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UK Motorsport Engineering Degree

Study fundamental engineering principles, including vehicle dynamics, aerodynamics, and powertrain technology, on a Motorsport Engineering degree

As a Motorsport Engineer, you will become involved in various activities, including designing, developing, testing, and producing high-performance vehicles. You may help design cutting-edge racing cars, work on advanced simulation models, optimize vehicle performance, and innovate with sustainable technologies in motorsport.

Students will benefit from integrated learning and teaching through various methods, including laboratory classes, project work, and hands-on experience. Practical experience ranges from building and testing components in your first year, participating in racing team projects in the third year, to fieldwork associated with many of the projects in the third and fourth years.

Many of the best Motorsport Engineering universities in the UK provide Integrated master's (MEng, BEng) degrees, offering great breadth and depth of study and flexibility in deciding which degree you want to graduate with during your studies. All motorsport engineering degrees in the UK are accredited by relevant professional institutions, ensuring you receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards.

UK Motorsport Engineering Graduates Careers and Salary

Motorsport engineering roles attract excellent salaries. According to industry reports, the basic starting salary for new motorsport engineering graduates ranges from £25,000 to £30,000. On average, the income for professionals in this field increases significantly with experience and expertise, often exceeding £50,000 for those with several years of experience.

Motorsport engineering graduates find positions as graduate engineers, vehicle dynamics engineers, aerodynamics engineers, powertrain engineers, race engineers, performance analysts, simulation engineers, test engineers, and motorsport consultants.

Motorsport Engineering UK Entry Requirements

Typical Undergraduate requirements: Canadian High School average of 70% or above in six grade 12 courses (including Mathematics and Physics)
Typical Postgraduate requirements: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (or equivalent) with a minimum CGPA of 2.5

Please note that entry requirements vary for each UK university.

Where can I study Motorsport Engineering in the UK?

The UK is famous for its engineering courses because of the high-tech laboratories and terrific infrastructure. Here is the list of the seven best universities for motorsport engineering in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2024):

1. University of Wales Trinity Saint David

University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) in Swansea is a premier destination for Motorsport Engineering studies in the UK. Having started its first Motorsport Engineering degree in 1998, UWTSD has since cultivated an outstanding reputation within the industry. The MSc program is an ideal blend of theoretical and hands-on learning, ensuring a well-rounded education. 

With a focus on designing, developing, and optimizing competition vehicles, students benefit from specialized projects, assignments, and modules covering diverse motorsport and automotive subjects. The university's strong industry connections enhance the program, offering a pathway for students to thrive in the competitive field of motorsport engineering.

• Suggested course: Motorsport Engineering (MSc)
• Entry requirements: An honours degree of 2:1 or above classification in an appropriate based discipline.
• International fee: £15,000

2. Coventry University

Coventry University is firmly established as a successful, forward-thinking higher education provider of distinctive courses. The university offers a chance to learn the basics of motorsport engineering and develop other mechanical and professional skills, helping individuals learn the nuances of this engineering field in depth.

The motorsport engineering MEng/BEng degrees are accredited by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) under licence from the UK regulator, the Engineering Council. It covers crucial subjects like vehicle systems development, solid mechanics, thermofluid mechanics, and analytical modelling.

• Suggested course: Motorsport Engineering, MEng/BEng (Hons)
• Entry requirements: IB diploma- overall pass in IB, including at least 15 points from three HL subjects, one of which must be Maths with a minimum of 5 points.
• International fee: £19,850

3. Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University offers taught postgraduate programs that help develop a strong understanding of engineering design and management, dynamics, stress analysis, etc. Numerous F1 teams, including Mercedes, Red Bull and Aston Martin, offer work placement opportunities for students studying Motorsport Engineering at Oxford Brookes. 

In Year 1, students collaborate on designing a Stirling Engine, applying physics and testing thermodynamics. Modules like engineering thermo-fluids and mathematics enhance analytical skills in year 2. A third-year paid work placement, often with prestigious Formula One teams like Alpine, Mercedes, and Williams, provides practical experience and a standout addition to resumes. 

