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1 Year On Campus Masters Program
University College Cork UCCThe MEngSc in Mechanical Engineering (Manufacturing, Process & Automation Systems) at University College Cork is designed to prepare graduates for advanced roles in modern manufacturing, automation, and process-driven industries. It suits students who want to combine strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with hands-on experience in automation, systems design, and applied research.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (Taught Modules)
In the first phase of the programme, you develop a strong technical and professional foundation through core modules such as Preliminary Research Project, Operations Management, and Project Management, which introduce research methods and industry-focused decision-making. You then specialise through electives including CAD/CAM, Robotics, Finite Element Analysis, and Industrial Automation and Control, allowing you to build expertise in advanced manufacturing systems and automated mechanical processes.
Year 1 (Dissertation Phase)
The final stage of the programme focuses on a Dissertation in Mechanical Engineering, where you undertake an in-depth research or applied engineering project under academic supervision. This project allows you to apply advanced mechanical and automation concepts to real-world manufacturing or process challenges, strengthening your analytical, design, and problem-solving skills.
Focus Areas (in a string)
Advanced manufacturing systems, process and automation engineering, robotics and industrial control, CAD/CAM technologies, mechanical systems design, applied engineering research
Learning Outcomes (in a string)
Ability to design and analyse modern manufacturing and automation systems, apply advanced mechanical engineering tools, manage engineering projects effectively, conduct independent research, and operate confidently in professional engineering environments
Professional Alignment (accreditation)
This programme is aligned with UCC’s accredited engineering framework and meets recognised academic and professional standards, supporting progression into professional engineering roles within industry.
Reputation (employability rankings)
University College Cork has a strong international reputation and consistently demonstrates excellent graduate employability outcomes, with engineering graduates valued by manufacturing, automation, and technology-driven industries.
At University College Cork, this programme is designed to make sure you graduate with real, usable engineering experience, not just theoretical knowledge. From the start, you apply what you learn through project-based modules, advanced laboratory work, and a major research dissertation, using the same tools and environments found in modern manufacturing and automation industries. You’ll work within UCC’s mechanical engineering facilities, developing practical skills in design, automation, control systems, and data-driven engineering, before bringing everything together in an in-depth, industry-relevant research project:
Hands-on access to UCC’s Mechanical Engineering laboratories and workshops, including CNC machining facilities, rapid prototyping equipment such as 3D printers and laser cutters, robotics cells, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and specialist test rigs for mechanical and process analysis
Practical learning through individual and group project work in modules such as Preliminary Research Project, Robotics, Industrial Automation and Control, and CAD/CAM, where theory is directly applied to real engineering problems
Development of industry-relevant digital skills through the use of engineering software and programming tools, including Python and data analytics applications used in automation and manufacturing environments
Completion of a substantial dissertation project, allowing you to carry out independent research, experimental work, system design, and technical analysis under academic supervision
Access to UCC’s extensive engineering libraries, research support services, and institute-level facilities that support postgraduate research and innovation
Career development and employability support through UCC’s professional services, helping you connect your academic work with industry expectations and future roles in manufacturing and automation engineering
Graduates of the MEngSc in Mechanical Engineering (Manufacturing, Process & Automation Systems) at University College Cork move confidently into high-demand engineering roles where advanced manufacturing and automation expertise is essential. Typical career paths include Automation Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Process Improvement Engineer, and Project or Production Engineer, reflecting the programme’s strong industry focus and practical skill development:
UCC’s Careers Service offers dedicated support to engineering students through one-to-one career guidance, CV and interview preparation, employer networking events, and access to internship and graduate-level opportunities linked to the engineering and manufacturing sectors
UCC consistently reports strong graduate outcomes, with the vast majority of graduates progressing into employment or further study shortly after completing their degree, particularly in STEM-related industries
The university maintains close links with industry across the south-west of Ireland through regional skills initiatives and enterprise engagement, helping align teaching and research with real employer needs
Holding an NFQ Level 9 master’s degree significantly strengthens long-term professional recognition, supporting progression toward senior engineering roles and professional accreditation within Ireland and internationally
Graduates are well positioned for careers across advanced manufacturing, automation, pharmaceuticals, energy, and technology-driven industries, both in Ireland and globally
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, you can continue your studies through PhD research in mechanical engineering, manufacturing systems, or automation and control, or progress into specialised postgraduate qualifications and professional certifications that support leadership, innovation, and technical expertise in engineering fields.
Applicants must hold at least a Second Class Honours Grade I (2.1) Level 8 honours degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering discipline, with prior study in core areas such as mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials.English language requirement: IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each skill (test centre, online, and one skill retake accepted), or TOEFL iBT overall score of 90 with minimum scores of Listening 20, Reading 19, Speaking 21, and Writing 20 (Home Edition not accepted; MyBest scores accepted).India: A Bachelor of Arts, Science, Commerce, or professional bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 65%, considered equivalent to a Second Class Honours Grade I (2:1).USA: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale, considered equivalent to a Second Class Honours Grade I (2:1).China: A bachelor’s degree (学士学位) with 80–84% from non-211/985 universities, or 75–79% from 211/985 and Double First Class universities, is considered equivalent to a Second Class Honours Grade I (2:1) for postgraduate programmes.Automation engineerManufacturing engineerProcess improvement engineerProduction engineerMechanical systems designerIndustrial automation specialistQuality engineerProject engineerResearch and development engineerData analytics engineer in manufacturing and automation sectors
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