MSc Professional Engineering

Executive education

www.aston.ac.uk/profeng

A welcome from the Vice-Chancellor of Aston University

Thank you for considering Aston University. We hope you like what you read about our MSc in Professional Engineering. At Aston we focus on academic excellence, delivering high quality teaching and research in an inspiring and creative environment. Let me outline what makes Aston special: Aston graduates are highly employable with 82% of our graduates getting a graduate level job within six months We link research and teaching closely, so Aston students are able to work with leading researchers and engage with the latest research findings Our research is internationally recognised and has real impact in many areas such as sustainable energy and photonics Our links with employers and other practitioners help us to translate science and scholarship into products, processes and professional practices We value and welcome International students, and over 120 nationalities are enrolled.

Professor Julia King CBE FREng

Vice-Chancellor

The MSc in Professional Engineering is our most recent postgraduate programme, featuring work-based distance learning and providing the academic content required to achieve Chartered Engineer status. Please contact us to discuss how we can help you on your professional journey, and I look forward to welcoming you into the Aston community. With best wishes

Prof Julia King CBE FREng Vice-Chancellor

MSc Professional Engineering

Combining study for an MSc degree and, at the same time, incorporating the demonstration of the competences required for Chartered Engineer status, this is a 2-5 year part-time programme. Each engineer on the programme has their own unique programme made up of a series of work-based projects. Learning is specifically focused on employment needs, and gives immediate benefit to their employment value. Projects are carried out in real time in the workplace and engineers dont have to take time away from work to attend university. Reduces staff turnover; engineers working on a bespoke development programme are far less likely to change their employer. The engineers receive frequent mentoring support in the workplace from a Chartered Engineer and high quality academic mentoring from a Professional Supervisor. Result: cost effective engineering staff development to the highest professional standards. By integrating theory and practice in real work projects, this programme creates engineers who have high levels of technical expertise are leaders with vision have creativity and can innovate can analyse difficult problems and deliver solutions are able to manage continuous organisational improvement. The worlds best engineers are not characterised by what they know, but by how they think.

I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius

Key information
Duration of programme
2 to 5 years work-based and distance learning

Start dates
October/January/April/July

Intake conditions
If you wish to apply for this programme you must be employed in the engineering field in which you hope to advance. Your employer will need to be supportive of you, and willing to ensure you can undertake a good range of workplace projects to build the learning needed for the MSc and additionally the competences to qualify for CEng.

Programme fees...
are set to make it as affordable as possible by using a basic fee rate supplemented with an operational cost charge. This is determined by the costs of running the programme in the specific overseas locations and is dependent upon how many engineers are enrolled by a company in that location. This fee structure minimises the costs for everyone.

Entry requirements
A first or good second class UK accredited honours degree at bachelors level (BEng or BSc) supported by several years of employment experience, practical competence and responsibility. Those without an honours degree (eg qualified to HND level) will require greater relevant experience. Qualifications from outside the UK will also be considered: the Admissions Officer will advise as to whether they are the equivalent of the level of Honours degree required. International students whose native language is not English will also need to demonstrate English Language ability (eg IELTS 6.5, TOEFL score of 600 or equivalent).

Professional accreditation
Successful completion of MSc Professional Engineering, combined with membership of a suitable engineering institution, guarantees access to the institutions process for professional review for CEng registration. Possession of the MSc will meet the educational requirements for CEng. You will still need to satisfy the institution about your practical competences, but MSc Professional Engineering study will help you with this. The MSc Professional Engineering programme is approved, delivered and managed by Aston University, but support for and recognition of the programme is much broader. The concept behind MSc Professional Engineering was developed by the Engineering Council, the overall regulator of the engineering profession in the UK, with UK government support. Aston has signed an agreement with the Engineering Council establishing Aston as a provider of an MSc Professional Engineering programme meeting Engineering Council expectations. Major professional engineering institutions have signed an agreement with the Engineering Council to recognise and support MSc Professional Engineering programmes. www.engc.org.uk/engineering-gateways

