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List of the 20 Best Automotive Engineering Programs in 2024

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The field of automotive engineering is dynamic and ever-evolving, with universities around the globe offering top-notch programs to prepare the next generation of innovators. In this article, we will explore the best Automotive Engineering programs available. 

In the next section, we will talk about what Automotive Engineers do.

Table of Contents

What Do Automotive Engineers Do?

Automotive engineers specialize in the design, development, and improvement of vehicles and automotive systems.

Here are some of their key responsibilities:

  1. Vehicle Design: They utilize computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed drawings, specifications, and 3D models of vehicle components, systems, and overall structure.
  2. Research and Development: They conduct extensive research to stay updated on the latest technological advancements, materials, and manufacturing methods.
  3. Systems and Components Integration: They are responsible for integrating various systems and components into the vehicle design.
  4. Performance and Safety Testing: They conduct rigorous testing and simulations to evaluate the performance and safety of vehicles.
  5. Improving Existing Cars: They ensure that existing cars are up to standard and work efficiently.
  6. Working on Aesthetics: They also work on the aesthetics as well as the technical performance of vehicles.

Automotive engineers may be employed by automobile manufacturers, research and development firms, or government agencies, contributing their expertise to enhance vehicle performance, optimize manufacturing processes, and incorporate innovative technologies into the design and production of automobiles.

List of the 20 Best Automotive Engineering Programs

Below is a list of the 20 Best Automotive Engineering Programs:

20 Best Automotive Engineering Programs

1. Automotive Engineering at the University of the West of England

  • Duration: 3years

The Automotive Engineering program at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) is a comprehensive course that offers a strong foundation in mathematics, design, manufacturing, and mechanical engineering.

The program is designed to prepare students for a range of career options in automotive design, manufacturing, and maintenance. It focuses on developing professionals who can contribute to the next wave of green and sustainable transport technologies.

Students will have the opportunity to investigate engineering problems that interest them and gain hands-on experience by testing designs for automotive projects. The program is accredited by The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

2. Motorcycle and Powersports Product Repair Techniques at Centennial College

  • Duration: 1year

The Motorcycle and Powersports Product Repair Techniques program at Centennial College is a gateway to the motorcycle and power sports industry.

The program provides training in Ontario’s largest transportation training facility, the Ashton Bee campus. You’ll learn essential diagnostic skills, practice hands-on techniques, and gain theoretical knowledge.

The program covers a complete range of technical training in areas such as workplace practices, welding, mechanical systems, workplace safety, and computers.

3. Robotics and Automation at Leeds Beckett University

  • Duration: 3years

The BEng (Hons) Robotics and Automation course at Leeds Beckett University is an accredited program that prepares students for the future of industry.

The course focuses on the design and construction of robots and AI systems, connecting to the Internet of Things (IoT), and preparing students for Industry 5.0. The course is full-time and spans over 3 years.

Leeds Beckett University offers fantastic placements and sandwich-year opportunities, with career support even after you graduate. The university has specialist facilities including a Stäubli robotic arm and automation and embedded systems labs. Students also have the opportunity to connect with industry professionals through guest lectures and an experienced expert course team.

The course also includes manufacturer visits, allowing students to view the latest automated systems in action and develop their cutting-edge industry knowledge. The course is accredited by the Electronic & Electrical Engineering and Robotics & Automation at Leeds Beckett.

4. Industrial Automation Engineering at the Engineering Institute of Technology

  • Duration: 3years

The Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) offers a comprehensive program in Industrial Automation Engineering. This program is designed to equip students with the latest skills and expertise in instrumentation, process control, and industrial automation. The course is available to study both online and on-campus, providing flexibility for students.

The Master of Engineering (Industrial Automation) is a two-year program that is fully recognized by Engineers Australia (through the Washington Accord).

This program is designed to benefit and improve the engineering communities they serve. It provides students with the opportunity to design projects with the potential to benefit and improve the engineering communities they serve.

5. Automotive Engineering at Tsinghua University

  • Duration: 4years

Tsinghua University’s Department of Automotive Engineering has a rich history that can be traced back to 1932 when the study of automotive engineering began within the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

The department currently has 77 faculty and staff members, including 30 professors and 26 associate professors. It offers a Master’s degree program in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Automotive Engineering. The program integrates fundamental professional knowledge and its application in automobile engineering.

