Smart Manufacturing, Postgraduate Taught - MSc - 2022/23 entry

As a conversion course centred on the digital-led aspects of the smart manufacturing sector, we consider that all students are starting with no experience in the computing and mathematical aspects of the technologies involved in the course.

This MSc is designed to train graduates in courses related to Engineering, Computing and Management or with a background in these areas, to allow them to actively progress into the highly demanded market of the digitally enabled transformation of the manufacturing sector.

This course brings together cutting-edge digital technology by starting with a solid foundation of principles of computing, networking, sensing technologies, security and the digitally enabled value chain that support the development and operation of Industry 4.0.

Some of the core concepts of Industry 4.0 that will be taught are:

• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) - The infrastructure behind the factories of the future, the IIoT enables the development of intelligent systems to automate manufacturing processes with high levels of efficiency, accuracy and visibility. You will learn industry standard sensors and platforms and techniques for their implementation.
• Cybersecurity - As industrial processes move to the digital realm, there is a requirement for the adopting cyber security measures for the adequate protection of valuable information assets to ensure organisations operations. You will learn the skills and techniques to identify security gaps, evaluate business risks, and recommend mitigations strategies.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) - 

  AI is a core component of modern computing systems which involve the development intelligent agents that mimic humans cognitive capability in learning, reasoning and problem solving. As a student of this MSc, you will develop an in-depth understanding of the potential and scope of applying and evaluating the different forms of ML techniques.

The course is complemented by the study of how digital technologies are impacting the manufacturing value networks and how to best manage these technologies, including: novel visualisation techniques such as Augmented and Virtual Reality; digital ledgers (blockchain); and Digital Twins that link physical systems into the cyber world.

Through a practice-led approach, our course teaches you the underlying digital technologies, tools and techniques supporting the digital evolution of the manufacturing sector into Industry 4.0, by making use of state-of-the-art software and computing hardware tools.

Our research, staff and lab facilities on Smart Systems, High Performance Computing, Future Networks and Machine Learning Cluster will enable your journey to become a highly sought after specialist on Smart Manufacturing at the forefront of the digitally-driven field.

Bachelor Degree from a recognised university with a minimum grade of 60% / Good / 2.5 / C+

Even though you may have met the stated requirements, if your first language is not English, we may ask you to take an additional English Language Test when you arrive.

Based on the results of the test, you may be required to attend regular English classes to improve your level of competence. English classes are provided free of charge and are available to all non-UK students who wish to attain greater fluency in English.

Enhancing your employability skills

We know that employers are looking for graduates who have a good balance between in-depth academic knowledge and technical and practical expertise, which is why our course is geared towards employability.

What you learn on our course will help you to stand out when you look for your first professional role. Because you will know how to use sophisticated, industry-standard software, you will be able to demonstrate that you can put into practice your deep theoretical knowledge.

We will also prepare you for a career by equipping you with a range of transferable skills, such as complex problem-solving expertise, the ability to analyse in a careful and considered manner, and working as a team member. We aim to have you employer-ready by the time you graduate and, as part of your Advanced Computer Science course, we will invite guest speakers to underpin the subjects taught.

Thanks to our excellent partnerships and working relationships with some of the UK’s leading companies, you have the chance to network with leading organisations such as IBM, Dignity plc, Mortgage Brain and Griffiths Waite. In addition, our specialist industry links with the Linux Professional Institute, the Oracle Academy, Cisco, and Microsoft, plus our world-class facilities, will mark you out as a highly employable graduate.

This is why our graduates have gone on to pursue computing and software development and designer careers in a wide range of industries, from SME software companies, to industry, government, banking and healthcare. Furthermore, many graduates continue their studies to Doctorate level.