Propulsion and Engine Systems Engineering (Advanced Mechanical Engineering Science) (MSc) starting September 2026 for 1 year
MSc Propulsion and Engine Systems Engineering explores the performance and reliability of rocket motors, jet engines and compressors.
Our master’s courses combine the traditional aspects of mechanical engineering with interdisciplinary subjects so you can specialise in a career you want. Our international centre for research and teaching is recognised across the world.
Our propulsion engineering degree explores the design, monitoring and analysis of propulsion and engine systems.
You’ll learn to analyse and design advanced electrical systems, and study subjects like gas turbines, internal combustion and, electrical and hybrid engines. You’ll have the opportunity to study optional modules in areas you want to learn more about, including:
As part of this UK master’s in propulsion engineering you’ll complete a research project, you can choose to base yours on a range of topics such as engine materials, combustion modelling and electrical motors.
You’ll learn from academics who are leading their fields and teaching the latest in technological advancements. Studying at Southampton gives you access to a global network of companies, shared facilities and specialist expertise to enhance your learning.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
This course is led by Dr Joseph Lifton, Lecturer in Mechatronics at the University of Southampton. Learn more by visiting Dr Lifton’s staff profile.
We offer 3 other pathways on this Advanced Mechanical Engineering degree. Your other options are in:
This master's programme is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) as meeting the academic requirement for Further Learning, for Chartered Engineer registration. Candidates must hold a BEng/BSc undergraduate first degree that is accredited for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration to comply with full CEng registration requirements.
This course is based at Highfield.
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in one of the following subjects:
You must also have a 2:1 score in two modules from the following list of topics:
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
This programme accepts applicants who have studied at a Tier A, B or C institution.
If English is not your first language, you must show that you can use English to the level we require. Visit our English language pages to find out which qualifications we accept and how you can meet our requirements.
If you are taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), you must get at least the following scores:
If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of our pre-sessional English programmes before you start your course.
If you don’t meet direct entry requirements, you can apply to complete a Pre-Master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus.
You'll progress to your chosen course after successfully completing the programme. Find out more about Pre-Master's programmes for international students.
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Our master’s degree in propulsion and engine systems engineering runs for 12 months. The first 8 months are mainly spent studying taught modules. Your lectures will be divided into two 12-week periods, referred to as semesters 1 and 2, both ending with exams.
Each semester you’ll study key topics and choose specialist modules that interest you. Our optional modules cover topics like spacecraft propulsion, materials, energy efficiency and acoustics.
Your final 4 months are spent on your research project, you’ll be able to choose from a range of topics to base yours on such as, combustion modelling, electrical motors and engine noise control.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
You must study the following modules :
You must also choose from the following modules :
The learning activities for this course include the following:
We’ll assess you through:
You’ll complete your research project and dissertation in the final 4 months of the course, with some preparation in semester 2.
It should bring together the skills you’ve learned and demonstrate your knowledge in at least one subject area.
You’ll need to source information, demonstrate critical analysis and evaluation, and presentation skills. The project must contain your own original ideas and explore a problem that requires the application of new research.
You’ll have your own personal academic tutor and also have access to our team of administrators who are a key point of contact for advice and information.
The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.
Download skills overview
Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.
Fees for a year's study:
If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay £2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.
Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.
Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on our tuition fees for overseas students page.
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course.
If you study part-time, you may not be eligible for this loan. Find out if you're eligible.
A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.
The deadline to apply for this course is Wednesday 2 September 2026, midday UK time.
The deadline for Nationals requiring Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) to apply for this course is Tuesday 21 July 2026, midday UK time.
Other nationalities need to apply by Wednesday 19 August 2026, midday UK time.
We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.
There is no application assessment fee for postgraduate courses starting in 2026.
If you're an international student you'll need approval from the UK's Academic Approval Scheme before you can study this course.
The ATAS certificate is required for certain sensitive postgraduate subjects.
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
References are not required for this programme.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We receive a high volume of applications for this course. This means you may not receive a response to your application for up to 12 weeks.
Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
