Studying a Master's in Engineering
Kazi Hoque talks about why he came to Lancaster to study a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
This programme is designed for engineers who wish to advance their skills and knowledge to a level appropriate for a professional engineer at the cutting-edge of their profession. You will learn through a variety of techniques to gain a combination of technical, managerial and personal skills, and will be provided with opportunities to develop and practice them.
You will study four technical modules and three management modules, one of which is project based. This combination enables you to see engineering projects at three levels: the detailed technical level, the higher project level and the upper business/strategic level.
For the technical modules we offer a wide variety of options which allow you to customise your studies to suit your interests. The technical content is driven by our research and contact with industrial partners and is continually evolving. The management modules will equip you with the tools and techniques to plan, manage and close an engineering project and allow you to understand the interrelationships between decisions, teams and objectives. The modules also show how projects and project management relate to broader business and strategic situations.
The final element of the programme gives the opportunity to apply and deepen the technical and managerial skills by applying them together in two real projects proposed by commercial/industrial collaborators.
The first of these is a 3-week industry-linked group project. This is usually a problem-solving or design type problem that the company has proposed. Teams are formed from across all Engineering MSc programmes and thus include different types of engineers. It is an ideal opportunity to practice and develop communication skills (within the group and with clients), team working, project management and technical skills appropriate to the problem.
The second is the major individual project. This is an opportunity to undertake a longer project in conjunction with an industrial collaborator and with one-to-one supervision from a specialist within the Department. If you would prefer to have a more research-based project not involving industrial collaboration that may also be possible. These projects are an opportunity to develop more specialist understanding in a particular field and have led to employment for some graduates in the past. Recent project examples include:
2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or related disciplines. For UK applicants, a HND or equivalent together with substantial appropriate industrial experience may be considered.
We may also consider non-standard applicants, please contact us for information.
If you have studied outside of the UK, we would advise you to check our list of international qualifications before submitting your application.
Additional Requirements
Some experience in industry in a technical position requiring engineering skills is desirable but not required.
We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.
We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications.
If your score is below our requirements, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language programmes.
Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email pgadmissions@lancaster.ac.uk
You will study a range of modules as part of your course, some examples of which are listed below.
Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, but changes may be necessary, for example as a result of student feedback, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes, and new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.
The module provides you with an understanding of the relationship between projects and the business. It offers insight into the strategic, business, commercial and financial issues within projects and their relationship to project and organisational performance. You will gain an understanding of how projects are used to underpin and support the organisation and enable the achievement of its mission and strategy. After completing this module you will be able to:
The technical projects tackled during this module are varied and in most cases obtained from local companies who have a genuine engineering problem, design or development requirement. They can vary from research-orientated investigations of new methods or techniques to solution of shop-floor problems to improve productivity.
Projects are approximately eighteen-weeks in length and may be either selected from a ‘pool’ or self-proposed. Part-time students may undertake a project linked to their company subject to approval. Students are assigned an academic supervisor from the university and primary contact from the company.
During the project, students should assess the needs of an organisation and consider the required approach to delivering change; define a technical problem and critically appraise the nature of this problem; and finally identify various methodologies that could be appropriate for this problem situation and a sound project plan to implement them. From the initial ‘scoping’ to the final ‘closeout’ meeting the emphasis is on applying the skills learnt during the course to self-manage the project, identify and meet the requirements of all stakeholder and deliver a technically sound solution.
By the end of the module, postgraduates will have demonstrated the skills of independent learning and the ability for constructive critical reflection that is essential for continuing professional development.
Projects are obtained from local companies who have a genuine engineering problem, design or development requirement. The three-week project commences with a team and project assignment and briefing lecture. Each team then meets their company and is assigned an industrial contact and academic supervisor for the project. Communication with the company and academic supervisor for most of the project is at the discretion of the team. The modules ends with a presentation session to which the company and all academic project supervisors are invited.
This module gives the opportunity to apply the technical, problem analysis and project management skills learned in earlier modules to a real industrial environment.
Gaining professional experience solving problems in the industry can greatly increase the employability of postgraduates. Students can also forge useful connections within the industry during their communication with the company.
During the project, students will learn how to structure a technical problem; assess the technologies required to meet the requirements using available literature and resources; work creatively to develop possible solutions; and apply multidisciplinary scientific and engineering skills to assess the technical validity of those solutions.
This module is only available to full time MSc students.