The curriculum includes required courses like Chinese Language, Chinese Culture and Society, Literature Review and Research Proposal, and Seminars.

Elective courses cover a wide range of areas in mechanical engineering and power engineering, including:

  • Automotive Engineering
  • Internal Combustion Engines
  • Mechatronic Systems in Automotive Engineering
  • Vehicle Control Engineering
  • Fundamentals of Lightweight Design
  • Materials Selection in Mechanical Design
  • Alternative Vehicle Propulsion System
  • Vehicle NVH, Fundamentals of Automotive Crash Safety
  • Quality Management
  • Ergonomics and Work Organization
  • Production Management
  • Manufacturing Technology.

The Master’s degree requires the completion of a thesis describing the research of publishable quality. The thesis must be defended before a committee consisting of the advisor and at least two other faculty members in the Department of Automotive Engineering.

6. Automotive Engineering at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

  • Duration: 1-2years

The Automotive Engineering Master’s Program at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor is at the forefront of technologies that move the world. The field of Automotive Engineering encompasses the most technologically compelling advances in modern society.

The opportunities for Automotive Engineering students and professionals to work at the forefront of technologies that will move the world in the coming years are unmatched.

The program emphasizes engineering fundamentals and practice with a focus on recent advances in the field. It is designed specifically for today’s engineering world.

The program provides students with excellent career prospects. 95% of the graduates are employed within six months after graduation. The average salary of the graduates with an Automotive Engineering MEng is $80,700 with a range of $70,000-$100,000.

Students can choose to be either full-time or part-time. Most classes are taught as a hybrid, so students can take courses on-campus, remotely, or fully online each semester.

7. Automotive Engineering at Beijing Institute of Technology

  • Duration: 4years

The Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT), under the administration of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China, is a leading public university with a traditional focus on science and technology.

The School of Mechanical Engineering (SME) at BIT, one of the longest history, largest scale, and highest admission scores at BIT, is a national leader in mechanical engineering in China.

The department offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in vehicle engineering. It has formed several research directions such as modern vehicle theory and technology, intelligent connected new energy vehicles, and unmanned vehicle technology.

8. Automotive Engineering at the University of California – Berkeley

  • Duration: 1year

The University of California, Berkeley, renowned for its engineering programs, does not offer a specific degree in Automotive Engineering. However, students interested in this field can pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering, which provides a strong foundation for understanding the principles of automotive engineering.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UC Berkeley is consistently ranked as one of the top mechanical engineering departments in the world.

The department offers a diverse range of research areas including Biomechanical Engineering, Controls, Design, Dynamics, Energy Science & Tech, Fluids, Manufacturing, Materials, Mechanics, MEMS/Nano, and Ocean. This broad spectrum of research areas allows students to specialize in their areas of interest, including automotive engineering.

The Mechanical Engineering Student Access Machine Shop is available for students who will be working on projects and research related to the department’s academic mission.

9. Automotive Engineering at Shanghai Jiao Tong University

  • Duration: 4-5years

Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) is a renowned institution in China, with a rich history dating back to 1896. The School of Mechanical Engineering at SJTU is recognized as one of the top mechanical engineering schools in the country. It is committed to providing high-level education and conducting cutting-edge research.

The School of Mechanical Engineering offers a variety of programs, including Automotive Engineering. The school’s vision is to offer the best learning experience to its students, the most rewarding working environment for its faculty and staff, as well as the most effective service to industry and society.

It strives to increase its international competitiveness and global presence through quality teaching, advanced research, and close collaboration with leading universities worldwide.

10. Automotive Engineering at Tianjin University

  • Duration: 4years

Tianjin University is renowned for its Automotive Engineering program. The university has a rich history, having been founded in 1895, and currently enrolls over 35,370 students.

The university is actively involved in cutting-edge research and development in the field of automotive engineering. For instance, it hosted the “Tianjin University-AVL Intelligent Driving Automotive Symposium” in collaboration with the internationally renowned AVL Company.

