MScEng Mechatronics and Robotics

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Leeds

Program Overview

This intensive one‑year full‑time programme equips students with multidisciplinary expertise in mechatronics, robotics and autonomous systems — combining electronics, mechanics, control, embedded systems and software—all within real‑world applications such as manufacturing, autonomous vehicles and surgical robots. It suits engineering, mechatronics, automation or computer science graduates who want to join the rapidly growing robotics/automation industry with hands‑on capabilities.

Curriculum structure

Taught semesters (first approx. 9 months):
Students begin with core modules such as Modern Industry Practice, Programming, Control Systems Design, Aerial Robotics, and Biomechatronics & Medical Robotics, which build a strong foundation in both engineering practice and software/hardware integration. Then they choose optional modules (for example FPGA Design for System‑on‑Chip, Embedded Microprocessor System Design, Medical Electronics & e‑Health) allowing them to specialise in their preferred sub‑area of mechatronics or robotics.
Individual/Team Project (final phase):
The course culminates in a significant professional project (60 credits) where the student undertakes either a team design project and an individual professional project focused on a real‑world robotic or mechatronic challenge (for example swarm robotics, assistive devices, industrial inspection robots). This gives the chance to apply all the knowledge and build a strong portfolio.

Focus areas

Mechatronic system design · Robotics & autonomous systems · Control & embedded systems · Sensor-actuator integration · Aerial robotics and bio‑mechatronics · Real‑world industry‑aligned engineering practice

Learning outcomes

Graduates will be able to design, model and implement mechatronic and robotic systems that integrate mechanical, electronic and software components; evaluate control, sensing and automation strategies in complex systems; and communicate and manage engineering design and research projects within multidisciplinary teams and professional contexts.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The programme is accredited by both the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Leeds is recognised by top employers and in the Graduate Market–for example, it is among the “top 5 most targeted universities in the UK by graduate recruiters” according to one recent report.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the MSc Eng Mechatronics and Robotics at University of Leeds engage in deep practical learning from the outset. They work with industry‑standard software and hardware, undertaking both team and individual projects that mirror real‑world engineering challenges. The Schools of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Computing support the programme, providing access to specialist labs including robotics testbeds, drone flying zones and embedded systems workshops.

Here is how the experiential learning is structured:

Use of software and hardware tools: Students work with packages such as RobotStudio, SolidWorks, MATLAB/C and embedded systems platforms. They also use industrial equipment like ABB robotic arms and drone zones in dedicated laboratories.
Team‑based and individual project work: The curriculum features a “Team Design Project” and an extensive “Professional Project” (typically 60 credits) where each student selects a topic—spanning e.g., swarm robotics, medical robotics or sensing systems—to design, build and test a mechatronic system.
Practical laboratory sessions: Fully‑equipped labs such as the Electronics Laboratory with Keysight equipment, the Embedded Systems Lab, the Robotics Laboratory (with drone flying zone) provide hands‑on experience in building and testing devices.
Research‑integrated learning: Students access the EPSRC National Facility for Innovative Robotic Systems and the institute for design, robotics & manufacturing (iDRaM) to work on real research problems—enabling exposure to applications like surgical robotics, exploration systems and rehabilitation devices.
Industry‑aligned professional development: The course includes modules such as “Modern Industry Practice” and offers the option of a virtual work experience, helping students develop professional and career‑ready competencies alongside technical skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this programme are positioned to succeed in roles such as Robotics Systems Engineer, Mechatronics Design Engineer, Autonomous Vehicles Engineer and Control & Embedded Systems Engineer. With its focus on multidisciplinary skills across mechanical, electrical, and computing domains, they’re well‑equipped to help drive innovation in smart manufacturing, healthcare robotics, autonomous machines and automation. The accreditation of the programme means it also supports long‑term professional engineering goals.

Here’s what the University offers and how this degree supports your career:

Careers & employability support: Leeds’ Careers Centre offers individual guidance, CV/interview preparation, plus access to a large network of national & international employers through campus events and alumni connections.
Employment outcomes: According to recent data, about 70% of graduates of the MSc are working 15 months after graduation and have starting roles aligned with the field; one comparison shows an average salary around £32,000 at that point.
University–industry & research partnerships: The programme gives access to cutting‑edge facilities such as the £5.5 million EPSRC National Facility for Innovative Robotic Systems and the interdisciplinary research network “Robotics at Leeds”, bridging mechanical, electrical and computing research.
Accreditation and long‑term value: This Master’s is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council—for Further Learning towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Strong graduation outcome: With its specialist facilities (RobotStudio, SolidWorks 3D, embedded systems labs, drone‑flying zone) and project‑based learning that mirrors industry problems, students emerge with practical skills highly valued by employers.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MScEng, students could move into a research‑based degree (e.g., MRes or PhD) in areas such as autonomously‑controlled robots, rehabilitation robotics, bio‑mechatronics or embedded systems. They could also progress to full Chartered Engineer registration (CEng) by combining this degree with relevant professional experience, and in the longer term move into roles in R&D management, technical consultancy or creating start‑ups in advanced robotics and automation.