An automotive engineering degree provides students with a passion for motor vehicles to specialise in a unique branch of engineering. You'll further lean into the technical expertise needed to advance in the constantly evolving automotive industry by improving your fundamental engineering skills, including maths, science and design.
Why study automotive engineering in the UK?
Because demand for vehicles in the international market, especially in newer and developing countries, is on the rise, car design is constantly evolving, and UK universities are at the forefront of mechanical engineering degrees in both learning and research. In total, there are over 40 UK universities offering programmes in automotive engineering.
In 2019, the UK produced 1.4 million vehicles and exported over 80% of its current production to global markets. For students interested in manufacturing, design, production and supply chain management, MSc in Automotive Engineering UK programmes are an ideal opportunity for all levels of expertise.
Study automotive engineering
Learn more about this unique engineering specialisation below, and if you want to begin your application, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
Top Automotive Engineering Degrees in the UK
Automotive engineering courses in the UK are available as bachelor's and master's degrees, and leading automotive engineering degrees in the UK (CUG 2025) can be found below.
1. University of Bath
The University of Bath is home to some of the leading engineering faculties in the UK, including the Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering, the Department of Chemical Engineering, the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
The University of Bath provides courses in automotive engineering that specialise in advanced propulsion systems to develop the expertise needed to create an impact in the future of automotive engineering.
- Suggested course: MSc in Automotive Engineering with Electric Propulsion
- Entry requirements: A first or strong second-class Bachelor’s honours degree or international equivalent.
- International fee: £31,600
2. University of Southampton
The University of Southampton offers an engaging Automotive Engineering (MEng) course where students delve into automobile design, construction, and testing. Specialised studies cover vehicle dynamics, propulsion, and automotive electronics, with opportunities to focus on areas like race cars and vehicle electronics. The curriculum emphasises mechanical engineering fundamentals alongside practical experiences, including workshops, design studios, and work placements. Students can join the Formula Student team for hands-on racing experience and benefit from management modules and site visits, preparing for diverse career paths.
- Suggested course: Automotive Engineering (MEng)
- Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate Diploma Pass, with 38 points overall with 19 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Physics and six at Higher Level in Mathematics
- International fee: £27,400
3. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds combines computer science, engineering, chemistry, mathematics, astronomy and physics to deliver state-of-the-art education and research facilities in engineering. According to the Research Excellence Framework, 100% of Leeds’s research was considered ‘outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’. Leeds also ranked 6th in the Guardian University Guide for Mechanical Engineering.
- Suggested course: MSc in Automotive Engineering
- Entry requirements: A bachelor's degree with a 2:1 (Hons) in a relevant engineering discipline.
- International fee: £31,000
4. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers a world-class Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) BEng programme, providing a comprehensive foundation in mechanical engineering alongside specialised knowledge in automotive technologies. With a research-led approach, students develop problem-solving skills for industrial and societal challenges. Collaborative projects with civil and electrical engineers enhance teamwork and professionalism, mirroring industry practices. Opportunities like involvement in UBRacing's Formula Student team enrich practical experience. Major projects allow students to apply expertise, enhancing employability for competitive graduate job applications.
- Suggested course: Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) BEng
- Entry requirements: IB 6,6,5 At Hl, including Mathematics, with a minimum of 32 points overall.
- International fee: £28,560
5. Loughborough University
Loughborough University has been delivering engineering courses since 1909 and is now one of the largest engineering universities in the UK. Major employers around the UK target Loughborough for their student’s unique combination of technical knowledge with transferable skills.
Loughborough University’s innovative activity-led learning approach is recognised internationally and has also played an active role in shaping the unique culture of its forward-facing faculty. Engineering courses at Loughborough are delivered with a blend of practical and theoretical learning.
- Suggested course: MSc in Automotive Engineering
- Entry requirements: A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in Engineering or Physical Sciences.
- International fee: £29,750
SI-UK can help you apply to the top universities to study Automobile Engineering in the UK. Book a free consultation, either online or at our London office.
6. University of Sussex
The University of Sussex delivers engineering courses in electrical and electronic engineering, mechanical and automotive engineering, product design, and robotics engineering.
Sussex has a fully dedicated and enthusiastic team that is known for delivering high-quality research and engineering courses to students. It covers multiple aspects of sustainable automotive engineering, where students can gain fundamental engineering knowledge, including materials, manufacturing processes, electrical circuits, and mechanics.
