The Mechanical Engineering Design with Management MSc aims to develop your academic knowledge and technical engineering skills with the integration of creative, problem-solving design elements within a business context.
Introduction
Mechanical Engineering Design incorporates designing complex systems in order to develop and evaluate the design performance using technical engineering knowledge and skills, with the aim to continuously improve the product and manufacturing techniques.
Mechanical Engineering Designers are responsible for the design process including the concept of designs, analysis of existing products, production of prototypes for product testing and identification of new systems, processes and feasibility to drive quality, efficiency and save costs.
Mechanical Design Engineers are in demand by employers as they embrace challenges, can solve problems effectively, and have strong technical knowledge – as well as excellent communication and leadership skills.
This MSc will enable you to develop your knowledge and technical skills by combining the numerical, analytical and scientific principles of Mechanical Engineering Design with an in-depth understanding of management and business acumen to master’s degree level.
Who is this course for?
BEng Aerospace, Mechanical or Civil Engineering Graduates from University of Liverpool are not eligible for this programme.
What you'll learn
3D design tools and computer aided design
Advanced modern management tools
Fluid mechanics
Reactor dynamics, design and operation, lifetime behaviour, evolution of technologies and nuclear waste
Rapid Prototyping, Rapid Manufacturing and Additive Manufacturing
Advanced engineering materials, focusing on non-ferrous alloys and composite materials.
Accreditation
This programme has been accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), which will help you gain Chartered status.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
Compulsory modules
ENGINEERING FLUID MECHANICS (MECH627)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module provides students with the fundamental concepts of Engineering Fluid Mechanics, and in particular: the role of viscosity in fluid mechanics, including the no-slip condition and the concept of vorticity.
The basic principles of laminar and turbulent flow through pipes including definition and evaluation of the Fanning and Darcy friction factors.
The concept of a boundary layer, including separation and transition, and basic equations for friction factor in laminar and turbulent flow with zero pressure gradient.
The calculation methods of bluff-body drag using drag coefficients with qualitative explanations the potential-flow theory including the concept of irrationality and the principle of superposition.
The analysis of compressible flow through constant-area ducts accounting for friction or heat transfer and to use the Fanno – and Rayleigh-flow tables.
The analysis of external compressible flow including expansion and compression turns (Prandtl-Meyer expansions and oblique shock waves).
COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN (MNFG604)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
To introduce the student to the latest 3D tools and techniques used by designers.
To develop a wider knowledge and understanding of integrated systems design.
To stimulate an appreciation of modern design and development methodologies.
Nuclear Technologies (MECH434)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
The module provides an understanding of nuclear engineering, with coverage going from the atomic scale through to the bulk scale. The topics will cover reactor dynamics, design and operation, lifetime behaviour, evolution of technologies and nuclear waste. For example, understanding the implications of the fission/fusion processes themselves on the behaviour of the core.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT (MNGT502)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
Project Management is a core skill for professional engineers of all types and a sound education in this subject area is required by the professional accrediting bodies. The knowledge and skills developed in this module will equip students for their future UG project work and for their careers ahead.
This module teaches students the theory of fundamental techniques in project management, risk management, and cost management.
In this modules student undertake a group "virtual project" in which they undertake all stages of project management involved n a major construction projects. The five virtual project tasks require students to apply their theoretical learning; and they provide an opportunity to develop key professional skills.
ADVANCED MODERN MANAGEMENT (MNGT352)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
The Aims of this module are as follows:
To introduce the student to various aspects of advanced modern management.
To develop a knowledge and understanding of modern management tools.
To stimulate an appreciation of management and its importance in organisational success.
TECHNICAL WRITING FOR ENGINEERS (ENGG596)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
To develop technical writing skills for engineers. English Language Centre deliver the module for non-native English speakers, Engineering staff deliver identical syllabus, assessments and learning outcomes for other students.
Group Engineering Design (MECH401)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
To present the fundamental principles of Engineering Product Design according to the Total design methodology.
To engage students in a multi-disciplinary group project to develop and justify an innovative engineering solution/product that is part of a grand challenge which is formulated from complex and uncertain factors.
To develop students team working, communication, project management, problem solving and critical evaluation skills.
To formulate a theoretical novel solution that is supported by valid evidence and meets an authentic need.
