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Postgraduate Open Day

MSc Design Engineering with Advanced Product Development

Key facts

  • Start date: September
  • Accreditation: Institution of Engineering and Technology/Institution of Engineering Designers/Institution of Mechanical Engineers
  • Study mode and duration: MSc:12 months full-time; 24 months part-time
  • 4th in the UK (1st in Scotland) for Product Design (Guardian University Guide 2023)

Study with us

  • combine design thinking with engineering knowledge and practice in this highly creative Masters degree
  • address the issues associated with a rapidly changing market and the demands for better, cheaper and personalised products, developed within the shortest possible time
  • focus on improving existing products and the processes used for making them
Back to course

Why this course?

This course addresses the issues associated with a rapidly changing market and the demands for better, cheaper and personalised products, developed within the shortest possible time.

The Advanced Product Development stream is designed for those who wish to enhance their technical knowledge and practical design skills through the application of state-of-the-art manufacture to practical design settings through the specialisation in advanced materials and production technology, product design techniques and engineering risk management.

Design engineers are problem-solvers who bridge the gap between traditional engineering and design. It's a discipline that draws on knowledge of product development, technical design, manufacturing techniques and rapid prototyping to bring new innovations to market. It also focuses on improving existing products and the processes used for making them.

Some of the greatest human achievements have come from creative design engineering, enabling the realisation of some truly remarkable change in our world. Design engineering has helped to transform the environment, create incredible super-structures on land and sea, and even helped people travel into the solar system.

Design engineering has also developed many of the most important systems and services, from individual right up to global and universal scales. These systems have supported radical scaling up of human activity in a huge range of areas.

Male working at tablet computer

THE Awards 2019: UK University of the Year Winner

What you'll study

The course will provide you with a thorough training in design theories and process models, design methods, design techniques, computer-supported product modelling, analysis, evaluation and physical rapid prototyping of a design solution. In addition, you'll gain the enterprise skills necessary to launch brand new products to market.

Studying within the Department of Design, Manufacturing & Engineering Management provides you with access to some of the leading academics in the whole product development life cycle, learning from their time in industry, current research projects and advancements in those fields. We are the only department in the UK that combines end-to-end multidisciplinary expertise from creative design, through engineering design, manufacture and management of the entire system. This is more commonly split between art school and engineering faculties, however, we can provide you with a broader understanding of the overall process, and expertise in each area, all in the one department.

Our course enhances the professional and creative abilities of graduates from a variety of technical disciplines; from mechanical, civil and industrial engineering to science, architecture, computing and electronics.

Industrial experience

During your course, you'll undertake an industrial group project. This will help you to develop and apply your skills as a design engineer in the real world.

For the group project, you'll work as part of a team, developing your people, project management and leadership skills. You'll do this by applying design engineering principles to address a practical problem for an industrial client, gaining direct industry experience.

Take a look at our Industrial Group Project video

Who we work with

The project works in conjunction with major organisations that face challenges with the management of major design engineering projects and have a demand for the skills gained from this course.

Through this module you'll gain experience to add to your CV, develop skills, manage a project through to completion and practice working in a multidisciplinary group preparing you for collaborative work throughout your future career.

We work with on average 50 organisations per year and previous students have worked with organisations such as:

  • Adidas
  • Airlie Ice Cream
  • Drink Baotic
  • Promedics Orthopaedics
  • Rolls-Royce
  • Spirit AeroSystems (Europe), Inc
  • Unilever
  • Adidas
  • Alexander Dennis
  • Belle Bridal
  • Chivas Brothers Ltd
  • HATSUN Agro Products (India)
  • Johnstons of Elgin
  • Terex Trucks
Go back

Course content

Global Design (10 credits)

This module aims to prepare students with the knowledge, skills and experience to become competent members of global/distributed design teams.

It covers the nature of distributed design, including:

  • benefits and issues relating to distributed design, design methodologies
  • extended supply chains (design and manufacture)
  • distributed team structures
  • comparison of co-located and distributed design teams
  • design to manufacture, distributed design expertise, different distributed design scenarios, e.g. cross-site, cross-company, national, international, etc.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • demonstrate knowledge of distributed design by explaining the concepts of distributed design engineering by discussing how the benefits and issues related to distributed design compare to those of co-located design
  • demonstrate understanding of the management of distributed design projects by describing management tools and techniques for successfully managing distributed design, applying these tools and techniques to carry out distributed design project work and showing how these tools and techniques can overcome issues relating to distributed design
  • describe appropriate technology and how it can be used to support distributed design by applying the use of technology to successfully carry out distributed design project work

Assessment and feedback is in the form of coursework submissions (70%) and project presentations (30%).