Programme structure
The programme combines the development of engineering competences and academic knowledge and understanding through a series of work-based activities so that the engineer: a) develops an in-depth knowledge of the technical discipline they are working in b) learns how to integrate theory with practical application, and use critical thinking skills to generate breakthrough knowledge c) uses their learning through immediate application to real-life work problems to reduce costs or increase value for their employer d) demonstrates their competences to a level sufficient to achieve Chartered Engineer status. The programme focuses on a selected range of engineering disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, industrial, design, electronic, civil, metallurgical, etc. and each student is a member of an appropriate Professional Engineering Institution whilst they are on the programme. Institutions currently available at Aston:

British Computer Society (BCS) www.bcs.org

Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) www.icheme.org.uk

Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) www.theiet.org

Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) www.imeche.org

Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) www.ied.org.uk

2010 onwards...
Aston is developing links with universities in all parts of the world to make this programme available internationally, and is already running pilot programmes in Africa and South-East Asia. Engineers will be able to obtain all the value from a top quality engineering degree programme from one of the UKs leading universities, without the complications of having to study in the UK.

Programme outline
The MSc Professional Engineering provides the advanced engineering knowledge and understanding needed to qualify for full chartered engineer (CEng) status, and helps with building the range of practical competences also needed for CEng. The programme comprises a set of modules, each of which has a credit rating, and a complete MSc needs 180 credits. Students will study five compulsory modules totalling 120 credits, then choose the remaining 60 credits from a wide range of optional modules, giving scope to match the programme to their particular interests and objectives. All modules after the initial Professional Development Audit are highly flexible they are designed to be tailored to suit each participants engineering area, particular interests and employment circumstances. The learning for each module is composed from workplace projects, and distance study of supporting formal material is flexible and will be negotiated to suit individual needs.

Compulsory modules
Professional Development Audit: provides an in-depth understanding of the requirements, professional registration and responsibilities of professional practice. You will then be able to participate in the development of your own learning agreement and competence development plan to support the remainder of your MSc programme. Current Technologies and Applications: this module aims to develop a sound understanding and associated practical skills in relation to the technologies at the forefront of professional practice in the domain of your employment. Emerging Technologies: provides you with an in-depth knowledge of one or more new technologies that are becoming significant within your area of professional practice, allowing evaluation of domain application potential. Design Methodologies: involves the development and application of design process and methodologies that are at the forefront of professional practice, together with the demonstration of a high level of capability in their application. Major Project: the systematic investigation, specification, realisation, evaluation and reporting of a substantial activity within your domain of employment. You will be required to present and defend your work to an audience.

Elective modules (choice of three or four)

Scientific Foundations: you will be required to develop a deep and structured understanding of the scientific principles underpinning the domain of your employment, and demonstrate the ability to apply this to your practice. Engineering Analysis: in this module you will apply and demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the application of relevant mathematical and computer based techniques used in investigational or design activities. Sustainability: for engineers and employers interested in developing progressive improvements in their sustainability performance. Focuses on achieving this in a cost effective and business centred way, giving maximum value. Project Management: the aim of this module is to develop, refine and demonstrate the key project management skills and abilities required by Chartered Engineers. Further Topics in Engineering Management: developing your work on the Project Management module, you select a particular management activity and develop an in-depth understanding of its theory and application within your domain. Product Delivery: this module focuses on developing the skills and abilities needed to optimise the operational performance of products and the delivery of maximum custom value. Professional Literature Study: involves systematic collection of knowledge associated with technical topics relevant to the employment context and critical review of that knowledge, aiming to generate new insights and understanding. Extended Integrative Option: allows the undertaking of a major work related activity, highly relevant to your employment role, but not covered by other modules. Must demonstrate a high level of professional challenge, integrating theory with practice.

