Course overview
Shaped by partnerships with world-renowned organisations, learn to become a leader in modern manufacturing with the latest insights in industry.
Combine theoretical knowledge with practical application and digital technologies to gain a holistic understanding of the complexities in advanced manufacturing.
As you engage with research-active staff within the Institute of Design, Robotics and Manufacturing, you’ll immerse yourself in an environment of innovation and critical thinking.
You'll study intelligent automation systems, additive manufacturing, digital twin technologies and sustainable production methods. You’ll also develop essential professional skills that’ll prepare you for a wide range of careers in the manufacturing sector.
Once you graduate, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue roles in automation engineering, manufacturing systems analytics, and digital manufacturing, contributing to advancements in smart manufacturing and sustainable industrial practices.
Why study at Leeds?
- Collaborate with Rolls-Royce, Siemens, BAE Systems and Sulzer: Benefit from guest lectures, real-world projects and potential placements from our industry partners.
- Work hands-on with cutting-edge equipment: Access CAD facilities for design work, CNC machinery, 3D printing facilities and industry-standard digital manufacturing software.
- Learn industry-relevant skills for your career: Build skills in leadership, project management and digital transformation to prepare you for diverse roles in the manufacturing industry.
- Join our racing team: Leeds Gryphon Racing is your chance to build and race a car. We’re one of the top Formula Student teams in the UK and have raced worldwide – from Italy to Japan. Watch our video to see how previous teams got on in the tournament.
- Bring your skills to life outside the classroom: ShockSoc lets you access high-quality technical visits, get involved in social events and even build your own robot in our Robot Fighting League (RFL).
- Gain real-world experience: Build professional skills and glean insight through an eight-week optional online work experience programme, working on a real project with a partner organisation.
Course details and modules
You’ll build a strong understanding of the core scientific and technical principles behind modern manufacturing and assembly processes through our core modules. These modules will give you the knowledge and tools to improve the design and performance of engineering systems that meet real-world requirements. This foundation will support your learning across the course, including your individual research project.
You can also select optional modules which appeal to your interests and background and gain advanced engineering skills in areas such as experimental methods and computational modelling – fundamental manufacturing process methods. You’ll also take part in a team design project, working with other students to a specific design brief and taking into consideration factors such as environmental impact, regulatory requirements, cost implications and more.
The specific skill-based modules that you chose (mostly in semester 1) will inform the rest of your studies where, depending on your background, you’ll select from a range of optional modules (mostly in semester 2). You’ll choose modules in areas that suit your interests and career aspirations, such as fluid dynamics, surface engineering, energy systems, and design optimisation.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Compulsory modules
Professional Project – 60 credits
Throughout the course, you’ll undertake a professional project making use of professional skills including project planning, risk assessment and management. This project allows you to apply what you’ve learned to a piece of research, focusing on a real-world problem, and can be used to explore and develop your specific interests.
You’ll review the literature around your topic and plan the project, before completing the design, analysis, computation and/or experimentation, followed by writing your final thesis after teaching is completed.
Past projects from other MSc programs include:
- Automated manufacturing for ceramic insert for turbine blade casting
- Engineering tribology of additively manufactured polymer-based materials
- Sustainable fabrication of micro/nanoscale structured surfaces
- Computational analysis of strand deposition in extrusion-based additive manufacturing
- Digitalisation of surface coating manufacturing
- Modelling for net zero energy and industrial systems
- Advanced products by 3D printing
A proportion of projects are formally linked to industry and can include spending time at the collaborator’s site over the summer.
Team Design Project – 15 credits
Alongside your professional project, you’ll also participate in a group activity. You'll take a multidisciplinary approach to achieve a solution to a programme-specific, industrially relevant design problem, accounting for full product or system lifecycle.
Design and Manufacturing Technology– 15 credits
Gain practical knowledge of core manufacturing technologies used in modern engineering practice. This module covers computer-aided design (CAD) using SolidWorks, fundamentals of CNC machining, dimensional metrology, and key aspects of quality assurance. Through lectures, software-based tasks, and hands-on group work, you will develop essential skills in design for manufacture, process planning, and measurement.
Advanced Manufacturing – 15 credits
Learn traditional and innovative manufacturing processes and assembly techniques that are commercially available. The module will also cover the latest developments in this rapidly evolving field, including elements of research.
Optional modules
Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options.
