Best Mechanical Engineering Universities in the UK

The UK is one of the leading countries in the world for engineering education and research. In fact, the best engineering universities in the UK are often ranked the top in the world. Similarly, the country has a long and rich history of innovation and excellence in the mechanical engineering field, dating back to the Industrial Revolution. The country is a prime influence in the making of modern machinery and industry, and the best mechanical engineering universities in the UK have been continuing the tradition. 

Today, the UK is home to more than 100 universities that offer mechanical engineering degrees at various levels, from bachelor’s to doctorate. According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), there were 29,415 students enrolled in mechanical engineering courses in the UK in 2020/21, making it the second most popular engineering subject after civil engineering. The UK also produces some of the highest quality research in mechanical engineering, ranking third in the world for citations per paper and fourth for field-weighted citation impact in 2019.  

The mechanical engineering landscape in the UK is dynamic and diverse, offering a range of opportunities for students and graduates to pursue their interests and careers. Whether it is designing sustainable energy systems, developing cutting-edge medical devices, exploring space technologies, or creating smart robots, there is something for everyone in this exciting and rewarding field. In this article, we will delve into the best mechanical engineering programs in the UK, covering information about tuition fees, eligibility, and more.

Overview of Mechanical Engineering in the UK 

Why Study Mechanical Engineering in the UK?

Quality Education: The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious and renowned universities with strong engineering programs. Institutions like Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, and others consistently rank high in global university rankings, ensuring you receive a quality education.  

Diverse Curriculum: Mechanical Engineering programs in the UK often have a comprehensive and diverse curriculum that covers various aspects of the field, from theoretical concepts to practical applications. You’ll have the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, robotics, and more.  

Research Opportunities: Studying in the UK will give you access to cutting-edge research facilities, laboratories, and opportunities to collaborate on groundbreaking projects.  

International Recognition: A degree from a UK university is highly regarded worldwide. Employers around the globe value the quality of education and skills gained from studying in the UK, increasing your career prospects both within the country and internationally.  

Industry Connections: Many UK universities have strong ties with industries and engineering firms. This often translates into opportunities for internships, work placements, and networking events. Gaining industry experience during your studies can greatly enhance your employability. 

Cultural Exposure: Studying in the UK provides a multicultural and diverse environment. You’ll have the chance to interact with students from different backgrounds and cultures, broadening your horizons and enriching your personal experiences.  

Shorter Duration: Many UK undergraduate programs are typically three years long, as opposed to four years in some other countries. This can save you both time and tuition fees.  

Scholarship Opportunities: UK universities offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options for international students. These can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with studying abroad.  

Work Opportunities: The UK offers post-study work visas that allow international students to work in the country for a certain period after completing their studies. This can provide valuable work experience and potentially lead to long-term employment opportunities. Additionally, students can work and study in the UK during their stay. 

Best Mechanical Engineering Universities in the UK 

Imperial College London 

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is renowned for its high-quality research that addresses global challenges and contributes to the advancement of science and technology. The department has world-class facilities for research, such as the Centre for Blast Injury Studies, the Centre for Advanced Structural Ceramics, the Centre for Nuclear Engineering, the Centre for Composites Research, and more. The undergraduate program in Mechanical Engineering offers a four-year MEng degree or a three-year BEng degree. The program covers the core principles and methods of mechanical engineering, as well as elective modules that allow students to explore their interests and specialize in their chosen areas.

Suggested Reading: Study Mechanical Engineering in Poland

University of Cambridge 

The University of Cambridge is one of the most prestigious institutions for higher education and research in the world. It has a long history of excellence and innovation in engineering, dating back to the 17th century. 

The undergraduate program in Engineering offers a four-year MEng degree or a three-year BA degree. The program covers the core principles and methods of engineering, as well as elective modules that allow students to explore their interests and specialize in their chosen areas. The mechanical engineering specialization is available from the third year onwards and covers topics such as fluid dynamics, heat transfer, solid mechanics, materials engineering, manufacturing engineering, design methods, and more. The course is accredited by the Engineering Council and by all the major institutions, including the Institutions of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). 

