Smart Manufacturing Systems Applied Research MSc

Program Overview

The Smart Manufacturing Systems MSc is a one-year postgraduate program that equips students with multidisciplinary expertise in manufacturing and mechanical engineering, data analytics, and artificial intelligence. It provides a solid understanding of global business operations and fosters the development of human resources needed to drive innovation in industry and create new manufacturing processes and products. The program prepares students for careers as modern manufacturing engineers, equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to operate smart factories and address industry demands within a global business context.

Program Outline

Smart Manufacturing Systems Applied Research - MSc

Degree Overview

The Smart Manufacturing Systems MSc is a one-year postgraduate program offered jointly by the School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems and the Department of Global Business and Enterprise. Its key goals are to:

• Equip students with multidisciplinary expertise in both the principles and practical applications of manufacturing and mechanical engineering, incorporating elements of industrial robotics, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning.
• Provide students with a solid understanding of global business operations and the current business environment.
• Foster the development of human resources needed to drive innovation in industry and create new manufacturing processes and products, allowing existing companies to remain competitive in the emerging landscape of digital and smart manufacturing technologies.
• Provides comprehensive training in various engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical/electronic, and computer engineering.
• Develops students' business acumen through exposure to global business operations and the dynamics of the contemporary business environment.
• Offers a strong practical component with laboratory-based work and a research project.
• Provides graduates with diverse career opportunities in the evolving field of smart manufacturing across numerous industries.

Outline

The Smart Manufacturing Systems MSc consists of three semesters (September to September) and involves the completion of eight core modules and a research project:

Semester 1

• BUS700 - The Global Business in Context: This module delves into the complex world of international business, examining key concepts, current trends, and challenges faced by companies operating in a globalized environment.
The focus lies on developing students' understanding of the critical need for adaptability and flexibility in responding to the volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity that defines the modern business landscape.
• COM737 - Machine Learning and Data Modelling: This module introduces students to the fundamental ideas, algorithms, and tools associated with machine learning and data modelling.
Through this module, students will develop critical skills in data analysis, interpretation, and the application of machine learning techniques to real-world problems. Additionally, students will be equipped with practical programming abilities using relevant software tools.
• COM738 - Data Science Foundations: This module focuses on the core concepts, technologies, and programming techniques involved in data science.
It explores statistical models, data analysis approaches, and the application of machine learning algorithms within the data science context. This module also emphasizes investigative research skills through problem-solving exercises and provides insights into the latest research developments in the field. Students will further refine their programming skills using the Python language, learning crucial syntax principles and setting up their development environment for implementing and testing data science algorithms.
• MEC702 - Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Robotics: This module dives deep into the world of advanced manufacturing processes compliant with Industry 4.0 principles.
Students develop their competence in specifying, directing, and installing such processes within engineering organizations.
• MEC703 - Smart Factories: This module offers a comprehensive analysis of modern manufacturing management techniques and improvement strategies.
It examines cutting-edge industrial automation machinery, processes, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications to identify potential areas for implementation within existing工业 process, ultimately aiming to enhance automation and generate increased efficiency. The balance of theoretical instruction and practical exercises equips students with the necessary understanding and skills to apply their newly acquired knowledge to solve real-world industrial scenarios. Additionally, it investigates the development of advanced design and processing methods within the modern industrial landscape. Through this module, students will gain valuable expertise in principles associated with Industry 4.0 and learn to integrate these principles effectively within current industry operations.

Semester 2

It equips students with a profound understanding of the critical decision-making processes associated with global strategic management, enabling them to develop and implement effective strategic plans in the dynamic and interconnected global economy.

• COM703 - Project and Change Management: This optional module provides students with insights into the intricacies of managing projects effectively, embracing the crucial role of change management within modern organizations.
Students gain expertise in project planning, implementation, stakeholder management, and navigating organizational change initiatives, equipping them to navigate successfully across diverse project settings and facilitate smooth transitions.

Assessment

The Smart Manufacturing Systems MSc utilizes multiple assessment methods throughout the program, including:

• Examinations: These may be used to assess understanding of theoretical knowledge and concepts learned during lectures and seminars.
• Coursework: This can take diverse forms, including essays, reports, seminar papers, tests, presentations, dissertations, design proposals, portfolios, and journals.
The specific format depends on the learning outcomes of each module. Coursework assignments often require students to critically analyze real-world problems, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and present their findings effectively.
• Project work:
Students undertake an