School of Computing, Engineering and Technology

Doctor of Engineering

EngD

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two people in boiler suits looking at a workshop screen

Postgraduate

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.

Mode of Study

Online Learning

Mode of Attendance

Part Time

Start Date

January

Course Length

Pro rata with 2 weeks on campus

Mode of Study

Online Learning

Mode of Attendance

Part Time

Start Date

September

Course Length

Pro rata with 2 weeks on campus

Mode of Study

Online Learning

Mode of Attendance

Full Time

Start Date

January

Course Length

4 years with 2 weeks on campus

Mode of Study

Online Learning

Mode of Attendance

Full Time

Start Date

September

Course Length

4 years with 2 weeks on campus

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 specific M-Level modules delivered at the School of Computing, Engineering and Technology 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.

Course & module information

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. The university is currently undertaking an update to the course information system. This may result in minor, temporary inaccuracies, to course and module information. If you have any concerns or questions about relating to your chosen programme, please contact our admissions team.

Detailed module information

Learning 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

Successful completion would result in the following 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 Computing, Engineering and Technology. 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.

The Inclusion Centre

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.

CampusMoodle

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

Study Skills 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.

University Library

Placements

Research projects are carried out in collaboration with industry.

Placements at RGU

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.

Find your career path

RGUflex

Collect academic credit flexibly and claim an award from the University. RGUflex delivers on-demand flexible learning where you can upskill, reskill or pursue a passion. It can also be used by employers to allow them to build an education pathway for their employees to gain the skills and knowledge to meet business needs.

Find out more

The basic qualification for entry to a programme is:

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.

In addition, if you have a recognised Master’s degree (MSc or MEng) relevant to the proposed area of research, accompanied with a developed detailed research plan, you may be considered for direct entry to the EngD Project phase.

If you are permitted to transfer from the traditional PhD to the EngD, the above requirements will apply. Alternative qualifications may be considered, which would normally require an interview.

English Language Requirements

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

English Language requirements

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.

ICRGU - INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.

Academic Year 2025-2026

Scottish Students

Full Time

On Campus
Over 4 years	Year 1	£16660
	Year 2	£16660
	Year 3	£16660
	Year 4	£16660

Rest of UK Students

Full Time

On Campus
Over 4 years	Year 1	£16660
	Year 2	£16660
	Year 3	£16660
	Year 4	£16660

International Students

Full Time

On Campus
Over 4 years	Year 1	£16660
	Year 2	£16660
	Year 3	£16660
	Year 4	£16660

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 any placement / study abroad
Accommodation and Living Costs
Printing

Other Fees and Costs

Alumni Discount

Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.

Alumni Discount

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.

Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) - Postgraduate Funding

Scholarships and Financial Awards

You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:

Funding and Scholarship Search

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:

Finance and Funding

*"Rest of UK (RUK) and Ireland" includes England, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

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Our facilities for this course

Find out more about life at RGU & our facilities

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If you are considering a postgraduate study option starting in September 2026 or January 2027, then please be aware application deadlines are in place which may affect your first choice of start date or course selection.

Any questions?

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