Automotive Engineering

Automotive engineering is a discipline undergoing one of its most significant transformations in a century. The shift to electric and hybrid powertrains, the development of autonomous and connected vehicle technologies, and the pressure to shorten development cycles and reduce environmental impact are reshaping what automotive engineers need to know and what they need to be able to do. The discipline draws on mechanical engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, materials science, and increasingly on software and data, requiring graduates who can work across these boundaries.

At Loughborough University, one of the UK's most respected engineering institutions, you will study automotive engineering over three years full-time, developing a thorough grounding in vehicle systems, powertrain technology, structural mechanics, aerodynamics, manufacturing processes, and the digital engineering methods that are now central to automotive development. The programme reflects the industry's current direction, covering electrification, connectivity, and digital design tools alongside the classical mechanical engineering foundations. Loughborough's strong industrial relationships and the reputation of its engineering programmes give the course a direct connection to professional automotive practice.

The typical entry tariff is 136 UCAS points.

Automotive engineering graduates are recruited by vehicle manufacturers, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, motorsport organisations, research institutions, and consultancies working across the automotive and transport sectors. Roles in vehicle dynamics, powertrain development, body engineering, manufacturing, and software integration are all accessible. The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study at MEng or MSc level and for working towards chartered engineer status with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers or the Institution of Engineering and Technology.