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Course type: Masters degree

Credits

180

How long it takes: 3.5–4 years
Read more about how long it takes

Study method: Distance learning

Course cost: Postgraduate loan available
See Fees and funding

Entry requirements: Find out more about; Entry requirements

MSc in Engineering

: Course code: F46

Combine modules from engineering analysis and technology. Shape a qualification that suits your career aspirations. You’ll develop a range of transferable skills, such as creative problem solving, effective communication, project management and concept realisation. You’ll also develop a professional approach to your work and extend your engineering skills. Through the project module, and as part of a small project team, you’ll design and present a solution to a real-world engineering need.

Key features

Course details

Entry requirements

Careers

Develops your planning, organising, data collecting, analysing and writing skills
Extends your knowledge of recent research
Leads to professional qualifications
Ideal preparation for a research degree

Course type: Masters degree

Credits

180

How long it takes: 3.5–4 years
Read more about how long it takes

Study method: Distance learning

Course cost: Postgraduate loan available
See Fees and funding

Entry requirements: Find out more about; Entry requirements

Modules

There are two routes through this qualification:

Route 1 is for all new students; and for students that started their studies from November 2019 or later.
Route 2 is for students that started their studies before November 2019. If you’re following this route, you must complete your studies by 31 December 2024.

Route 1

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1 (120 credits)

30 credits from List A:

Module	Credits	Next start
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) T804 covers basics of finite element modelling of components and materials under static and thermal stresses as well as dynamic analysis using ANSYS software. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023 FINAL
Manufacture materials design (T805) Introducing materials processing from the perspective of a design engineer, this module explores how components are made, focusing on the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules T881 and T884.

60 credits from List B:

Module	Credits	Next start
Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820) M820 Calculus of Variations and Advanced Calculus covers functionals, Gâteaux differential, Euler–Lagrange equation, First-integral, Noether’s Theorem, Second variation/Jacobi equation and Sturm–Liouville systems. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2023
Environmental monitoring and protection (T868) This engaging online module will equip you with information on monitoring, modelling, and preventive technologies for water, noise, air, and wastes pollution. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) T804 covers basics of finite element modelling of components and materials under static and thermal stresses as well as dynamic analysis using ANSYS software. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023 FINAL
Making environmental decisions (T891) This module teaches you to use a systems framework to integrate environment with other considerations when making decisions in complex environmental management situations. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Making strategy with systems thinking in practice (TB871) TB871 builds capability for making strategy within your own chosen area of (professional) practice using ideas and tools from five traditions of systems thinking. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Managing change with systems thinking in practice (TB872) This module is about effecting systemic and systematic change in uncertain and complex situations, change that can transform situations for the better. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Manufacture materials design (T805) Introducing materials processing from the perspective of a design engineer, this module explores how components are made, focusing on the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Project management (M815) ¹ This APM accredited module is ideal for aspiring project managers and practising project managers who wish to develop their knowledge and skills of managing technological projects. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
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 2023
Sustainable organisations: theory and practice (T892) This module provides the background knowledge and a practical skill-set to lead the way in transforming or creating sustainable organisations of the future. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Technology innovation management (TB801) This module examines innovation from a management perspective, enabling you to develop an understanding of how to contribute to the process and management of technological innovation. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Mathematical methods and fluid mechanics (MST326) ² Learn about modelling simple fluid flows, ordinary and partial differential equations and mathematical methods that can be used to solve fluid-flow problems. See full description	30	07 Oct 2023
Deterministic and stochastic dynamics (MS327) ² This module covers core topics in the application of mathematics and is an accessible introduction to the study of applied mathematics at OU level 3. See full description	30	07 Oct 2023
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules T846, T848, T867, TU811 and TU812.
¹If you intend to follow the professional route in Stage 2, don’t choose M815 in Stage 1 – you’ll study it later on.
²You may choose only one of these two modules. While the 30 credits you achieve will contribute to the 180 credits required for this qualification, the grade you get won’t contribute to the overall classification.

30 credits from:

Module	Credits	Next start
Team engineering (T885) ³ This module provides an opportunity for you to explore an engineering problem in-depth, working as part of a small team. See full description Register	30	08 Sep 2023
³To begin T885, you must have completed all other modules in Stage 1.

