Studying Engineering in the U.K

There is a reason why engineering is one of the most popular choices after school. What makes it truly click is that at its very core, engineering is about problem solving by applying principles of science and maths. Everything that is human-made around us has been designed by an engineer.

Engineers are pivotal to the future of technology – whether it is AI, data sciences, green energy, architecture, the list goes on. If that is a prospect you are excited by, then engineering is a career path you need to consider.

Table of contents:

• Engineering – a dynamic field of study
• Why engineering in the U.K.
• Studying Engineering in the U.K.
• Engineering jobs in the U.K.
• Building a new world

As with any application oriented domain, engineering is always evolving, always specialising. It is divided into numerous specialisations starting from Aerospace to Water Resources (we couldn’t find an engineering specialisation starting with Z), with newer courses such as data sciences engineering, nanotech, environmental engineering and so on, popping up with the demands of the time.

Just recently, we covered Engineering in Australia, where we also look at the field and the options available in detail. Follow this link to check out some of its branches. But remember, it is not an exhaustive list.

The fact remains that world-wide, a multitude of specialisations are available, beyond Mechanical, Electrical or Computer Science. When you decide to pursue engineering, look for specific courses and then expand your filters. And, when you are doing so, don’t forget to check out what the U.K. has to offer.

• U.K. ranks fifth in the world when it comes to innovation. It is the birthplace of the Thrust SSC, the first land vehicle to break the sound barrier.
• Academic excellence, without a doubt. Three of the top ten universities in the world for engineering is located in the U.K.
• High employability – there is a huge demand for engineers in the U.K.
• Immense global student community, which means you get to experience and interact diverse cultures.
• The Graduate Immigration Route allows you a two-year period after completion of study to look for a job, if you have plans of settling in the U.K.

A typical engineering degree in the U.K. is 3 years long and you graduate with a B.Eng. However, if you wish to become a Chartered Engineer, you need to apply for the advanced M.Eng degree. Many universities offer M.Eng as an integrated course where you exit the university in four years with a Master’s degree. You can extend it up to 5 years if you want to include work experience/ an internship as part of your academic program.
Top Universities in U.K. to study engineering
Source: QS Rankings

The engineering sector in the U.K. is experiencing a skill shortage. Brexit and the pandemic, one after the other, has been hard on the country. According to an employment listing website in the U.K., the industry will need about 200,000 skilled engineers to in the next three to four years to meet market demand. This basically means, the opportunities are endless.

The engineering sector is dominated by small and medium enterprises. So do not limit yourself only to the big names, when looking for options. In fact, smaller workspaces also mean better interaction, more exposure to all aspects of the job and more learning opportunities.

That said, here are some of the big names who typically employ engineers in the U.K.

• Airbus
• Aston Martin
• Babcock
• BAE Systems
• BMW Group
• Cadent
• Colas Rail
• Dyson
• Jaguar Land Rover
• Kier Group
• Mercedes
• Network Rail
• Nucleargraduates
• Rolls Royce
• Siemens
• Sellafield
• Thales Group
• Transport for London (TfL)

Source: prospects.ac.uk

With the kind of education and experience that UK has to offer, you will be at the cutting edge of technology and ideation that will build new worlds. With a plethora of courses to choose from, the only problem you will face is the problem of plenty. The diversity of the nation, its globalised culture, the standard of living, the salary packages and the sheer number of opportunities available makes the United Kingdom a great global ed destination, especially if you are pursuing engineering.