ObjectivesYou'll gain an advanced knowledge of engineering design using modern computer-aided design techniques as well as a high level of understanding of modern mechanical engineering theory and practice.
Entry requirementsApplicants should normally have an honours degree (at least 2.2) in an appropriate related discipline, professional membership of an appropriate chartered institution or an equivalent relevant qualification. Holders of an appropriate higher national diploma plus several years' relevant experience may also be accepted.
Academic titleMSc Computer-aided Engineering
Course descriptionThe main focus of this course is the generation of computer descriptions of product models and their automated applications in a manufacturing environment. Computer-aided engineering is increasingly becoming embedded in a larger organisational framework, the resulting synthesis being known as computer-integrated manufacture (CIM).
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Stage 1
Introduction and Professional Studies
This module is designed to introduce you to the issues related to studying beyond undergraduate level. It applies to students on taught postgraduate courses and those who are embarking on a programme of research. The module encompasses issues such as enrolment, health and safety, using Blackboard, report writing and referencing, ethics, plagiarism, time management and numerical techniques. You will also examine discipline specific areas pertinent to your pathway, which will offer you a particular grounding, skills base or understanding required at the early stage of your study. You will be introduced to personal development planning, by keeping a formal log book.
CAD/CAM and Product Development
This module provides knowledge of time compression technologies to enable design and delivery of innovative products and reduce time to market. It includes a study of rapid prototyping and production development techniques alongside a review of collaborative product development and concurrent design engineering strategies using 3-D modelling to minimise manufacturing lead time. You will be introduced to various software packages. You are encouraged to take a critical view of these packages and consider their integration with other systems.
Manufacturing Systems
This module considers typical hardware and software involved with automated machinery and production processes. It will show you how machines can be integrated into flexible cells and flexible manufacturing systems and, when linked with appropriate production management software, into computer integrated manufacturing systems.
Stage 2
Finite Element Analysis/Methods
This module provides practical experience of using commercially available finite element packages. The application of the method is demonstrated using a number of case studies. You are encouraged to use the technique as an extension of your standard text books in solving design and manufacturing problems.
Computer Integrated Manufacturing
This module examines approaches to integrated enterprise in the manufacturing sectors. A holistic view is adopted, covering key technical elements, organisational factors and strategic approaches. Topics include enterprise resource planning, integrated robot handling and NC machining, factory layout planning simulation and plant maintenance systems. Theoretical concepts are reinforced by practical computer-based exercises.
Industrial Marketing
This module assumes no prior knowledge of marketing. It initially focuses on the key principles of marketing and the concept of marketing and customer orientation. The central focus of that orientation is business to business marketing. The module also examines industrial marketing from the perspective of value-based marketing and creating shareholder (or stakeholder) value. This includes evaluating value drivers, both marketing and financial, and the financial implications of marketing strategy. The module makes extensive use of case studies as part of the learning process to enable you to examine theoretical concepts in a practical context.
Stage 3
Research Project
This is the culmination of the programme of studies. You will undertake a challenging problem related substantially to your discipline. The project is linked where possible to an industrial or external partner organisation, which may even host your work and substantially direct the activity. Where this is not possible, a real or simulated real problem may be chosen as subject for the work. It is, however, expected that even where the problem is simulated or hypothetical, it will be treated as if real. The project outcomes project should be at a publishable standard.
Course structure
Core modules include Manufacturing Systems, CAD/CAM and Product Development, Finite Element Methods, Computer-integrated Manufacturing and Industrial Marketing.
Careers
Graduates can expect to be employed in areas within manufacturing and engineering which are related to computer-integrated manufacture, flexible manufacturing systems and design engineering.
Industrial experience
On this Master's degree you'll complete an industrially-related project. This, along with the involvement of industrialists, practitioners and academics in the delivery of this course, ensures that it is relevant to the demands of the process manufacturing industries.
Intermediate awards
Our master's degrees can lead to the award of a postgraduate certificate at Stage 1 (60 credits - 3 modules), a postgraduate diploma at Stage 2 (120 credits - 6 modules) or, on completion of a research project, the MSc.
Block release study
The course is available on a block release basis: you'll study for one week between 9.00am and 6.00pm with follow-up days in the next four weeks and accompanying assignment work.