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Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering

This flexible diploma enables you to combine modules from engineering analysis and technology management to shape a qualification that suits your career aspirations. You will broaden and deepen your understanding of professional engineering, and work collaboratively on a project module. The diploma also provides a route to a masters level engineering qualification, and can help you progress towards Chartered Engineer registration.

Diploma

Course code: E22
Credits: 120
How long it takes: Minimum - 2.5 years
Read more about how long it takes
Study method: Distance learning
Find out more in Why the OU?
Course cost: See Fees and funding
Entry requirements: Find out more about entry requirements.

Course details Entry requirements Careers

Course details

Modules

You must take Team engineering (T885) as your final module, and complete all the other modules before you register for it.

To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits as follows:

60 credits from List A:

List A: optional modules	Credits	Next start
Advanced routing – CCNP 1 (T824) This module provides the knowledge, understanding and skills to deploy and manage internal and external routing protocols for large scale inter-networks using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Capacities for managing development (T878) This module teaches the conceptual, methodological and evaluative tools and skills that development managers will need working in any sector, anywhere. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Conflict and development (T879) Combining theoretical concepts with practical tools, this module explores the causes of conflict, the impact conflicts have on development, and actions that can help mitigate conflicts. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Development: context and practice (T877) This module provides a conceptual framework for analysing the complex, contested contexts in which development takes place, and a critical analysis of development management practice. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Environmental monitoring and protection (T868) This online module equips you with the skills necessary to undertake environmental assessment work, interpret the results and suggest appropriate remedial measures. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) This module introduces some of the computational modelling and analysis techniques used in engineering the products, processes and systems that support our modern lifestyles. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Institutional development (TU872) This module analyses institutions, identifies their significance for development, examines how to build inter-organisational relationships, and explores the skills of mapping, modelling, negotiation and brokering. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Making environmental decisions (T891) Defining environment to include biophysical, social, political, economic factors, this module uses a systems framework to integrate environment with other elements in environmental decision-making situations. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Managing for sustainability (T867) This module will increase your understanding of delivering and supporting sustainability management in your workplace or support your personal interest in this subject. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812) Develop your understanding of systemic inquiry, systemic action research and social learning in order to extend your skills of project, programme and change management. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Managing technological innovation (T848) This module explores the processes that underpin technological innovation an understanding of which is crucial whether you are a user or producer of technological innovation. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Manufacture materials design (T805) Introducing materials processing from the perspective of a design engineer, this module explores how to make components, focusing on the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Multilayer switching – CCNP 3 (T826) This module will give you with the knowledge, understanding and skills to deploy reliable, scalable and secure multilayer-switched campus LANs using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Network security (T828) This module will give you the knowledge, understanding and practical experience of managing a secure communication across a large-scale inter-network using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Optimising networks – CCNP 4 (T827) This module will give you the knowledge, understanding and skills to optimise communication on large-scale data networks using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889) This module focuses on the practical application and deeper understanding of many of the methods and techniques associated with modern quality management and systems thinking. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017 FINAL
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849) This module draws on a range of theoretical perspectives from both strategic and innovation management to produce a multi-layered, practical, approach to strategic management of technological innovation. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811) Improve your management skills by exploring different approaches to engaging with complex situations and by developing your understanding of how cognitive processing shapes practice. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules T822, T823, T825, T833, T834, T835, T837, T838, T839, T840, T841, T846, T850, T851, T852, T853, T860, T861, T862, T863, T881, T882, T883, T884, T890, T894, TD866, TU870, TU871, TU875, TUXX870, TUXX871, TUXX872, TUXX875, TXX860, TXX861, TXX863

Plus

30 credits from List B:

List B: optional modules	Credits	Next start
Advanced mathematical methods (M833) Learn advanced mathematical methods with the aid of algebraic computing language Maple, and explore various forms of approximation on this MSc in Mathematics module. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2017
Advanced routing – CCNP 1 (T824) This module provides the knowledge, understanding and skills to deploy and manage internal and external routing protocols for large scale inter-networks using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Analytic number theory I (M823) This module introduces number theory - which is still undergoing intensive development - using techniques from analysis, particularly the convergence of series and the calculus of residues. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2017
Analytic number theory II (M829) This module teaches number theory using techniques from analysis, and in particular the convergence of series and the calculus of residues. See full description	30	No current presentation
Applied complex variables (M828) Complex variable theory pervades many subjects, and this module teaches topics that are useful in the theoretical sciences and of interest in their own right. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2017
Approximation theory (M832) Develop your understanding of the mathematical theory behind many approximation methods in common use. The module is based on M.J.D. Powell’s Approximation Theory and Methods. See full description	30	No current presentation
Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820) This module, which develops the theory of the calculus of variations and other related topics, is the starting point for our MSc in Mathematics. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2017
Capacities for managing development (T878) This module teaches the conceptual, methodological and evaluative tools and skills that development managers will need working in any sector, anywhere. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Coding theory (M836) Explore the theory of error-detecting and error-correcting codes, investigate the bounds of these codes, and discover how they can be used in real situations. See full description	30	No current presentation
Conflict and development (T879) Combining theoretical concepts with practical tools, this module explores the causes of conflict, the impact conflicts have on development, and actions that can help mitigate conflicts. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Data management (M816) Discover the data management principles, practices and technologies required to develop policies, procedures and systems that control, protect, deliver and enhance the value of an organisation’s data asset. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Developing research skills in science (S825) This module helps you develop your knowledge and understanding of the research skills and techniques relevant to scientific study at postgraduate level. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2017
Development: context and practice (T877) This module provides a conceptual framework for analysing the complex, contested contexts in which development takes place, and a critical analysis of development management practice. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Digital forensics (M812) This module will help you understand how to conduct investigations to correctly gather, analyse and present digital evidence to both business and legal audiences. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Environmental monitoring and protection (T868) This online module equips you with the skills necessary to undertake environmental assessment work, interpret the results and suggest appropriate remedial measures. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) This module introduces some of the computational modelling and analysis techniques used in engineering the products, processes and systems that support our modern lifestyles. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Fractal geometry (M835) This module examines the theory of fractals – whose geometry cannot easily be described in classical terms – and studies examples to which it can be applied. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2017
Information security (M811) Explore the professional and technical skills necessary to understand, document, manage and implement strategic and operational aspects of your organisation's information security. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Institutional development (TU872) This module analyses institutions, identifies their significance for development, examines how to build inter-organisational relationships, and explores the skills of mapping, modelling, negotiation and brokering. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Making environmental decisions (T891) Defining environment to include biophysical, social, political, economic factors, this module uses a systems framework to integrate environment with other elements in environmental decision-making situations. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Managing for sustainability (T867) This module will increase your understanding of delivering and supporting sustainability management in your workplace or support your personal interest in this subject. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812) Develop your understanding of systemic inquiry, systemic action research and social learning in order to extend your skills of project, programme and change management. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Managing technological innovation (T848) This module explores the processes that underpin technological innovation an understanding of which is crucial whether you are a user or producer of technological innovation. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Manufacture materials design (T805) Introducing materials processing from the perspective of a design engineer, this module explores how to make components, focusing on the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Multilayer switching – CCNP 3 (T826) This module will give you with the knowledge, understanding and skills to deploy reliable, scalable and secure multilayer-switched campus LANs using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Network security (T828) This module will give you the knowledge, understanding and practical experience of managing a secure communication across a large-scale inter-network using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Nonlinear ordinary differential equations (M821) Relevant to scientists, engineers and mathematicians, this introduction to basic theory and simpler approximation schemes covers systems with two degrees of freedom. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2017
Optimising networks – CCNP 4 (T827) This module will give you the knowledge, understanding and skills to optimise communication on large-scale data networks using Cisco equipment. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889) This module focuses on the practical application and deeper understanding of many of the methods and techniques associated with modern quality management and systems thinking. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017 FINAL
Project management (M815) In this online module you’ll explore the whole life cycle of projects, from initiation, through to planning, scheduling, execution, handover and review. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Researching mathematics learning (ME825) ¹ This module offers valuable insight into the teaching and learning of mathematics for anyone involved – from classroom assistants and teachers to lecturers and parents. See full description	60	No current presentation
Software development (M813) Gain the fundamental knowledge and understanding, and analysis and synthesis skills that you will need to develop software artefacts fit for a real-world organisational context. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Software engineering (M814) Explore the advanced concepts and techniques used throughout the software life cycle, for the effective production and management of large, complex, and long-lived software systems. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Space science (S818) ¹ This module provides an in-depth introduction to the methods of conducting scientific measurements in the space environment and the technologies needed for space missions. See full description Register	60	27 Jan 2018
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849) This module draws on a range of theoretical perspectives from both strategic and innovation management to produce a multi-layered, practical, approach to strategic management of technological innovation. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2017
Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811) Improve your management skills by exploring different approaches to engaging with complex situations and by developing your understanding of how cognitive processing shapes practice. See full description Register	30	01 May 2018
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules M826, M827, M841, M865, M873, M874, M876, M877, M878, M879, M880, M882, M883, M885, M886, M887, M888, M889, S802, S804, SD805, S809, S819, SEH806, SH804, T822, T823, T825, T833, T834, T835, T837, T838, T839, T840, T841, T846, T850, T851, T852, T853, T860, T861, T862, T863, T881, T882, T883, T884, T890, T894, TD866, TU870, TU871, TU875, TUXX870, TUXX871, TUXX872, TUXX875, TXX860, TXX861, TXX863 ¹ 60-credit module of which only 30 credits count towards this qualification