Design Methods (10 credits)

This module aims to enable students to select and apply appropriate design methods as a part of the design process.

The selection and use of design methods within the context of modern design practices and the new product development process will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on recently developed product independent design methods and their application within industrial environments.

Specific topics include:

  • the design process management frameworks
  • user understanding methods
  • product specification methods
  • creative methods
  • design for production and cost methods
  • design for safety and reliability methods
  • design for the environment

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • select and apply appropriate design methods for a design project to solve product design oriented problems by understanding specific design methods and recognising their strengths and weaknesses
  • integrate appropriate design methods into a design process to ensure fitness of purpose of all aspects of the problem/context by demonstrating how manufacture, costing, environmental, disposal and customer needs may be addressed in the design process through design methods
  • analyse literature sources to identify design methods suitable for a particular situation by undertaking a critical literature review to identify current developments in design methods in research and practice and synthesise the results of the literature review into a report

Assessment and feedback will be in the form of an exam (60%), a report (35%) and a presentation (5%).

Product Modelling & Visualisation (10 credits)

This module aims to enable students to understand the concepts of virtual product modelling and techniques used to visualise products before they are fully designed and manufactured.

The module covers:

  • an introduction to basic modelling, visualisation and evaluation techniques creating models, parts and assemblies
  • the representations that underpin modern CAED systems (wireframe, surface, CSG and BRep), basic computer graphics (homogeneous transformations), data exchange, information integration, product data management, economics of CAD/CAM systems (cost breakdown, potential benefits, improving cost/benefit ratio), basic systems selection and justification and organisational impact and system management

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • demonstrate the ability to use a commercially available CAD system by creating 3-D product models and appropriate visualisations for evaluation
  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of product modelling and visualisation by demonstrating an ability to provide 2D/3D part and assembly drawings, and a variety of sectioned/dimensioned views of part/assembly models
  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of product evaluation techniques by identifying and describing suitable product evaluation techniques such as FEA and utilise for evaluation
  • describe and discuss the functionality and benefits that CAED systems can bring to product development by identifying and justifying a CAED solution for an industrial problem

Assessment and feedback is in the form of coursework (100%).

Design Management (10 credits)

This module provides a structured introduction to the Design Management process, issues and tools.

The module covers: Different approaches and aspects to design development including concurrent engineering, team engineering, product management, design management, distributed design, and decision support, the design activity, methods and process models including role of the market, specification, conceptual and detail design, basic team and management structures (organisation), key issues related to design complexities and the key aspects of design coordination, design performance and innovation.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • appreciate and understand the role of design within an organisation and the organisational structures required for effective design by articulating the impact of early product delivery with regards to quality, cost and market sales and by describing the different main organisational structures and their impact on the design activity
  • appreciate the role of design models, approaches and methods by appreciating of the different strengths and weaknesses of models, approaches and methods
  • appreciate the role of innovation in design and know how to measure design performance by highlighting the key factors in design performance and how they relate as well as the nature and different types of innovation in relation to design

Assessment and feedback is in the form of coursework (100%), there will be no exam.

Mechatronic Systems Design Techniques (10 credits)

The module will cover the following topics: 

  • mechatronic system design process: Product/system design specifications (PDS), concept generation and selection, mechatronic system design and flow chart diagrams.
  • sensing and actuation: Sensing theory, sensor selection, drive design, motor control. 
  • control systems: Understand and apply control theory in a mechatronic system design.
  • hardware design: Processor architecture, embedded computing platforms, interface, I/Os.
  • software design: Software design basics, algorithm and code design, programming tools, and software engineering principles.
  • prototyping and evaluation: develop skills in selecting methods for prototyping using appropriate tools and means, including rapid prototyping and computer modelling.

Engineering Risk Management (10 credits)

This module aims to introduce the basic principles and techniques of engineering risk management and demonstrates the appropriate application of this knowledge within an engineering context.

