Shape the future of engineering with a flexible master's by research in mechanical engineering with NSIRC and Brunel University London
Learn more and apply
Are you looking for a research focused master's programme that could either be completed part-time or through a combination of distance learning?
National Structural Research Centre (NSIRC) in partnership with Brunel University has launched a unique Master by Research (MScR) in Mechanical Engineering degree.
This MScR programme allows you to specialise in areas including:
- Lightweight structures and impact engineering
- Oil and gas engineering
- Structural integrity for asset reliability management
Overview
This unique masters research degree programme in Mechanical Engineering is designed to empower both students and working professionals to advance their knowledge through specialised routes and delve deeper into a chosen field through focused research, propelling their careers forward. In addition, the postgraduate degree, masters in research, will open routes for professionals and graduates, to conduct an in-depth research project in their chosen field and apply their newfound knowledge to real-world problems.
Our flexible part-time structure allows you to balance your academic research with your current job responsibilities. In addition, you can leverage your existing Continuous Professional Development (CPD) credits to gain exemptions from certain taught modules (subject to approval).
By delving into a focused research project, you gain not only theoretical understanding but also practical experience applicable to real-world engineering challenges
Why Choose Master by Research (MScR)
The newly launched MScR programme offers a unique and flexible pathway to a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, designed for both working professionals and aspiring researchers.
- Duration: 1 year full-time OR 2 years part-time – option to extend the duration to a longer period
- Location: the module is to be studied in the NSIRC facility at TWI in the UK and research work can be completed remotely
- Research Supervision: panel of industrial experts and academic professionals
- Available Funding: NSIRC Industry Scholarships worth £10,000 + Brunel University’s Vice Chancellor Excellence Award worth £5,000 can be used towards tuition fees
- Accreditations: NAFEMS Approved
- Career Development: become an expert in your chosen field while acquiring transferable skills that support career progression
In-depth research and flexible learning:
The programme combines coursework (60 credits) with a significant research project (120 credits). This empowers you, whether a working professional or an aspiring researcher, to delve into in-depth research exploration. You can choose a research topic directly relevant to your current role or company's needs, potentially leading to advancements in your field and providing a technological edge.
Part-time structure and flexibility for remote research:
This part-time MScR allows you to gain valuable research experience and a triple-accredited Master's qualification without disrupting your current commitments. Additionally, the programme offers research flexibility, allowing you to complete your research project remotely (subject to regulations) from your home country or a location that suits your needs.
Career advancement:
The programme offers a focused curriculum that provides a strong foundation for your research project while minimising the time commitment compared to a full-time MSc. This research-intensive environment equips you with advanced research skills and knowledge to tackle complex engineering challenges and propel your career forward.
Pathway to PhD - benefits of combining MScR with PhD study:
The MScR programme also provides in-depth research experience and equips you with advanced research skills, preparing you to transition smoothly into a PhD programme. This allows you to potentially earn two degrees, an MSc in Research and a PhD, within three years.
Specialisation areas for the MScR in Mechanical Engineering
The part-time MScR programme in Mechanical engineering allows you to specialise in the area that aligns with your interest and career goal. Here is a snapshot of available specialisation:
Lightweight Structures and Impact Engineering
This specialisation is designed for applicants and professionals with a keen interest in the aerospace, automotive, and transportation industries. The specialisation will focus on the key three areas including material / structural response under static, dynamic and extreme loading; lightweight structural design (aerospace, automotive, offshore and defence) and applied training in advanced simulation (LS-DYNA3D).
The participants will be provided training on industry-standard software and will complete industry-relevant dissertation projects. Also, there will be internship and placement opportunities for the students.
Oil and Gas Engineering
The specialisation will focus on two key areas, design and commission of oilfield installations and applied knowledge and understanding of numerical, testing and inspection techniques for industrial problems.
The participant will be provided training on industry-standard software, including PipeSim and Olga (Schlumberger), and state-of-the-art equipment. In addition, students will learn from the industrial experts and attend workshops. During the research phase, the applicant will work on an industry-relevant dissertation project.
The specialise will help participants to develop expertise in structural integrity assessment, multiphase flow analysis, and design considerations for oil and gas applications, opening doors to research opportunities in these areas.
Structural Integrity (Asset Reliability Management)
This specialisation is ideal for applicants and professionals working in industries that focus on asset management, such as civil engineering, construction, and power generation. The route will focus on two key areas including finding defects and assessing implications of defects.
During the programme, the participant will have access to the on-site state-of-the-art equipment and HPC cluster and plenty of CPD opportunities and networking with fellow experts in the industry. In addition, participants will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software and will work on the industry-relevant dissertation project to expand their knowledge and develop technological edge for their companies.
The participants will gain expertise in non-destructive testing methods, structural health monitoring, and reliability engineering, preparing them for research careers focused on asset integrity management.
By choosing your MScR specialisation, you can gain in-depth knowledge and advanced skills in your chosen area, preparing you for a successful career in your field of interest, all while balancing your work commitments through the programme's flexible structure.
