Advanced Manufacturing Systems & Technologies MSc Online

Progress your career and gain expertise in smart manufacturing, automation, and more.

Start Dates: January, May, September

Duration: 2 years part-time

Study Mode: Online

Fees: £11,520

How you’ll study

The MSc Advanced Manufacturing Systems & Technologies is delivered through Brunel’s virtual learning environment, giving you access to course materials, recorded lectures, and interactive resources at any time. You will engage with content through video lectures, discussion forums, and collaborative activities with your global cohort. The programme includes access to virtual labs and simulation software, allowing you to apply manufacturing concepts in a practical environment.

Part-time students should expect to dedicate approximately 15-20 hours per week to their studies. Your time is split between directed learning activities, independent study and reading, and assessment preparation. The programme runs across three intakes per year – January, May, and September – with a structured module timetable over two years.

Assessment is through a balance of coursework and examinations. Depending on the module, you may complete written reports, computer-aided engineering projects, systems modelling simulations, supply chain analyses, quality management evaluations, and in-class tests. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through virtual labs and simulation tools. The programme culminates in an independent research project.

You will have access to dedicated academic tutors and a student support team throughout your programme. Tutors provide structured feedback on assessments, and you can reach out to your support team for guidance on academic, technical, or administrative matters. Brunel’s online students also have access to the university’s library, careers service, and wellbeing resources.

Entry requirements

To join this programme, you’ll need:

  • A 2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree or; the equivalent internationally-recognised qualification in an engineering, science or technology subject

Non-native speakers of English need either of the following: 

  • IELTS: 6 (min 5.5 in all areas)
  • Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
  • TOEFL: 77 (min R18,L17,S20,W17) 
  • BrunELT: 58% (min 55% in all areas)

Modules

Our carefully refined modules equip you with practical skills for success in manufacturing through eight core modules and a final research project.


Build your expertise in creating precise computer models for engineering applications. In this module, you’ll learn to model entities, surfaces, and solids using CATIA, while mastering Mechanism Synthesis and Analysis. You’ll also leverage MATLAB and Simulink software to solve advanced engineering problems, equipping you with the skills to tackle real-world challenges in CAE.

Master the principles of quality assurance and advanced reliability engineering to enhance the performance and safety of manufacturing operations. In this module, you’ll apply proven techniques to optimise maintenance, improve maintainability, and ensure the highest operational standards across manufacturing plants.

Develop a comprehensive understanding of logistics, supply chain dynamics, and material flow. In this module, you'll how information systems drive supply chain relationships, optimise customer service, and enhance operational efficiency to ensure seamless and effective supply chain management.

Cultivate systematic thinking and gain the expertise to model and analyse complex systems. In this module, you'll delve into flexible manufacturing, machine setup, and other critical elements, empowering you to manage and optimise advanced manufacturing processes efficiently.

Explore key automation concepts, including actuators, sensors, and best practices. In this module, you'll develop the skills to select the right automation and control methods for specific processes, empowering you to optimise manufacturing systems effectively.

Prepare to develop and present detailed engineering design proposals. In this module, equip yourself with a strong understanding of research methodologies, empowering you to communicate your findings effectively in engineering contexts.

Gain a solid understanding of measurement theory and the principles behind modern measurement techniques. In this module, you'll explore the capabilities of advanced measuring machines and enhance your skills in data analysis to perform precise and accurate engineering assessments.

Explore the full product development lifecycle, from manufacturing and global engineering to business model innovation. In this module, you'll arm yourself key skills in project innovation planning, preparing you for successful business development in a global manufacturing environment.

Hone your problem-solving, communication, and project management skills through independent research. Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, you'll conduct an in-depth investigation on a relevant topic, culminating in a comprehensive research report.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for the Master of Public Health are £11,520 for the full programme. This covers all teaching, learning materials, assessments,
and access to Brunel’s online resources — there are no hidden costs.

Brunel offers a six-month payment plan, allowing you to spread the cost by paying your first instalment at registration and the remaining balance across five equal monthly payments.

You may be eligible for one or more of the following:

  • Early payment discount (2%) – applied automatically when you pay in full before your registration date
  • Alumni discount (15%) – for Brunel graduates returning for postgraduate study
  • Family discount (10%) – when a direct family member is also studying at Brunel
  • Academic excellence award (15%) – for applicants holding a first-class undergraduate degree

Discounts can be combined where eligible. Visit the full fees and funding section for detailed eligibility criteria.

UK residents may be eligible for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan through Student Finance England. The loan is not means-tested and is paid directly to you to use towards tuition fees and living costs. Visit gov.uk/masters-loan for full details and to check your eligibility.

Career outcomes

Manufacturing is undergoing rapid transformation. Industry 4.0 technologies – automation, robotics, AI, IoT, and advanced analytics – are reshaping how products are designed, produced, and delivered. Professionals with expertise in advanced manufacturing systems are at the forefront of this shift, and demand for their skills is growing across automotive, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and consumer goods.