Stage 2 (60 credits) – you must complete Stage 1 first

You will choose either:

a research route
a professional route

Research route

60 credits from:

Module	Credits	Next start
Research project (T802) This research module is the final part of an MSc; you’ll design your own research and submit a dissertation. See full description Register	60	01 Oct 2023

Professional route

60 credits from:

Module	Credits	Next start
Project management (M815) This APM accredited module is ideal for aspiring project managers and practising project managers who wish to develop their knowledge and skills of managing technological projects. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
MSc project: researching in context (T803) NEW T803 is the capstone module of multiple masters qualifications, during which you’ll complete a small research project. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued module T847.

The University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that we’ve previously awarded to you. Note, in particular, that you can count the credit from the following modules each towards only a single qualification: Research project (T802) and MSc project: researching in context (T803).

Route 2

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1

30 credits from List A:

Module	Credits	Next start
Advanced mathematical methods (M833) This module uses the Maple computing language to teach: perturbation expansions, accelerated convergence, Padé approximations, asymptotic expansions, eigenvalue problems, and Green’s functions. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2023
Advanced networking (CCNP Enterprise) (T829) In this postgraduate module, you’ll study the latest version of the CCNP curriculum, using an online virtual learning environment provided by Cisco. See full description Register	60	01 Nov 2023
Analytic number theory I (M823) This entry-level pure mathematics module introduces several concepts from number theory, including congruences, arithmetical functions and their averages, distributions of primes, quadratic reciprocity and Dirichlet’s theorem. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2023
Analytic number theory II (M829) This module covers the second half of Apostol’s Introduction to Analytic Number Theory and proof of the prime number theorem. See full description	30	No current presentation
Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820) M820 Calculus of Variations and Advanced Calculus covers functionals, Gâteaux differential, Euler–Lagrange equation, First-integral, Noether’s Theorem, Second variation/Jacobi equation and Sturm–Liouville systems. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2023
Coding theory (M836) This module examines error-detecting and error-correcting codes built on algebraic structures, with associated encoding/decoding procedures and applicability, concluding with elements of cryptography. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2023
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 2023
Digital forensics (M812) M812 covers the history of forensics, both criminal and criminal digital law, digital investigation techniques for desktop and mobile devices as well as forensic readiness. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Environmental monitoring and protection (T868) This engaging online module will equip you with information on monitoring, modelling, and preventive technologies for water, noise, air, and wastes pollution. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) T804 covers basics of finite element modelling of components and materials under static and thermal stresses as well as dynamic analysis using ANSYS software. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023 FINAL
Fractal geometry (M835) This module deals with the geometry of fractals, sets that are often very beautiful and contain copies of themselves at many different scales. See full description Register	30	07 Oct 2023
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 2023
Making environmental decisions (T891) This module teaches you to use a systems framework to integrate environment with other considerations when making decisions in complex environmental management situations. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Making strategy with systems thinking in practice (TB871) TB871 builds capability for making strategy within your own chosen area of (professional) practice using ideas and tools from five traditions of systems thinking. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Managing change with systems thinking in practice (TB872) This module is about effecting systemic and systematic change in uncertain and complex situations, change that can transform situations for the better. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Manufacture materials design (T805) Introducing materials processing from the perspective of a design engineer, this module explores how components are made, focusing on the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Network security (T828) This module includes Cisco CCNA Security and Cyber Security Operations; explore information systems security management and secure internetworked systems. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Nonlinear ordinary differential equations (M821) The theory of nonlinear ordinary differential equations is introduced with emphasis on geometrical aspects, approximation schemes and the determination of stability and periodicity of solutions. See full description	30	No current presentation
Project management (M815) This APM accredited module is ideal for aspiring project managers and practising project managers who wish to develop their knowledge and skills of managing technological projects. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
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 2024
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 2023
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 2024 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 2023
Sustainable organisations: theory and practice (T892) This module provides the background knowledge and a practical skill-set to lead the way in transforming or creating sustainable organisations of the future. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Technology innovation management (TB801) This module examines innovation from a management perspective, enabling you to develop an understanding of how to contribute to the process and management of technological innovation. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules M826, M828, M832, M865, M873, M876, M882, M883, M885, M886, M887, M888, M889, M891, ME825, S802, S807, S809, S819, S825, SD825, SEH806, SH804, T822, T823, T824, T825, T826, T827, T835, T837, T839, T840, T846, T848, T850, T851, T852, T853, T862, T863, T867, T877, T878, T879, T881, T882, T883, T884, T889, T890, T894, TD866, TU811, TU812, TU870, TU871, TU872 and TU875
¹ 60-credit module of which only 30 credits count towards this qualification

