Automotive engineering is an exciting field around designing, building, and improving vehicles, from cars and trucks to motorcycles and electric scooters. It's all about making vehicles faster, safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. Automotive engineers are like the wizards behind the scenes, creating the magic that powers our daily transportation.
From cutting-edge electric cars to sleek sports cars and durable trucks, automotive engineering plays a pivotal role in shaping our future on the road. Learn more about the best UK universities for automotive engineering degrees below. To apply, or have any questions answered about studying automotive engineering in the UK, arrange a free consultation.
Top 10 UK Universities for Automotive Engineering
1. University of Bath
The University of Bath's automotive engineering department is a leader in pursuing sustainable transportation solutions. Students engage in cutting-edge research, focusing on environmentally friendly vehicle designs and alternative energy sources. The university's facilities are state-of-the-art, featuring wind tunnels and advanced testing laboratories that provide students with a unique, hands-on experience. This approach allows them to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create vehicles that are not only efficient but also environmentally responsible, making them well-prepared for the challenges of the modern automotive industry.
Suggested course: Automotive Engineering with Electric Propulsion MSc
International fees: £31,600
2. University of Southampton
The University of Southampton automotive engineering degree equips you with the essential knowledge to design, build, and test vehicles. You’ll start with core subjects like vehicle dynamics, structural design, and propulsion, and then have the opportunity to specialise in areas such as composite engineering and automotive electronics. With access to state-of-the-art workshops, work placements, and Formula Student competitions, this course offers practical experience and industry exposure, preparing you for a career in automotive mechanical engineering.
Suggested course: Mechanical Engineering / Automotive Engineering (MEng)
International fees: £29,400
3. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds offers a holistic automotive engineering curriculum that covers vehicle design, sustainability, and autonomous systems. Students here have access to cutting-edge engineering laboratories, computational facilities, and unparalleled research opportunities. This combination of a robust academic foundation and practical experience ensures that students are well-prepared to excel in the automotive engineering industry, whether they aim to design the cars of the future or lead sustainability efforts.
Suggested course: Automotive Engineering MSc (Eng)
International fees: £31,000
4. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham's automotive engineering programme emphasises electric and hybrid vehicle technology. Courses delve into electric powertrains, battery systems, and vehicle electrification, all critical components of future mobility. The university's research facilities include advanced battery testing labs, enabling students to gain in-depth knowledge of sustainable transportation. Graduates are poised to become leaders in the field and advocate for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient mobility solutions.
Suggested course: Automotive Engineering PhD
International fees: £29,560
5. Loughborough University
Loughborough University's automotive engineering programme is renowned for its comprehensiveness. It offers courses encompassing vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, aerodynamics, and manufacturing processes. The university takes pride in its world-class engineering facilities, which include dedicated laboratories for engine testing, crash simulations, and prototype development. These cutting-edge facilities ensure that students have access to the latest technology and equipment, providing them with a solid foundation for a successful career in the competitive world of automotive engineering.
Suggested course: Automotive Engineering BEng (Hons)
International fees: £28,600
6. University of Sussex
The University of Sussex places a strong emphasis on vehicle technology and innovation. Its automotive engineering courses are designed to prepare students for the evolving transportation landscape. The university's cutting-edge laboratories and research centres provide students with numerous groundbreaking research and experimentation opportunities. This approach equips students to explore and develop cutting-edge automotive technologies, making them catalysts for change in the automotive industry.
Suggested course: Sustainable Automotive Engineering MEng
International fees: £25,000
7. Brunel University London
Brunel University London's approach to automotive engineering education is distinguished by its hands-on emphasis. Students have the unique opportunity to collaborate on real projects with industry partners, gaining practical experience in vehicle design and manufacturing. The university's dedicated workshops and automotive research centres make it a dynamic hub for automotive innovation. Here, students are immersed in a vibrant environment where they can learn, grow, and contribute to the ever-evolving automotive industry.
Suggested course: Automotive Engineering BEng
International fees: £23,615
8. Northumbria University
Northumbria University is synonymous with innovation in automotive engineering education. Its curriculum delves into futuristic topics, including autonomous vehicles, electric mobility, and vehicle connectivity. The university's engineering facilities are remarkable, featuring driving simulators, prototyping labs, and a dedicated automotive research centre. These facilities provide students with the resources and environment to work on the latest developments in the automotive industry, enabling them to play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation.
Suggested course: Automotive Engineering MEng (Hons)
International fees: £20,950
9. UWE Bristol
UWE Bristol's automotive engineering department offers a unique practical approach to education. The thoughtfully designed courses equip students with hands-on vehicle design and development skills. The university's well-equipped engineering workshops and strong industry connections offer an excellent platform for students to understand the automotive industry from the ground up. This practical knowledge prepares graduates to contribute effectively to the real-world engineering landscape.
Suggested course: BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering
International fees: £15,850
10. Staffordshire University
The University of Staffordshire fosters strong connections with the automotive industry, making its automotive engineering department a hub for practical learning. The courses offered here prepare students to tackle real-world challenges in the field, and the university's excellent industry relationships facilitate placements and work experiences with renowned automotive companies. This active learning environment and access to cutting-edge research enhance the educational experience and empower students to contribute effectively to the automotive industry upon graduation.
Suggested course: Automotive Engineering MSc
International fees: £17,500
Automotive Engineering Entry Requirements
For a Bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering in the UK, entry requirements vary between universities. For the IB, universities often ask for scores around 32-36 points, including Higher Level subjects in Mathematics and science (typically Physics). For international students, an IELTS score of around 6.0–6.5 (with no band lower than 5.5 or 6.0) is generally required.
It’s always advisable to check specific requirements for each university, as they may vary based on the course’s focus and competitive entry standards.
Study Automotive Engineering in the UK
If you would like to have any further questions answered about UK study or to begin your application, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today.
FAQs
Are the automotive engineering programmes from the UK accredited internationally?
Many automotive engineering programmes in the UK are internationally accredited, which means they meet global standards for quality education in this field.
Are there scholarships available for Indian students pursuing automotive engineering in the UK?
Scholarships are available for Indian students who want to study automotive engineering in the UK. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.
Are there any English language proficiency requirements for Indian students?
Yes, Indian students typically need to meet English language proficiency requirements, such as taking tests like IELTS or TOEFL, to demonstrate their ability to study in English-speaking environments.
Is there an opportunity for internships or work placements during the course?
Many UK universities offer internships or work placements during the automotive engineering course. This can give students valuable real-world experience in the field.
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