Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK: Top Universities, Fees & Careers
Mechanical Engineering is not only about studying how to fit nuts and bolts in the right place or oiling the machine so it works properly. Today, when industrialisation has taken place, Mechanical Engineering has spread out its wings to cover the other types of non-traditional industries such as robotics, HVAC, aerospace engineering, etc., which found significant value not only in daily life but also in defence, petroleum and marine sectors.
In this blog, we have discussed about Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK along with the country’s top universities, ranking, fees, career aspects and more.
- Overview of Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK
- Why Pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK?
- Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK: Top Universities
- Master’s in Mechancial Engieering in the UK: Popular Specialisations
- M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering: Course Structure & Subjects
- M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering in the UK: Eligibility Criteria
- List of Required Documents for Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK
- Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK: Application Process
- M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering without GRE Score
- Jobs After Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Overview of Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK
Mechanical engineering is a discipline within engineering sciences that involves the study of the behaviour of physical machines under applied force. Mechanical engineering imparts an understanding of designing, building, and maintaining machines and engines commonly used in automobile, aerospace, robotics, manufacturing, biomechanics, energy, etc.
This discipline forms the basis of innovation and creativity, which help sustain everyday life. For example, cars, trains, buses, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc., are some of the products that were once innovated by brilliant minds that led the foundation of this field.
Why Pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK?
The UK is the top-notch country for Indian students desiring to pursue M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering due to the presence of world-class universities that provide high-quality education, modern technology and infrastructure. Let’s discuss them briefly:
Increasing Demand: Despite the ongoing recession and some economic issues in the UK, the demand for STEM graduates remains high in various sectors such as automobile, robotics, manufacturing, etc. Currently, the country is facing an almost 40% shortage of competent workforce in the STEM field, including mechanical engineering.
Academic Excellence: UK universities have consistently ranked among the world’s best institutes for providing cutting-edge educational and research opportunities. QS has included 8 UK universities in the top 50 list of 2025 world rankings.
Scope of Research & Development: The UK government has aimed to increase R&D spending to 2.4% of GDP by 2027, up from the current 1.7%.
Employment Scope: Approximately 90% of mechanical engineering graduates are able to secure employment within the first 6 months after completing their program since the demand for skilled workers never goes down.
Presence of the World’s Top Recruiters: There are currently 40,000 vacant mechanical engineering positions throughout the country, and demand for these positions is estimated to grow by 4% until 2025.
Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK: Top Universities
The QS has ranked 4 UK universities in the top 50 of the world ranking index by subject (Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing Engineering). Times Higher Education (THE) and US News and World Report have listed 5 and 2 UK universities in the top 50 of the world ranking index by subject (Mechanical Engineering). The best universities in the UK for master’s in mechanical engineering are:
| University | Course | QS World University Ranking | Annual Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imperial College London | M.Sc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering | 11 | GBP 40,900 |
| University of Manchester | M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering Design | 24 | GBP 35,000 |
| Cranfield University | M.Sc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering | 28 | GBP 27,910 |
| University of Bristol | M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering (by research) | 45 | GBP 26,000 |
| University of Nottingham | M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering | 53 | GBP 30,750 |
| University of Sheffield | M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Management M.Sc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering | 71 | GBP 29,700 (M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Management) GBP 29,700 (M.Sc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering) |
| Loughborough University | M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering | 73 | GBP 28,750 |
| University of Southampton | MEng in Mechanical Engineering M.Sc in Mechatronics M.Sc in Engineering Materials | 77 | GBP 27,400 (MEng in Mechanical Engineering) GBP 32,300 (M.Sc in Mechatronics GBP 30,000 (M.Sc in Engineering Materials |
| University of Birmingham | M.Sc in Advanced Mechancal Engineering MEng in Mechanical Engineering M.Sc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering by Research | 85 | GBP 29,340 (M.Sc in Advanced Mechancal Engineering) GBP 28,560 (MEng in Mechanical Engineering) GBP 27,360 (M.Sc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering by Research) |
| Swansea University | M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering | 97 | GBP 22,250 (+ 3120 for placement year) |
Master’s in Mechancial Engieering in the UK: Popular Specialisations
Some of the popular M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering specialisations are as follows:
Aerospace Engineering: This specialisation deals with designing, analysing, and producing aircraft and spacecraft. Aerodynamics, propulsion systems, flight mechanics, and aerospace materials are some of the core focus areas under this specialisation.