The module covers: Risk definitions and basic risks in engineering; Risk management processes; Reliability - achieving reliability; Reliability, Availability, Maintainability and Safety (RAMS) cycle; failure rate; Mean Time Between Failure; Mean Time to Fail; Mean Life; failure stages within bathtub distribution; downtime; repair time and availability; Risk classification - failure rate; severity and detection; As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP); Risk identification - Failure Modes and Affects Analysis; Hazard and Operability Study; Fault and Event Tree Analysis; Risk-based decision making – uncertainty, decision trees, Pareto optimality, Analytic Hierarchy Process and Risk legislation and litigation in engineering.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • demonstrate awareness of and ability to make general evaluations of risk issues in the context of the particular specialisation, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk
  • demonstrate awareness of relevant regulatory requirements governing engineering activities
  • demonstrate ability to work with information that may be incomplete or uncertain, quantify the effect of this on the design and, where appropriate, use theory or experimental research to mitigate deficiencies

Assessment and feedback is in the form of a group coursework to show understanding of the risk management process in practice (100% for group contribution and submission of main reports).

Advanced Materials & Production Technology (10 credits)

This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the fundamentals of advanced materials, characterisation and advanced surface engineering. The module also covers advanced machining processes and technologies and the principles and practices of rapid prototyping and manufacturing.

The module covers:

  • severe plastic deformation, materials properties and characterisation
  • advances in Machining including the machining of hard materials, high-speed machining, precision grinding technology, ultra-precision diamond turning and grinding technology
  • principles and practice of Layered Manufacturing
  • advanced Surface Engineering including physical-chemical functionalisation, electro-deposition, CVD, PVD, tools/mould treatment, nano- and multi-layered coating.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • describe processes of materials selection, characterisation, ultra-precision machining, rapid prototyping and advanced surface engineering
  • demonstrate know-how on key processing parameters and show numerical and analytical skills relating to the materials and process selections and parameter setting
  • identify key process parameters/variables in relation to process control and product quality
  • specify machines or manufacturing systems for the manufacture/creation of specified products/models or to propose design solutions for a manufacturing machine/system to address the manufacturing requirements identified

Assessment and feedback is in the form of four pieces of coursework (25% each).

Postgraduate Individual Project (60 credits)

The aim of the individual project is to allow students to combine the skills learned in other modules of the course and apply them within a significant project in a specific area of design, manufacture, or engineering management. This will be achieved through students carrying out work into a particular topic relating to their course and preparing a dissertation that documents the project.

On completion of the module the student is expected to be able to:

  • define a valid project in a cutting-edge field of study relevant to the student’s degree – with an appropriate methodology and work plan for the project
  • plan, manage and complete project, involving where appropriate technical analysis and independent critical thinking. This involves giving a thorough, logical and critical review of the subject matter; using appropriate tools, processes and levels of analysis in the project and applying project management techniques to manage a successful project
  • document their project using suitable presentation techniques (such as language, figures, writing, layout, structure etc.); showing clear evidence of the value of the project and its outcomes and describing the project with clarity

Based on the work of a project, a student will submit an individual dissertation that will account for 90% of the final mark for the class. An interim project justification report will account for the remaining 10% of the mark.

Postgraduate Group Project (40 credits)

This module aims for students to integrate and apply design, manufacturing and engineering management knowledge and skills to an industry based product and process development project and to develop project management skills.

The module consists of a team-based industrial project where an outline project brief is set by an industrial client. The team is expected to manage all aspects of the project through to a finished solution. This can be a product, system or process depending on the nature of the project. Teams meet with academic staff and industrial clients regularly through the project.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • have in-depth understanding and knowledge of products and management practices in industry
  • critically review and evaluate products and management practices of the particular company and the business impact of proposed solution
  • demonstrate knowledge and ability in applying and using various analysis and modelling tools and techniques
  • demonstrate project planning and management, presentation, consulting and team working skills
  • plan, control and lead an industrial project from inception to completion
  • evidence achieving deliverables which meet the client company requirements

Assessment and feedback includes a project report, a presentation to the client and any other deliverables specified in the project brief.

Four to be chosen.

Sustainability (10 credits)

This module covers one of the major challenges of modern industry which is to address the need for sustainable product development and manufacturing. International legislation and increasing costs of fiscal instruments such as the landfill tax now aim to force producers to reduce the environmental impacts of their products and processes.

Accelerating globalisation and industrialisation continues to exacerbate complexity of sustainability. Whilst manufacturers are constantly required to lower their costs and maintain their competitiveness, legislations require them to look at lifecycle costs.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • understand the importance of sustainable product development and sustainable manufacturing and how to establish competitive advantage
  • describe End-of-Life issues and critically discuss the place of reuse processes in Sustainable Design and Manufacturing, as well as identifying the various reuse processes, defining and differentiating them and critically discussing their particular advantages and disadvantages in sustainable manufacturing
  • identify the product features and characteristics that facilitate and hinder product recovery and be able to technically analyse products’ sustainability and redesign them for enhanced sustainability
  • identify the fundamental “building blocks” of LCA and describe/illustrate the use of LCA in lifecycle decision making, as well as describing Biomimicry use in product design

Assessment and feedback will be in the form of coursework (100%) including discussion forums, group seminars and a position paper.

