Code

PGH730, 011H733 (professional placement)

Start

September 2026

Fees

£11,700 (UK) | £18,600 (INT) | £3,000 (placement)

Duration

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time, 1 year full-time + 12 months placement

Location

Hendon campus

Why choose Mechatronic Systems Engineering MSc at Middlesex?

This course is for you if you want to practice in high-tech industries such as automotive, robotics, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy.

The course is supported by long-term industry partners such as Siemens, Festo, National Instruments and Altium.

The department also benefits from membership of the following organisations:

The Connected Curriculum Board managed by Siemens and Festo, which brings industry practices and technologies to academic courses
GAMBICA – a trade organisation representing 250+ companies in Instrumentation, Automation, Control and Lab technology sectors
SEFI – European Society for Engineering Education
EPC Engineering Professors Council
WES Women's Engineering Society

We are one of the first in the UK to setup a Smart Factory using Cyber Physical technologies, and our key partners for the course include Siemens and Festo, both who are leading the revolution around digitalisation and Smart Factories.

What you will gain

You'll graduate with valuable practical skills and advanced knowledge of mechatronic system design including advanced robotics, system integration and optimisation. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to work with the latest technologies currently used by the industry.

Other benefits of the course include:

Excellent employment prospects with high-tech organisations working in established as well as emerging technologies
Close links with industry, which means you'll have access to the latest industry practices, equipment and training material provided by our industry partners
The interdisciplinary nature of the course means you'll have opportunities in a variety of employment sectors

Professional placement option

This course offers the opportunity to spend a year in industry, gaining hands-on experience as Mechatronic Systems Engineer in automation, manufacturing and systems integration sectors. The placement opportunities typically aligns with equipment manufacturers of various sizes from SMEs to large corporations including automative companies and systems integrators and all of their supply chain of companies.

The equipment used on the course is current and is used by majority of the manufacturing organisations within UK and Europe, as well as in other developed countries. By having a fist hand experience of such equipment that is integrated into the programme would give the graduates from this programme a significant advantage in securing employment. The course is developed in partnership with industry partners such as Siemens and Festo and would provide unparalleled benefits to those on the programme.

The programme benefits from having access to a strong network of industry partners and employer consortiums who work closely with the placement team and the academic staff to create opportunities for students. In addition, there is dedicated support available in preparing and helping secure placement opportunities relevant to the course.

What our students say

“Joining this course at Middlesex enabled me to take part in the WorldSkills UK and the Siemens/Festo Connected Curriculum competitions, through which I gained invaluable technical knowledge and industry connections. This has created several industry opportunities for me that would have been very difficult to gain otherwise which I am very grateful for.”

- Camila Rey da Rosa (2024 graduate), Solutions Engineer - Siemens Digital Industries

Discover more about placements

apartment

Cutting-edge facilities

We are the first in the UK to setup a Smart Factory using Cyber Physical technologies, developed by our long term partners Siemens and Festo

biotech

Industry-leading lecturers

Our staff are leaders in the fields of Digital Twin Modelling, 5G and IoT research, Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning and Spectrum Sensing

groups

Exciting graduate careers

Our graduates have gone on to work for high-tech organisations in sectors such as automotive, robotics and automation, renewable energy and more

Student stories and experiences

MDX alumnus working on technology of the future in Dyson robotics team

Marcin, Mikhaela and Simonas at WorldSkills Lyon

MDX graduates past and present fly the flag for British engineering excellence at the ‘Skills Olympics’

Mohamad Shaat with his production line project

Engineering graduate wins major award from technology industry leaders

About your course

The course is made up of three semesters, each lasting 12 weeks. Semester one will be devoted to drives, sensors and controllers, robotic applications and their programming techniques, software modelling of mechatronic systems and additive manufacturing technologies along with AR and VR applications.

Semester two will feature a group project where the knowledge and skills developed in term one will be applied to a systems integration project. You'll also study machine learning and AI applications in robotics. There will also be further input into PLM solutions and how organisations can use these to manage their products and services. We'll also introduce you to the technologies that make up Industry 4.0 and their applications.

Semester three will be an individual project which you can propose yourself or select from a choice of projects offered by our research centres or industry partners including our renowned London Digital Twin Research Centre.

About your course

Here is a brief overview of the modules you will study on your course.

This module will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of advanced sensing mechanisms and sensor solutions as they apply to engineering systems. It will delve into the principles and practicalities of modern sensing as well as use of sensory data for decision making and control strategies. You will explore the critical interactions between automated systems like robots and their environments and gain hands-on experience in designing and implementing data processing pipelines and control mechanisms, bridging theory and practical application.

This module will equip you with knowledge of advanced concepts of robot manipulators, such as coordinate systems, transformations, kinematics, motion planning. You will put the knowledge of these principles into practice by modelling, simulating, programming and operating robot arms and end-effectors. You will gain experience of specialised software frameworks for robotic manipulation.

