Cranfield University

MSc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering

Course structure

Modules are delivered over two weeks, in the early part of the year, the modules cover the fundamentals of Advanced Mechanical Engineering. These are intensive weeks, consisting of all day teaching. During this period, there are some weeks without modules, which are largely free of structured teaching to allow time for more independent learning and reflection, completion of assignments or exam preparation.

After the winter break there are three modules that involve more active problem-based learning and typically include practical or laboratory sessions, case studies or group work. These are an opportunity for you to apply and integrate your knowledge. These modules are all assessed by assignments that are completed during the two-week period. The focus on group work and application within these modules provides a valuable transition into the Group Project.

Students on the part-time programme will complete all of the compulsory modules based on a flexible schedule that will be agreed upon with the Course Director.

• Taught modules 40%
• Group Project 20%
• Individual Research Project 40%

Individual project

The aim of the individual research project, which takes place between May and August, is to provide you with direct experience in undertaking a research/development project in a relevant industrial or research area. It therefore offers the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills and focus your interests in a particular area of interest. You will submit a research thesis and make a formal presentation of your findings to a panel of academics and industry experts.

Group project

The group project runs from late February until early May, and enables you to apply the skills and knowledge developed during the taught modules. It provides you with direct experience of bringing knowledge to bear on an industrially relevant problem that requires a team-based multidisciplinary solution. You will develop a fundamental range of skills required to work in a team including team member roles and responsibilities, project management, delivering technical presentations and exploiting the variety of expertise of each individual member. Industry involvement is an integral component for the group project, to give you first-hand experience at working within real life challenging situations.

In recognition of the fact that the modern design engineer cannot be divorced from the commercial world, you will provide a presentation and poster. This provides the opportunity to develop presentation skills and effectively handle questions about complex issues in a professional manner. All groups submit a written report and deliver a presentation to the industry partner.

Part-time students are encouraged to participate in a group project as it provides a wealth of learning opportunities. However, an option of an individual dissertation is available if agreed with the Course Director.

Future career

The Advanced Mechanical Engineering MSc is designed to provide you with the skills, knowledge and expertise required to develop a successful mechanical engineering career in the sector of your choice, including energy and power, aerospace, automotive and manufacturing. Our focus is on ensuring that you can make an impact from day one in your career. We do this by teaching you the state-of-the-art skills in mechanical engineering, enabling you to apply what you learn through industrially relevant group and individual research projects and equipping you with technology leadership skills.

Graduates of this course have gone on to work in a range of roles, including:

• Mechanical Design Engineer at Siemens,
• Production Line Supervisor & Lean Implementer at GKN Land Systems,
• Staff Engineer at BPP Technical Services Ltd working on offshore oil and gas engineering,
• Engineer at Det Norske Veritas,
• Management Associate at BMW Group UK Limited,
• Project Engineer at BASF Coatings S.A.