Strategic Technology Management (10 credits)

This module aims to provide a series of strategic frameworks for managing high-technology businesses. The main focus is on the acquisition of a set of powerful analytical tools which are critical for the development of a technology strategy as an integral part of business strategy.

These tools can provide a guiding framework for deciding which technologies to invest in, how to structure those investments and how to anticipate and respond to the behaviour of competitors, suppliers, and customers. The course should be of particular interest to those interested in managing a business for which technology is likely to play a major role, and to those interested in consulting or venture capital.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the role and importance of technology in business strategy formulation process
  • develop the ability to critically assess concepts, tools and techniques of managing technology for both stable and turbulent business environments
  • evaluate complexity and develop appropriate technology strategy models for specific cases

Grades will be determined by class participation assessed through four two-page papers on case studies, which may be written in groups of 4 people (40%), and an individual final technology strategy report based on an in-depth exploration of technology strategy in an assigned industry (60%). There is no final exam.

Supply Chain Operations (10 credits)

This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of those key concepts, methods, tools and techniques that are fundamental to effective and efficient running of supply chain operations from suppliers’ suppliers to customers’ customers.

It covers:

  • an introduction to supply chain operations
  • demand management
  • master planning
  • material management
  • capacity management
  • inventory management
  • distribution management
  • case studies

On completion the participants will be able to design and manage operational supply chain planning, scheduling and controlling systems for complex and disparate operations. In particular, students will:

  • understand the basics of supply chain operations in relation to planning, operating, scheduling and controlling, including knowledge of supply chain operation practices (demand management, master planning, material management, capacity management and inventory management); understanding the impact of supply chain operation practices within commercial and social contexts and global trends in supply chain operation practices
  • identify and assess different methods, tools and techniques for managing plans, operations and materials of end-to-end supply chains
  • demonstrate the ability to apply those methods, tools and techniques in different contexts, including manufacturing and service sectors, with a critical awareness of drivers and obstacles in real life and the ability to produce sensible solutions to overcome them

Assessment and feedback is in the form of two in-class tests (60%) and one coursework (40%).

Enterprise Resource Planning (10 credits)

This module aims to develop a critical understanding of operation, structure and implementation issues around enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems as used in industry. Students learn how a typical ERP system works using an up-to-date SAP training package and consider the real-life use of a typical software package within an organisation.

The module covers:

  • business excellence
  • what is ERP?
  • business planning and control
  • expected benefits
  • how does ERP work?
  • ERP pre-requisites
  • selecting the right system
  • implementation planning

At the end of this module students will have a critical understanding of:

  • terminology relating to MRP, ERPII and ERP
  • the benefits and limitations of using ERP systems for making operational, tactical and strategic decisions within businesses, including the ways in which ERP systems may support or hinder decision making at different levels
  • learning to operate and build a product in a SAP environment
  • the scope, implications, logic, critical requirements to facilitate successful implementation of ERP systems, in particular the relationship between ERP systems, other ICT systems, business processes and human factors

Assessment and feedback is in the form of a 40-minute quiz (40%) and one coursework (60%).

Total Quality Management (10 credits)

This module aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the key principles, concepts, tools and techniques of total quality management and continuous improvement together with an awareness of how these can be used to design and deliver an integrated continuous improvement programme.

It covers:

  • an introduction to total quality management including definitions, basic elements and quality costing
  • ISO quality management system standards
  • quality improvement tools
  • reliability engineering and continuous improvement concepts (FMEA, lean methodologies, kaizen, poka yoke, theory of constraints)

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • understand the key principles, concepts, tools and techniques of total quality management and continuous improvement
  • apply key principles, concepts, tools and techniques of total quality management and continuous improvement, including planning for real-life application of tools and techniques
  • formulate improvement strategies within a particular context

Assessment and feedback is in the form of one group work (a case study report, 40%) and one individual coursework (a journal article, 60%).

 

Fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma (10 credits)

This module aims to introduce students to the principles of Lean and Six Sigma. From Continuous Improvement approaches to organisational requirements, the module covers the critical success factors needed to support sustainable and effective business transformation.

