University of Greater Manchester launches pioneering Defence Engineering degree to help tackle UK skills shortage
The University of Greater Manchester has launched a ground-breaking new undergraduate degree designed to prepare the next generation of engineers for careers at the forefront of the UK’s defence and advanced manufacturing sectors.
The new BEng Advanced Manufacturing Engineering for Defence is the first programme of its kind in the UK.
It has been developed in collaboration with industry experts to equip graduates with the specialist knowledge and practical experience needed to support one of the country’s fastest-growing and most strategically important industries.
Students will learn from experts and gain hands-on experience with the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of defence engineering, from aerospace and submarine manufacturing to robotics, autonomous systems and intelligent defence technologies.
The course offers four specialist pathways, allowing students to tailor their studies in:
● Materials and Additive Manufacturing
● Robotics and Artificial Intelligence
● Automation and Artificial Intelligence
● Instrumentation and Artificial Intelligence
Designed with employability at its heart, students will spend their first two years developing core engineering knowledge through classroom learning and practical laboratory experience.
They can then choose to undertake an optional industry placement year within the defence sector, before returning for a final year of advanced study, or complete the degree in three years through continuous study.
The programme has been created in response to growing demand for highly skilled engineers as the UK seeks to strengthen its advanced manufacturing capability, support innovation and address the national engineering skills shortage.
Programme leader, Mahmoud Shafik said:
“This exciting new degree has been developed in partnership with industry to ensure our graduates have the skills, knowledge and practical experience employers are looking for.
It is important to note that the programme has been created to meet the demands of future trends and skills needs. It has been designed with the next five and 10 years in mind, and has AI and the digital agenda embedded within it.
The expertise and knowledge graduates take away will equip them for much more than just the defence sector. They will learn skills for life and have access to the latest AI and 3D printing technology which is invaluable across the whole spectrum of careers in advanced engineering.”
Garry Booth, VP Manufacturing Resources & Capability at MBDA, said:
“This programme represents a significant asset for our local community, and we are delighted to have collaborated closely with the university to align its curriculum directly with our current skills requirements
Observing this initiative develop and mature has provided valuable insights, ensuring that the University of Greater Manchester degree programmes remain highly relevant to modern industry demands.”
Alan Pearce, COO of Fastech, said:
“We have been working closely with the University of Greater Manchester for the past two years to help develop this pioneering programme, ensuring it reflects the real skills needed by the UK defence sector. Drawing on our experience in the USA, we have seen first-hand the importance of developing the next generation of engineers.
This degree will help create a vital talent pipeline to strengthen the UK’s future defence capability and advanced manufacturing base.”
Dr Joseph Horne, Business Lead for the University’s Centre of Advanced Manufacturing, said:
“We are proud to be offering one of the UK’s most distinctive engineering programmes, helping students to build rewarding careers while supporting innovation and economic growth.
The team here at the University has a huge amount of expertise and knowledge. This programme also aligns perfectly with the requirements identified in the Government’s much publicised Defence Investment Plan.”
Applications for the BEng Advanced Manufacturing Engineering for Defence programme, which starts in September, are now open through UCAS, using the University of Greater Manchester institution code.
To learn more about this new degree please visit: greatermanchester.ac.uk