The symposium covered hot topics such as artificial smart driving, smart assisted driving, environmental perception, 3D accurate maps, and edge computing. This event was attended by more than 120 delegates from various universities, research institutions, and famous enterprises.

11. Automotive Engineering at Ohio State University

  • Duration: 12 – 28 months

The Ohio State University offers a comprehensive program in Automotive Engineering through its Center for Automotive Research (CAR).

This preeminent research center is recognized for its interdisciplinary emphasis on systems engineering, advanced experimental facilities, and collaboration on advanced product development projects with industry. CAR’s research focuses on energy, safety, and the environment, and it offers state-of-the-art facilities for students, faculty, research staff, and industry partners.

In collaboration with multiple departments within the College of Engineering, CAR provides students the opportunity to complete a graduate specialization in automotive systems engineering.

The Graduate Specialization in Automotive Systems and Mobility (GS-ASM) provides a unique opportunity for MS and PhD students in the mechanical engineering graduate program to acquire specialized training, unique skills, and real-world experience in their area of interest.

12. Automotive Engineering at Jilin University

  • Duration: 3years

The College of Automotive Engineering at Jilin University was founded in 1955 and formally received its current name in 1986. It is an important base for talent cultivation and scientific research for China’s automotive industry.

The College is home to a state Key Lab for Automotive Simulation and Control. There are more than 230 faculty members under the leadership of Professor Guo Konghui, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering.

The College offers two postdoctoral research stations, three authorized doctorate subjects, seven authorized master’s degree subjects, and four undergraduate majors. The College also offers Undergraduate, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs in Vehicle Engineering, an Undergraduate program in Energy and Power Engineering, and an Undergraduate program in Industrial Design.

13. Automotive Engineering at the University of Wisconsin – Madison

  • Duration: 12months

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a specialized program in Automotive Engineering as a named option within the Mechanical Engineering M.S. degree. This is an accelerated on-campus degree program that can be completed in 12 months. The program is geared towards preparing students for a career in the automotive industry.

The program places a strong emphasis on in-cylinder energy conversion processes. Graduates of this program will be poised to immediately participate in engine development programs in the automotive, heavy-duty, or recreational engine sectors.

The curriculum includes a minimum of 12 credits (4 courses) from a list of specific courses such as:

  • Thermal Systems Modeling
  • Air Pollution Effects
  • Measurements and Control
  • Internal Combustion Engines
  • Intermediate Thermodynamics
  • Intermediate Fluid Dynamics
  • Heat Transfer
  • Applied Combustion
  • Intermediate Gas Dynamics
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics.

14. Automotive Engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  • Duration: 1year

The Sloan Automotive Laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a leading institution in the field of automotive engineering. The lab’s mission is to contribute to future developments in automotive technology through fundamental and applied research on propulsion technology and fuels.

The lab is working to radically improve the energy consumption and environmental impact of transportation systems, in a world constrained by climate change and greenhouse gasses.

The goals of the Sloan Automotive Laboratory are to provide the fundamental knowledge base for automotive engineering and to educate students to become technological leaders in the automotive industry.

These goals are achieved through extensive research activities in the areas of internal combustion engines and fuels, fundamental fluid/thermal/combustion studies, and the assessment of advanced propulsion and vehicle technologies. The lab also focuses on the energy consumption and environmental impacts of these technologies.

15. Automotive Engineering at HAN University of Applied Sciences

  • Duration: 4years

The Automotive Engineering bachelor’s degree at HAN University of Applied Sciences is a full-time program that spans over four years. The program is designed to equip students with the latest automotive expertise, preparing them for the future of mobility.

The curriculum includes subjects like electrical and electronic systems, mechanics, and vehicle dynamics. Students constantly apply their theoretical knowledge in projects, focusing on future mobility concepts such as self-driving automobiles.

HAN University has over 70 years of experience in educating automotive engineers. The program offers exciting projects where students can design, build, test, and race in the Formula Student and Eco Marathon competitions. Each year, the program organizes a career day where over 40 companies provide information on internships, graduation projects, and jobs.

Upon completion of the bachelor’s degree, students have the option to continue studying with HAN’s master’s in engineering systems. The bachelor’s degree provides a thorough technical grounding in automotive engineering, preparing students for a variety of roles within the automobile industry. Graduates can work in research and development, manufacturing, or sales.

