Pre-Masters in Engineering
About this route
The Engineering Pre-Masters programme provides the subject knowledge, language proficiency and study skills you need to progress to postgraduate degree study in a related field at the University of Surrey.
During the one and two-semester programme you will study a core unit of general subject skills and subject-specific units, which are carefully designed for your academic development. If you are studying the three-semester programme, the first semester will focus on improving your English language skills to the required level.
- Journal Club
- In the Journal Club module you will build the skills and confidence you need in preparation for scholarly study and research at postgraduate level with a focus on the principles of critical reading to support self-critical writing.
You will undertake a literature review in the subject area of your Major and develop the skills to handle evidence, claims, reasoning, arguments, sources, citations, evaluation, synthesis and summary. You will develop your understanding of the structure and staging of a research process including refining the research topic and writing effective objectives; creating an effective literature search; using online sources and catalogues; and using data and illustrations; discussion of findings and linking findings to the literature.
- In the Journal Club module you will build the skills and confidence you need in preparation for scholarly study and research at postgraduate level with a focus on the principles of critical reading to support self-critical writing.
- Mathematics for Engineering
- In the Maths for Engineering module you will learn to apply mathematical and statistical methods, tools and notation proficiently in the analysis and solution of complex problems. You will develop the skills to synthesise a variety of solution methodologies to ordinary differential equations including classical linear theory, Laplace transforms, and numerical methods, in order to gain physical insight into solutions. The module not only covers topics from a theoretical perspective, but also explores their practical application to science and engineering. Indicative module content includes Laplace transformations, Fourier series & transforms, differential equations, probability density functions and descriptive and inferential statistics.
- In the Maths for Engineering module you will learn to apply mathematical and statistical methods, tools and notation proficiently in the analysis and solution of complex problems. You will develop the skills to synthesise a variety of solution methodologies to ordinary differential equations including classical linear theory, Laplace transforms, and numerical methods, in order to gain physical insight into solutions. The module not only covers topics from a theoretical perspective, but also explores their practical application to science and engineering. Indicative module content includes Laplace transformations, Fourier series & transforms, differential equations, probability density functions and descriptive and inferential statistics.
- Computing for Engineering
- In the Computing for Engineering module you will be introduced to mathematical methods for engineers and explore applications using a software package essential for success on your Engineering Masters Degree: MATLAB. You will learn how to programme using the MATLAB programming language and Simulink. You will then use your knowledge of matrices and MATLAB to solve real world engineering problems through Neural Networks. Indicative module content includes matrices; importing, summarising and visualising data; eigenvalues; neural networks and classification; applications in civil and electronic engineering.
- In the Computing for Engineering module you will be introduced to mathematical methods for engineers and explore applications using a software package essential for success on your Engineering Masters Degree: MATLAB. You will learn how to programme using the MATLAB programming language and Simulink. You will then use your knowledge of matrices and MATLAB to solve real world engineering problems through Neural Networks. Indicative module content includes matrices; importing, summarising and visualising data; eigenvalues; neural networks and classification; applications in civil and electronic engineering.
- Research Skills for Engineering
- In the Research Skills for Engineering module you will learn to deploy the fundamental concepts of engineering research to write a research proposal, create a poster presentation and write a dissertation. You will develop the ability to critically analyse research and to produce a literature review and be guided and supervised by your academic tutor throughout the course. Indicative module content includes ionised and non-ionised medical and industrial imaging systems, the wider application of radiation and imaging systems and the installation and use of tools and software based on MATLAB language.
All students also take the Academic English Skills module, the Student Leadership Programme and are eligible to enter the Sustainable Enterprise Competition.
Semester 1 - Inspire and Explore
- Skills for Enterprise and Innovation
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- Journal Club
- In the Journal Club module you will build the skills and confidence you need in preparation for scholarly study and research at postgraduate level with a focus on the principles of critical reading to support self-critical writing. You will undertake a literature review in the subject area of your Major and develop the skills to handle evidence, claims, reasoning, arguments, sources, citations, evaluation, synthesis and summary. You will develop your understanding of the structure and staging of a research process including refining the research topic and writing effective objectives; creating an effective literature search; using online sources and catalogues; and using data and illustrations; discussion of findings and linking findings to the literature.
- In the Journal Club module you will build the skills and confidence you need in preparation for scholarly study and research at postgraduate level with a focus on the principles of critical reading to support self-critical writing. You will undertake a literature review in the subject area of your Major and develop the skills to handle evidence, claims, reasoning, arguments, sources, citations, evaluation, synthesis and summary. You will develop your understanding of the structure and staging of a research process including refining the research topic and writing effective objectives; creating an effective literature search; using online sources and catalogues; and using data and illustrations; discussion of findings and linking findings to the literature.
- Mathematics for Engineering
- In the Mathematics for Engineering module you will learn to apply mathematical and statistical methods, tools and notation proficiently in the analysis and solution of complex problems. You will develop the skills to synthesise a variety of solution methodologies to ordinary differential equations including classical linear theory, Laplace transforms, and numerical methods, in order to gain physical insight into solutions. The module not only covers topics from a theoretical perspective, but also explores their practical application to science and engineering. Indicative module content includes Laplace transformations, Fourier series & transforms, differential equations, probability density functions and descriptive and inferential statistics.
- In the Mathematics for Engineering module you will learn to apply mathematical and statistical methods, tools and notation proficiently in the analysis and solution of complex problems. You will develop the skills to synthesise a variety of solution methodologies to ordinary differential equations including classical linear theory, Laplace transforms, and numerical methods, in order to gain physical insight into solutions. The module not only covers topics from a theoretical perspective, but also explores their practical application to science and engineering. Indicative module content includes Laplace transformations, Fourier series & transforms, differential equations, probability density functions and descriptive and inferential statistics.
- Lab skills for Engineering
- In the Lab Skills module you will learn to deploy software tools and techniques to accurately collect, record and present data. You will develop the skills to use error analysis to estimate the effect of experimental uncertainties on experimental results. You will prepare for success on your University of Surrey Masters degree by producing effective and scientific laboratory reports including an evaluation of factors impacting design and safety in practical engineering, selecting appropriate apparatus and designing practical project experiments. Indicative module content includes analogue and digital uncertainty analysis in experiments, designing low pass, high pass and band pass filter circuits, writing technical reports and experimental design incorporating computing, experimental and mathematical skills.
Semester 2 - Learn to Innovate
- Skills for Enterprise and Innovation
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- Computing for Engineering
- In the Computing for Engineering module you will be introduced to mathematical methods for engineers and explore applications using a software package essential for success on your Engineering Masters Degree: MATLAB. You will learn how to programme using the MATLAB programming language and Simulink. You will then use your knowledge of matrices and MATLAB to solve real world engineering problems through neural networks. Indicative module content includes matrices; importing, summarising and visualising data; eigenvalues; neural networks and classification; applications in civil and electronic engineering.
- In the Computing for Engineering module you will be introduced to mathematical methods for engineers and explore applications using a software package essential for success on your Engineering Masters Degree: MATLAB. You will learn how to programme using the MATLAB programming language and Simulink. You will then use your knowledge of matrices and MATLAB to solve real world engineering problems through neural networks. Indicative module content includes matrices; importing, summarising and visualising data; eigenvalues; neural networks and classification; applications in civil and electronic engineering.
- Research Skills for Engineering
- In the Research Skills for Engineering module you will learn to deploy the fundamental concepts of engineering research to write a research proposal, create a poster presentation and write a dissertation. You will develop the ability to critically analyse research and to produce a literature review and be guided and supervised by your academic tutor throughout the course. Indicative module content includes ionised and non-ionised medical and industrial imaging systems, the wider application of radiation and imaging systems and the installation and use of tools and software based on MATLAB language.
All students also take the Academic English Skills module, the Student Leadership Programme and are eligible to enter the Sustainable Enterprise Competition.
Semester 1
The first semester focuses on developing your English language so you reach the level required to progress to Semester 2. You will work to develop the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, presenting and developing language accuracy and range in general academic contexts. Core language-related academic skills such as participating in discussions and responding to texts, effective note-taking and essay writing are also introduced.