Course Content
Lightweight Structures and Impact Engineering MScR
Compulsory modules: ME5707 Impact and Crashworthiness (15 credits) ; ME5706 Advanced Transient Simulation Methods (15 credits) | Optional modules: ME5644 Composite Materials and Structures (15 credits); ME5645 Thin-Walled Structures (15 credits); ME5646 Automotive Integral Vehicle Structures (15 credits); ME5600 Fracture Mechanics and Fatigue Analysis (15 credits); ME5601 Metallurgy and Materials (15 credits); ME5624 Numerical Modelling of Solids and Structures (15 credits)
Oil and Gas Engineering MScR
Compulsory modules: ME5622 Structural Integrity and FEA (15 credits); ME5621 Structural Materials (15 credits)
| Optional modules: ME5634 Petroleum Production Fundamentals (15 credits); ME5697 Engineering Fundamentals for Hydrogen Economy (15 credits); ME5621 Structural Materials (15 credits); ME5622 Structural Integrity and FEA (15 credits); ME5623 Multiphase Flow Fundamentals and Flow Assurance (15 credits); ME5635 Dynamics of Petroleum Structures (15 credits); ME5636 Design and Construction of Installations (15 credits); ME5637 Reliability Engineering and Risk Management (15 credits)
Structural Integrity (Asset Reliability Management) MScR
Compulsory modules: ME562 Numerical Modelling of Solids and Structures (15 credits); ME5600 Fatigue and Fracture Mechanics (15 credits) | Optional modules: ME5601 Materials – Metallurgy and Materials (15 credits); ME5602 NDT Inspection Methodology (15 credits); ME5628 Codes and Standards in Structural Integrity (15 credits); ME5605 Reliability Engineering (15 credits); ME5611 Structural Health Monitoring (15 credits);
Entry Requirement
MScR Oil and Gas Engineering
A 2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant branch of engineering or science. | Additional qualifications and relevant experience will be assessed on an individual basis. | Requires an ATAS certificate for non-EEA students with temporary immigration permission.
MScR Structural Integrity (Asset Reliability Management)
A 2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Civil, Structural, Physics, Material Sciences, or Industrial Engineering. | Requires an ATAS certificate for non-EEA students with temporary immigration permission.
Additional requirements for international applicants
Tier 4 visa: If you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you'll need to demonstrate English language proficiency to obtain a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). Accepted English Language Tests include IELTS, Pearson, BrunELT, and TOEFL with minimum score requirements. The test must be taken within two years of the CAS issuance date. |
ATAS Certificate: For some programs (e.g., Oil and Gas Engineering), students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) with temporary immigration permission might need an ATAS certificate.
How to Apply
To register your interest in this MSc by Research programme, please visit Lightweight Structures and Impact Engineering, Oil and Gas Engineering, and Structural Integrity (Asset Reliability Management) webpage and click the 'Apply now' button, from the drop-down menu, select either 'Apply full-time MScR' or 'Apply part-time MScR.'
FAQ
How is it funded?
The MScR programme offers two funding options to the applicants, prestigious NSIRC industry scholarships worth of £10,000 and Brunel University's Vice Chancellor Excellence Award worth of £5,000. However, there might be additional funding options available. Contact us at enquiries@nsirc.co.uk for more details.
What are the research master's in UK requirements?
The minimum academic qualifications to enrol in the MScR:
A minimum of a 2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree in a relevant field (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics, Physics) is typically required, equivalent international qualifications might be accepted, and applicants with alternative qualifications and relevant work experience are encouraged to apply (for some programs). |
For international students, there are an additional set of requirements, tier 4 visa: if you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you'll need to demonstrate English language proficiency to obtain a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). English Language Tests: accepted tests include IELTS, Pearson, BrunELT, and TOEFL with minimum score requirements (e.g., IELTS overall score of 6 with a minimum of 5.5 in each section). The test must be taken within two years of the CAS issuance date. ATAS Certificate: For some programs (e.g., Oil and Gas Engineering), students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) with temporary immigration permission might need an ATAS certificate.
How can this programme benefit my career development?
The program provides several benefits for working professionals: (1) Gain advanced knowledge and research skills in your chosen specialisation. (2) Conduct research directly relevant to your current role, potentially leading to advancements in your field and benefiting your company. (3) Earn a prestigious Master's degree while maintaining your full-time employment.
How does this programme prepare me for a PhD?
The MScR programme provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies. The in-depth research experience equips you with advanced research skills and prepares you to transition smoothly into a PhD programme.
What is a masters degree by research?
A Master's degree by research (MScR) focuses heavily on independent research with dedicated 120 credits to dissertation writing. Compared to a traditional master's programme (MSc) the master by research offers less course work, offering flexibility for the applicant to complete the research remotely.
Which is better MSc or M Res?
Both Master of Science (MSc) and Master of Science by Research (MScR) programmes offer valuable opportunities for furthering your education in Mechanical Engineering. However, they differ in their focus and structure, making it essential to choose the programme that best aligns with your academic and career goals. An MSc offers a broader range of knowledge across various specializations and prepares you for diverse engineering roles. It's ideal for career changers or those seeking a well-rounded skillset. The program emphasizes coursework and typically takes less time to complete. An MScR, on the other hand, focuses on in-depth research within a chosen area. It equips you with advanced research skills and prepares you for a research-oriented career path, like a PhD program. If you crave broader knowledge and quicker employment, choose an MSc. If your passion lies in research and innovation, then an MScR might be the perfect springboard for your future.
Is a research masters a PhD?
No, a research Master's (MScR) is a separate degree from a PhD. However, an MScR provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies. Because it emphasizes extensive research culminating in a dissertation, allowing students to combine their MScR research with additional coursework and research credits to qualify for a PhD programme. This combined pathway can potentially lead to earning both an MScR and a PhD in just three years, saving you a year compared to the traditional route.
What is mres degree?
A Master of Research known as MRes is a postgraduate degree focused on independent research in a specific field. Compared to a traditional Master's (MSc) route, mres degree offers less coursework and a stronger emphasis on your research project. This programme is well-suited for professionals seeking a part-time, research-focused degree to utilise cumulative Continuous Professional Development (CPD) credit towards career advancement.