Micro-mechanical Engineering

Micro-mechanical engineering is the discipline concerned with the design, fabrication, and application of miniaturised devices that combine electronic and mechanical functions. The technology underpinning fitness trackers, airbag sensors, inkjet printer heads, medical implants, and smartphones depends on micro-electromechanical systems that can sense, actuate, and process information at scales invisible to the naked eye. This field, sometimes called MEMS engineering, sits at the boundary of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, and physics, and it represents one of the most technically demanding and commercially significant areas of modern engineering.

At the University of York this four-year, full-time programme develops your understanding of the physical principles and engineering methods needed to design and build devices at the micro and nano scale. You will study mechanics, electronics, materials, fabrication processes, and the specific challenges that arise when engineering at very small dimensions, including the dominance of surface effects and the limits of conventional machining. A sandwich year is built into the programme, and work placement opportunities are available, giving you professional experience in relevant engineering environments before you graduate.

Graduates of micro-mechanical engineering work in sectors including consumer electronics, medical devices, automotive systems, defence, aerospace, and the growing field of smart sensors and the internet of things. Many move into roles in research and development, product design, process engineering, or technical consultancy at companies developing the next generation of sensing and actuation technology. The combination of mechanical, electrical, and materials knowledge makes graduates unusually versatile within advanced manufacturing and technology development contexts.

Many progress towards chartered engineer status after gaining professional experience. Further study at Masters or doctoral level is available for those who want to specialise in a particular area of micro and nanotechnology research.