Automotive Engineering: This specialisation deals with the study of designing, manufacturing, and maintaining vehicles and their engine systems. It covers engine technologies, vehicle dynamics, safety systems, and automotive electronics.
Thermal Engineering: Thermal engineering deals with designing and optimising thermal systems for various applications, including power generation, HVAC systems, and thermal management in electronics. Heat exchangers, refrigeration systems, energy conversion, thermal management, and thermodynamics are some of the important fundamental topics.
Robotics involves designing and constructing robotic systems and automation technologies. It includes robotics control systems, machine learning for robotics, and automation in manufacturing and industry.
Manufacturing Engineering: This specialisation teaches students about the processes and systems used in the production of goods. It includes studies in production techniques, quality control, and industrial engineering.
Biomechanical Engineering: Biomechanical engineering applies mechanical engineering principles to design and construct biological systems, such as medical devices, prosthetics, and biomechanics of human movement. Students work to improve healthcare through engineering solutions.
M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering: Course Structure & Subjects
The Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK is a 1 year full-time study program whose duration may vary depending on the institute. In most of universities, the course holds 180 ECTS which includes classroom study, dissertation, and project work. Below, we have provided the structure and syllabus of the Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK.
Core Modules
The core module includes the mandatory subjects students study in semester 1 (for the one-year course) or semesters 1 and 2 (for the two-year course). The availability of core subjects depends on the university. Core modules include the following subjects:
- Fluid Dynamics
- Advanced Engineering Mathematics
- Fluid Mechanics
- Engineering Thermodynamics
- Solid Mechanics
- Power Generation System
- Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
- Composite Materials
- Sustainable Design
- Railway Engineering
- Advanced Thermo Fluid Mechanics
- Metallurgy & Alloy Design
- Advanced Solid Mechanics
- Energy System
Optional Module
The optional module includes the subjects that can be chosen for semester 2 (for the 1-year course), depending on interest and motivation. It includes:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Robotics & Automation
- Sustainable Materials Manufacturing
- Aviation Safety and Control
- Human Factors and User Centered Design
- Applied Modelling Skills & Virtual Reality
- Automotive Powertrain
- Advanced Energy & Power
- Advanced Engineering Fluid Dynamics
- Engineering Commercial Success
- Application of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
- Computational Biomechanics
- Cardiovascular Biomechanics
Research Project
An M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering student must work on a research project whose topic and supervisor can be chosen in the final semester of the degree program, depending on the university. The selected topic of research can be discussed with the supervisor in detail. The students must conduct the experiment and computational work to produce a thesis and present a seminar.
M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering in the UK: Eligibility Criteria
Following are the general entry requirements for the M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering in the UK. The specific eligibility criteria depend on the institute.
- A bachelor’s degree/bachelor’s honors degree (B.Sc/BEng/B.Tech) in science and technology field, particularly 3-5 years long, with a minimum grade of A or 70-75% from the government-recognised institute.
- Candidates should have a minimum GRE score of 270-300 (depending on the university, as some institutes don’t require a GRE score).
- Candidates should be proficient in the English language and must hold any of the language proficiency test certificates:
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 100-110 out of 120 is required
- IELTS: A minimum band score of 6.5-7.5 out of 9.0 is required
- PTE: A minimum score of 65-75 out of 90 is required
- Duolingo: A minimum score of 120-135 out of 160 is required
- Depending on the university, applicants should have scored at least 85% in the English subject in the Class XII examination to showcase their English language proficiency.
List of Required Documents for Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK
Below, we have provided the checklist of required documents to gain entry into the best universities in the UK for Master’s in Mechanical Engineering. They may vary depending on the institute and specific eligibility criteria.
- Completed university application form
- Previous academic degrees, certificates, mark sheets and transcripts.
- GRE Scorecard (if applicable)
- Language Proficiency Test scorecard (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/Duolingo etc.)
