Mechanical engineering: Further study

Many students enrol onto MEng programmes for their first degree. These are integrated four-year Masters courses, recognised as offering extended and enhanced programmes of study.

Even so, a 2011 HESA survey of 2010 graduates indicates that six months after graduation, 12% of mechanical engineering graduates chose to continue in full-time study, with a further 5% studying part time while working. Possible courses include an MSc or PhD, in a specialist area such as space and astronautics, nuclear, or offshore engineering.

An EngD is essentially an industry-based PhD, combining Doctoral-level research with training in practical skills, and is intended for graduates who wish to progress to leading roles in industry. Research engineers are usually placed with industrial (or sometimes academic) sponsors, and there is a possibility that you may be employed by your sponsor at the end of the programme. The EngD is also suitable for those who are already employed and wish to carry out research for their company.

These trends show only what previous graduates in your subject did immediately upon graduating. Over the course of their career - the first few years in particular - many others will opt for some form of further study, either part time or full time. If further study interests you, start by thinking about postgraduate study in the UK and search courses and research to identify your options.

For details relating to finance and the application process, look at funding my further study.