Introduction
This advanced programme offers a broader range of courses compared to most structural engineering programmes, allowing you to design your course of study to suit your background and career interests and to tackle environmental, economic and social challenges far beyond the construction industry.
This programme has January and September start dates. Apply Now.
This programme is also available to study part-time online.
Study Information
Study Options
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time
- Start Month
- January or September
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
Unlike most other programmes in structural engineering that focus on the construction industry, the MSc Advanced Structural Engineering at Aberdeen has been developed to ensure engineers from any background - including civil, mechanical, aerospace, automotive and energy - can contribute to the advancement of society on a global scale.
In particular, we focus on topics such as advanced composite materials, lightweight structures and engineering optimisation – skills and knowledge that are crucial for engineers interested in pursuing careers in aerospace, automotive or wind energy sectors where lightweight structures made of advanced composite materials and highly optimised for their performance play a key role.
Almost all industry sectors are experiencing a period of tremendous change with technological developments in areas such as 3D printing, robotics, artificial intelligence and machine learning. This advanced programme is designed to produce the next generation of structural engineers who can embrace these opportunities to tackle the challenges of sustainable development, climate change, pollution and waste.
Our teaching is informed by our industry partners and our research. The School of Engineering is highly regarded its research in civil engineering and has one of the best hydraulic laboratory facilities in Scotland associated with a high-level research profile. The Structures Research group in particular investigates fundamental and applied aspects of the design and analysis of structural systems, components, connections and materials, and evaluates the performance, condition and health of existing structural systems.
This programme is accredited by both the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, ensuring that the curriculum is designed and delivered to the highest professional standards.
Available Programmes of Study
- MSc
-
Advanced Structural Engineering
Qualification Duration Learning Mode Study Mode Start Month LocationMSc 12 months On Campus Learning Full Time January Aberdeen MoreMSc 12 months On Campus Learning Full Time September Aberdeen More
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Fee Information
Additional Fee Information
- Fees for individual programmes can be viewed in the Programmes section above.
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Funding Opportunities
- Shell U.K. Limited is offering three £20,000 scholarships for students starting a Masters programme aligned with the Centre for Energy Transition (CET) commencing in September 2024. Find out more
Scholarships
Self-funded international students enrolling on Postgraduate Taught (PGT) programmes for January 2025 will receive one of our Aberdeen Global Scholarships, ranging from £3,000 to £8,000, depending on your domicile country. Learn more about these Aberdeen Global Scholarships here.
From September 2025 all eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
Learning Methods
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lab Work
- Lectures
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
Why Study Advanced Structural Engineering?
- Follows the Structural Engineering Institute "Vision for the Future" by offering a broad and flexible curriculum, which allows you to design your course of study to suit your academic background and career interests far beyond the construction industry.
- Suitable for graduates from a variety of engineering backgrounds, including mechanical, civil, aerospace, automotive and energy.
- Unlike many other programmes in structural engineering that focus on the construction industry, the MSc Advanced Structural Engineering at Aberdeen is designed to produce the next generation of structural engineering professionals capable of applying their skills across a wide range of industrial sectors, such as construction, aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, and oil and gas.
- Offers courses such as Advanced Composite Materials, Lightweight Structures and Engineering Optimisation, which are crucial for students interested in pursuing a career in Aerospace, Automotive or Wind Energy sectors, where lightweight structures made of advanced composite materials and highly optimised for their performance play a key role.
- The School of Engineering at the University of Aberdeen is known for its research in civil engineering and has one of the best hydraulic laboratory facilities in Scotland.
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Minimum requirements for this programme are a 2:1 (upper second class) Honours degree in Civil, Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace, Energy or Structural Engineering, or equivalent.
Those with a 2:2 Honours degree in a relevant Engineering discipline may also be considered if they can demonstrate 2+ years of relevant industry experience and keen motivation.
Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- CV
- an up-to-date CV/Resumé
- Degree Certificate
- a degree certificate showing your qualifications
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
- Personal Statement
- a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded Postgraduate Taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore our Global Scholarships, including eligibility details, on our dedicated pages.
January 2025 September 2025Careers
There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success. The Careers and Employability Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us, from first to final year – and beyond.
- More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen
- More information on the Careers and Employability Service
Accreditation
This degree holds accreditation from
Our Experts
- Programme Coordinator
- Dr Vahid Vaziri, The University of Aberdeen
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX