Study Advanced Mechanical Engineering and learn to design, build and test new products, processes and systems. You will develop a sound understanding of Advanced Mechanical Engineering principles and the ability to undertake teamwork and communicate ideas, valuable skills for your future career.
Introduction
The core modules studied on the programme will develop your understanding and knowledge of the principles of Advanced Mechanical Engineering to an advanced level. They include specialist knowledge in thermo and fluid dynamics, combustion in IC engines, alternative and conventional energy generation methods and nuclear engineering. You will be taught techniques for managing projects and research, giving you highly desirable skills for working in industry.
This programme aligns with the current accredited undergraduate integrated Masters MEng 4th year in Mechanical Engineering with co-taught M level modules from the existing programme organised in two 12-week semesters with examinations at the end of each semester worth 120 credits from a total of 180. This is then combined with an MSc advanced research project over the summer term worth the remaining 60 credits.
What you'll learn
Thermo and fluid dynamics
Combustion in internal combustion engines
An understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of alternative and conventional energy generation methods
An understanding of nuclear engineering, with coverage going from the atomic scale through to the bulk scale
An understanding of material failure analysis
The principles of advanced manufacturing techniques using lasers
The properties and limitations of a range of ‘smart materials’
Technical writing skills to support project planning.
Accreditation
This programme is fully accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.
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).
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.
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.
Additive Manufacturing (MNFG603)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aligns our graduates with the market needs. The UK additive manufacturing market was valued at 0.54 billion pounds sterling in 2022 and is predicted to reach 2.01 billion pounds sterling by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 18.0% from 2023 to 2030.
Optional modules
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.
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.
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
LASER MATERIALS PROCESSING (MECH605)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module will cover: how lasers work, what are the key beam properties of high power lasers, how the beam is deployed and delivered to the process/workpiece, safety in laser materials processing, and the working principles and industry practice for a range of laser processes.
Advanced Fluid Mechanics and Aerodynamics (AERO406)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
To reinforce and deepen the students’ understanding of:
— the mathematical description of fluid kinematics.
— the physical laws expressed by the equations of fluid motion.
— the assumptions associated with particular limits of the equations of fluid motion.
— simple exact solutions of the equations of motion.
— the governing equations for compressible flows.
— the differences between laminar and turbulent flow.
— the origins of laminar-turbulent flow transition.
— the physics of turbulence.
— the need for turbulence modelling and fundamental concepts of turbulence modelling.
To introduce students to advanced concepts in potential flow theory building upon existing knowledge of:
— the analytical generation of inviscid flow over two-dimensional objects using elementary potential flows.
— the analytical calculation of resulting forces and moments on lifting surfaces.
— the numerical computation of aerodynamic properties using panel methods
To enable student to:
— recognize the capabilities and weaknesses of CFD.
— choose appropriate levels of CFD analysis for a specific problem.
— use a suitable CFD package, including meshing and setting up a simulation.
— understand preliminary aerodynamic knowledge related to turbomachinery.
Additive Manufacturing (MNFG603)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aligns our graduates with the market needs. The UK additive manufacturing market was valued at 0.54 billion pounds sterling in 2022 and is predicted to reach 2.01 billion pounds sterling by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 18.0% from 2023 to 2030.
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.
DESIGN FOR ENVIRONMENT, MANUFACTURE AND ASSEMBLY (MNFG413)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the tools and methods of Eco-design, Design for Manufacture and Assembly using real, everyday products as examples.
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.
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.
Advanced Engineering Materials (MATS631)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
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.
SMART MATERIALS (MATS515)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces students to the facilitating world of ‘Smart Materials’. The term ‘Smart Materials’ is used to define a broad collection of materials that have the in-built ability to ‘actuate’ in some way in response to external stimulus. Examples of ‘Smart materials’ include piezoelectrics, electrostrictive materials, shape memory alloys, ferrofluids, various biomimetic materials plus a host of others. This module looks at a selection of smart materials and considers the underlying reasons for the actuating behavior, key performance indicators that aid materials selection, aspects of manufacturing associated with the exploitation of the materials, plus engineering applications of these facilitating and highly useful materials.
Optional modules
Advanced Engineering Materials (MATS631)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
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.
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
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, reports and a design of a product for assembly.
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.
We equip our students for rewarding careers and our graduates have found jobs in a wide range of industries and organisations, both in the UK and abroad.
Programmes include a strong practical element and incorporate 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 an Engineering or Science subject that provides appropriate knowledge of core engineering science topics.
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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