Engineering Operations Management MSc Online

Discover how to use the latest engineering management techniques to mitigate issues in the industry.

Start Dates: January, May, September

Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Study Mode: Online

Fees: £11,520

How you’ll study

The MSc Engineering Operations Management 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. All learning is asynchronous by default, allowing you to study when it suits you, with scheduled touchpoints for tutor interaction and peer discussion.

Full-time students should expect to dedicate approximately 35-40 hours per week to their studies. Part-time students typically commit around 15-20 hours. 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.

Assessment is through a balance of coursework and examinations. Depending on the module, you may complete written reports, systems modelling exercises, supply chain analyses, financial evaluations, project management plans, and in-class tests. The programme combines strategic management theory with technical application through cutting-edge case studies and hands-on projects. 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 either:

  • A 2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree or; an 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 refined modules ensure an optimal learning experience, equipping you with practical skills for success in engineering management through eight core modules and a final research project.


Gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest project management techniques and strategies. You'll explore essential aspects such as management tools, reporting methods, and team building to ensure effective project execution and leadership. 

Explore the role of the engineering manager through the lens of contingency theory, human resource management, and business performance management. You'll also examine the significance of innovation and strategies for managing change within organisations. 

Understand the strategic role of financial management, including sources of finance, money flow, and financial statements. You'll also delve into investment analysis and business planning, providing you with a thorough understanding of financial decision-making in engineering management. 

Learn to select appropriate research methods, ensuring your results are reliable, valid, and consistent. You'll also be guided in structuring research questions and addressing unknown gaps in your field. 

Explore manufacturing systems and the use of modelling simulations, particularly with Arena software. You'll develop your systematic thinking, enabling you to analyse modern complex systems by applying your knowledge and skills in modelling. 

Dive into logistics, supply chain management, and managing material flow. You'll also explore the role of information systems in supply chain relationships and emphasise the customer service dimension, providing a comprehensive understanding of global supply chain dynamics. 

Develop an in-depth understanding of quality assurance principles essential to engineering management. You'll focus on the application of these principles across various industries, ensuring you are equipped to maintain high standards of quality and reliability. 

Discover basic measurement theory and the operating principles of modern measurement techniques while addressing topics like practical measuring machines and advanced data analysis, ensuring you are proficient in handling complex measurement systems and interpreting data effectively. 

This project is designed to enhance your problem-solving, communication, and project management skills through an independent investigation. Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, you'll produce an in-depth study on a topic relevant to your course. 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for the MSc Engineering Operations Management 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

Many engineers reach a point where career progression requires management skills alongside technical expertise. The MSc Engineering Operations Management is designed for this transition, equipping you with the strategic, financial, and people management capabilities needed to lead teams, departments, and operations at scale.

  • Processing engineering manager – overseeing manufacturing processes and operational efficiency
  • Automation engineering manager – leading automation strategy and implementation across engineering operations
  • Quality manager – driving quality assurance and reliability across products and processes
  • IT manager – managing technology systems and digital infrastructure within engineering organisations

Brunel Engineering Operations Management graduates work with leading engineering and manufacturing organisations including Accenture, Jaguar, Ford, and Dyson. The programme prepares you for senior roles in automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors.

The programme develops competencies across six key areas: resource management, process improvement, supply chain dynamics, project management, data-driven decision-making, and people leadership. This breadth makes you effective not just in engineering, but in any operations-heavy environment.

Why choose this programme

This programme bridges the gap between technical engineering expertise and strategic management. Nine modules cover project management, people management, financial management, supply chain logistics, systems modelling, quality management, and data analysis, giving you the breadth to lead engineering operations, not just execute them.

Brunel University London is ranked in the top 25% of UK universities, with a strong heritage in engineering education and research. An engineering management qualification from Brunel carries weight with employers in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and technology.

The programme uses cutting-edge case studies and hands-on projects drawn from real engineering operations. Modules in systems modelling and simulation, quality management, and supply chain logistics develop skills that are directly applicable to industry practice.

The curriculum addresses sustainability and ethical considerations in engineering operations, increasingly important as organisations face pressure to reduce environmental impact and operate responsibly within their supply chains.

Three start dates per year (January, May, September), fully online delivery, and flexible study options mean you can develop engineering leadership skills without stepping away from your career.

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 engineering operations management relevant to industry standards.

In-demand skills to lead in engineering

Manage resources effectively to optimise performance in engineering projects.

Enhance engineering processes to boost productivity, quality, and performance.

Master supply chain management for efficient material and information flow.

Master project management skills for engineering, including budgeting and agile.

Use data analytics to drive decisions, optimise processes, and reduce risks.

Promote sustainability through responsible resource use and stewardship.

Shaping the future of engineering

Change-making focus: Gain the skills to transform industry and make a lasting positive impact on society and the planet.

Industry-relevant curriculum: Address global challenges through cutting-edge case studies and hands-on projects led by industry experts.

Interactive global classroom: Collaborate with peers worldwide in a dynamic virtual environment, preparing for leadership in the global engineering landscape.

Take the next step

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

Hear what our students have to say about this programme

  • It was a great experience. I learned a lot of new things. While learning online creates certain challenges, it is highly rewarding as a way to have a balanced lifestyle. I feel like Brunel had the right platform for me to take the next step in my academic journey.
    Clyde Borg, 
    Engineering Operations Management 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 engineering, such as:

  • Processing engineering manager 
  • Automation engineering manager 
  • Quality manager
  • IT manager

Our graduates work here

FAQs

Yes. The MSc Engineering Operations Management is delivered entirely online, giving you flexible access to all learning materials at any time. You can study full-time over one year or part-time over two years. The programme is designed for working professionals, with three start dates per year.

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 management and operations skills, bridging the gap between engineering expertise and strategic leadership. Note that the English language requirement for this programme is IELTS 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in all areas), which is lower than most other Brunel online programmes.

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

Get in touch with us today!