Suggested Reading: Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Italy [Top Courses & Fees]

University of Oxford 

The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It has a reputation for excellence in teaching and research and attracts students and staff from over 150 countries. The Department of Engineering Science is one of the largest and most diverse in the University, offering a range of courses and programs in various fields of engineering.  The Department of Engineering Science has a strong reputation for its research and teaching in mechanical engineering, which covers topics such as solid mechanics, materials, manufacturing, design, robotics, and more. 

The undergraduate program in Engineering Science offers a four-year MEng degree. The program covers the core principles and methods of engineering, as well as elective modules that allow students to explore their interests and specialize in their chosen areas. Students can also opt for a year abroad or a year in industry as part of their degree. The mechanical engineering specialization (Solid materials and Mechanics ) is available from the third year onwards and covers topics such as fluid dynamics, heat transfer, solid mechanics, materials engineering, manufacturing engineering, design methods, and more. The MSc by Research in Engineering Science is suitable for students who want to pursue a career in research or industry, or who want to prepare for a PhD program. 

Suggested Reading: Masters in Mechanical Engineering in UAE- Best Courses & Fees

Cranfield University 

Cranfield University is a British postgraduate public research university specializing in science, engineering, design, technology, and management. Cranfield was founded as the College of Aeronautics (CoA) in 1946 and became a university in 1969. The university has a student population of about 4,800, all of whom are postgraduates. According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023, Cranfield is ranked 5th in the UK and 28th in the world for mechanical engineering.

The Advanced Mechanical Engineering MSc is one of the courses offered by Cranfield University in the field of mechanical engineering. It is designed to prepare students for a successful mechanical engineering career leading large, complex projects. The course consists of taught modules (40%), a group project (20%), and an individual research project (40%). The course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) as meeting the academic requirement for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Suggested Reading: Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Ireland

The University of Manchester 

The University of Manchester is a public research university in Manchester, England. It was formed in 2004 by the merger of two former universities: the Victoria University of Manchester and the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST). The university is one of the largest and most prestigious in the UK, with over 40,000 students and 12,000 staff from over 160 countries. The university is also a member of the Russell Group, a network of leading research-intensive universities in the UK. 

Suggested Reading: Top Mechanical Engineering Universities in 2023-24

Admission Requirements for Studying Mechanical Engineering in the UK 

Undergraduate 

• A high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.  
• Some universities might require specific subjects at the high school level, such as Mathematics and Physics. 
• English language proficiency certificate through tests like IELTS (6.0) or TOEFL iBT (80) 
• Some universities might require additional entrance exams.  
• Personal statements and academic references. 

Post-graduate  

• A bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum of 60% to 75% or equivalent. 
• A score in a standardized test such as GMAT, GRE, or MAT depending on the program and university you are applying to. 
• Most programs require relevant work experience. 
• You need to demonstrate your English language proficiency by taking a test such as IELTS(6.5) or TOEFL iBT (90). 
• You need to submit other documents such as a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a CV.
• For certain specialized programs, a portfolio showcasing previous relevant work or a writing sample might be required.

Career Opportunities for Mechanical Engineering Graduates 

Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile and in-demand fields of engineering, as it involves the design, development, and maintenance of various systems and devices that have moving parts. Mechanical engineers can apply their skills and knowledge to a wide range of sectors, such as aerospace, automotive, construction, energy, manufacturing, medicine, railway, and sport. According to the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), there are over 100,000 mechanical engineers working in the UK, and the demand for them is expected to grow in the future. Some of the top employers of mechanical engineers in the UK include Airbus Group, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover, Arup, Atkins, etc. 

Mechanical engineers can work as design engineers, project engineers, research engineers, maintenance engineers, production engineers, quality engineers, and more. According to Glassdoor, the average starting salary for a graduate mechanical engineer in the UK is 42,725 GBP per year, which is higher than the national average for all graduates. The salary can increase with experience and qualifications, reaching up to 60,000 GBP or more for senior or chartered engineers. Mechanical engineers can also enhance their career prospects by joining professional bodies such as IMechE or Engineering Council and gaining accreditations such as Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng). 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, choosing the right university for a mechanical engineering degree is a crucial step toward a promising career in the field. The best mechanical engineering universities in the UK excel in providing quality education and research opportunities. It’s important to make an informed decision by considering factors such as academic reputation, industry connections, and available resources, to ensure success in the dynamic world of mechanical engineering. You also need to consider other factors such as scholarships, student visa, living costs, etc. For more information and guidance about the same, reach out to us at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!