You will also focus on assessment preparation and practice to be able to show independent learning skills, literacy and critical-thinking skills. This semester includes induction, teaching and assessment weeks.
Semester 2 - Inspire and Explore
- Skills for Enterprise and Innovation
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- Journal Club
- In the Journal Club module you will build the skills and confidence you need in preparation for scholarly study and research at postgraduate level with a focus on the principles of critical reading to support self-critical writing. You will undertake a literature review in the subject area of your Major and develop the skills to handle evidence, claims, reasoning, arguments, sources, citations, evaluation, synthesis and summary. You will develop your understanding of the structure and staging of a research process including refining the research topic and writing effective objectives; creating an effective literature search; using online sources and catalogues; and using data and illustrations; discussion of findings and linking findings to the literature.
- In the Journal Club module you will build the skills and confidence you need in preparation for scholarly study and research at postgraduate level with a focus on the principles of critical reading to support self-critical writing. You will undertake a literature review in the subject area of your Major and develop the skills to handle evidence, claims, reasoning, arguments, sources, citations, evaluation, synthesis and summary. You will develop your understanding of the structure and staging of a research process including refining the research topic and writing effective objectives; creating an effective literature search; using online sources and catalogues; and using data and illustrations; discussion of findings and linking findings to the literature.
- Mathematics for Engineering
- In the Maths for Engineering module you will learn to apply mathematical and statistical methods, tools and notation proficiently in the analysis and solution of complex problems. You will develop the skills to synthesise a variety of solution methodologies to ordinary differential equations including classical linear theory, Laplace transforms, and numerical methods, in order to gain physical insight into solutions. The module not only covers topics from a theoretical perspective, but also explores their practical application to science and engineering. Indicative module content includes Laplace transformations, Fourier series & transforms, differential equations, probability density functions and descriptive and inferential statistics.
- In the Maths for Engineering module you will learn to apply mathematical and statistical methods, tools and notation proficiently in the analysis and solution of complex problems. You will develop the skills to synthesise a variety of solution methodologies to ordinary differential equations including classical linear theory, Laplace transforms, and numerical methods, in order to gain physical insight into solutions. The module not only covers topics from a theoretical perspective, but also explores their practical application to science and engineering. Indicative module content includes Laplace transformations, Fourier series & transforms, differential equations, probability density functions and descriptive and inferential statistics.
- Lab skills for Engineering
- In the Lab Skills module you will learn to deploy software tools and techniques to accurately collect, record and present data. You will develop the skills to use error analysis to estimate the effect of experimental uncertainties on experimental results. You will prepare for success on your University of Surrey Masters degree by producing effective and scientific laboratory reports including an evaluation of factors impacting design and safety in practical engineering, selecting appropriate apparatus and designing practical project experiments. Indicative module content includes analogue and digital uncertainty analysis in experiments, designing low pass, high pass and band pass filter circuits, writing technical reports and experimental design incorporating computing, experimental and mathematical skills.
Semester 3 - Learn to Innovate
- Skills for Enterprise and Innovation
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in Engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- In the Skills for Enterprise and Innovation module you will learn the skills needed in Engineering industries to produce value and drive sustainable economic, social, technological and organisational development. You will identify your own potential capabilities, and learn to manage engineering projects and business start-ups including financial considerations. The module offers you the opportunity to work in or lead a team, and develop self-management, organisational awareness, creativity, communication, prioritising, problem-solving, influencing, self-reflection, numeracy and research skills.
- Computing for Engineering
- In the Computing for Engineering module you will be introduced to mathematical methods for engineers and explore applications using a software package essential for success on your Engineering Masters Degree: MATLAB. You will learn how to programme using the MATLAB programming language and Simulink. You will then use your knowledge of matrices and MATLAB to solve real world engineering problems through neural networks. Indicative module content includes matrices; importing, summarising and visualising data; eigenvalues; neural networks and classification; applications in civil and electronic engineering.
