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Master of Engineering

This integrated masters degree combines undergraduate and postgraduate study, and we've designed the learning outcomes to fulfil the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer status. The course covers the techniques, concepts and knowledge required by professional engineers. You’ll begin by exploring the fundamentals of this creative and analytical subject – using a range of methods underpinned by science and mathematics. Later you'll choose one of six areas in which to specialise. You’ll get to work on real-life projects and team up with other students at residential schools to create innovative solutions to challenging problems.

Key features of the course

  • Accredited by several of the leading engineering institutions
  • Fulfils the Engineering Council's educational requirements for Chartered Engineer status under UK-SPEC1
  • Incorporates individual and team-based projects, plus three residential schools
  • ​Covers the range of techniques, concepts and knowledge required by professional engineers – from materials and mechanics to design and modelling
  • Includes the compilation of a personal and professional development plan
  • Allows you to move to our Bachelor of Engineering, if your aspirations change, even after you've started

1UK-SPEC (UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence) sets out the requirements for UK engineers to achieve professional status.

Course Summary

Integrated masters

Integrated masters

  • Combines study at the level of an undergraduate honours degree with study at postgraduate (masters) level.
  • Common in engineering, mathematics and science.
  • Often linked to professional body recognition.
Course code
M04
Credits

Credits

  • Credits measure the student workload required for the successful completion of a module or qualification.
  • One credit represents about 10 hours of study over the duration of the course.
  • You are awarded credits after you have successfully completed a module.
  • For example, if you study a 60-credit module and successfully pass it, you will be awarded 60 credits.
480
How long it takes
Part time – 8 years
Full time – N/A
Time limit – 16 years
Study method
Distance learning
Enquire about this course
Register now
Course details Entry requirements Fees and funding Careers

Course details

This integrated masters has four stages, each comprising 120 credits.

  • In Stage 1, you’ll study four 30-credit modules – the last includes a compulsory one-week residential school.
  • Next, in Stage 2, you’ll study two 30-credit core engineering modules, and a 30-credit module in your choice of engineering specialism. You’ll complete Stage 2 with another core 30-credit module that includes the one-week residential school.
  • Next, in Stage 3, you’ll study another 90 credits in your chosen specialism, followed by a 30-credit postgraduate module.
  • Finally, in Stage 4, you’ll begin with a 30-credit individual-project module, study two further 30-credit postgraduate modules in your chosen specialism and conclude your degree with a 30-credit postgraduate team-project module (which includes two compulsory weekend residential schools).

Optional Access module – visit Entry requirements to find out about starting this course with a preparatory Access module.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

You’ll begin by studying the extraordinary breadth of contemporary engineering, exploring design, materials, mechanics and engineering practice, including case studies. You’ll work on practical activities at a UK-based residential school, and develop a personal development plan towards qualification goals and professional engineering status.
ModulesCredits
You'll study all four of the following:
Engineering: origins, methods, context (T192)30
Engineering: frameworks, analysis, production (T193)30
Engineering: mathematics, modelling, applications (T194)30
Engineering: professions, practice and skills 1 (T176)30

Stage 2 (120 credits)

At Stage 2 you’ll deepen your understanding of how engineers find solutions for technical problems, with two 30-credit core engineering modules. You’ll also study your first 30-credit module from a choice of engineering specialisms. You’ll complete Stage 2 with another core 30-credit module (which includes another one-week residential school) that will further develop the skills you need to achieve professional status.