This module will cover the latest techniques in digital product modelling applied to manufacturing and automated systems, making use of technologies such as digital twinning, virtual commissioning and testing. The module also will also cover modelling of components, assemblies and integrated systems, including their physical behaviour in virtual space, controlled by virtual as well as physical devices such as PLCs and HMIs. Module will also feature modelling strategies relating to additive manufacturing.

This module will equip you with a thorough understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques commonly employed in engineering. You will explore key machine learning methods and algorithms, applying them to real-world applications such as robotics, communications, mechatronics, electronics, and cyber-physical systems. Through practical development of AI/ML systems, you will also engage with and critically examine theoretical challenges within AI and its engineering applications.

The final individual project module is designed to consolidate the knowledge and advanced skills gained in the preceding modules, and to provide you with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate mastery in undertaking advanced engineering projects in their future employment. The module aims to develop advanced skills and practical experience in planning, problem solving, and implementing engineering solutions and in making effective written and oral project presentations.

This module aims to explore and demonstrate the role and responsibilities of the practitioner in various contexts within and surrounding their subject specialism. These would cover issues such as sustainability goals, recognition of obligations to the society, the professional practice and a commitment to professional standards and Code(s) of Conduct relevant to their discipline (such as the Engineering Council). The module will also cover other wider issues such as materials and their impact on environmental factors, waste management, ethics, EDI in a workplace, Enterprise & Entrepreneurship, security concerns, globalisation (global manufacturing, operating in global markets, cultural issues, financial concerns, risk etc) and its impact on business operations.

This module introduces a systems approach to designing and integrating mechatronic systems. The module will explore mechatronic applications in various contexts (discrete manufacturing, automation, process industries, healthcare etc) and look at approaches to designing and implementing such integrated solutions, which will include various sub-systems. In doing so, the module will expose you to a number of different technologies making up complex mechatronic systems.

To find out more about this course, please download the Mechatronic Systems Engineering MSc Specification (PDF).

With Professional Placement: Mechatronic Systems Engineering with Professional Placement - 24 months (PDF)

Teaching

You'll learn through a mix of interactive teaching, hands-on activities, and practical assessments designed to keep you engaged and help you build a deep understanding of the subject. Our staff-led sessions break down complex theories and explore them from different perspectives, giving you the tools to think critically about global issues. You’ll also take part in lab-based activities, where you can put your knowledge into action through simulations and practical experiments. To help you get the most out of your learning, you’ll join workshops, group tutorials, giving you valuable insight into real-world careers and practical skills employers look for.

Typical weekly breakdown

A typical week looks like this:

Learning	Hours per week
On-campus	12
Online	1
Independent study	28

Learning terms

On-campus: This includes tutor-led sessions such as seminars, lab sessions and demonstrations as well as student-led sessions for work in small groups.

Online learning: This is teaching that is delivered online using tools like MS Teams or Zoom, as well as work that you do yourself using online teaching resources.

Independent study: This is the work you do in your own time including reading and research.

Part-time study

You can also study this course part-time.

You will be based at our north London campus, using dedicated facilities in Ritterman and Hatchroft Buildings.

We have a strong support network online and on campus to help you develop your academic skills. We offer one-to-one and group sessions to develop your learning skills together with academic support from our library, IT teams and learning experts.

Coursework and assessments

Your skills will be assessed by a combination of individual and collaborative lab and other coursework, project work, including both software and hardware development, reports and presentations.

Feedback

You'll evaluate your work, skills and knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Sometimes you'll work in groups and assess each other's progress.

Each term, you'll get regular feedback on your learning.

Students sat working in study space at Sheppard Library.

Make the most of our free laptop loans, e-books, printing and photocopying Learn more

Student using computer help from library support

We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place. Our facilities

Female student working with a large machine in the MDX mechatronic lab. Two other students are sitting at a table in the background. — Mechatronics lab

Two student holding a small white and orange robot, lifting its right arm — Robotics lab

A female student leaning over a large machine in the MDX Design Engineering Lab — Design engineering lab

A man plugging a cable into a device — Computer and communication engineering lab

Facilities

The course benefits from having specialist facilities to support its educational aims. These are provided by our industry partners which are identical to their facilities offered to their own customers.

These include a dedicated suite of automation equipment comprising 18 stations of electro-pneumatic workstations with HMIs and PLCs, approximately 15 modular production systems, several bespoke IoT workstations and a 6-station Smart Factory (Cyber-Physical Lab) with dedicated logistics devices (mobile robots). The automation equipment is supported by a suite of high end computers allowing full product simulation and commissioning as well as optimisation for designing Digital Twin technologies.

In addition, there is an extensive range of robotics equipment in the recently refurbished and enlarged robotics lab.

It is also worth noting that the department is the sole organiser for WorldSkills UK National Competitions in Automation and Mechatronics, which ensures that right expertise and equipment are readily available and are at world standards.

The course will also prepare you to take part in WorldSkills UK Industry 4 national competitions should you decide to participate. This will enable you to receive further training in these skills by our industry partners.

Careers

How can the Mechatronic Systems Engineering MSc support your career?

