Best UK Universities for Mechanical Engineering 2025 | QS Rankings

About Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering applies physics and materials science principles to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems. In the UK, mechanical engineering programs emphasize both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students for careers in automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy industries.

UK universities offering mechanical engineering degrees provide comprehensive education covering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, dynamics, and control systems. Programs often include design projects, laboratory work, and industry placements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for engineering practice and innovation.

The QS World University Rankings 2025 for Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering evaluates institutions based on academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations, and the H-index—providing a comprehensive view of each university's standing in this competitive field.

Career Prospects

Graduates in Mechanical Engineering have excellent career prospects in the UK's manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors. With the ongoing need for sustainable engineering solutions and technological innovation, mechanical engineers remain in high demand.

Popular career paths include:

Mechanical Design Engineer and Product Developer
Manufacturing Engineer and Process Improvement Specialist
Automotive Engineer and Vehicle Systems Designer
Aerospace Engineer and Aviation Systems Specialist
Energy Engineer and Renewable Systems Developer
Project Engineer and Technical Project Manager
Research and Development Engineer
Technical Sales Engineer and Engineering Consultant

The average starting salary for mechanical engineering graduates in the UK ranges from £24,000-£30,000, with experienced engineers often earning £50,000+ annually. The field offers excellent opportunities for specialization, international work, and career progression in engineering management.

The UK's mechanical engineering sector continues to evolve, driven by advances in automation, sustainable energy, and digital manufacturing technologies.

University	QS
University of Cambridge	4
Imperial College London	9
University of Oxford	10
The University of Manchester	36
University of Edinburgh	51-100
University College London	51-100
University of Bristol	51-100
University of Glasgow	51-100
University of Sheffield	51-100
University of Southampton	51-100
University of Warwick	51-100
University of Bath	101-150
University of Birmingham	101-150
Durham University	101-150
King's College London	101-150
University of Leeds	101-150
University of Nottingham	101-150
Cardiff University	151-200
University of Exeter	151-200
Lancaster University	151-200
University of Liverpool	151-200
Newcastle University	151-200
Queen Mary University of London	151-200
Queen’s University Belfast	201-250

University

University of Cambridge

Imperial College London

University of Oxford

The University of Manchester

University of Edinburgh

51-100

University College London

51-100

University of Bristol

51-100

University of Glasgow