- Suggested course: MEng Automotive Engineering
- Entry requirements: A-level: ABB-BBB. A broad range of GCSEs grade 9-4 (A*-C).
- International fee: £25,000
7. Brunel University London
Brunel University London offers the BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering programme, focusing on the challenges of developing efficient, safe, and environmentally sustainable vehicles for a global population. The curriculum covers various vehicle technologies, specifically off-highway vehicles, including sports utility, construction, and defence vehicles. Students gain practical experience through project work using specialist facilities and have opportunities for research in autonomous and connected vehicles. Integrated industry placements enhance employability, preparing graduates for roles in researching, designing, and testing future vehicle systems.
- Suggested course: BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering
- Entry requirements: 96 - 120 UCAS points for A-level students. See below for details of entry requirements for other accepted qualifications.
8. Northumbria University
The Automotive Engineering BEng (Hons) degree at Northumbria offers practical skills and expertise for a successful career as an automotive engineer, with opportunities for progression to management roles. Through diverse modules and project-based learning, students gain contemporary automotive engineering knowledge. Optional industry placements enhance practical experience. Students benefit from industry-standard lab facilities supported by experienced practitioners and leading researchers. The programme encourages confidence and skills development, exploring innovative solutions and considering wider social, ethical, and economic contexts in automotive engineering.
- Suggested course: Automotive Engineering BEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: 112 UCAS Tariff points. A-level Mathematics and another analytical science subject.
- International fee: £19,750
9. UWE Bristol
UWE Bristol offers a BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering programme, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in cutting-edge automotive labs.
The curriculum, supported by a state-of-the-art engineering building, is designed to attract students from diverse backgrounds to pursue engineering careers. As the first university in the UK to make such a transformation, it offers hands-on experience in a cutting-edge School of Engineering equipped with engine test cells, collaborative learning spaces, and high-tech equipment. Students will engage in real-world projects, particularly automotive design, developing innovative solutions and gaining practical skills in advanced labs.
- Suggested course: BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering
- Entry requirements: International and EU applicants must have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component | Baccalaureate IB: To include a minimum grade of 5 in Higher Level Mathematics and a Pass at Higher Level in one of the following subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design Technology, Physics, Environmental Systems and Societies.
- International fee: £15,850
10. Staffordshire University
The Automotive Engineering MSc at Staffordshire University offers in-depth insight into key technological ideas driving automotive design. The course features industry-standard software and hardware in specialist workshops, is designed with industry partners, and employs the latest computer-based analysis and design techniques. Graduates have secured jobs with McLaren Automotive, Toro Verde GT, and more - the MSc enhances theoretical knowledge through practical applications, including virtual simulations and work on real vehicles in advanced automotive workshops.
- Suggested course: Automotive Engineering MSc
- Entry requirements: At least a 2:2 undergraduate honours degree or equivalent in a related engineering discipline, such as Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or Aeronautical Engineering | If your first language is not English a minimum score of IELTS Academic with overall 6.0 and no less than 5.5 in each band.
- International fee: £15,850
Study Automotive Engineering
If you want to learn more about studying automotive engineering in the UK, book a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
FAQ
Which branch of automotive engineering in the UK is in the most demand?
Electric vehicle technology, autonomous driving systems, and sustainable energy solutions are currently experiencing high demand in the UK due to the industry's focus on innovation and environmental sustainability.
How much is an automotive engineer paid in the UK?
On average, automotive engineers in the UK can earn between £ 25,000 and £60,000 per year, with senior engineers and those in management positions typically earning higher salaries.
What type of automotive engineer makes the most money?
Automotive engineers specialising in niche areas such as electric vehicle technology, autonomous driving systems, or motorsport engineering often command higher salaries due to their specialised skills and expertise. Additionally, engineers with significant experience and expertise in their field and those in leadership or managerial roles tend to earn higher salaries than entry-level engineers.
How long does an automotive engineering degree last in the UK?
A bachelor's degree (BEng) in automotive Engineering usually takes three to four years to complete, while a master's degree (MEng) may take another one to two years. Some universities also offer integrated master's programmes, which combine undergraduate and postgraduate studies and can take up to five years to complete.
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