The module covers: an Introduction to Lean Thinking, Six Sigma, and Lean Six Sigma (LSS); Comparing and Contrasting Lean & Six Sigma; DMAIC Continuous Improvement Methodology; LSS project characterisation and selection; Lean and Six Sigma metrics; Overview of basic Lean Tools and Techniques including: affinity diagram, project charter, project selection matrices, SPC, Ishikawa, 5 Why’s, 5S, SMED, DoE, etc.; Evolution of Lean Six Sigma (from manufacturing to service environments and the implications of each).

At the end of this module, students will be able to:

  • gain an appreciation for Lean Six Sigma as a Continuous Improvement methodology, and understand the implications of its application in manufacturing, transactional and service processes
  • apply the Lean Six Sigma methodology (DMAIC) and basic Continuous Improvement tools to solve real world problems
  • evaluate the Critical Success Factors and fundamental barriers in the execution of both Lean & Six Sigma initiatives

Assessment and feedback is in the form of an exam (35%) and an assignment in the form of a project report (60%) and project presentation (5%).

Manufacturing Automation (10 credits)

This module aims to introduce students to the concepts and basic technology of manufacturing automation and to be able to select suitable applications and specify the type of automation to be used in specific cases.

The module covers: Automation in manufacturing industry, why and where; Industrial robots, automation and typical applications; Open and closed loop control; Problems in robot design and control; Types of motion control; Control system functions; Advantages and disadvantages of electric and fluid power systems; Types of electric motors and their control techniques, simple actuators for hydraulic and pneumatic systems; Methods of programming robots; Relative economics of human labour, reprogrammable and hard automation and Safety considerations for industrial robots and other automated systems.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of why manufacturing automation is used
  • Describe the conditions under which manual and/or automated production methods would be applied
  • Analyse the configuration and technical specifications of an automation system suitable for a specified task
  • Synthesise a manufacturing task suited to a specified automated system
  • Analyse and understand the technological elements of drive and control, and machine vision, systems
  • Critically appreciate the kinematic and dynamic problems associated with the control of automated systems
  • Understand the implications of applying automation in human terms
  • Demonstrate knowledge of safety factors that must be considered when installing automation

Assessment and feedback is in the form of one coursework submission showing technical analysis of an aspect of automation and critical thinking on the design of systems (40%), an exam (50%) and in-class participation (10%).

Sustainable Product Design & Manufacturing (10 credits)

This module covers one of the major challenges of modern industry which is to address the need for sustainable product development and manufacturing. International legislation and increasing costs of fiscal instruments such as the landfill tax now aim to force producers to reduce the environmental impacts of their products and processes. Accelerating globalization and industrialization continues to exacerbate complexity of sustainability. Whilst manufacturers are constantly required to lower their costs and maintain their competitiveness, legislations require them to look at lifecycle costs.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of sustainable product development and sustainable manufacturing and how to establish competitive advantage and appreciate the key legislation affecting modern industry
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the engineers’ role in problem & solution to this and how to establish competitive advantage (e.g. via operational efficiency and effectiveness, new opportunities and enhanced enhancing marketing and customer goodwill)
  • Describe End- of- Life issues and critically discuss the place of reuse processes in Sustainable Design and Manufacturing, as well as identifying the various reuse processes
  • Identify the product features and characteristics that facilitate and hinder product recovery and redesign them for enhanced sustainability
  • Identify the fundamental “building blocks” of LCA and describe/illustrate the use of LCA in lifecycle decision making, as well as describing Biomimicry use in product design

Assessment and feedback will be in the form of coursework (70%) and a lab project (30%).

Systems Thinking & Modelling (10 credits)

This module aims to introduce students to the theories and principles of Systems Thinking. The module also introduces the methods, tools and techniques for modelling, analysing, improving and designing systems in a variety of organisations including industrial, commercial and public sector.

The module covers: Systems theory, concepts and approaches; Hard and soft systems analysis and systems dynamics; Systems and organisational performance – including leadership in a systems environment and ‘design’ in a systems environment and Practical application of Systems Thinking.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • show clearer understanding and knowledge of hard and soft approaches and how they can be used to deal with complexity and system behaviour in a business context
  • develop understanding of fundamental cybernetic principles that form the foundations of Checkland’s Soft System Methodology and Beer’s Viable System Model
  • develop knowledge and skills in systems analysis and business process modelling.
  • critically evaluate the most appropriate methodology to model, analyse and design engineering/business systems across a range of organisations
  • demonstrate an understanding of how to model a business system and to develop a solution to solve a business system problem
  • cevelop an awareness of the importance of system approaches in management interventions

Assessment and feedback is in the form of a group presentation and one coursework in the form of a reflective diary.