Chartered Engineers are the elite of the engineering profession. They are motivated individuals who combine a capacity for leadership with a talent for problem solving through creativity and innovation... Engineering Council

Case studies
The Engineer: David Hughes works for E.ON based at the
Engineering Academy, Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station. He joined the organisation in 1991 as a graduate engineer, following an electrical apprenticeship with Manweb. He trained as an electrical and electronics engineer gaining an HND at Bristol Polytechnic. In 2001, David was successful in obtaining an MBA from Nottingham Trent University and after a number of project, engineering and management roles within the Central Networks Distribution business, he joined the Engineering Academy as Head of Professional Development in September 2008. The Academy David Hughes provides engineering training and development to E.ON in the UK E.ON as well as supporting the training of the wider power sector. David currently leads the engineering apprenticeship and graduate development programmes, as well as the professional development of E.ONs UK engineers, academic pathway and development pathway solutions for the engineering businesses. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology.

The Company: E.ON is one of the UKs leading power and gas companies generating and distributing electricity, and retailing power and gas and is part of the E.ON group, one of the world's largest investor-owned power and gas companies. The organisation employs more than 15,000 people in the UK and more than 88,000 worldwide. The Objectives: David will use the qualification to challenge the thinking around engineering training and development as well as the skills shortages facing the sector over the next 10 years, all directly benefiting E.ON. The guided work-based learning route will support David towards achieving CEng status, and successful completion of the programme will result in a Masters level qualification.

The Engineer: Neil Perry is a Process Engineer with IMI Components Ltd based in Witton, Birmingham. Specialising in both Materials and Quality matters, Neil has had a variety of laboratory and engineering roles over the past 10 years, culminating in working on complex, high value investment projects with IMI. Neil is looking forward to achieving Chartered Engineer status through the completion of his MSc Professional Engineering through Aston University.

Neil Perry

IMI Components Ltd

The Company: IMI Components Ltd specialises in precision CNC machining and fabrication of components in aluminium, specialist alloys and stainless steel, exclusively for the civil nuclear sector. It has a history spanning almost 50 years in the nuclear sector.

The Objectives: Neils programme is delivered by an individually-tailored Learning Contract, which requires him to undertake a range of projects related to his current work. Successful completion of the programme will result in a Masters level qualification.

The Engineer: Nadia Febina is a Production Engineer in the

Operations Team of a Floating Production Storage and Offloading Operation (FPSO) with BP Angola, based in Luanda. She has over 12 years experience in the Oil Industry, including the last four with BP in Angola. She has worked in Indonesia, the UK and Angola in increasingly senior engineering roles. Nadia is looking forward to achieving Chartered Engineer status through the completion of her MSc Professional Engineering through Aston University.

The Company: BP Angola is part of BP, one of the worlds largest and most influential Oil and Energy multi-national companies. BP Angola operates some of the worlds leading offshore deep-water oil production facilities. The local BP Angola senior management are very enthusiastic and supportive of the Aston MSc Professional Engineering programme.

Nadia Febina
BP Angola

The Objectives: Nadias programme requires her to select and agree a number of work-related projects that can be undertaken alongside her current Production Engineer role. Successful completion of the programme will result in a Masters level qualification, which is her next essential step towards becoming Chartered.

The Engineer: Howard Jones works for Western Coal at their Welsh operation as the Mechanical Engineer, where he is statutory responsible for all phases of the mechanical engineering activities. Howard gained a BSc (Hons) degree from the University of Glamorgan and gained IEng status as well as full membership of the IMechE. Howard is now working towards gaining Chartered Engineer status. The Company: Western Coal is a global company with operations in Canada, USA and Wales. The Welsh operation is a producer of deep mined premium Anthracite and open cast coals. Aberpergwm colliery is currently being developed to provide access to large reserves located between the Neath and Dulais Valleys. They also currently operate Nant Y Mynydd Open Cast Coal Site which produces high quality industrial fuel and high psv sand stone products. Western Coal is focused on developing a highly trained workforce, and provides exciting opportunities and support for any individual to progress through education.

