Program Overview

Overview

The Automation and Control MSc is an industry-focused course that prepares students for a career as a design or development engineer. This course covers all major disciplines in automation and control, providing an advanced education for both practicing professionals and new graduates.

What You'll Learn

Students will learn the core principles of automation and control, how to apply theory to real-world industrial challenges, and hands-on experience with tools like MATLAB and PLCs. Key topics include:

• Linear controller design and state space analysis
• Industrial automation, PLCs programming, and robotics
• Distributed and digital control systems
• Solving complex problems with engineering and computing techniques

How You'll Learn

Delivery and teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Coursework
• Seminars
• Practical laboratory sessions Assessment methods depend on the modules and include:
• Computer assessment
• Design or creative project
• Lab exercise
• Oral examination
• Practical lab report
• Report
• Written examination
• Written exercise

Your Development

The course provides practical design skills and research methodologies, ideal for further research studies (PhD) and careers in a wide range of sectors. Students will gain:

• A real-world understanding of challenges in high-demand industries
• Expertise in system analysis and controller design using state-space methods and MATLAB
• Strong analytical and design skills in digital control systems
• Practical experience with robotics, servomechanisms, PLCs, and distributed systems

Your Future

Graduates will have enhanced skills and knowledge, preparing them for a wide range of careers across electrical, electronic, mechatronic, and control engineering. The course also provides a route into PhD-level study.

Quality and Ranking

• 42% of the research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• Global Top 140 University – QS World University Rankings 2026
• Global Top 160 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• Top 200 for Engineering - Electrical and Electronic - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

Facilities

Students will learn in modern lecture theaters fully equipped with audio-visual equipment and have access to a range of specialist facilities across campus, including:

• Computing Lab
• Electronics Teaching Lab
• Power Electronics, Drives and Machines Lab
• Computer Aided Design (CAD) Lab
• Electrical Power Research Lab
• Smart Grid Lab and Energy Storage Test Bed
• Urban Sciences Building

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year):

• Home students: £13,900
• International students: £30,050 The university offers a range of scholarships, including a 25% discount for EU students without settled or pre-settled status.

Entry Requirements

The entrance requirements for 2026 entry include:

• A 2:2 BEng honors degree, or international equivalent, in electrical and electronic engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, communications, or information and control engineering
• Relevant professional experience is desirable, although not essential
• English language requirements: IELTS, Pearson, Duolingo English Test, or TOEFL

How to Apply

The course starts in September, and there is no application closing date. International students are advised to apply at least two months before the course starts. A deposit of £1,500 is required for international students who need a visa to study in the UK. The application portal has instructions to guide students through the application process.