Engineering is one of the most popular and rewarding fields of study in the world, with them being in high demand across a variety of sectors and industries. As engineering gains more momentum in the 21st century, the United Kingdom has become one of the most prominent destinations to pursue high-quality education in the field. The best universities in the UK for engineering also feature highly among the best in the world.
Practically speaking the UK is the holy grail for engineering aspirants. The best universities in the UK are also the best in the world. Eight universities from the UK are featured among the top hundred engineering universities in the world, according to the QS World Rankings 2023. Moreover, the UK’s emphasis on hands-on skills and innovative thinking has established it as an appealing destination for aspiring engineers.
In this article, we will look at some of the best engineering universities in the UK, find out more about what makes these institutions unique, and explore the entry requirements, fees, career prospects, and more.
Overview of Engineering Universities in the UK
| No. of Universities | 30+ |
| No. of Programs | 100+ |
| Types of Degrees | BEng, MEng, MSc, PhD |
| Duration of Study | Undergraduate: 3-4 years
Postgraduate: 1-3 years |
| Tuition Fees (2023/24) | 24,000-45,000 GBP per year (international students) |
Why Study Engineering in the UK?
Quality Education: The UK is renowned for its high-quality education system and rigorous academic standards, ensuring a solid foundation in engineering principles.
Diverse Specializations: UK universities offer a wide range of engineering disciplines, allowing you to specialize in areas like civil, mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering.
Global Recognition: UK engineering degrees are globally recognized and respected by employers and institutions around the world. A UK engineering degree opens doors to job opportunities worldwide, as engineering skills are in demand across various industries.
Cutting-Edge Research: Many UK universities are at the forefront of engineering research, providing opportunities to engage in innovative projects and stay updated with the latest advancements.
Industry Connections: The UK’s engineering programs often have strong ties with industries, offering internships, placements, and networking opportunities to enhance your employability.
Shorter Duration: Bachelor’s degrees in the UK typically take three years, and master’s degrees can often be completed in one year, saving you time and tuition costs compared to some other countries.
Cultural Diversity: Studying in the UK exposes you to a diverse and multicultural environment, enriching your overall educational experience.
Scholarship Opportunities: Many UK universities offer scholarships for international students, easing financial burdens and recognizing academic excellence.
Strong Alumni Networks: Many UK universities have strong alumni networks that can provide mentorship, job opportunities, and industry connections.
Cultural Experience: Beyond academics, you’ll have the chance to experience the UK’s rich history, culture, and landmarks, making your educational journey memorable.
Work Opportunities: The UK’s post-study work visa allows international graduates to work in the UK after completing their degrees, and gaining practical experience. You can also work and study during your time in the country.
Best Engineering Universities in the UK
Imperial College London
Imperial College London is ranked sixth in the world and third in the UK for engineering and technology. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various disciplines of engineering, such as bioengineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and materials science. The engineering faculty at Imperial is known for its cutting-edge research and industry collaborations, as well as its entrepreneurial culture and innovation ecosystem.
| Popular Programs | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor’s: Aeronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Design Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering | 3-4 years | 37,900 GBP |
| Master’s: Advanced Aeronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Advanced Chemical Engineering, Advanced Mechanical Engineering, | 1 year | 38,600 GBP |
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University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is ranked fifth globally and first in the UK for engineering and technology. It offers undergraduate degrees in engineering science, biomedical engineering, and information engineering, as well as a range of postgraduate courses and research programs. The engineering department at Cambridge has a history of excellence and innovation, dating back to the 12th century. The Department of Engineering is the largest department at the University of Cambridge and one of the leading centers of engineering in the world. The undergraduate engineering program at Cambridge is designed to lead to two pathways a three-year honors path (BA degree) or a four-year extended path (MEng degree). The undergraduate course attracts students from all around the world with an annual intake of over 300.
| Popular Programs | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Aerospace and Aerothermal Engineering, Bioengineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Information and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering | 3-4 years | 37,293 GBP |
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University College London
UCL is ranked 39th in the world and fifth in the UK for engineering and technology. The engineering faculty at UCL is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach and global impact, with research centers and partnerships across the world. The UCL Engineering Faculty is one of the largest and most diverse engineering faculties in the UK, with over 6,000 students and 700 staff members. It comprises 11 departments that cover different areas of engineering, such as mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electronic engineering, computer science, and biomedical engineering.
| Popular Programs | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelors: Biomedical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering | 3-4 years | 37,500 GBP |
| Masters: Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Processing Engineering, Environmental Systems Engineering, Civil Engineering, Internet Engineering, Computer Science | 1 year | 35,000 GBP |
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University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is ranked fourth in the world and second in the UK for engineering and technology. It offers undergraduate degrees in engineering science, biomedical engineering, and information engineering, as well as a range of postgraduate courses and research programs. The engineering department at Oxford has a reputation for excellence and impact, with world-class facilities and collaborations. The undergraduate degree in engineering science is a four-year course that covers the fundamentals of engineering in the first two years and allows students to choose from a variety of specializations in the third and fourth years. Students can also opt for a year abroad or a year in industry as part of their degree. The degree leads to a Master of Engineering (MEng) qualification.
