Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc

Program Overview

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The Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc at Cranfield University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific, engineering, and managerial principles involved in motorsports, with a focus on mechatronic aspects. The program combines taught modules, a group design project, and an individual thesis project, providing students with a rigorous and practical learning experience. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities within the motorsport and high-performance engineering sectors.

Program Outline

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Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific, engineering, and managerial principles involved in motorsports. Emphasis is placed on the mechatronic aspects of the field, including advanced control systems, computer modeling, in-vehicle communication networks, electromechanical and embedded systems, hardware-in-the-loop validation, and systems integration.

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Objectives:

• Develop a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles underpinning motorsports.
• Gain expertise in the design, testing, and operation of competition vehicles.
• Master the application of control engineering, computer modeling, embedded systems, and vehicle dynamics and systems management in a motorsport context.
• Cultivate project planning, execution, and reporting skills alongside the ability to work effectively in diverse teams.
• Prepare for a wide range of career opportunities within the motorsport and high-performance engineering sectors.

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Program Description:

Cranfield University boasts a longstanding history in research, consultancy, and testing for the motorsport industry, dating back to the 1970s. The university houses the FIA-approved Cranfield Impact Centre and Cranfield Motorsport Simulation, collaborating with F1 and leading motorsport companies. This MSc program leverages this deep expertise and industry connection to provide students with a rigorous and practical learning experience. The curriculum delves into the design, testing, and operation of competition vehicles, encompassing aspects like control engineering, computer modeling, embedded systems, vehicle dynamics, vehicle systems, and motorsport-specific management techniques. Throughout the program, students hone their skills in project planning, execution, and reporting, equipping them for diverse motorsport roles. The program benefits from the university's renowned expertise in aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics, materials technology (including composites), motorsport vehicle structure safety, powertrain development, vehicle dynamics, simulation, data acquisition and electronics, tire characterization and modeling. This established reputation ensures the program's high regard within the motorsport industry.

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Outline:

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Structure:

The MSc program consists of nine one-week taught modules, a group design project (GDP), and an individual thesis project.

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Taught Modules:

40% of the program

• Each module carries a specific weight in the overall assessment
• Modules cover crucial topics like data acquisition, vehicle dynamics, control applications, the business of motorsport, powertrains, embedded systems, and advanced modeling.

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Group Design Project (GDP):

20% of the program

• This project offers a team-based, applied activity
• Students work on real-world challenges faced by the motorsport sector
• The GDP runs from February to May and culminates in technical reports, presentations to academics and industry professionals, team meeting minutes, and individual reflective reports.
• Successful completion of the GDP prepares students for collaborative working environments.

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Individual Thesis Project:

40% of the program

• Involves individualized research projects related to motorsport mechatronics
• Students self-manage their projects with guidance from academic supervisors and industry contacts.
• The project culminates in a concise thesis report and a poster outlining the project.
• This component fosters independent research skills and deepens understanding of chosen areas within motorsport mechatronics.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A combination of coursework assignments, examinations, and project work is used to assess student learning.
• The specific weightage of each component may vary depending on the module or project.
• Regular feedback is provided to students throughout the program to facilitate learning and improvement.

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Assessment Criteria:

• The assessment criteria are aligned with the learning outcomes of each module and project.
• Emphasis is placed on understanding, application, and critical thinking skills.
• Originality, coherence, and effective communication are also key assessment aspects.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program employs a diverse range of teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops, practical sessions, and guest lectures from industry experts.
• The focus is on interactive learning and student-centered approaches.
• Teaching materials are specifically designed for the program and leverage the latest research and industry developments.

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of highly qualified and experienced academics and industry practitioners.
• Faculty members have extensive expertise in their respective fields, with strong connections to the motorsport industry.
• Students benefit from personal attention and mentorship from the faculty.

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Unique Approach:

• The program distinguishes itself through its strong industry focus, providing students with real-world insights and project experience.
• The Motorsport MSc Steering Committee, comprising senior industry professionals, plays a vital role in advising on course content and connecting students with industry opportunities.
• Cranfield's facilities and equipment provide students with access to cutting-edge technology and resources for applying their theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• The program prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths within the motorsport and high-performance engineering sectors.
• Potential roles include:
• Race engineer
• Control specialist
• Electrical and controls engineer
• CFD engineer
• Systems engineer
• Vehicle dynamics engineer
• Applications lead engineer
• Embedded systems specialist (Cyber Security)
• Applied controls engineer
• Vehicle software engineer
• Software system engineer/Model Based Developer
• Simulation engineer
• ADAS Systems Engineer
• Project Engineer for Electric & Hybrid Vehicles
• The program's strong industry links and career support services facilitate graduates' successful transition into the workforce.

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Employer Examples:

• Graduates have secured employment in renowned companies like:
• Sauber Motorsport AG
• McLaren Automotive Ltd
• KTM AG
• Invicta Virtuosi Racing
• Honda Performance Development, Inc.
• General Dynamics Land Systems
• Cummins Inc.
• Bugatti Rimac
• AVL Powertrain UK Ltd
• AVANTIS GROUP
• This demonstrates the program's effectiveness in preparing graduates for sought-after careers in the field.

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Other:

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International Accreditation:

• The program is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

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University Support Services:

• Cranfield University provides students with access to a range of support services, including:
• Careers and Employability Service
• Learning Support Centre
• Student Welfare Service
• International Student Support
• These services aim to ensure that students have the resources and assistance they need to succeed in their studies and beyond.

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Cranfield Alumni Network:

• Upon graduation, students become part of a global network of engineers and can leverage the support and connections of Cranfield alumni working across the motorsport and high-performance engineering industries.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Home fees MSc Full-time £12,505 Overseas fees MSc Full-time £27,910