Management of Innovation (10 credits)

This module focuses on innovation implementation. It integrates insights from research and strategy, management control, innovation and technology and organisational behaviour to consider how innovations can be managed. Three main challenges to innovation are explored: resources, organisation and management mechanisms.

The module covers:

  • management of innovation including an overview of what makes innovation management complex and three models for how these complexities can be managed
  • introduction to Model S for small initiatives
  • introduction to Model R for Repeatable Innovations
  • introduction to Model C for all other innovations
  • build the team
  • an overview and division of labour
  • assembling the dedicated team and managing the partnership
  • creating the innovation strategy
  • enabling, running and evaluating disciplined experimentations

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of managing the innovation process within organisations
  • demonstrate how to integrate business strategy with innovating strategies
  • develop the ability to critically assess concepts, tools and techniques of managing innovation for both stable and turbulent environments
  • develop and contextualise an approach for analysis for a specific case
  • develop an innovation roadmap for strategic purposes

Assessment and feedback is in the form of a group presentation (40%) and an individual final report (60%).

Design Form & Aesthetics (10 credits)

This module aims to develop a theoretical and practical understanding of design form and aesthetics.

The module covers:

  • traditions, evolution and trends in design form and aesthetics in the context of industrial design
  • principles and practices: form; colour; surface and texture
  • designing form and aesthetics in practice including concept sketching and imaging - advanced freehand sketching, digital tablet sketching, transferring sketching to CAD
  • design refinement and digital modelling (Rhino 3D) including surface modelling and curvature, NURBS surface modelling, visual curvature analysis, basic rendering visualisation
  • communicating form and aesthetics - techniques for presenting form and aesthetic ideas and concepts to users, development teams and clients

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • apply design form and aesthetics skills and techniques in project work with a focus on form, colour, surface and texture through the use of freehand sketching, digital and physical modelling. Demonstrate an ability to produce freehand sketches, digital and physical models which clearly show application of form, colour, surface and texture techniques
  • demonstrate an understanding of a range of methods for communicating design and form approaches (verbal, graphic and prototype)

Assessment and feedback is in the form of preparing a Design Folio. This will include a mid-project design folio presentation (30%), a final presentation of visuals, prototypes etc. and critique of project work (30%) as well as submission of the design folio detailing stages and outputs of the design process (40%).

Human Centred Design (10 credits)

This module aims to provide students with theoretical and practical understanding of Human Centred Design (HCD).

The module covers:

  • the evolution of HCD and its various approaches including ergonomics, cognition, user-centered design, people-centered design, design emotion, participatory design, co-design, design ethnography and design anthropology
  • ontological and epistemological perspectives and assumptions in HCD such as different ‘world-views’ of people, objects and interaction
  • research methods for HCD including interviews, focus groups, lab experiments, participant and non-participant observation, critical making/‘provotyping’

At the end of the module students will be able to:

  • apply appropriate HCD tools, methods and operations in design practice
  • select and provide rationale for appropriate HCD approaches within a variety of scenarios
  • apply and communicate HCD approaches to a research and design project with tangible demonstration of methods in process and practice
  • communicate HCD approaches verbally to an audience to convey its value within product development and innovation
  • communicate design output visually through the documentation of research, process rationale and solution in design folio

Assessment and feedback is in the form of a project progress presentation in class (30%) and submission of project (70%).

Remanufacturing (10 credits)

This module aims to develop a detailed understanding of the concept of remanufacture and its industrial application as well as new developments in the area. It explores the potential impact of remanufacture on a circular economy as well as the enablers and barriers.

The module covers:

  • remanufacture concepts & significance (including history, drivers, issues, future developments)
  • design for remanufacturing
  • reverse logistics
  • remanufacture disassembly
  • lean remanufacture/remanufacture cleaning
  • novel remanufacture tool and techniques.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of remanufacturing concepts and its significance (including with respect to a circular economy) plus the major issues in operating remanufacture
  • technically analyse products’ status plus remanufacturing operations in order to enhance performance
  • demonstrate an understanding of various techniques in sustainable design
  • demonstrate understanding of major design-for-remanufacture (DFRem) concepts and approaches and apply these

Assessment and feedback is in the form of two assignments:

  • this will be a report written in the format of an academic journal (50%) 
  • this project involves the student carrying out a detailed analysis of the remanufacturing approaches within the context of a chosen remanufacturing organisation in order to enhance operational effectiveness (50%) 

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Accreditation

Our MSc Design Engineering has been awarded academic accreditation from three institutes. This demonstrates the degree meets the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC) as outlined by the Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP).

