Industrial engineering studies manufacturing operations, design, practices, and techniques. It is the most ubiquitous branch of engineering and plays a major role in the manufacturing and development process of almost every product and industry.
Industrial engineering involves optimising processes in different industries by integrating resources such as people, money, knowledge, materials, energy, equipment, and information.
Difference between Industrial Engineering and Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is a field of specialisation focused on designing and building machines to solve problems in different industries. In contrast, industrial engineering is closely related to optimising business solutions to improve profitability and business processes by combining engineering and business principles.
Mechanical and industrial engineers deeply understand mathematics and physics and use analytical skills to develop machines and systems. While mechanical engineers specialise in manufacturing and producing complex machinery using thermodynamics, industrial engineers are responsible for ensuring efficiency in production and designing the workflow for optimisation.
Top 10 Universities to Study Industrial Engineering in the UK
1. Loughborough University
The School of Mechanical, Electrical, and Manufacturing Engineering at Loughborough is a prominent academic institution known for its expertise in technological research, innovation, and teaching excellence. It maintains strong national and international industrial links, emphasising the direct involvement of engineers from industry and integrating the latest technologies into its courses to ensure their relevance and up-to-date nature.
The school offers a wide range of engineering courses that underpin various industrial sectors worldwide, such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and energy. With a focus on developing top engineering talent, the school provides unique, industry-focused, and research-driven courses, preparing students for successful careers in their chosen domains. Additionally, it offers foundation routes for students from diverse backgrounds to access degree programmes after completing preparatory modules.
- Course to consider: Product Design Engineering MEng (Hons) degree
- Entry requirements: A-level: AAA grades, including Maths and either Design and Technology, Engineering, or Physics. International Baccalaureate (IB): 37 points with at least 6 points in HL Maths and either Design Technology or Physics at HL level.
- International fees: £27,250
2. Cranfield University
The Engineering and Management of Manufacturing Systems MSc course at Cranfield University focuses on developing professionals with comprehensive knowledge of creating and managing competitive manufacturing operations. It emphasises teamwork, transferable skills, and industrially relevant projects. Modules include Induction, Operations Management, Enterprise Systems, Operations Analysis, Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Internet of Things, Supply Chain Management, and Manufacturing Strategy.
Course modules are designed to reflect the needs of businesses and industries and may change or be updated to enhance the student learning experience. Graduates pursue diverse careers in sectors ranging from financial services to healthcare. Students gain essential skills in project management, process improvement, and operational efficiency.
- Course to consider: Engineering and Management of Manufacturing Systems MSc
- Entry requirements: A first or second-class UK Honours degree in a relevant science, engineering or related discipline, or the international equivalent of these UK qualifications.
- International fees: £26,580
3. University of Cambridge
The Cambridge Industrial Systems, Manufacturing, and Management (ISMM) programme prepares graduates for successful early careers in the industry. It offers a unique approach, combining academic teaching with industrial visits, seminars, skills development, and real industry projects. This intensive programme exposes students to diverse working environments and cultures.
Graduates gain a broader perspective and experience, opening doors to various industrial careers. The curriculum includes taught modules, company visits, in-company projects, an overseas study tour, and a research dissertation. The learning process emphasises hands-on experiences and reflective thinking, with academic and industrial tutors' mentorship. Company visits and projects may be conducted online when necessary.
- Course to consider: MPhil in Industrial Systems, Manufacture, and Management
- Entry requirements: UK Good II.i Honours Degree.
- International fees: £33,641
4. University of Strathclyde
The MEng Manufacturing Engineering with Management at Strathclyde equips students with the skills to create and manage technological solutions for various industries. It combines technical engineering knowledge with production and management principles to meet the increasing demands of global customers and online services.
The curriculum covers mechanics, manufacturing, electronics, programming, and engineering calculations, integrating them with production processes, CAD, rapid prototyping, and digital prototyping technologies. Emphasis is placed on operational improvement, quality management, and environmental sustainability. Students gain practical skills to transform design concepts into real-world products, ensuring success in the competitive global market while meeting targets for waste reduction and increased output.
- Course to consider: MEng Manufacturing Engineering with Management
- Entry requirements: A Levels: Year 1 entry: AAB-BBB (Maths, Physics), Year 2 entry: A*AA-AAB (Maths, Physics). International Baccalaureate: Year 1 entry: 36-32 (Maths HL5, Physics HL5), Year 2 entry: 38-34 (Maths HL6, Physics HL6).
- International fees: £23,750
5. University of Nottingham
The MSc in Industrial Engineering and Operations Management at Nottingham equips you with strategic abilities for smooth business operations and a competitive edge. You'll study modules covering management techniques, supply chain planning, decision-making, and quality control. Tailor your degree to match your career goals and gain industry-recognised digital skills from Microsoft and SAP.
With a clear understanding of resolving organisational difficulties and analytical skills for operational challenges, you'll graduate prepared to tackle real-world problems creatively. The Business School's global alumni network provides valuable connections, and the triple accreditation ensures a top-notch education. Specialised core modules enhance your expertise in managing contemporary operations.