60 credits from List B:

Module	Credits	Next start
Advanced networking (CCNP Enterprise) (T829) In this postgraduate module, you’ll study the latest version of the CCNP curriculum, using an online virtual learning environment provided by Cisco. See full description Register	60	01 Nov 2023
Environmental monitoring and protection (T868) This engaging online module will equip you with information on monitoring, modelling, and preventive technologies for water, noise, air, and wastes pollution. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) T804 covers basics of finite element modelling of components and materials under static and thermal stresses as well as dynamic analysis using ANSYS software. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023 FINAL
Making environmental decisions (T891) This module teaches you to use a systems framework to integrate environment with other considerations when making decisions in complex environmental management situations. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Making strategy with systems thinking in practice (TB871) TB871 builds capability for making strategy within your own chosen area of (professional) practice using ideas and tools from five traditions of systems thinking. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Managing change with systems thinking in practice (TB872) This module is about effecting systemic and systematic change in uncertain and complex situations, change that can transform situations for the better. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Manufacture materials design (T805) Introducing materials processing from the perspective of a design engineer, this module explores how components are made, focusing on the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Network security (T828) This module includes Cisco CCNA Security and Cyber Security Operations; explore information systems security management and secure internetworked systems. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
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 2023
Sustainable organisations: theory and practice (T892) This module provides the background knowledge and a practical skill-set to lead the way in transforming or creating sustainable organisations of the future. See full description Register	30	01 May 2024
Technology innovation management (TB801) This module examines innovation from a management perspective, enabling you to develop an understanding of how to contribute to the process and management of technological innovation. See full description Register	30	01 Nov 2023
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules T822, T823, T824, T825, T826, T827, T835, T837, T839, T840, T846, T848, T850, T851, T852, T853, T862, T863, T867, T877, T878, T879, T881, T882, T883, T884, T889, T890, T894, TD866, TU811, TU812, TU870, TU871, TU872 and TU875

30 credits from:

Module	Credits	Next start
Team engineering (T885) ² This module provides an opportunity for you to explore an engineering problem in-depth, working as part of a small team. See full description Register	30	08 Sep 2023
²To begin T885, you must have completed all other modules in Stage 1.

Stage 2

60 credits from:

Module	Credits	Next start
Research project (T802) This research module is the final part of an MSc; you’ll design your own research and submit a dissertation. See full description Register	60	01 Oct 2023

You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that the 60 credits from Research project (T802) must be unique to this qualification and not already counted towards any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

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’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

On completion

On successfully completing this course, we’ll award you our Master of Science in Engineering. You’ll be entitled to use the letters MSc (Eng) (Open) after your name.

If your masters degree is awardable with a distinction or a merit, the qualification regulations explain how you can achieve these.

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

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.

MSc in Engineering

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 14 March 2023.

For Stage 1, 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.

Our free course, Succeeding in postgraduate study, will introduce you to the nature of masters-level study. It offers essential preparation for pursuing your learning at this level – and is free.

How long it takes

Most students complete this qualification in five years.
The maximum time you may take to complete this qualification is eight years.

Career relevance

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 in the UK 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.

Accreditation

This degree has been accredited by the professional institution(s) below under licence from the UK regulator, the Engineering Council. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). An accredited degree will provide you with some or all of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng). Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.

Accredited by the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer when combined with an accredited honours degree like our own Bachelor of Engineering (Q65).
Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer when combined with an accredited honours degree like our own Bachelor of Engineering (Q65).
Accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer when combined with an accredited honours degree like our own Bachelor of Engineering (Q65).
Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer when combined with an accredited honours degree like our own Bachelor of Engineering (Q65).

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MSc in Engineering

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Accreditation

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