufacturing, process optimisation and quality control.
• Sustainable and Renewable Engineering — life-cycle thinking, low-carbon design, energy systems and environmental impact assessment.
• Engineering Management and Professional Practice — project management, engineering economics, regulatory and safety frameworks, ethics and leadership.
• Research Methods and Project — research design, advanced experimental practice, data analysis and a substantial independent engineering project or industry-linked dissertation.

Module availability may be subject to change; you will normally complete the programme over one year full-time or longer on a part-time/flexible basis to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant UK honours degree or equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline, typically with a classification indicating strong performance at undergraduate level. Candidates with an HND, foundation degree or other vocational qualification combined with appropriate industrial experience may also be considered. You will be asked to provide an academic transcript, a CV outlining relevant practical experience, and a personal statement. International applicants must demonstrate English language ability in line with Bournemouth University’s standard entry requirements for taught postgraduate study. Applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to submit a portfolio of project work where relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates progress into a wide range of technical and managerial roles across sectors such as automotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing, construction and consultancy. Common career paths include:

• Design engineer or lead design specialist
• Project or engineering manager
• Research and development engineer
• Manufacturing and production engineering roles
• Systems engineer and integration specialist
• Technical consultancy and testing services

The programme also supports those aiming to pursue further research (MPhil/PhD) or to progress towards professional registration (such as Chartered Engineer) when combined with appropriate accredited prior learning and relevant professional experience.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University is known for its applied and career-focused approach to higher education, with strong links to regional and national industry partners. The faculty places emphasis on real-world projects, team-based learning and access to well-equipped engineering workshops, CAD and simulation facilities. Small-group teaching and close supervision of the final project provide focused support for technical development and employability. The course is designed to help you bridge academic knowledge and industrial practice, preparing you for leadership roles in engineering organisations or for advanced study.