• Suggested course: Motorsport Engineering (BEng or MEng)
• Entry requirements:
  • Engineering Foundation: Minimum 5 Grade 12 courses with a minimum 50-55% average. Grade 12 Maths at 50% and English 60%
  • BEng/MEng (Hons) Motorsport Engineering: Minimum 5 Grade 12 courses with a minimum 75% average, including Maths and a relevant Science (Physics, Chemistry, Electronics, Engineering...) and English at 60%
  • MSc Motorsport Engineering: Minimum 2.2 GPA from 4 years (2.7 GPA from 3 years), preference 2.8 GPA from 4 years (3.2 from 3 years) in a relevant field (mechanical, automotive or motorsport engineering). Relevant professional experience may also be considered.
• International fee: £16,900

4. University of Derby

Famous for its engineering department, the University of Derby offers a balanced approach to digital and technical skills, regularly ranking as one of the best motorsport engineering schools in the UK. Modules offer in-depth knowledge of various vehicles and systems and chances to participate in industry meetups and championships.

Derby's course offers a unique first year where you explore various engineering aspects, gaining versatile skills sought by employers. In the second year, you can continue with the BEng (Hons) in motorsport engineering or switch to mechanical or electrical engineering. Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, the program ensures professional standards with cutting-edge facilities, including dedicated workshops and computer labs.

• Suggested course: Motorsport Engineering with Foundation Year, BEng (Hons)
• Entry requirements: GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification.
• International fee: £14,900

5. University of Huddersfield

The University of Huddersfield’s Automotive and Motorsport Engineering MEng program discusses mechanics, dynamics, heat transfer, fluid flow, and manufacturing technologies. From fuel cells to vehicle autonomy challenges, students will learn to tackle real-world scenarios, preparing for a dynamic career in the automotive sector.

Engaging in EnABLE projects during the first and second years enhances technical skills and boosts confidence, and the optional placement year provides hands-on experience in the UK or abroad. In the fourth year, individual research/design projects align with master's team projects, offering opportunities like designing, building, and testing vehicles, further enriching your learning experience.

• Suggested course: Automotive and Motorsport Engineering MEng
• Entry requirements: AAB-ABB at A Level. A Levels must include A2 Mathematics and at least one other science/technology subject (or equivalent qualifications).
• International fee: £17,000

6. University of Wolverhampton

The University of Wolverhampton offers a prestigious BEng (Hons) Motorsport Engineering program with a comprehensive curriculum designed by industry experts. In Year 1, the focus is on mastering current computer-aided design software and applying it to real-world design problems. Year 2 discusses applied instrumentation and control, enhancing understanding of control systems, system performance, engine design, and thermodynamics.

Year 3 focuses on advanced topics like composite materials, vehicle dynamics, and road and race aerodynamics, providing in-depth knowledge and skills crucial for the modern Motorsport Engineer. The course combines classroom, online, and practical activities.

• Suggested course: BEng (Hons) Motorsport Engineering
• Entry requirements: A Levels - grades BCC  including Maths and either a Technology or Science-based subject.
• International fee: £14,950

7. Staffordshire University

The School of Digital, Technologies, and Arts at Staffordshire University excels in nurturing future talent across various disciplines. It offers a BEng (Hons) Automotive & Motorsport Engineering course that focuses on mechanical engineering with a pathway to collaborate with industry giants like Bentley, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, and JCB.

Guided by experienced lecturers, race drivers, and team owners, the program ensures cutting-edge knowledge aligned with industry practices. State-of-the-art facilities, including computational fluid dynamics and industry-standard software, enhance students’ design and engineering skills. Strong placement links with renowned organizations like Slidesports Race Engineering provide valuable industry exposure, promoting a hands-on learning experience.

• Suggested course: BEng (Hons) Automotive & Motorsport Engineering
• Entry requirements: GCE A Levels - grades BBC or equivalent. UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma - grade of Merit overall. 
• International fee: £16,750

Study Motorsport Engineering in the UK

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