Study manufacturing engineering abroad

Manufacturing engineering is concerned with the process of turning raw materials into new products. It also covers the research and development of new manufacturing processes, machines, tools and equipment.

As a manufacturing engineering student, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge needed to solve manufacturing problems through the application of new technologies. You’ll also learn about the design and management of manufacturing systems, and how to analyze and improve processes through statistical methods.

Manufacturing is one of the world’s largest industries that impacts every country. By studying abroad, not only will you be accessing a world-class education, but you’ll also get to see and experience how different countries solve manufacturing problems.

Manufacturing engineering programs are available at most degree levels. As an undergraduate, you can study for a diploma or certificate level qualification over one or two years. These programs are a great way to help you gain an entry-level job role or prepare you to start a bachelor’s degree.

At the bachelor's level, the most common qualifications you can study for are a BSc or BEng (Bachelor of Engineering). In the UK, many universities offer an MEng (Master of Engineering) program which is available to undergraduates and includes a fourth year of study that converts your degree to a master’s level qualification.

In the USA, manufacturing engineering is usually studied over four years using the liberal arts model. This means you’ll need to gain a set amount of credits in manufacturing engineering modules, alongside other minor subjects and general studies.

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field, you can study an MSc in manufacturing engineering over one or two years, although these programs are quite rare.

Most of your learning as a manufacturing engineering student will take place in lectures, seminars, tutorials, and hands-on practical sessions. Your assessment will be unique to each module you take, but will usually include a combination of coursework, essays, written exams, and project work.

The precise content of your course will vary depending on where you choose to study, but some of the core topics of any manufacturing engineering program include:

• Engineering design
• Mathematics for engineers
• Thermodynamics
• Operations systems
• Materials and manufacturing
• Manufacturing technology
• Electronics and electrical technology
• Automation and robotics

The manufacturing industry is one of the globe’s biggest employers, so your skills as a manufacturing engineer will be in demand around the world. Some of the roles your skills would be ideal for include:

• Manufacturing engineer
• Industrial engineer
• Information systems manager
• Safety engineer
• Operations research analyst
• Supply chain manager
• Design engineer
• Chemical engineer

Speak to your university’s career services for help finding your dream role. They can help you work out which path is right for you, and connect you with relevant internships or graduate opportunities.