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 2024) 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 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. 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 students’ 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
3. University of Warwick
The UK's automotive industry, home to major companies like BMW and Jaguar Land Rover, boasts innovation and skilled engineers supported by seven of the top Formula One teams. At Warwick, Automotive Engineering students begin with a general engineering programme and then specialise in automotive engineering. The MEng degree offers a deeper understanding of specialist areas and group projects. Students can transition between BEng and MEng programmes based on academic requirements. Warwick's program equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in the field of automotive engineering.
- Suggested course: Automotive Engineering MEng
- Entry requirements: IB: 38 to include 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level. Mathematics and Physics are required - at least one of these subjects should be at Higher Level.
- International fee: £24,800
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, to include Mathematics with a minimum of 32 points overall.
- International fee: £28,560
5. 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
6. 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 either ‘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
7. Harper Adams University
Harper Adams University 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. Oxford Brookes University
Oxford Brookes University offers an MSc in Automotive Engineering with Electric Vehicles programme, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in cutting-edge automotive labs. Access to advanced facilities like the High Voltage Energy Storage lab and driving simulator enhances the learning experience. Students can engage with research groups and industry speakers, gaining insights into technology and management practices. Benefit from Oxford's high-tech engineering ecosystem and industry connections for practical experience.
- Suggested course: MSc in Automotive Engineering with Electric Vehicles
- Entry requirements: A first degree equivalent to at least a British lower second-class bachelor's degree in mechanical, automotive or motorsport engineering or a related discipline.
- International fee: £18,500
10. University of Sussex
The University of Sussex delivers engineering courses such as electrical and electronic engineering, mechanical and automotive engineering, product design and robotics engineering.
They have a fully dedicated and enthusiastic team who are known for delivering high-quality research and engineering courses to students. Sussex 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
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 is the most demanded in the UK?
Areas such as 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 anywhere from £25,000 to £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. Additionally, doctoral programmes for those pursuing research in automotive engineering can take three to five years or more to finish.