MSc - Automotive Engineering (18-month route)

University of Hertfordshire

The module covers ride, handling, crashworthiness. It offers an in-depth analysis of steady-state and transient vehicle handling characteristics, noise and vibration application to vehicles, comfort, ergonomics, active and passive suspension systems, vehicle performance, structural and occupant crash dynamics.

The module introduces various electrical and electronic systems necessary for modern vehicle functions, including powertrain management, safety systems, sensors and actuators, electric motors and generators, power and energy storage systems, communication systems, and future development and trends.

This module explores a wide range of materials and manufacturing processes for automotive applications. It covers conventional manufacturing processes for high-volume production such as sheet metal forming as well as advanced and alternative low-volume manufacturing techniques such as tailored blanks, hydroforming, and additive manufacturing.

This module introduces new developments in powertrains and alternative power systems. It examines their impact on the vehicle's overall performance and on the environment. Future developments in powertrain design, combustion engine strategies, and exhaust gas treatment are covered. Furthermore, various emission legislations, cycles, measurement techniques and environmental effects are considered

Module introduces various implementations of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and its theoretical foundation. It covers how to tackle complex engineering challenges with CFD; to evaluate and to analyse efficiently the resulting data.

Connected Autonomous Vehicle will build a wide variety of technical and transferable skills that are crucial for the development of autonomous and connected autonomous vehicles. Apart from discussing the basic technologies, such as electronic systems and algorithms, the module offers insightful information on automotive best practices, industry standards, legislation, and ethical issues that will affect the development and application of autonomous and connected autonomous vehicles.

The Masters Project is a key integrating feature of the programme. It is designed to challenge and develop critical thinking skills at a post-graduate level. It provides the student with the opportunity to bring together and apply much of what they have learnt both in their undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Potential projects are identified with the support of staff across the school covering a wide range of appropriate areas. Some will be based in industry, others based within our own laboratories. Students are supported through the delivery of an initial short course training programme designed to equip them with the necessary project management, research methodology, investigation tools and analysis skills necessary to undertake a Masters level project. They will also be allocated and supported by individual project supervisor. It is expected that the project will require 600 hours of student effort and will result in a worthwhile and practical contribution to the chosen subject area.

The module introduces development of simulation models replicating engineering problems. It will examine the effect of mesh density, domain size, boundary conditions, material properties on the optimisation of systems performance. Analytical approximation techniques and numerical schemes will be explored to validate and correlate the results against benchmark solutions.

The Masters Project serves as a pivotal integrating component of the programme, aimed at challenging and enhancing critical thinking skills. It offers students the opportunity to synthesise and apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout their postgraduate studies under the mentorship of an academic supervisor. The project typically requires 600 hours of self-driven scholarly work. This effort predominantly involves self-directed independent study, which may encompass a variety of activities such as scheduled sessions, supervisory meetings, literature review, software analysis, and preparation for assessments.