This module presents the tools and techniques needed to effectively initiate, plan and manage a project through to successful completion. The approach is primarily practical and pragmatic, providing an integrated planning process that supports the production of a holistic and robust project plan. Examples from a broad range of industries are introduced throughout the module. After completing this module you will be able to:
This module provides you with the opportunity to obtain practical experience of project management practices and to understand the interrelationships between decisions, teams and objectives through a simulated project. The practical experience will be supported by in-depth investigation of relevant tools, techniques and theories. After completing this module you will be able to:
There is a perceived lack of critical understanding and training in modern industrial design methods using state-of-the-art CAD/CAE/CAM technology and design optimization. This module aims to address this imbalance by providing exposure to the advanced aspects of many software tools such as finite element analysis (FEA), cutting path analysis and product data management (PDM): all key tools in many decision-making and design optimisation processes.
Students are introduced to the use of computer-based tools for strategic decision making in industry. It is not a training workshop on how to use specific software; it is instead a study on how to use the software well, in particular to facilitate making engineering decisions. During the module, the students will learn what engineering models are required in industry and how that data is managed using PDM and PLM. They shall also learn how to prove that their numerical analyses is of a good enough standard to be used in decision making; and how cutting path analysis can be used as a strategic tool for cost reduction.
Increasingly, employers are expecting graduates to leave university already versed in tools used in industry, so the importance of this module in terms of employment opportunities cannot be overstated.
At the end of this module, the students will be able to use their understanding of solid mechanics to devise appropriate Finite Element Analysis methodologies and assess the validity of their analysis, and shall be able to create designs that can be reliably realised using Computer Aided Manufacturing methodologies. They will also gain a comprehensive understanding of the use of Product Data Management and be able to judge when it is to be used as compared to alternative methods.
The design and application of intelligent control systems, with a focus on modern algorithmic computer-aided design methods, is what students will be introduced to during this module. Starting from the well-known proportional-integral algorithm, essential concepts such as digital and optimal control will be familiarised using straightforward algebra and block diagrams.
The module addresses the needs of students across the engineering discipline who would like to advance their knowledge of automatic control and optimisation, with the lectures being supported by practical worked-examples based on recent research into robotics, mechatronic and environmental systems, among other areas.
Students shall also be taught statistical modelling concepts that have a wide ranging application for control, signal processing and forecasting, with applications beyond engineering into health and medicine, economics, etc.
The concept of state variable feedback is utilised as a unifying framework for generalised digital control system design. This approach provides a relatively gentle learning curve, from which potentially difficult topics, such as optimal, stochastic and multivariable control, can be introduced and assimilated in an interesting and straightforward manner. The module also aims to develop an appreciation of the constraints under which industrial applications of control operate, and to introduce the computational tools needed for designing these control systems.
Major global companies across the engineering discipline, including automotive and communications companies, have positions for graduates with a control engineering background. This module is also very useful for those who wish to work with robotics and autonomous systems.
Ultimately, students will come to understand various hierarchical architectures of intelligent control. They will also be able to design optimal model-based control systems and design and evaluate system performance for practical applications.
This module introduces students to the recent advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cutting-edge deep learning methods. Students will learn how to examine the technologies that apply to various aspects of engineering, such as searching and planning algorithms, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, deep neural networks, convolution neural networks, recurrent neural networks, and generative adversarial network.
The module aims to equip students with key knowledge and understanding of their application in industrial robots, smart manufacturing, predictive maintenance, design optimisation and digital twin. Students will also learn how to implement the machine learning algorithms by practicing this in our labs, keeping the legal, social and ethical considerations in mind when applying machine learning technologies.
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate the impact of emerging machine learning technologies by understanding the underlying principles of machine learning, typical algorithms, and deep learning methods. Students will be able to analyse real-world problems, such as design optimisation, manufacturing process optimisation, fault diagnosis and prognosis, and be able to design machine learning models to solve them.
This module aims to help students identify, understand and then set out the mechanism and mechanical design requirements for products and, in particular, actuators. It also covers actuation system mechanics and kinematics with the analytical techniques for analysing actuators and their dynamics.
Students shall be taught the operating principles of different types of actuators and how they are selected for a dedicated application. They will learn the principles of precision location and of the guidance of moving parts, and use kinematic design to integrate actuators into their systems. Other tasks will include studying the dynamic analysis of the actuation systems within different industrially relevant drive mechanisms, including drive circuitry effects. These applications of knowledge will allow students to appreciate the mechanics of robotic manipulators, their use in manufacturing and their programming. It will also provide an understanding of actuator operating principles.