Core engineering modules

ModulesCredits
You'll study both of the following:
Core engineering A (T271)30
Core engineering B (T272)30

Specialist modules

Choose one of six specialisms:
ModulesCredits
Energy and sustainability
You'll study the following:
Energy and sustainability (T213)30
Environmental technologies
You'll study the following:
Environmental management 1 (T219)30
Engineering management
You'll choose one from:
Design for engineers (T218)30
Energy and sustainability (T213)30
Environmental management 1 (T219)30
Materials and design
You'll study the following:
Design for engineers (T218)30
Mechanical engineering
You'll study the following:
Mechanical engineering A (T229) – planned for October 2020
Modelling and applications
You'll study the following:
Mathematical methods (MST224)30

Core engineering module

You’ll finish Stage 2 with another core engineering module, which includes a one-week residential school:
ModulesCredits
You'll study the following:
Engineering: professions, practice and skills 2 (T276)30

Stage 3 (120 credits)

At Stage 3 you’ll deepen your understanding of engineering and extend your knowledge and skills for your chosen engineering specialism. You’ll conclude the stage with one of two postgraduate modules that explore the processes that underpin technological innovation, or a multi-layered practical approach to the strategic management of technical innovation.

Specialist undergraduate modules

You’ll study a further 90 credits in your chosen specialism:
ModulesCredits
Energy and sustainability
You'll study all three of the following:
Nanoscale Engineering (T366) – planned for October 202130
Structural integrity: designing against failure (T367) – planned for October 202030
Renewable energy (T313)30
Environmental technologies
You'll study both of the following:
Innovation: designing for change (T317)60
Environmental management 2 (T319)30
Engineering management
You'll study the following:
Creating futures: sustainable enterprise and innovation (B327)30
You'll choose 60 credits from:
Communications technology (TM355)30
Nanoscale Engineering (T366) – planned for October 202130
Structural integrity: designing against failure (T367) – planned for October 202030
Innovation: designing for change (T317)60
Materials and design
You'll study both of the following:
Innovation: designing for change (T317)60
Structural integrity (T367) – planned from October 2020.30
Mechanical engineering
You'll study all three of the following:
Mechanical Engineering B (T329) – planned for October 202230
Nanoscale Engineering (T366) – planned for October 202130
Structural integrity: designing against failure (T367) – planned for October 202030
Modelling and applications
You'll choose two from:
Optimization (M373)30
Mathematical methods and fluid mechanics (MST326)30
Deterministic and stochastic dynamics (MS327)30
You'll study the following:
Structural integrity: designing against failure (T367) – planned for October 202030

Postgraduate modules

ModulesCredits
You'll choose one from:
Managing technological innovation (T848)30
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)30

Stage 4 (120 credits)

You’ll begin Stage 4 with an individual project in which you’ll engage in a research scenario of your choice. Next, you’ll continue your study of engineering at postgraduate level and further extend your knowledge of your subject focus. You’ll conclude this stage with a team project – this module is about working collaboratively and is based around two residential-school weekends.

Individual project

ModulesCredits
You'll study the following:
The MEng individual project (T460)30

Specialist postgraduate modules

You’ll study a further 60 credits in the specialism you chose at Stage 2:
ModulesCredits
Energy and sustainability
You'll study the following:
Managing for sustainability (T867)30
You'll choose one from:
Environmental monitoring and protection (T868)30
Making environmental decisions (T891)30
Environmental technologies
You'll study both of the following:
Managing for sustainability (T867)30
Making environmental decisions (T891)30
Engineering management
You'll study the following:
Project management (M815)30
You'll choose one from:
Manufacture materials design (T805)30
Managing for sustainability (T867)30
Managing technological innovation (T848)30
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)30
Making environmental decisions (T891)30
Making strategy with systems thinking in practice (TB871)30
Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812)30
Materials and design
You'll study both of the following:
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804)30
Manufacture materials design (T805)30
Mechanical engineering
You'll study both of the following:
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804)30
Manufacture materials design (T805)30
Modelling and applications
You'll study both of the following:
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804)30
Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820)30

Team project

ModulesCredits
You'll study the following:
Team engineering (T885)30

We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available modules – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which the University might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us. This description was last updated on 20 March 2019.

Accessibility

We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The Master of Engineering uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:

  • studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
  • face-to-face tutorials/day schools/workshops and/or online tutorials
  • some modules require you to attend a residential school
  • using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
  • working in a group with other students
  • using and producing diagrams and screenshots
  • undertaking practical work
  • working with specialist reading material such as journal articles and technical documents
  • finding external/third party material online
  • using specialist software (for example practical laboratory software).