This accreditation is achieved through a panel of trained and expert accreditors looking closely at our programme’s content and delivery, including its relevance, coherence, challenge, assessment, staffing, quality assurance and resources.

The accreditors also monitor that the programme is continually improving and in line with the latest best practice, providing assurance to our students that they are getting a relevant and quality degree.

Institution of Engineering and Technology

Accreditation has been awarded for this programme from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.

Gaining accreditation isn’t just about ensuring the quality of our programmes, it also benefits you as a student. For example, being accredited by IET means that our graduates will benefit from a more straightforward process when applying for professional registration. Also, being part of an IET accredited programme is part of the eligibility criteria for many IET Scholarships and Prizes, including the Diamond Jubilee, Belling and BP Scholarships and IET Grants.

Institution of Engineering Designers

Accreditation has been awarded for this programme from the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.

Accreditation by IED means students would automatically be offered free IED student membership for the duration of their studies, would receive a bi-monthly journal ‘Engineering Designer’ in which they can submit articles for print and their final year projects would be eligible for entry into the IED Student Prize competition held annually.

These prizes are prestigious and are only awarded for outstanding engineering design projects. Student members can also place their CV on the IED website and have access to the Job Board which gives details of current vacancies within the field of Engineering Design. In addition, students will also be able to use the IED’s on-line CPD system.

Institution of Mechanical Engineers

Accreditation has been awarded for this programme from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.

Our programmes being accredited by IMechE mean that you can become an Affiliate member, giving you access to the library, support network and members-only content. Once you have finished your degree you can apply to be an associate member, and start progressing to professional registration as an Ieng or Ceng. IMechE also run challenges and competitions for students such as Formula Student, the Railway Challenge and the Design Challenge.

Staff

You'll learn from leading experts in the field of design engineering. All our staff have great experience working with innovation management and improvement projects.

Staff include:

  • Dr Andrew Wodehouse – Dr Wodehouse's research addresses the themes of product, process and people: the individual product experience in terms of user interaction; group collaboration in the design and delivery of products; and the sociological factors that drive product innovation and lead to commercial success

Facilities

The Department of Design, Manufacturing & Engineering Management has a range of innovative purpose built design and manufacture laboratories. Our students have access to a range of workshops and facilities including a digital design and manufacture studio. It brings together:

  • data capture
  • CAD
  • 3D visualisation
  • rapid prototyping capabilities

Find out more about our facilities.

In addition, you'll have access to collaboration work areas, computer suites and social areas, as well as vending machines, lockers and display boards.

Glasgow is Scotland's biggest & most cosmopolitan city

Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.

Life in Glasgow
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Entry requirements

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Academic requirements

Normally a first-class or second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant engineering, technology or science discipline.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, please visit our English language requirements page for full details of the requirements in place before making your application.

Pre-Masters preparation course

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparation course held at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre, for international students (non-UK/Ireland) who do not meet the academic entry requirements for a Masters degree at University of Strathclyde.

Upon successful completion, you'll be able to progress to this degree course at the University of Strathclyde.

Please note: Previous Maths & English qualifications and your undergraduate degree must meet GTCS minimum entry requirements as well as the pre-Masters course and an interview will be conducted before an offer can be made.

International students

We've a thriving international community with students coming here to study from over 140 countries across the world. Find out all you need to know about studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde and hear from students about their experiences.

Visit our international students' section

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Fees & funding

The fees quoted below are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise.

Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter.

All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision.

Annual revision of fees

Students on programmes of study of more than one year (or studying standalone modules) should be aware that tuition fees are revised annually and may increase in subsequent years of study. Annual increases will generally reflect UK inflation rates and increases to programme delivery costs.

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Scotland

£10,800

England, Wales & Northern Ireland

£10,800

Republic of IrelandIf you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status. For more information and advice on tuition fee status, you can visit the UKCISA - International student advice and guidance - Scotland: fee status webpage. Find out more about the University of Strathclyde's fee assessments process.
International

£28,250

Part-time

Part-time, campus-based courses are typically completed over two years and are available for Scotland/EU and Rest of UK students. Fees are normally charged per year at 50% of the published full-time fee. Fees for students studying over a longer period will be appropriately adjusted.

Please note, students on programmes of study of more than one year should be aware that tuition fees are revised annually and may be subject to increase in subsequent years of study. Annual increases will generally reflect UK inflation rates and increases to programme delivery costs.