- Course to consider: Industrial Engineering and Operations Management MSc
- Entry requirements: 2:1 (or international equivalent) in a business, engineering or science-related discipline.
- International fees: £25,000
6. University of Manchester
The MSc in Mechanical Engineering Design at the University of Manchester offers a comprehensive programme for aspiring mechanical engineers. It includes theoretical learning, practical training, and hands-on projects to enhance students' problem-solving abilities and engineering expertise. The degree curriculum consists of 180 credits. Mandatory modules include Experimental Methods, Research Methods, Finite Elements, Mechanical Engineering Group Design, and a Dissertation. Students can choose optional modules such as Composites and Polymers, Acoustics & Advanced Vibrations, Robotics, Metrology and Bioengineering, and Structural Integrity.
- Course to consider: MSc Mechanical Engineering Design
- Entry requirements: An Upper Second Class UK Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant science or engineering discipline.
- International fees: £32,500
7. Imperial College London
The MEng in Design Engineering offers a comprehensive programme focusing on the design of advanced products, services, experiences, and systems. Emphasising creativity, computer-aided engineering, optimisation, human factors, and enterprise skills, the course equips students with the necessary knowledge to launch innovative products to the market. Students engage in project and coursework modules throughout the programme, progressively combining engineering, design, and business knowledge.
- Course to consider: Design Engineering (MEng)
- Entry requirements: A-Levels: A* A A to A* A* A with A* in Mathematics. IB: 39-40 points 7 in Mathematics and 6 in one further subject (both at Higher Level) to 7 in Mathematics and 7 in one further subject (both at Higher Level)
- International fees:
8. University of Bath
The Faculty of Engineering & Design at the University of Bath offers research-led teaching in architectural, engineering, and design disciplines, providing excellent career prospects for graduates. Its Integrated Design Engineering MEng (Hons) course is tailored for creative engineers who want to develop innovative products and systems. It emphasises combining engineering with transferable skills like problem-solving and critical thinking.
- Course to consider: Integrated Design Engineering MEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: A level: A*AA A*AA in three A levels, including Mathematics and Physics, with A* in Mathematics or Physics. International Baccalaureate Diploma: 36 points overall and 7, 6, 6 in three Higher Level subjects, including Physics and either HL Mathematics.
- International fees: £26,200
9. University of Warwick
The MSc in Manufacturing Systems Engineering and Management at the University of Warwick is ideal for engineering graduates interested in manufacturing systems and operations management. The course emphasises value creation and strategic development in manufacturing, incorporating the latest techniques and processes. Students benefit from cutting-edge research in advanced materials, additive layer manufacturing, automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing.
- Course to consider: MSc Manufacturing Systems Engineering and Management (MSEM)
- Entry requirements: A UK second-class engineering honours degree (or equivalent).
- International fees: £29,950
10. Lancaster University
Engineering at Lancaster University offers a general entry point for students who want to explore various engineering disciplines before choosing a specialisation. In the first year, students gain a well-rounded understanding of engineering concepts and their interdisciplinary nature. From the second year onwards, students can opt for specialised programmes accredited by professional bodies like IET, IMechE, and IChemE. The flexibility allows students to focus on specific areas of interest, preparing them for diverse roles in engineering.
- Course to consider: BEng (Hons) Engineering
- Entry requirements: A Level ABB. International Baccalaureate 32 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 Higher Level subjects
- International fees: £26,550
Careers in Industrial Engineering
Industrial Engineering degrees are multidimensional and interdisciplinary and overlap with other engineering specialisations, such as manufacturing engineering, product engineering, supply-chain engineering, financial engineering, ergonomics, management science, and operations research.
Industrial engineers have interesting career prospects in multiple industries, such as finance, marketing, hospitals, banking, information systems, and social services. They work in diverse roles, including health and safety engineers, management analysts, project managers, logistics, cost estimators, and quality control engineers.
Study Industrial Engineering in the UK
If you want more information about studying for a master's in engineering in the UK, book a free consultation with SI-UK today. Our expert team of international education consultants will help you find the best engineering courses and guide you through the application process.
FAQ
Which is the best country to study industrial engineering?
The best country to study industrial engineering depends on various factors such as the reputation of universities, available resources, faculty expertise, and career opportunities. Countries like the United Kingdom are known for their impressive industrial engineering courses.
Which degree is best for industrial engineering?
The best degree for industrial engineering is typically a bachelor's or master's degree in industrial engineering itself. However, related degrees like Manufacturing Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Operations Research can also be valuable, depending on individual career goals and interests.
Is industrial engineering in demand?
Industrial engineers play a crucial role in improving organisational efficiency and competitiveness with a focus on optimising processes, reducing costs, and enhancing productivity. The demand for industrial engineers is expected to remain strong as companies continue to seek ways to improve their operations and stay competitive in the global market.
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