Design Optimisation – 15 credits
Acquire a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of design optimisation that will give you the ability to arrive at an improved design for an engineering system that satisfies given requirements.
Surface Engineering and Coatings – 15 credits
The development of Surface Engineering and Advanced Coatings is a National Competency according to the Technology Strategy Board. This module will focus on surface technologies across different manufacturing sectors from mechanical, automotive, medical, space and aerospace applications. Surface engineering methods and the surface characterisation techniques will also be introduced.
Energy Systems, Policy and Economics for Engineers – 15 credits
This module will provide you with engineering backgrounds to some key issues in energy systems, including policy and economics.
Engineering Computational Methods – 15 credits
Engineering simulation software packages rely on computational methods and a good understanding is crucial to use them effectively. The module introduces you to the basic computational methods used to solve engineering problems modelled by ordinary differential equations and parabolic or hyperbolic partial differential equations. You’ll also learn how to implement the learned methods in practice.
Experimental Methods and Analysis – 15 credits
This module offers you theoretical and practical training required for design of experiments and data processing to address engineering problems.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis – 15 credits
Learn how to competently perform computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis with commercial software packages used in industry.
Biomaterials – 15 credits
Understand how advanced materials are selected, processed, tested and evaluated for demanding biomedical applications. Through examples such as joint replacements and implants, you’ll learn how manufacturing route, surface finish, material degradation, wear, biocompatibility and failure mechanisms influence product performance and long-term reliability.
Engineering Psychology and Human Factors – 15 credits
This module will provide you with an overview of the fields of engineering psychology and human factors i.e., of the capabilities, limitations, and behaviours of humans as users and operators of engineered technology (with a special emphasis in this module on ground vehicles and aircraft) as well as the implications of these matters for design of such technology.
Enhance Your Academic and Subject-Specific Language
As part of your course, you will have access to the Professional and Academic Communication module that provides valuable insights into studying a postgraduate degree in the UK while helping you develop your academic and subject-specific vocabulary.
Through a combination of in-person workshops and independent online study, you will explore the use of technology—such as translation tools and generative AI—to support effective communication. You will also build the language and literacy skills necessary to become a more confident and capable communicator throughout your studies.
Learning and teaching
Our groundbreaking research feeds directly into teaching, and you’ll have the opportunity to be taught by academics who are at the forefront of their disciplines. You’ll have regular contact with teaching staff through lectures, seminars, tutorials, small group work and project meetings.
Independent study is also important to the programme, as you develop your problem-solving and research skills as well as your subject knowledge.
Specialist facilities
The School of Mechanical Engineering has made significant investments in manufacturing capabilities over the past decade, providing an exceptional learning environment tailored to the demands of modern industry.
You’ll work in our CNC-integrated workshop, which includes both industrial and desktop-scale machining platforms, ideal for teaching subtractive manufacturing processes. Our dedicated 3D printing laboratory features advanced additive manufacturing equipment, enabling rapid prototyping and experimentation with novel materials such as polymer, ceramic and composites.
You’ll also have access to the Advanced Metrology Lab in the School, which houses 3D optical microscopes, coordinate-measuring machines (CMM), high speed digital cameras and X-ray Micro-CT. In addition, the Bragg Centre for Materials Research offers world-class instruments for materials characterisation and analysis, including SEM, plasma FIB, XRD, and XPS. These facilities are invaluable for conducting research into advanced materials and manufacturing process optimisation.
The programme is supported by a suite of digital tools and simulation software, including SolidWorks for CAD, Abaqus for finite element analysis, and COMSOL Multiphysics for computational modelling. The Helix – the University's Digital Education Service – also supports team projects through cutting-edge digital resources, including immersive technologies such as VR headsets, 3D scanners, and 360-degree cameras, providing you with hands-on experience with smart factory tools widely used in industry.
Our strong industry partnerships also provide opportunities to work on live industrial projects and attend guest lectures from leading experts. In combination, these facilities ensure that graduates are well-prepared for roles in advanced, automated, and sustainable manufacturing sectors.
On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
You’ll be assessed through a variety of approaches to test different knowledge and skills. Assessments will enable you to demonstrate your competency in a particular skill, as well as measuring the extent of your knowledge and understanding. They are designed to be fair and inclusive.
We will use different forms of assessment including written examinations (held at the end of each semester) and coursework that also develops key transferable skills that will be relevant to your future professional practice, such as project reports, teamworking and presentations.
Assessments will develop your ability to bring together evidence from a variety of sources, and to critically understand and evaluate engineering problems. You will also have frequent opportunities to develop your understanding of assessment and to improve your performance, for example through formative assessments with feedback, guided marking, peer review and opportunities to practise key assessment methods.
Applying
Entry requirements
A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in a relevant engineering or science discipline.
As part of your application, you'll need to show evidence that you have studied modules covering advanced mathematics.
We also encourage you to apply if you have a 2:2 (hons) in one of the subjects listed above, relevant work experience or professional qualifications. We take a flexible and inclusive approach and consider every application on its individual merits.
We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Engineering (6 weeks) and Language for Science: Engineering (10 weeks).
We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional, our 10 week online pre-sessional or our 16 week online pre-sessional.
You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.
How to apply
Application deadlines
Please read our How to Apply page for full details, including application deadlines and what to include with your application.
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Friday 30 July 2027 – International applicants
Friday 10 September 2027 – UK applicants
Click below to access the University’s online application system and find out more about the application process.
If you're still unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2027
This course is taught by
School of Mechanical Engineering
Contact us
Postgraduate Admissions Team
Email: pgmech@leeds.ac.uk
Fees
UK: £14,900 (Total)
International: £33,800 (Total)
Additional cost information
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Scholarships and financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Learn more about Masters funding.
Scholarships are also available to help fund your Masters. Find out more and check your eligibility below:
Career opportunities
Manufacturing underpins a huge and diverse range of industries, and is undergoing rapid transformation driven by technology, global market demands and sustainability goals.
With this comes a need for skilled engineers with up-to-date knowledge in advanced manufacturing. This MSc will provide you with the specialist skills and detailed knowledge sought after by a wide range of employers.
Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years
by the UK's leading employers
Careers support
At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.
Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go well beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.
- Dedicated Employability Team: Meet with our qualified careers consultants and specialist employability and placements officers, on hand to help you choose the right path and develop the skills to get there. They can support with CV and cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile building, mock interviews and navigating AI: get confident with tailored advice and techniques.
- Employability and networking events: Get involved in a full range of events, including careers fairs and specialist industry talks with employers who are actively recruiting. You’ll also benefit from mentoring and a supportive careers community, helping you make connections, build your network, and shape your journey as a future professional.
- Skills training: We embed transferable skills training in all our programmes to support your transition to the workplace. Gain expertise employers value, such as communication, problem-solving and research and data analysis.
- MyCareer system: Access a dedicated portal where you can book careers appointments, view helpful resources and browse vacancies and events. Access digital tools, including LinkedIn support, video interview preparation, plus global job market and visa guidance. We also offer pre‑arrival support to help you prepare for career planning in the UK and make the most of your time with us.
- Exclusive opportunities: Bring your enterprise to market with our award-winning business advice service, Spark. Apply for vacancies only available to our students. And hone your skills further with Leeds University Union, home to volunteering opportunities and over 300 clubs and societies.
Explore more about your employability opportunities at the University of Leeds.
Work placements and industry experience
While studying at Leeds, you’ll have the opportunity to complete an eight-week online work experience programme, working on a project aligned with your academic discipline in partnership with a relevant organisation.
You’ll develop key professional skills and gain valuable insight into your chosen field, helping to solve a real business challenge based on a live company brief.
This experience will enhance your CV, helping you stand out in the competitive graduate jobs market and improving your prospects of securing the career you want.
Benefits of the virtual work experience:
- Fully online and designed to fit around your studies.
- Opportunities to build your professional network.
- Gain valuable insight and consultancy experience with a UK or international organisation, working on a time limited brief.
- Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams to tackle real business challenges.
- Apply your learning in practice and develop hands-on skills.
- Strengthen your employability and career prospects.
- Build confidence, make new connections and explore your future career options.
Throughout the eight-week programme, you’ll be supported by an academic tutor who will meet regularly with your group. You’ll also receive guidance from the employability team at every stage.
We’ll provide tailored careers support sessions to help you develop professional behaviours and showcase your skills to employers. On completion, you’ll receive a reference letter from Leeds recognising the skills and experience you have gained.
When you begin your MSc, the employability team will introduce the scheme during a lecture in your first month, answer any questions and explain how to register.