- 1 CV or Resume
- 1 Statement of Purpose/2-3 Essays
- 1-2 Letters of Recommendation
- University application fee of GBP 60-150 or INR 6,483-16,222 (depending on the institute)
- Passport
Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK: Application Process
Following are the general steps which can help Indian students to apply for the M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering program in the UK:
- Applicants should start preparation at least 1-1.5 year before the onset of the course.
- Students must research the universities offering the Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK.
- Students can visit the official website of each university to note down their respective tuition fee, specific eligibility criteria, documents required etc.
- Students must gather and organise all the required documents.
- List down at least 5-6 UK universities.
- Visit their websites and fill out the application forms by putting mandatory details.
- Upload the required documents
- Pay out the application fee.
- Submit the application process.
- The university will provide interview dates if the application is accepted.
M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering without GRE Score
Most UK universities do not need to submit the GRE score while applying for the Master’s in Mechanical Engineering courses. We have listed some of them as follows:
- Imperial College London
- University of Manchester
- University of Bristol
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Glasgow
- University of Leeds
- University of Warwick
- University of Nottingham
- University of Southampton
Jobs After Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK
The UK is home to the world’s renowned universities, which impart relevant knowledge in Mechanical Engineering that supports international students in navigating their suitable career paths. After completing an M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering in the UK, graduates are provided with abundant employment opportunities in the diverse sectors of across the world. Below is a list of famous job roles and their average annual salaries in the UK.
| Job Post | Annual Salary (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineer | GBP 29,000-44,000 (INR 31 Lakh-47 Lakh) |
| Automotive Engineer | GBP 28,000-44,000 (INR 30 Lakh-47 Lakh) |
| Aerospace Engineer | GBP 30,000-44,000 (INR 32 Lakh-47 Lakh) |
| Manufacturing Engineer | GBP 31,000-42,000 (INR 33 Lakh-45 Lakh) |
| Structural Engineer | GBP 31,000-42,000 (INR 33 Lakh-45 Lakh) |
| Quality Engineer | GBP 30,000-43,000 (INR 32 Lakh-46 Lakh) |
| Robotics Engineer | GBP 31,000-47,000 (INR 33 Lakh-50 Lakh) |
| HVAC Engineer | GBP 29,000-41,000 (INR 31 Lakh-44 Lakh) |
| Energy Engineer | GBP 30,000-51,000 (INR 32 Lakh-55 Lakh) |
| Design Engineer | GBP 29,000-41,000 (INR 31 Lakh-44 Lakh) |
Conclusion
The United Kingdom is home to the world’s best universities, such as the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Manchester, University of Birmingham, etc., which impart quality education and research opportunities to international students desiring to pursue an M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering in the country.
Despite the ongoing recession and economic slowdown that the government is facing right now, which has impacted the UK significantly, the aim to increase the spending on R&D by 2027 keeps the momentum going. By having strong eligibility criteria, international students can easily find their way to reach the UK.
FAQs
Is the UK a good option for studying mechanical engineering?
Pursuing a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK can be the best decision for Indian students desiring to make a career in various fields such as robotics, aerospace engineering, research and development, HVAC, etc.
The UK provides modern infrastructure, the latest technology, and relevant career support to international students so that they can fulfil their dreams.
What minimum GRE score is required to study M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering in the UK?
The minimum GRE score required for Indian students to study Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK is around 270-300. However, it is not required to submit the GRE score in some universities such as Imperial College London, University of Manchester, University of Bristol, University of Edinburgh etc.
What is the purpose of ATAS?
The purpose of ATAS or Academic Technology Approval Scheme is to make sure that the student who is coming to the UK to study for an M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering does not acquire knowledge that could be used in the development of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) or Advanced Conventional Military Technology (ACMT) programmes. The ATAS certificate is required in the visa process.
How do international students get employment opportunities in the UK?
Students must engage with industry experts and form a network with them, which can help them land at the right place. Also, they needed to create and update their resume regularly to apply for jobs on popular portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, etc.
Is GMAT applicable for pursuing a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in the UK?
GMAT does not apply to pursuing an M.Sc in Mechanical Engineering in the UK. The GMAT exam only applies to students who want to apply for business and management programs.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