For more information on whether a part-time course could suit your needs please email dmem-pgt@strath.ac.uk

Additional costs

Course materials

Those on design courses or selecting design based optional modules will need to purchase materials, tools and printing of up to £50. There are two taught modules which explicitly require students to obtain their own design materials and tools, although if doing both, the same tools can be used across both.

International students

International students may have associated visa and immigration costs. Please see student visa guidance for more information.

Other costs

  • model making – basic costs (up to £50) are covered by department for individual design project classes; further costs to be met by students
  • individual project report/folio printing – £50
  • poster printing – up to £50
  • joint MSc programmes with compulsory mobility require students to purchase visa and travel for Germany – up to £300
Available scholarships

Take a look at our scholarships search for funding opportunities.

Please note: the fees shown are annual and may be subject to an increase each year. Find out more about fees.

How can I fund my course?

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Scottish postgraduate students

Scottish postgraduate students may be able to apply for support from the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). The support is in the form of a tuition fee loan and for eligible students, a living cost loan. Find out more about the support and how to apply.

Don’t forget to check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding.

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Students coming from England

Students ordinarily resident in England may be to apply for postgraduate support from Student Finance England. The support is a loan of up to £10,280 which can be used for both tuition fees and living costs. Find out more about the support and how to apply.

Don’t forget to check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding.

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Students coming from Wales

Students ordinarily resident in Wales may be to apply for postgraduate support from Student Finance Wales. The support is a loan of up to £10,280 which can be used for both tuition fees and living costs. Find out more about the support and how to apply.

Don’t forget to check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding.

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Students coming from Northern Ireland

Postgraduate students who are ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland may be able to apply for support from Student Finance Northern Ireland. The support is a tuition fee loan of up to £5,500. Find out more about the support and how to apply.

Don’t forget to check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding.

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International students

We've a large range of scholarships available to help you fund your studies. Check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding.

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Careers

Design engineers use technical knowledge, mathematical and design skills to create innovative solutions to problems across a diverse range of industries.

This course will propel your design engineering career forward because it will:

  • provide you with the knowledge and skills to develop your own abilities to tackle more complex roles
  • enhance your CV with a competitive edge through gaining a Masters
  • develop industry experience through the Postgraduate Group Project module which provides you with first hand industry experience which can be used as example work during any future interviews

Graduates

Graduates could go into a variety of sectors including:

  • aerospace and automotive industries
  • computing and software development
  • construction and building services
  • design and engineering consultancies
  • energy utilities, including nuclear
  • government agencies, local authorities, hospitals and educational institutions
  • industrial and domestic product manufacturers and retailers
  • medical engineering
  • process industries, including pharmaceuticals, food and cosmetics
  • oil and gas industries, including petrochemical industries
  • transport and highways industries
  • water treatment services

Graduates could have job titles such as:

  • Design Engineering
  • Design Project Manager
  • CAD Engineer
  • Consulting Engineers
  • Product Design Engineer
  • Industrial Design Engineer
  • Engineering Manager
  • Graduate Design Engineer
  • Senior Design Engineer

According to Prospects*, starting salaries for graduate engineers range from £20,000 to £25,000, depending on location. Experienced or incorporated engineers can earn between £30,000 and £40,000 and Chartered engineers can earn salaries of £40,000 to £50,000 upwards. Consultants and managers can earn from £50,000 upwards.

*last accessed July 2024

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Apply

During the application process, you must upload the following supporting documents. If these are not provided, we will not be able to process your application:

  • certified individual semester mark sheets/academic transcript showing subjects taken and grades achieved for all qualifications. If you're still studying, please provide your individual semester mark sheets to date
  • certified degree certificate for all qualification. If youre still studying, please provide this after completing your qualification
  • provide evidence of suitable English language proficiency if English is not your first language, or you're not from a “UKVI recognised "Majority English Speaking" country”; check the University’s language requirements
  • if you have been out of full-time education for over two years, provide a CV, detailing employment history, organisations worked for and a brief description of roles and responsibilities
  • a copy of your passport containing your photo and passport number
  • a copy of your sponsor letter/scholarship award (if appropriate) 
  • names, job titles and email addresses for two nominated referees

Start date: Sep 2025

Design Engineering with Advanced Product Development

MSc
part-time
Start date: Sep 2025

Start date: Sep 2025

Design Engineering with Advanced Product Development

MSc
full-time
Start date: Sep 2025

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Contact us

Faculty of Engineering

Telephone: +44 (0)141 574 5484

Email: eng-admissions@strath.ac.uk