The global manufacturing industry is being transformed by the recent advances in technology and their integration driven by the fourth Industrial Revolution. This has led to the need to develop new types of engineers who are able to integrate such technologies. Much of this relies on a high level of skills in discrete technologies, but what makes them more useful is their integration.

Mechatronics is one of these disciplines where several core engineering disciplines are blended together using a systems engineering approach. This approach defines the MSc Mechatronic Systems Engineering course and prepares graduates for the wealth of opportunities available in industries that rely on smart technologies on a global stage.

The interdisciplinary nature of mechatronics leads to a variety of career options in areas such as automotive, advanced manufacturing, robotics and automation, systems integration, aerospace, bio-engineering and healthcare, pharmaceuticals and renewable energy.

Our postgraduate courses have been recognised for their ability to support your career. We are a top 10 UK University for employability (UniCompare Rankings 2025), and a top 10 UK university for industry connections and funding in Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024.

Career paths

After graduating from the course, you'll be able to progress into a career in a wide range of automation industries in roles such as:

Automation engineers
Systems Integration Engineer
Robotics applications engineers
Security engineers for cyber-physical applications
Specialist practitioner in the internet of things (IoT) industry

You'll also be equipped to work in the emerging areas of smart factories and smart cities, utilising Industry 4.0 technologies.

Some of the roles our graduates have gone on to work in include Jaguar Land Rover, Festo, Ford Motor Company, while others are working with new start-up companies such as OW Smell Made Digital and Domino Printing Sciences, exploring new technologies.

Our employability service Careers and Futures will help you make the most of your experience and connections to achieve your career goals. You'll have unlimited access to one-to-one advice and support from specialists in your sector plus 24/7 online support. You can also make the most of events and networking opportunities, on and off campus.

As an alumni, we offer you lifetime career support so we can help you as your progress.

MDXcelerator student start-up support

We can help you bring your business idea to life with our MDXcelerator programme which includes masterclasses with high-profile entrepreneurs, workshops, mentoring opportunities and competitions to secure seed funding.

Students at Middlesex span 122 countries and you will be part of our thriving global network. After you graduate, you'll join our alumni network. You will get access to:

Lifetime careers support from the Careers and Futures employability service;
Raise your personal profile as one of our featured alumni;
Continued limited usage of the Sheppard Library;
Exclusive MDX alumni networks to connect with your peers.

Entry Requirements

We welcome your application regardless of your background or experience.

For this course, ideally, we are looking for these qualifications:

We normally require a second-class honours degree 2:2 or above in computer science, science or engineering disciplines. We also encourage applications from experienced engineers or graduates from wider engineering disciplines.
Experience in a high-level programming language such as Python, C++ or similar.

Candidates with other degrees are welcome to apply provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant experience. Candidates without formal qualifications need to demonstrate relevant work experience and the ability to study at postgraduate level.

If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, we may be able to count this towards your entry requirements.

We welcome students from the UK and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:

Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
Work placements and networking with top London employers
Award-winning career support to get you where you want to go after university.

Qualifications

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the accepted qualifications on your country's support page. If you are unsure of the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest international office.

English language

You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.

Visas

To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa. Please check to see if this applies to you.

Apply as early as possible to make sure you get a place. You can submit your application before you receive your final qualification.

Personal statements

Make sure that you highlight your best qualities in your personal statement that are relevant to this course. Such as your ability to be forward-thinking, creative and collaborative.

Interviews

You won’t be required to attend an interview.

Find out how to apply for postgraduate taught courses and watch our step-by-step video.

Register your interest

Chat with a real student about life at MDX

See all students you can chat to

Fees and funding

The fees below are for the 2026/27 academic year:

UK students¹

Full-time students: £11,700
Part-time students: £78 per credit
Part-time students: £38 per dissertation credit

International students²

Full-time students: £18,600
Part-time students: £124 per credit
Part-time students: £62 per dissertation credit

Placement

£3,000 per year

We cover your costs for the day-to-day things that you need to do well in your studies, such as:

Free laptop loans for up to 24 hours
Free specialist software for your course
Free printing for academic paperwork.

With regard to the individual project at the end of the course, we'll do our best to provide the materials and components needed for you to complete the work however, in circumstances where the project is self-proposed, you may need to cover some or all of the cost of this yourself.

You may be eligible for one of our scholarships including:

The Alumni Postgraduate Award: a 20% fee reduction for UK/EU Middlesex alumni who studied eligible undergraduate courses;
The Chevening Scholarship: full course fees;
The European Academic Awards: £1,000 to £7,000 for students showing academic excellence;
Regional or International Merit Award: up to £2,000 towards course fees.

For international students, we also have a limited number of other awards specific to certain regions, and work in partnership with funding providers in your country to help support you financially with your study.

Find out more about our postgraduate scholarships.

Help from your employer

Your employer can contribute towards the cost of your postgraduate study as part of their staff development programme.

Work while you study

If you are not currently working, we can help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above.

Fees disclaimers

1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase postgraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.

Important information

We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.

Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.

Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.

At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.