For more detailed information, see the Accessibility Statements on individual module descriptions. If you feel you may need additional support, visit our Disability support website to find more about what we offer. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your individual requirements, so we can put arrangements in place before you start.

Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment

This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

  • Knowledge and understanding
  • Cognitive skills
  • Practical and professional skills
  • Key skills

The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

Read the detailed learning outcomes here

Credit transfer

If you have already studied at university level, you may be able to count it towards your Open University qualification – which could save you time and money by reducing the number of modules you need to study. At the OU we call this credit transfer.

It’s not just university study that can be considered, you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications such as HNCs and HNDs.

You should apply for credit transfer before you register, at least 4 weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where and when and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.

For more details of when you will need to apply by and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

Classification of your degree

On successfully completing this course, you’ll be awarded the Master of Engineering (MEng) degree.

The class of degree (first, upper second, lower second or third class honours) depends on your grades at Stages 3 and 4.

You’ll have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.

Recognition in your country

If you intend to use your Open University qualifications to seek work or undertake further study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether your intended qualification will meet local requirements for your chosen career. Read recognition in my country.

Regulations

As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website. 

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification; however, you’ll need some knowledge of mathematics, and the ability to read and write to a good standard of English.

Check you have the necessary skills at students.open.ac.uk/openmark/engineering.ayrf1

1This diagnostic will work best on your desktop. Some features are not compatible with mobile/tablet devices.

How much time do I need?

This qualification consists of four stages, normally studied over eight years:

Stage 1: two 6-month 30-credit modules studied consecutively over the first year1 and two 9-month 30-credit modules that overlap in the second year

  • Year 1: T192 Oct–Apr and T193 Mar–Sep
  • Year 2: T194 Oct–Jun and T176 Feb–Oct

Stage 2: two 6-month 30-credit modules studied consecutively in the first year, and two 9-month 30-credit modules that overlap in the second year2

  • Year 3: T271 Oct–Mar and T272 Apr–Sep
  • Year 4: specialist module Oct–Jun and T276 Feb–Sep

Stage 3: 60-credits of specialist modules studied over 9 months in the first year, and a 9-month 30-credit specialist module and 6-month 30-credit postgraduate module that overlap in the second year2

  • Year 5: specialist modules Oct–Jun
  • Year 6: specialist module Oct–Jun and postgraduate module Nov–Apr or May–Oct

Stage 4: a 9-month 30-credit individual project module that can be studied alongside a 6-month 30-credit specialist module in the first year followed by a 6-month 30-credit postgraduate module that overlap in the second year.

Your final module must be a 9-month 30-credit team project module that you can start only once you’ve completed all your other study.

  • Year 7: T460 Oct–June and postgraduate module Nov–Apr or May–Oct
  • Year 8: postgraduate module Nov–Apr3 and T885 Sep–June

1You can start Stage 1 in an April; however, you may have to take a 6-month study break before you can start Stage 2.

2It’s possible to study Stages 2 and 3 over a shorter period by further overlapping modules; however, this will create a demanding workload.

3M820 runs Oct–Jun

Your next step

Call us on +44 300 303 0266 or book a call back. Our friendly team of advisers will discuss your study options with you, and help you decide on the best starting point for you.

How much will it cost?

We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to achieving your potential. That’s why we work hard to keep the cost of study as low as possible and have a wide range of flexible ways to pay to help spread, or even reduce, the cost.