  • Manufacturing engineer – designing and optimising production processes and manufacturing systems
  • Automation engineer – implementing automated solutions across manufacturing operations
  • Quality assurance manager – ensuring product quality and process reliability across manufacturing lines
  • Supply chain analyst – optimising logistics, procurement, and distribution within manufacturing operations

Brunel Advanced Manufacturing graduates work with leading manufacturing and engineering organisations including Flex, General Electric, and Teledyne E2V. The programme prepares you for senior technical roles in automotive, aerospace, electronics, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and advanced materials.

The programme develops expertise in computer-aided engineering, automation and robotics, systems modelling and simulation, and advanced measurement systems. These are specialist technical skills that command a premium in the manufacturing sector and are difficult to develop through general engineering management training.

  • The Online MSc in Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Technologies is one of our most forward-thinking master’s courses, and I’m excited that we are now offering the course in the online format so that students from across the globe can gain the skills they need to excel in this industry, without the need to relocate to the UK.
    Dr QingPing Yang,
    Programme Lead, Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Technologies MSc online

Why choose this programme

Nine modules cover the full breadth of modern manufacturing, from computer-aided engineering and automation & robotics to quality management, supply chain logistics, and global manufacturing enterprise development. You graduate with the technical depth to lead in smart manufacturing environments.

The programme provides access to virtual labs and simulation software, allowing you to apply manufacturing concepts in a practical, hands-on environment. This is a key differentiator from programmes that rely solely on theoretical teaching.

Brunel University London is ranked in the top 25% of UK universities, with a strong heritage in engineering and technology. Brunel’s engineering programmes are respected by manufacturing employers in the UK and internationally.

You will study alongside manufacturing professionals from around the world, building a network that spans industries and geographies. This global perspective enriches your understanding of manufacturing practices beyond a single market.

The programme is offered part-time over two years, with three start dates per year and fully online delivery. It is specifically structured for working professionals who want to advance their manufacturing expertise without leaving their role.

Your MSc is designed with industry skills and knowledge in mind, providing you with the skills you need to secure your chosen career path. Each module is carefully constructed to elevate your knowledge in key areas of advanced manufacturing systems relevant to industry standards.

In-demand skills to lead in manufacturing

Gain expertise in cutting-edge technologies to optimise processes. 

Learn techniques for analysing and improving manufacturing processes. 

Develop proficiency in CAD/CAM software for automated production systems.

Understand the principles of supply chain management and logistics.

 Acquire knowledge of quality management systems to maintain high standards. 

Learn to make data-driven decisions to optimise performance and reduce waste.

Shape the future of manufacturing

Industry-relevant curriculum: Tackle key manufacturing challenges through real-world case studies and hands-on projects led by experts.

Interactive global classroom: Collaborate with peers from around the world in a dynamic virtual learning environment.

Change-making focus: Gain the skills to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and enhance sustainability in the manufacturing sector.

Take the next step

Fill out the form and one of our advisors will be in touch with more information, including our brochure.

  • The skills that I've benefitted from have indirectly helped me get the position that I'm currently in. I've gone from being a manufacturer to an electrical lead with 60 people on my team. So it has already helped me progress in my job role.
    Dominic Riddick,
    Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Technologies MSc online

Supporting you towards success

Throughout your academic journey, we offer personalised guidance, skill workshops, alumni network access, and continuous support.

Many of our graduates take on key roles in manufacturing, such as:

  • Manufacturing engineer
  • Automation engineer
  • Quality assurance manager
  • Supply chain analyst

Our graduates work here

FAQs

Yes. The MSc Advanced Manufacturing Systems & Technologies is delivered entirely online, giving you flexible access to all learning materials at any time. The programme is offered part-time over two years, specifically designed for working engineers and manufacturing professionals who want to upskill without leaving their role. Three start dates per year offer flexibility on when you begin.

Yes. You will graduate with the same Brunel University London MSc as on-campus students. Your degree certificate does not distinguish between online and on-campus delivery. You are a full Brunel student with access to the university's academic resources, library, and support services throughout your studies.

UK residents may be eligible for a Postgraduate Master's Loan through Student Finance England, which can be used towards tuition fees and living costs. The loan is not means-tested. Brunel also offers a six-month payment plan, along with discounts for alumni, early payment, academic excellence, and family members of current students.

You will need a 2:2 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in engineering, science, or technology. The programme builds on this technical foundation to develop advanced expertise in manufacturing systems, automation, and robotics. Note that the English language requirement is IELTS 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in all areas), which is lower than most other Brunel online programmes.

Advanced Manufacturing focuses on the technical side: automation, robotics, computer-aided engineering, systems modelling, and global manufacturing enterprise development. Engineering Operations Management focuses on the strategic and managerial side: project management, people management, financial management, and supply chain logistics. Choose this programme if you want to deepen your technical manufacturing expertise; choose Engineering Operations Management if you want to move into engineering leadership.

Get in touch with us today!