Howard Jones
Western Coal

The Objectives: Howard will develop a comprehensive compressed air system that will benefit Western Coal by increasing its efficiency, thus reducing costs on a very expensive process as well as reducing energy consumption and helping the companys environmental footprint. The MSc Professional Engineering programme will allow Howard to continue working and develop new skills as well as enhancing existing ones. Through this course Howard hopes to achieve his goal of becoming an accomplished professional Chartered Engineer.

Sources of funding
Self funding
If you have decided to finance yourself through the programme, then the University can help by allowing you to pay by instalments. Visit the following Aston University link to find out more. www.aston.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/student-finance

Sponsorship from your Employer

This programme will enhance your own personal development. It will, however, also contribute to the development of your company and potential growth. So considering approaching your employer for help with your fees; they may be unable to pay all of your fees but may be willing to contribute.

ECITB
An ECITB grant may be available for eligible employers and should be approved through the ECITB prior to commencement of the programme. Further information is available through the ECITB Postgraduate Programme Administrator Alison Tridgell-Wyatt, via Alison.Tridgell-Wyatt@Ecitb.org.uk or 01923 402136.

Business Link
Over the last couple of years Business Links have been offering Small to Medium Sized Companies grants of up to 1,000 for the development of their senior managers. Ask your Managing Director to contact your local Business Link for further details. www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/directory

DirectGov
Funding may be available for part time students if you are deemed eligible. Please visit the website below to find out further information. www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/StudentFinance/ Applyingforthefirsttime/DG_171529

Career Development Loans

A Professional and Career Development Loan is a deferred repayment bank loan set at a competitive fixed interest rate that can be used to support learning or training that enhances your job or career prospects. The loan is provided by one of three high street banks. The loan offers between 300 and 10,000, to help fund tuition and living expenses for up to two years. Repayments usually start within a month of graduation. For further information visit www.direct.gov.uk. Other high street banks may offer specialist loans to students. Always seek advice and think hard before taking out any loan.

Programme Director
Bill is a senior Chartered Engineer and member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers with many years of industrial experience. He started his career as an Engineering Officer in the merchant navy, and then worked as a maintenance engineer in a number of industries, before eventually moving into production management where he finally became Operations Manager for a large heavy manufacturing company. In 1992 he became a university lecturer where he used his industrial experience to increase the relevance of Bill Glew engineering degree programmes for manufacturing CEng MIMechE MCQI companies. As part of this he was one of the first developers of work-based learning programmes in the UK, project managing the development of a new work-based learning MSc Professional Engineering programme for the UK Engineering Council. This innovative approach to integrating academic engineering education with professional competence development within practical industrial environments is proving to be a major success and is popular with many companies because of its ability to rapidly improve the practical skills of engineers at all levels. To discuss this programme, please email msc_profeng@aston.ac.uk

Professional Supervisors
Because were closely involved with the students on the MSc Professional Engineering throughout their programme, its particularly gratifying to see how much more professional they become over its duration. Part of our role is to help align and strengthen their competencies to the point where applying for Chartered Engineer status almost becomes a formality.

Alan Fitzgerald

BSc (Hons) CEng FIMechE

Stephen Jones

MSc BEng (Hons) CEng MiET AMIMechE MAPM

Jonathan Ling

BSc MSc CPhys CSci CEng FInstP FIET FIEE

I have been really keen on the MSc Professional Engineering since helping to establish it with the Engineering Council since mid 2006. It provides working engineers with a superb opportunity to gain an MSc and to be registered as CEng whilst remaining in the workplace.

Work Based Learning is an ideal way for busy engineers to gain additional qualifications leading to professional status.

Kameel Sawalha
MSc PhD CEng MIMMM

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www.aston.ac.uk/profeng

Carol Winder Partnerships Team Leader School of Engineering and Applied Science Aston University Aston Triangle Birmingham B4 7ET Tel: +44 (0)121 204 3555 Fax: +44 (0)121 204 3676 Email: msc_profeng@aston.ac.uk