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University of Surrey International Study Centre

Study engineering in the UK

What is engineering?

Engineering is the division of science and technology focussed on the design, building, and use of engines, machines, and structures. Engineers use the principals of science and mathematics to find innovative solutions to problems facing society.

There are a variety of fields in engineering you will be able to specialise in, including:

  • Electrical and electronic engineering - Focuses on the development and use of electronics. Producing technology such as computers, satellites and mobile phones.
  • Automotive engineering - A branch of vehicle engineering, automotive engineering covers the design, development and testing of cars and motorbikes.
  • Mechanical engineering - Design, analyse, construct and maintain mechanical systems.
  • Civil engineering – Design, construction and maintenance of public infrastructure, including roads, bridges and railways.
  • Aerospace engineering – The development, testing and production of aircraft and spacecraft.
  • Biomedical engineering – Using engineering in the field of biology and medicine to improve human health.
  • Chemical engineering – The development and design of chemical manufacturing processes.
  • Physics – The branch of science focussed on matter and energy, and how the two interact.
  • Computer science – the study and engineering of computer hardware and software design.

Why study engineering?

There are many benefits to studying a degree in engineering:

By working in engineering, you will be taking on some of the world’s biggest challenges, using innovation and creativity to improve people’s lives. Engineers make a vital contribution to society, creating a better future around the world in areas such as healthcare, green energy and technology.

Engineers are in high demand globally, giving you plenty of choice of what to do and where to do it after you graduate. You will learn many valuable and transferable skills during your studies that will be applicable to all kinds of careers. Some of the skills you will develop include:

  • Problem solving
  • Communication
  • Teamworking
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Time management
  • Analytical

Studying an engineering degree is the gateway to a variety of exciting careers. There are many industries that require the skills of engineers, from construction and infrastructure to medicine and sustainable development, even robotics and special effects in film and TV.

Why study engineering at the University of Surrey?

At the University of Surrey, you will have access to exceptional, internationally-respected academics with extensive experience in the engineering field.

The state-of-the-art facilities in the faculty are available to all students studying engineering subjects. This gives students the opportunity to get hands-on experience with world-leading research to becoming employable graduates. You will be able to take advantage of facilities that include the 5G Innovation Centre and the Chemical Engineering Pilot Plant.

During your time studying at Surrey, you will develop strong, transferable skills and have the chance to engage in real-world engineering scenarios.

For undergraduate students, the Professional Training Year programme offers the opportunity to take part in a work placement. This is your chance to gain crucial work experience that can help kick start your engineering career. Some of the previous placement partners have included:

  • Virgin Trains
  • McLaren
  • Motorola.

Degree options at the University of Surrey

There are a variety of engineering degrees you could progress to at Surrey:

  • Aerospace Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Automotive Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Biomedical Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Chemical and Petroleum Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Chemical Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Civil Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Computer and Internet Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Electronic Engineering MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Electronic Engineering with Computer Systems MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Electronic Engineering with Nanotechnology MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Electronic Engineering with Space Systems MEng (Hons) or BEng (Hons)
  • Mechanical Engineering MSc
  • Bridge Engineering MSc
  • Civil Engineering MSc
  • Electronic Engineering MSc
  • Structural Engineering MSc

Subject rankings

Top 5 in the UK for Chemical Engineering and Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Guardian University Guide 2019)

Top 10 in the UK for Chemistry and Computer Science and Information Systems (Guardian University Guide 2019)

“Studying in Surrey has helped me have new experiences that will help me in the future. It has helped me get used to university life.”

Haya from Kuwait
Studying engineering and Physical Sciences International Foundation Year at the University of Surrey International Study Centre

Degree preparation at the International Study Centre

At the University of Surrey International Study Centre, we offer pathways so you can pursue either an undergraduate or postgraduate engineering degree at Surrey. Our preparation programmes will help you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed at university. The courses will cover general subject skills, engineering-specific units and elective units.

Undergraduate pathway to engineering

Discover more about the Engineering and Physical Sciences International Foundation Year and how it can help you start your business career.

Postgraduate pathway to engineering

Explore our Pre-Masters in Engineering and how it can give you the skills and knowledge to prepare you for a postgraduate degree.

What are the engineering graduate job opportunities?

There are a wide variety of career options available to engineering graduates. You can stay on and further your academic experience, or enter one of many different careers such as:

  • Systems engineer
  • Chemical engineer
  • Electronics engineer
  • Biomedical engineer
  • Materials engineer
  • Automotive engineer
  • Nuclear engineer
  • Contracting civil engineer