The Engineering Doctorate (EngD) is a qualification for practising researchers who aim to lead and innovate the development of products, processes and services in industry. You will follow a fully integrated programme of taught technical, business, management and entrepreneurship modules, and will conduct an industry-based research project.
The EngD is an alternative to the traditional PhD, designed for those who want a career in the engineering industry. The programme combines PhD-level research projects with taught modules, where you will spend approximately 75% of your time working directly with a company.
The course has a strong focus on problem-based learning and is designed to develop practical, team working, leadership and transferable skills, alongside technical expertise.
The elective modules are made up of (i) technical and (ii) business, management, and entrepreneurship. You can choose a maximum of 3 from each category. You will have a choice of all M-Level modules delivered at the School of Engineering and a selection of modules from across the University M-Level courses aligned to your project’s specific needs.
The MSc to EngD transfer exam will take place between 9–12 months if you are a full-time student, and 18-24 months if you are a part-time student.
A full description of the modules which you can choose from are available from the Detailed Module Information.
Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
Detailed module informationLearning Methods
On enrolment, you will be counselled by the EngD Director and allocated a Course Director who will ensure that a composite Supervisory Team is established. The Course Director is responsible for providing day-to-day support, advice, encouragement, guidance and formatively assessing the work of the supervisors.
Within the taught elements of the course, you will undertake individual and group based, collaborative activities and discussions as an important part of your learning process. The Master’s elements will be delivered on a full-time or part-time basis, supported by seminars, tutorials, directed reading research activity and residential event. Further individualised coaching and support will be provided by a subject specific Supervisor from the Course Team and/or by the Course Director.
At the taught stages, the learning occurs through lectures, seminars, and workshop. These comprise of a mix of formal lectures, group study, discussion, simulation, and presentations of findings by teams and individuals. Where appropriate, computer laboratory sessions are employed for electronic simulations. You will work in teams on case studies, activities, presentations, and discussions.
Assessment
Each taught module of the course will be formally assessed by a written examination or formal
coursework, typically at the end of each module.
Elements of the taught coursework may also be assessed by a range of other methods including a viva voce, practical assessment or mini thesis as outlined in each individual Module Descriptor.
Year 1
- Written Exam - Elective modules vary with individual choice
- 1 Written Assignment including essay
- GSM010/GSM011 modules report
- Dissertation - MSc Thesis / MSc-EngD Transfer exam
- Project Outputs - Industrial project report
- Oral Assessment - MSc Thesis
Year 2
- Annual progress report
- Project Outputs - Industrial project report
- Oral Assessment - Progression
Year 3
- Annual progress report
- Project Outputs - Industrial project report
- Oral Assessment - Progression
Year 4
- Dissertation - EngD Thesis
- Project Outputs - Industrial project report
- Oral Assessment - EngD Thesis
Independent Study
For the MSc thesis or EngD Doctorate project activity, to ensure an adequate assessment of all aspects, an Examination Team will be appointed (normally consisting of two examiners; an external examiner and an internal examiner not associated with the research student's supervisory team) as per Academic Regulation A6: Research Degrees.
Awards
- 60 credits from GSM005/GSM008 = PgCert Research Methods
- 60 credits from any other combination of taught modules = PgCert Engineering
- 120 credits from all taught modules = PgDip Engineering
- Route A: 540 credits from all taught modules and END001 (420 credits) = EngD Engineering Doctorate
- Route B: 180 credits from all taught modules and END002 (60 credits) = MSc Engineering Innovation
Staff Delivering on This Course
The EngD research projects will be supervised by Researchers at the School of Engineering. We have a broad research portfolio with over 60 PhD students covering many engineering subjects including materials, flow modelling, thermo/fluids, monitoring and maintenance, membrane technology, petroleum engineering, sensors and instrumentation, renewables, and communications and autonomous systems. We have very strong links with industry and most of our research includes industry funding that will be crucial links for the EngD candidates.
MSc level taught elements are embedded in courses across the University drawing in expertise and experience from industrial facing taught programmes. EngD candidates will receive this intensive broadly-based training undertaken in collaboration with industry. This will provide graduates with the ability to innovate and implement new ideas in practice and enable them to reach senior positions in industry early in their careers in the long run.
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
- Academic writing
- Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
- Maths and statistics
- English language
- Information technology support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
Placements
Research projects are carried out in collaboration with industry.
Job Prospects
Evidence shows that there is a demand for Engineers who demonstrate their development through further study. This is a career-enhancing course and modules will provide you with updated capabilities suited to changing and emerging professional engineering roles, as well as the skills and knowledge required for specialist Research and Development roles.
- A first or an upper second (2:1) first degree (or equivalent) from a UK academic institution, in a relevant discipline. Industry experience is desirable and valuable.
OR - An MEng/MSc in a relevant discipline.
English Language Requirements
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
International Students
International students who do not meet our direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through our International College at Robert Gordon University.
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
For Academic Year 2024/2025
All Students
- Full time: £16,170 per academic year
- Part time: to be confirmed
For Academic Year 2023/2024
ALL STUDENTS
- Full time: £15,550 per academic year
- Part time: £7,775 per academic year
Additional Costs
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with your placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Alumni Discount
Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% loyalty discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.
Student Funding
Postgraduate students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However, there are a limited number of SAAS funded places on certain postgraduate courses.
Scholarships and Financial Awards
You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Any questions?
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