Autonomous Vehicles Engineering – MEng

2 Year On Campus Masters Program

Technological University of the Shannon - Moylish Campus

Program Overview

The Master of Engineering (MEng) in Autonomous Vehicles Engineering at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is an industry-focused postgraduate degree that equips you with advanced technical expertise for careers in the rapidly growing autonomous mobility sector. Designed for both recent graduates and early-career engineers, it blends hands-on systems knowledge with real-world problem solving so you graduate ready to design, develop, and deploy autonomous vehicle technologies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, you’ll dive deep into the core technologies that power autonomous systems. You’ll explore Autonomous Vehicle Embedded Systems, building from vehicle electrical and mechanical fundamentals to advanced system architectures, and understand vital communication networks integral to modern vehicles. You’ll also study Hardware and Software Systems, Architecture and Design, gaining insight into cognitive control units and how vehicles perceive their surroundings, and tackle Artificial Intelligence in Modelling and Simulation to learn simulation techniques and AI-enabled risk analysis. Modules in Sensing Technology expose you to radar, lidar, and camera systems, while Regulations, Standards and Safety ensure you understand the legal and safety frameworks shaping the industry.

Year 2
The second year focuses on your Master’s Thesis in Autonomous Vehicle Engineering, a substantial research project that brings together theory, technical skills, and industry insights. You’ll develop a research proposal, analyse leading literature, design and execute primary research, and present well-justified conclusions. This thesis encourages integrative thinking and prepares you for higher-level research or specialised roles in industry.

Focus Areas

Embedded Systems; Intelligent Transport Communications; Vehicle Architecture & Design; AI Modelling & Simulation; Sensor Systems & Safety; Regulations & Standards; Applied Research Thesis.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will master autonomous vehicle technology fundamentals, solve complex engineering challenges using AI and simulation, interpret and apply regulatory standards, engage in industry-relevant research, and communicate technical insights for advanced engineering roles.

Professional Alignment

This programme is a Level 9 Master’s degree on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), developed in collaboration with key industry stakeholders to meet evolving sector needs and includes an embedded Postgraduate Diploma in Autonomous Vehicle Engineering on completion of the taught modules.

Reputation

Technological University of the Shannon has earned a QS 5-Star rating — the highest possible in this global university rating system — highlighting excellence in teaching, employability, internationalisation, and programme strength. The university also reports very high postgraduate employment outcomes, with a significant majority of taught postgraduates in employment within nine months of graduation according to national surveys.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At TUS, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. You’ll gain hands-on experience working with real technologies and tackling industry problems, ensuring that what you study in class is immediately applicable in practical settings. The programme emphasizes industry-relevant projects and assessments, giving you the chance to solve real engineering challenges as part of your coursework. Based at the Moylish Campus in Limerick, you’ll have access to modern labs, engineering workshops, collaborative spaces, and the university’s applied research culture, which together support practical, research-informed learning.

Transitioning from that foundation into specific hands-on opportunities:

Industry-based project assessments that let you work on real-world engineering problems in collaboration with companies.
Use of applied simulation and modeling tools in modules such as Artificial Intelligence in Modelling and Simulation and Autonomous Vehicle Hardware and Software Systems, mirroring the tools used by engineers in the field.
Collaboration with industry stakeholders, with projects and assessments designed to reflect current sector practices.
Access to modern campus facilities including science labs, computer suites, and engineering workshops for practical learning in embedded systems, communication networks, and sensor technologies.
Engagement with research-informed environments and university research groups, providing opportunities to explore applied engineering research and innovation.
Supportive learning spaces, including libraries and study areas, that help you deepen your technical knowledge and prepare for research-led assessments such as your Master’s thesis.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MEng in Autonomous Vehicles Engineering are well-prepared for a range of exciting, future-focused careers where autonomous systems, advanced mobility technologies, and intelligent transport solutions are in high demand. Typical roles include Autonomous Systems Engineer, Embedded Software Engineer, Control Systems Specialist, and AI/ML Engineer in mobility or robotics sectors, all of which draw directly on the specialist skills developed during the programme.

Here’s how TUS supports your transition into strong career outcomes:

Career services tailored to your success: The TUS Careers and Employability Service helps you build your professional profile through one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer engagement events, and support with placements. They work closely with the engineering department to help you translate your technical skills into employment.
Outstanding graduate employment outcomes: TUS graduates consistently rank among the most employable in Ireland, with around 85–90% of taught postgraduates finding employment within nine months of graduation. Engineering graduates, in particular, often secure competitive starting salaries and relevant positions in their fields.
Strong university–industry partnerships: The programme has been developed in collaboration with leading industry stakeholders and aligns with initiatives such as Future Mobility Campus Ireland, helping ensure graduates acquire skills that are in high demand in the autonomous systems industry.
Long-term accreditation and professional value: As a Level 9 Master’s degree on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, this qualification carries credibility in Europe and beyond, supporting career advancement in technical engineering roles and leadership positions in autonomous systems.
Graduation outcomes that matter: Graduates leave with a mix of practical experience, project-based learning, and professional preparation, enabling most to step directly into relevant engineering or technology roles soon after completing the programme.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this Master’s degree, students can continue with doctoral research within TUS’s engineering department or related research centres. This is ideal for those passionate about advancing autonomous systems knowledge, pursuing innovation projects, or aiming for leadership roles in research and development. The university’s strong research culture and collaborations provide a solid foundation for high-level study beyond the Master’s.