Automotive Engineering

Automotive engineering is the branch of mechanical and electrical engineering concerned specifically with the design, development, and production of vehicles. It encompasses engine and powertrain engineering, chassis and suspension systems, aerodynamics and body design, electronics and control systems, manufacturing and production engineering, and the rapidly growing fields of electrification and autonomous vehicle technology. The automotive industry is in the midst of a profound technological transition, driven by the shift to electric powertrains, the development of connected and autonomous vehicles, and growing pressure on emissions, safety, and sustainability, making it one of the most dynamic and consequential engineering sectors of our time.

At Northumbria University at Newcastle, this four-year programme includes a sandwich year with work placement, a year abroad, and a work placement, giving you extensive professional and international experience before completing your degree. You will study the core mechanical and electrical engineering principles that underlie vehicle systems, alongside specialist content in automotive design, vehicle dynamics, combustion and alternative powertrains, automotive electronics, and computer-aided engineering tools. Northumbria's engineering programmes are known for their practical and industry-connected approach, and the sandwich year is central to the degree's philosophy of producing graduates who are genuinely ready to contribute in professional engineering roles.

Automotive engineering graduates are employed by vehicle manufacturers, tier-one and tier-two automotive suppliers, motorsport organisations, consultancies, and defence contractors with vehicle programmes. Roles in powertrain development, chassis engineering, vehicle dynamics, embedded systems, safety engineering, and manufacturing process engineering are all common destinations. The transition to electrification and autonomy has created significant demand for engineers with expertise in electric drivetrains, battery systems, and software-defined vehicle architectures.

Many graduates pursue chartered engineer status through the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, and postgraduate study in a specialist area of automotive or mechanical engineering is a natural further step.