  • Fees are paid on a module-by-module basis – you won't have to pay for the whole of your qualification up front.
  • A qualification comprises a series of modules, each with an individual fee. Added together, they give you the total cost.
  • Fees vary by level – our typical fee for 30 credits at undergraduate level is £1,506* and between £1,050* and £1,945* at postgraduate level.
  • The total cost of your chosen qualification starts from £23,867* based on our current fees.
  • Fees are paid on a module-by-module basis – you won't have to pay for the whole of your qualification up front.
  • A qualification comprises a series of modules, each with an individual fee. Added together, they give you the total cost.
  • Fees vary by level and where you live.
  • Our typical fee for 30 credits at undergraduate level is £1,506* and between £1,620* and £2,570* at postgraduate level.
  • The total cost of your chosen qualification starts from £26,202* based on our current fees.

*The fee information provided here is valid for courses starting before 31 July 2020. Fees normally increase annually in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees.

Additional costs

Study costs

There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as a computer, travel to tutorials, set books and internet access.

If you're on a low income you might be eligible for help with some of these costs after you start studying.

International examination fees

The University sets up what are called established examination centres, in the UK and in most countries in continental Europe and the Republic of Ireland. Students sitting examinations in these established centres do not need to pay an examination fee. If you cannot attend an established exam centre we can arrange for you to take your examination at an appropriate venue in your country of residence for an additional charge. The charge for exams in 2019 is between £247 and £251, fees for 2020 may be higher.

Residential schools

This qualification includes two compulsory undergraduate modules that each includes a compulsory residential school. For each residential school you must pay an additional charge of £293 (2019/20) to cover the cost of accommodation and meals. You’ll pay this charge when you book the residential school, after you’ve enrolled on the module. You must also pay for your travel to and from the venue.

This qualification also includes a compulsory postgraduate module that includes, in the cost of the module, two compulsory residential schools. You must pay for your travel to and from the venue.

Ways to pay for your qualification

We’re confident we can help you find an option that’s right for you.

Review our Fees and funding page for a summary of the funding options available.

Further questions?

For more information about your funding options, speak to an adviser or request a call back


Please note: your permanent address/domicile will affect your fee status and therefore the fees you are charged and any financial support available to you. The fees and funding information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2020. Fees normally increase annually in line with inflation and the University’s strategic approach to fees.

Skills for career development

The areas of knowledge, competence and skills that this degree develops include: the ability to use specialist knowledge to solve problems creatively; collaborative working and communication skills; project management skills; the ability to turn concepts into reality.

Your study will give the skills expected of a Chartered Engineer, in providing solutions to engineering problems. These could involve using existing or developing new technologies and designs; refining production systems; or developing new services. It will give you the confidence to be accountable for complex systems with significant levels of risk.

On graduation, this qualification (combined with the appropriate evidence of professional practice) will enable you to apply (via an appropriate engineering institution) to the Engineering Council for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Career relevance

Our MEng is a general engineering qualification that provides an entry into a wide range of more specialist engineering roles. Examples include:

  • mechanical engineer
  • electronic engineer
  • structural engineer
  • production engineer
  • biomedical engineer
  • environmental engineer
  • materials engineer
  • other roles within engineering management
  • manufacturing engineer.

Accreditation

Our MEng fulfils the Engineering Council’s educational requirements for Chartered Engineer status under UK-SPEC1.

The following professional engineering institutions accredit our MEng2:

Logos of accrediting organisations

Visit the Engineering Council’s website for details of current accreditation, including qualification specialism requirements and time limits.

1UK-SPEC (UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence) sets out the requirements for UK engineers to achieve professional status.

2The new Mechanical Engineering route hasn’t been reviewed by the institutions yet, therefore, that particular route isn’t yet accredited.

Other careers

Qualified engineers are much in demand for their rigorous approach to problem solving and high level of numeracy. These skills open up a wide range of other career opportunities – for example, in management or finance – as well as in engineering itself. Opportunities exist in research, design and development, commissioning, project management, technical sales and marketing, technical journalism and patent work. With appropriate experience and qualifications it’s also possible to be a self-employed consultant. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.

In addition to improving your career prospects, studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills.

Exploring your options

Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

Register for this course

Start dates
Credit transfer: apply by 13/02/2020

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