Students will become skilled in analysing the dynamics of real systems via applying appropriate approaches including the formulation of actuator system models, time-series analysis and frequency response analysis. They shall also come to understand the meaning and significance of factors which determine the performance and stability of machine systems, and be able to set out the scheme design of a machine system which incorporates principles derived from this understanding.
During this module, students will learn the basics of how the behaviour of device structures change as dimensions shrink, along with how to design these structures and predict their static and dynamic behaviour across a range of energy domains (electro-magnetic, electro-static, thermal, mechanical etc.).
In addition to this, the module will also teach the principles of sensing and actuation in the main application areas that range from mobile communications to bio-chemical analysis. Students will gain knowledge regarding the manufacturing technologies for micro & nanoscale technologies; the product engineering process, including how to achieve high reliability; and the emerging technologies that utilise nanoscale structures.
Semiconductor industry companies like Intel and Texas Instruments have positions across the entire design and manufacturing flow for graduates with a microengineering background. Most of the smaller design companies have activity in MEMS and microengineering.
As a result of undertaking this module, students will come to understand the underpinning engineering science associated with micro-mechanics and microfluidics. Other topics they will discuss include the fundamental principles of solid state physics and materials used within devices involving sub 100nm dimensions; micropackaging concepts; and the mechanics of scaling across multiple energy domains down to sub 100nm dimensions.
In the end, students will be able to demonstrate a wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies for microsystems, this will include an awareness of developing technologies in the areas of microsystems and heterogeneous systems.
Manufacturing is a key component of engineering. The ability to design and manufacture, high quality, high value products, with short lead times, is essential for industries to be competitive in the modern "digital" age. This module will introduce the context of new product introduction and examine the technologies available to both shorten total lead times and increase confidence in the product. You will study, in detail, a range of rapid product development tools and technologies including specific process principles and engineering applications. Topics covered include Concurrent Engineering, Rapid Prototyping, Rapid Tooling, Additive Manufacturing, Reverse Engineering, Virtual Prototyping and Responsive Manufacturing.
The Renewable Energy module provides students with specialist training in this field, with strong emphasis on engineering design, but also includes discussions of costs, grid integration, optimal resource exploitation and environmental aspects. The aim of this module is to introduce students to the fundamentals of a range of sources of renewable energy and the means of its conversion into mechanical and/or electrical power. In addition, the technical, economical, environmental and ethical issues associated with the exploitation of renewable energy sources are highlighted and discussed.
Students will be provided with a good overview of well established and rapidly growing forms of renewable energy, learning fundamental design concepts of horizontal and vertical axis wind and tidal current turbines, and hydraulic turbomachinery, and analysing key power and load control strategies. An introduction to solar energy for electrical and heat power generation is also included. Student will be taught how to assess renewable energy resources, and how to reliably determine the maximum share of the available source that can be converted into electricity or heat.
Using engineering, physical and mathematical models, students will learn about the formulation and solution of multidisciplinary problems of renewable energy engineering. The discussion of realistic engineering problems and machine design/usage challenges will expose students to technologies presently used in the research and development departments of modern renewable energy organisations.
Location | Full Time (per year) | Part Time (per year) |
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Home | £13,600 | £6,800 |
International | £29,150 | £14,575 |
There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.
Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.
Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small College Membership Fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.
For students starting in 2023 and 2024, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses. Fees for students starting in 2025 have not yet been set.
To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.
The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.
For most taught postgraduate applications there is a non-refundable application fee of £40. We cannot consider applications until this fee has been paid, as advised on our online secure payment system. There is no application fee for postgraduate research applications.
For some of our courses you will need to pay a deposit to accept your offer and secure your place. We will let you know in your offer letter if a deposit is required and you will be given a deadline date when this is due to be paid.
The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status.
If you are studying on a programme of more than one year’s duration, the tuition fees for subsequent years of your programme are likely to increase each year. Read more about fees in subsequent years.
You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status and course. You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.
Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.
If you're considering postgraduate research you should look at our funded PhD opportunities.
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We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.
Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries.
Join our on-campus open day this February to talk to students and lecturers and find out how and when to apply.
Book my placeThe information on this site relates primarily to 2024/2025 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.
The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.
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