- In the Computing for Engineering module you will be introduced to mathematical methods for engineers and explore applications using a software package essential for success on your Engineering Masters Degree: MATLAB. You will learn how to programme using the MATLAB programming language and Simulink. You will then use your knowledge of matrices and MATLAB to solve real world engineering problems through neural networks. Indicative module content includes matrices; importing, summarising and visualising data; eigenvalues; neural networks and classification; applications in civil and electronic engineering.
- Research Skills for Engineering
- In the Research Skills for Engineering module you will learn to deploy the fundamental concepts of engineering research to write a research proposal, create a poster presentation and write a dissertation. You will develop the ability to critically analyse research and to produce a literature review and be guided and supervised by your academic tutor throughout the course. Indicative module content includes ionised and non-ionised medical and industrial imaging systems, the wider application of radiation and imaging systems and the installation and use of tools and software based on MATLAB language.
All students also take the Academic English Skills module, the Student Leadership Programme and are eligible to enter the Sustainable Enterprise Competition.
Study plan
| English language level | Semesters | Course length | Start date | End date |
| IELTS 6.0 (5.5 in all skills) | 1 semester | 15 weeks | Jan-23 | May-23 |
| IELTS 6.0 (5.5 in all skills) | 1 semester | 15 weeks | May-23 | Aug-23 |
| IELTS 6.0 (5.5 in all skills) | 1 semester | 15 weeks | Sep-23 | Feb-24 |
| IELTS 5.5 (5.5 in all skills) | 2 semesters | 30 weeks | Jan-23 | Aug-23 |
| IELTS 5.5 (5.5 in all skills) | 2 semesters | 30 weeks | Sep-23 | Jun-24 |
| IELTS 5.0 (5.0 in all skills) | 2.5 semesters | 35 weeks | Nov-23 | Aug-24 |
| IELTS 5.0 (5.0 in all skills) | 3 semesters | 40 weeks | Sep-23 | Aug-24 |
Progression degrees
This programme can lead to one of the postgraduate degrees in the table below. Grades and progression degrees are guidelines and subject to change.
Please note: W in the English Grade column stands for writing = 60% with min 50% in writing, 40% in all other skills.
All the below progression degrees are available for a February or September masters entry.
| Degree Programme Name | Award | Overall Grade | English Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Results | |||
Key facts
Course length
1, 2, 2.5 or 3 semesters
Entry points: May, September, November or January
Age: students are normally 21 years of age or older on the first day of their academic programme at the International Study Centre.
Entry requirements: visit our entry requirements page for a list of academic, English language and country-specific entry requirements for all programmes.
3 Semester
| June 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 21/6/2023 | - | 12/9/2023 | |
| 24/9/2023 | - | 1/2/2024 | |
| 4/2/2024 | - | 30/5/2024 | |
| September 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 27/9/2023 | - | 14/12/2023 | |
| 28/1/2024 | - | 16/5/2024 | |
| 19/5/2024 | - | 15/8/2024 | |
2.5 Semester
| November 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/11/2023 | - | 14/12/2023 | |
| 28/1/2024 | - | 16/5/2024 | |
| 19/5/2024 | - | 15/8/2024 | |
2 Semester
| January 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 29/1/2023 | - | 18/5/2023 | |
| 21/5/2023 | - | 17/8/2023 | |
| September 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/9/2023 | - | 1/2/2024 | |
| 4/2/2024 | - | 30/5/2024 | |
| January 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 28/1/2024 | - | 16/5/2024 | |
| 19/5/2024 | - | 15/8/2024 | |
1 Semester
| May 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 17/5/2023 | - | 17/8/2023 | |
| September 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/9/2023 | - | 1/2/2024 | |
| January 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 28/1/2024 | - | 16/5/2024 | |
How to apply
Ready to join us at the International Study Centre? Learn more about the application process and what you need before you arrive.
International Study Centre
Our pathway programmes are taught at the International Study Centre, on campus at the University of Surrey.
Online Pre-Sessional English
If you don’t yet meet the English language entry requirements to study your chosen pathway programme, our English language course can boost your IELTS.