University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Mechanical and Design Engineering

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree PhD
Closing soon October 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a PhD in Mechanical and Design Engineering at the University of Portsmouth to contribute to pioneering research that addresses significant societal challenges. This postgraduate research degree is ideal for aspiring engineers passionate about innovation in areas such as fluid-structure interaction, advanced materials, and intelligent systems. You will delve into complex problems, from developing sustainable composite materials for transport to creating sophisticated guidance systems for marine crafts, pushing the boundaries of engineering knowledge and practice. Your doctoral journey will equip you with advanced research methodologies and a deep understanding of critical engineering disciplines.

As a full-time, on-campus PhD student over three years, you will engage in in-depth research, potentially focusing on projects like stereo vision for craft shock correlation, advanced additive manufacturing defect detection, or the physiological deformation of heart valves. You will work alongside leading academics, utilising state-of-the-art facilities to conduct experimental and numerical investigations. This rigorous academic experience culminates in a substantial dissertation, preparing you for impactful careers in academia, research and development within industry, or specialised engineering consultancy roles, where your expertise will be highly valued.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores advanced topics in mechanical and design engineering through a series of self-funded projects. Students will engage with diverse research areas, including fluid-structure interaction, composite materials, additive manufacturing, and biomechanical applications. Projects range from developing computational tools for medical applications to investigating the performance of novel materials and advanced manufacturing processes.

1 Self-funded projects (A-M)

A stereo vision based craft shock correlation on rough sea
Bio-polymer based multi-functional disposable face mask with biodegradability
Collision avoidance and assistance for powered wheelchairs and vehicles
Developing a computational tool to predict the optimal location for arterio-venous fistula (AVF) creation in end stage renal failure and haemodialysis patients
Development of a non-destructive testing strategy for effective detection of defects in additively manufactured stainless steel parts using selective laser melting process
Development of lightweight high performance sustainable composites for transport applications
Development of New Design and Manufacturing Strategy for Additive Manufacturing 3D Metal Printing
Fluid Structure Interaction of composite materials
Fluid-structure modelling of spring mounted wings aimed at drag reduction
Guidance, navigation and control strategies for seakeeping and shock mitigation of fast marine crafts
In-silico assessment tool for reducing the risk of failure of arterio-venous fistula (AVF) in patients subjected to haemodialysis
Investigation of the mechanical behaviour of newly formed bone
Investigating the physiological deformation of heart valves using in vivo and in vitro techniques
Machinability of GLARE fibre metal laminates and its constituents for aerospace applications using experimental and numerical techniques
Modelling the Fluid-Structure Interaction of membranes with anisotropic material properties to provide performance improvements
Musculoskeletal modelling of human responses to mechanical shocks on fast marine crafts

2 Self-funded projects (N-Z)

Performance evaluation of repaired composites under dynamic loading for structural applications
Phase field modelling of selective laser melting (SLM) process coupled with CFD simulation
Real-time wave imaging using stereo and monocular machine vision
Simulating the physiological deformation of the semilunar heart valves using in vitro and in silico techniques
Study of the effect of bond parameters on the sensitivity of adhesive joints performance for wind turbine blade repairs
Surface Modification of Natural Fibres with Plastic-eating Enzymes for Enhanced Fibre-matrix Interfaces of Natural Fibre Reinforced Composites

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,952.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,952.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,952.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,857.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace Engineering & DesignAutomation & RoboticsCoal & Consumable FuelsCustoms, Trade & ComplianceDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Industrial & Mechanical EngineeringQuality Control & AssuranceResearch & Product Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BAE System

Babcock international Group

Tesla

Why Study Mechanical and Design Engineering at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

October 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in October 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Mechanical and Design Engineering at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

International students enrolled in Degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks, and no separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International applicants must meet specific English proficiency scores. Acceptable tests include TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with various minimum score requirements based on the assessment.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Research Engineer, Product Designer, Mechanical Engineer, and Project Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

If you're ready to take your existing expertise and knowledge in Mechanical and Design Engineering into a postgraduate research degree, Portsmouth is the perfect place to do it.

From the phone in your pocket, to the train you take on your morning commute, much of everyday life relies on the work of engineers.

Our current research in Mechanical and Design Engineering searches for creative and practical engineering solutions to some of society's most-pressing issues – and

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Mechanical and Design Engineering program has intakes in February, April, and October. Be sure to apply ahead of these months to secure your spot.
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