Optional modules
FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS (MECH452)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
In this module the students will gain a basic understanding of the Finite Element method and learn to use Abaqus Finite Element software. This software will then be used to analyse a variety of different problems which are relevant to both mechanical and civil engineers
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING (MNFG610)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
To provide an overview on the role of additive manufacturing in new product development.
To develop a generic understanding on the principles and the complete process chain of additive manufacturing processes.
To provide an awareness on recent developments in additive manufacturing and associated technologies.
ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS (MATS301)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aims to understand advanced engineering materials, focusing on non-ferrous alloys and composite materials. It covers the processing, heat treatment, microstructure and properties of Al, Ti and Ni alloys. It introduces constituent materials, manufacturing methods, test methods and mechanical response of composite materials.
FORMULATION ENGINEERING (ENGG413)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module will provide engineering, chemistry and potentially other students an overview of complex fluids, their processing, rheology and applications. The students will gain knowledge on: different formulations (suspensions, emulsions, foams); colloidal processing ( starting from clay as archetype, and delving into ceramic, polymer and 2D colloids); their flow and rheology; and their role in manufacturing in a diversity of processes from food processing and personal care to additive manufacturing.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
Compulsory modules
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING WITH LASERS (MECH607)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module provides an understanding of the principles of advanced manufacturing techniques using lasers and how these are being explored through current/recent research and adopted by industry.
ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT (MECH433)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This modules discusses energy generation and usage, and how they complement each other. The topics are introduced in lectures that then lead onto a case study on a specific topic.
ENTERPRISE STUDIES (MNGT414)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
The module teaches the concepts of Entrepreneurship, Intrapreneurship, Company Infrastructure and Investment Proposals. It is taught using lectures, class questions, case studie sand a comprehensive coursework assignment. Successful students will have acquired knowledge and understanding at mastery level of the process and how itis executed in a modern industrial environment.
STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY (ENGG409)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces the concepts required to maintain structural integrity. Topics covered are: detecting structural defects, predicting when defects will cause failure, and mitigating against failure.
Group Engineering Design (MECH401)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
To present the fundamental principles of Engineering Product Design according to the Total design methodology.
To engage students in a multi-disciplinary group project to develop and justify an innovative engineering solution/product that is part of a grand challenge which is formulated from complex and uncertain factors.
To develop students team working, communication, project management, problem solving and critical evaluation skills.
To formulate a theoretical novel solution that is supported by valid evidence and meets an authentic need.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
You will undertake and complete your final project over the summer.
Compulsory modules
MSC(ENG) PROJECT (60 CREDITS) (ENGG660)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
The purpose of the project is to provide students with the opportunity to plan, carry out and control a research project at the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice. The student will report findings both orally and in writing. Detailed instructions are provided in the PG handbook distributed at the outset of the programme.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
You’ll learn across a variety of teaching methods, like lectures, seminars, and tutorials – some online and some in person. You’ll also access asynchronous online content on a weekly basis with personal tutorials and take part in group work projects, based on engineering grand challenges faced by global society today.
There’s opportunity to get hands-on too with active learning lab sessions, laser micromachining and lab work using special design software such as Finite Element.
How you're assessed
Across your modules, you’ll be assessed in a number of different ways, including exams, lab activity, case studies, project journals, poster presentations, and CAD models of products. You’ll also solve example Finite Element problems with randomly generated geometry specifically for you. For each problem, you must report a key result per problem (maximum stress etc.) to within an error tolerance.
Your final project work will be based on a topic of industrial or scientific relevance, and will be carried out in laboratories in the University or at an approved placement in industry. You’ll examine this project in your dissertation and show evidence of in-depth understanding, mastery of research techniques, ability to analyse assembled data, and assessment of outcomes.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Your experience
The School of Engineering is a centre of excellence for engineering research and has a well-deserved reputation for its experimental and computing facilities. You’ll use many of these in the course of your postgraduate programme.
This programme includes a strong practical element and incorporates the latest academic and industry research, enabling you to work effectively at the forefront of engineering.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Career Destinations are wide and varied. Some employers include:
Agusta Westland
NHS
BAE Systems
Ford
Jaguar
Unilever
Armed Forces
QinetiQ
National and International bodies such as EPSRC and the European Commission.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£13,300
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£29,900
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This should be in Engineering or Science with appropriate knowledge of core mechanical engineering science topics at undergraduate degree level.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
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