16. Automotive Management at Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology

  • Duration: 1year

The Automotive Technology program at the Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology is one of the oldest and most respected in the nation. The program offers a comprehensive education in automotive technology, with a focus on hybrid, electric, and autonomous vehicles.

Students are trained by ASE-certified automotive professors with decades of industry experience. The program is housed in a full-service working garage, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.

The program offers a Certificate in Automotive Technology that can be completed in 12 months, and an Associate Degree in Automotive Technology with a concentration in Electric Vehicle Technology that takes 2 years to complete.

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including engine repair, emissions and engine performance, and hybrid and electric technology. The program also endorses Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification.

17. Hydraulics and Pneumatics at Technical University of Ostrava

  • Duration: 3years

The Technical University of Ostrava (VSB-TUO), located in the Czech Republic, has a rich history of over 170 years of providing modern study programs that span technical, economic, natural sciences, and artistic disciplines.

The university is known for its high-level basic and applied research and its strong ties with industry and other universities domestically and internationally.

One of the faculties at VSB-TUO is the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, which houses the Department of Hydromechanics and Hydraulic Equipment. This department covers the study of hydraulics and pneumatics, given its name and the mechanical engineering focus of the faculty.

18. Simulation-Driven Product Design at Swansea University

  • Duration: 1year

Simulation-Driven Product Design is a research-based master’s program offered at Swansea University. This program is housed within the School of Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering. The course focuses on the use of computer simulation in engineering, which plays an increasingly important role in industry.

The program uses mathematical modeling as the basis for computational methods, providing procedures that allow complex problems to be solved with the aid of a computer. Swansea University has been at the forefront of international research in the area of computational engineering.

The university’s internationally renowned engineers have pioneered the development of numerical techniques, such as the finite element method, and associated computational procedures that have enabled the solution of many complex engineering problems.

19. Automotive Engineering with Electric Propulsion at the University of Bath

  • Duration: 1year

The Automotive Engineering with Electric Propulsion MSc at the University of Bath is a specialized program designed to equip students with the expertise to make a real impact in the dynamic automotive industry.

The course furthers your automotive engineering knowledge and focuses on propulsion systems to prepare you for working in a rapidly evolving industry. Students will develop systems-thinking approaches to understand the breadth of challenges faced in the sector such as moral, ethical, and sustainability issues.

20. Automotive Engineering with Electric Vehicles at Oxford Brookes University

  • Duration: 1year

Oxford Brookes University offers a comprehensive program in Automotive Engineering with Electric Vehicles. This course is designed to prepare students for a career in the automotive industry, with a focus on the rapidly evolving field of electric vehicles.

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience, providing students with a well-rounded education in automotive engineering.

The course is offered as both a Master of Science (MSc) and a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Master of Engineering (MEng) degree.

The MSc course can be completed in 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time for a September start, and 17 months full-time or 29 months part-time for a January start. The BEng course can be completed in 3 years full-time or up to 8 years part-time, and the MEng course can be completed in 4 years full-time or up to 10 years part-time.

The course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). This accreditation is a testament to the quality of the program and can enhance graduates’ career prospects in the automotive engineering industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any specific admission requirements for international students?

Admission requirements vary depending on the institution and the country in which the program is located. International students are typically required to fulfill certain criteria, such as English language proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS), and academic qualifications equivalent to those of domestic applicants.

Do these programs offer scholarships or financial aid for students?

Many automotive engineering programs offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to eligible students, both domestic and international.

Can I pursue a career in automotive engineering with a degree from one of these programs?

Absolutely. Graduating from one of the top automotive engineering programs highlighted in the article provides students with a strong foundation and relevant skills to pursue careers in various sectors of the automotive industry.

How can I learn more about each program listed in the article?

The article provides a brief overview of each program, highlighting its key features, strengths, and admission details. To gather more detailed information about a specific program, you can visit the official websites of the respective institutions, which is provided in the article.

Conclusion

These institutions are shaping the next generation of engineers who will revolutionize transportation, sustainability, and safety.

We’ve come to the end of this article. We, startskool, wish you good luck as you start your school.

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