| Popular Programs | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelors: Engineering Science (Specializations: Biomedical Chemical and Process, Civil and Offshore, Control, Electrical and Opto-electronic, Information, Solid Materials and Mechanics, Thermofluids and Turbomachinery) | 4 years | 44,290 GBP |
| Masters: MSc by Research in Engineering Science | 2-3 years | 29,700 GBP |
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The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is ranked 48th in the world and fifth in the UK for engineering and technology. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various branches of engineering, such as chemical engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, and civil engineering. The engineering school at Manchester has had a tradition of excellence and innovation since its foundation in 1824 when it became the first English university to offer a degree in engineering. The engineering department at the University of Manchester is one of the largest and most diverse in the UK, with over 1,000 academic and research staff and over 8,000 students.
| Popular Programs | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelors: Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science | 3-4 years | 30,000 GBP |
| Masters: Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science | 1 year | 32,500 GBP |
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University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s top universities, consistently ranked in the world’s top 50 and placed 22nd in the 2024 QS World University Rankings. It is a public research university based in Edinburgh, Scotland, and has a history dating back to 1582. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines, including science and engineering.
The School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh is one of the largest schools in the university and one of the leading centers of engineering in the world. It has six institutes, housing more than 2,500 students, that cover different areas of engineering: Bioengineering, Energy Systems, Infrastructure and Environment, Materials and Processes, Electronics, and Robotics and Autonomous Systems. It is also actively involved with industries and its graduates contribute significantly to the economy upon joining the workforce. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) review, the School was ranked 3rd in the UK for the quality and breadth of combined engineering research, according to Times Higher Education.
| Popular Programs | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelors: Artificial Intelligence and Software Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Electronics and Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering | 3-4 years | 32,200 GBP |
| Masters: Advanced Chemical Engineering, Advanced Power Engineering, Electrical Power Engineering, Structural and Fire Safety Engineering | 1 year | 24,800 GBP |
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University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is a public research university located in Southampton, England. It is ranked 81st in the world and 7th in the UK for engineering and technology by the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. The engineering department at Southampton is one of the largest and most successful in the UK, with over 500 academic and research staff and over 5,000 students. The undergraduate programs are typically four-year courses that lead to a Master of Engineering (MEng) qualification, or three-year courses that lead to a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) qualification. The undergraduate programs are accredited by professional bodies such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), or the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).
| Popular Programs | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelors: Acoustical Engineering, Aeronautics and Astronautics, Aerospace Electronic Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering | 3-4 years | 27,400 GBP |
| Masters: Acoustical and Vibrations Engineering, Maritime Engineering Science, Mechatronics, Optical Engineering, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering | 1 year | 29,512 GBP |
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Admission Requirements for Studying Engineering in the UK
Bachelors
- You will typically need a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. For international students, this might include qualifications like A-levels, IB (International Baccalaureate), or equivalent.
- Some universities might require specific subjects at the high school level, such as Mathematics and Physics, to demonstrate a strong foundation for engineering studies.
- Since English is the primary language of instruction, you’ll likely need to prove your proficiency through tests like IELTS (6.0) or TOEFL(80)
- Some universities might require you to take additional entrance exams such as the Physics Admission Test required by the University of Oxford Personal
- Many universities will ask for a personal statement outlining your interest in engineering and why you want to study it.
Masters
- You need to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum of 60% to 75% or equivalent.
- You may need to take a standardized test such as GMAT, GRE, or MAT depending on the program and university you are applying to.
- Some programs may also require relevant work experience or a research proposal.
- 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.
Job Opportunities for Engineering Graduates in the UK
There are many job opportunities for engineering graduates in the UK, as the country has a strong and diverse engineering sector that covers various fields, such as aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and software engineering. Engineering graduates can find work in different industries, such as manufacturing, energy, construction, transport, healthcare, and telecommunications. Engineering graduates can also work in research and development, consultancy, or academia.
According to the Engineering UK 2021 report, the engineering sector contributed 25.9% of the UK’s gross value added (GVA) in 2019 and employed 5.7 million people. The report also states that the demand for engineering skills is expected to grow in the future, especially in areas such as digital technologies, net zero emissions, and healthcare innovation.
As per the Glassdoor, the average salary of engineering graduates in the UK is around 45,712 GBP per year. The salary also varies by the skill level of the graduates, with high-skilled graduates earning more than low-skilled graduates in most fields. Salaries range from 26,000 GBP to 88,000 GBP depending on the level, field, and employer of engineering. The highest-paying engineering fields are computing, mathematical sciences, engineering & technology, and medicine & dentistry. Some of the high-profile graduate employers in the UK engineering sector are WSP, AECOM, Atkins, Jaguar Land Rover, Arm, Arup, Siemens, Rolls-Royce, Ramboll, Mott MacDonald, Airbus, and Roke Manor Research.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UK is a prime destination for quality engineering education. The best universities in the UK for engineering offer strong programs, faculty, and facilities for various engineering disciplines. These institutions are known for producing skilled graduates well-prepared for careers in engineering. These UK universities have a history of impactful contributions to engineering and continue to provide practical education for future engineers.
If you chose the UK, as your destination, you are going to be overwhelmed by the choices and the quality of education offered. As such, when choosing a university, it’s important to consider program offerings and strengths to align with your career goals. Feel free to reach out to us at Gyanberry, for more information regarding the same and admission assistance. Book your free video call appointment now!
