Cranfield University

MSc Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Engineering Automotive

Cranfield University

Course overview

This Masters degree in Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Engineering (Automotive) is for people who want to learn the technical skills needed for jobs in the car industry. It focuses on how self-driving cars find their way, sense their surroundings, understand what they see, and how all their systems work together. The course teaches students the basic technology, like electronics and computer programs, as well as industry rules and safety. It is great for engineering, maths, or science graduates, and experienced engineers too.

The course involves classroom learning, a group project, and a student's research project, giving students both theory and hands-on experience. Students will study topics like vehicle control systems, safety rules, human factors, cybersecurity, and how vehicles plan their routes. Cranfield University has strong connections with big car companies, offering chances for industry projects and access to advanced test sites for self-driving cars.

Entry requirements

Those who want to apply will need to send a personal statement explaining why they want to do the course and other details about their studies. Applicants also need a reference from a teacher or an employer, and can choose to upload their CVs (a document showing their work history) with their application to show experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants need at least a first or second-class UK Honours degree (or an equivalent international degree) in engineering, mathematics, or an applied science.

  • Alternatively, a different degree will be acceptable if the student has enough relevant professional experience in a related engineering or scientific field.

English Proficiency:

  • If English is not your first or spoken language, you must take an approved English test, such as IELTS Academic, where you need an overall score of 6.5 with no part below 5.5.

  • Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT (92 overall), Cambridge Assessment English (180 overall), Pearson PTE Academic (65 overall), and Duolingo English Test (120 overall).

Scholarships

  • Airbus Master’s Student Bursary

    €3,000 tuition fees.

  • Alumni Discounts

    The 20% course fee discount is available to Cranfield University and Cranfield School of Management graduates.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Antony and Amanda Jenkins MBA Scholarship for Women Leaders

    Up to £10,000 towards the tuition fees (2 scholarships available).

  • Championing Diversity Bursary

    Up to £3,500

  • Changemaker Bursary

    Up to £3,500

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • Cranfield ALCS International Scholarship

    This scholarship offers a 20% fee discount to applicants holding an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Cranfield College of Aeronautics Heritage Scholarship

    £5,000 tuition fee bursary.

    Up to £5,000

  • Cranfield Excellence International Scholarships

    50 Scholarships of £10,000 and £15,000

  • Cranfield Excellence Merit Scholarships

    Funding value: up to £10,000 for international applicants and 20% for all nationals paying Home Fees.

  • Cranfield Faraday, Anderson and Parker Scholarship

    Up to £5500 towards tuition fee.

  • Delta Foundation Chevening Scholarship Taiwan

  • Frank Whittle Scholarships for the Cranfield Thermal Power MSc

    Up to 50% of the tuition fees for the MSc Thermal Power and Propulsion.

  • Global Clinical Supplies Group Scholarship

    £5,000

    Up to £5,000

  • Global Excellence Scholarship in Aerospace Dynamics

    A £10,000 contribution towards tuition fees.

    Up to £10,000

  • Mister Gees Foundation Scholarships

    £5000 towards tuition fees for a UK or international student studying a full-time Water and Wastewater Processes MSc - Environmental Science route.

    Up to £5,000

  • Norman C.T. Liu Women in Aviation Scholarship

    £10,000 towards tuition fees.

    Up to £10,000

  • Relithan (Technology) Scholarship

    £20,000 fund for both 25/26 and 26/27 starts.

    Up to £20,000

  • Sir Peter Gregson Scholarship

    Four Scholarships of £16,000 for a PhD.

    Up to £16,000

  • The Boeing Global Engagement Scholarship

    Funding value - up to £5,000 toward tuition fees.

  • The Professor Joe Nellis CBE MBA Scholarship

    Up to £10,000 towards tuition fees (one scholarship per year available).

Career opportunities

Here are some career paths for graduates of the MSc in Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Engineering (Automotive) course:

  • Autonomous Vehicle Engineer
  • Connected Vehicle Specialist
  • Automotive Researcher
  • AI and Machine Learning Engineer (Automotive Applications)
  • Vehicle Testing and Validation Specialist

Cost of study

The tuition fee for the MSc Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Engineering (Automotive) for the academic year 2025-2026 is £27,910 for international students.

Admission

Applications for admission can be submitted through the university's online platform, or speak to one of our trained counsellors. For help and guidance.

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