Plus

Compulsory module	Credits	Next start
Team engineering (T885) This module about working collaboratively is based around two residential weekends. You’ll work in a small team on an engineering project, finally submitting a report. See full description Register	30	15 Sep 2017

You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 40 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment

The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:

Knowledge and understanding
Cognitive skills
Practical and professional skills
Key skills

Credit transfer

If you have already completed some successful study at postgraduate level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards this Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible as it may affect your choice of OU modules. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us.

Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply for credit transfer.

On completion

On successful completion of the required modules you can be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering entitling you to use the letters PG Dip Eng (Open) after your name.

Once you have completed the postgraduate diploma, you can gain the MSc in Engineering (F46) by taking the 60-credit Research project (T802).

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 Essential Documents website.

Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering

Entry requirements

You should normally hold a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in a subject with a high mathematics content. If you don’t have an honours degree, you may still be able to study this qualification by demonstrating your ability to study at postgraduate level – contact us.

Your spoken and written English must be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum overall score of 6 and minimum score of 5.5 in each of the four components: reading, writing, speaking and listening under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Please see the IELTS website for details.

How long it takes

Most students complete this qualification in four years. You must have completed 90 credits of postgraduate study before you can register on the final module Team engineering (T885). The minimum time to complete is two years and six months. There is no maximum time to complete but please note that modules can only count towards this qualification for a maximum of five years after we stop presenting them.

Career relevance

This qualification will help you to develop your engineering skills, as well as a range of transferable skills, such as: the ability to use specialist knowledge to solve problems creatively; effective communication skills; project management skills; the ability to turn concepts into reality; a professional approach to your work.

The knowledge and practical experience you gain during your postgraduate studies mean you'll be well placed to take advantage of the many senior engineering and technology employment opportunities available at home and abroad. At the same time, you'll be developing capabilities that are highly prized by employers in a variety of other sectors, where your logical thinking, numeracy skills, and team working abilities will be in demand.

If you already hold an honours degree that has been accredited by one of the engineering institutions licensed by the Engineering Council, this diploma course will take you one stage further towards fulfilling the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.

Combining an accredited honours degree with study of our Postgraduate Diploma plus our MSc in Engineering will fulfil the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer status. We have accreditations with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED). We are waiting for confirmation of accreditation from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). Please visit our Engineering website for further details.

There is more information about how OU study can improve your employability in the OU’s Employability Statement from our Careers Advisory Service. You can also look at our OU study and your career pages to find out about potential career opportunities related to OU subject areas.

Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering

Diploma

Course details

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits as follows:

Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment

Credit transfer

On completion

Regulations

Entry requirements

How long it takes

Career relevance

The Open University

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OU Students Community

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Study

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Course details

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits as follows:

Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment

Credit transfer

On completion

Regulations

Entry requirements

How long it takes

Career relevance

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