What is a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) Degree?

A Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) equips you with advanced technical knowledge and practical skills to excel in the Engineering field.
M.Eng. programmes have diverse specialisations like electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering, to name a few.
This degree can help you advance your career, earn more money, or get a leadership position in your field.

The Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) is designed for engineers who want to deepen their expertise and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems. This degree focuses on practical skills, innovation, and industry applications, making it a popular choice for those who want to advance their careers without pursuing a research-intensive programme.

M.Eng. programmes are typically shorter than research-based degrees, lasting one to two years. They include coursework and sometimes a hands-on project, which allows students to demonstrate the skills they have gained.

Search through over a thousand M.Eng degrees on Mastersportal

student

Master of Engineering vs. Master of Science

When choosing between a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) and a Master of Science in Engineering (M.Sc.), it’s essential to consider your career goals. Here are the main differences:

	M.Eng. (Master of Engineering)	M.Sc. (Master of Science)
Focus	Industry-oriented, practical skills	Research-driven, theoretical focus
Goal	Prepares for professional engineering roles	Prepares for research, academia, or PhD
Curriculum	More coursework, projects, and applied learning	Heavy on research, includes a thesis
Duration	Typically 1-2 years	Typically 1-2 years, but may vary with research
Final Requirement	Project or capstone	Thesis or dissertation
Career Path	Engineering jobs in industry, management roles	Research, academia, PhD, specialised industries
Common Fields	Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software Engineering	Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Further Studies	Rarely required	Often leads to PhD or further research

Career opportunities with a Master of Engineering degree

An M.Eng. degree opens doors to exciting career opportunities across industries. Some roles you can pursue include:

Project engineer: Oversee engineering projects from conception to completion.
Design engineer: Create innovative designs for systems, products, or processes.
Systems engineer: Manage complex systems across various engineering disciplines.
Engineering manager: Lead engineering teams and coordinate technical projects.

Graduates often find opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, construction, manufacturing, aerospace, and technology. Employers value the practical skills and leadership potential that M.Eng. graduates bring to the table.

The Benefits of a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.)

You may wonder if it’s worth taking an M.Eng degree. Here are some of the most notable advantages this advanced degree brings:

Career advancement: Many companies prefer candidates with advanced technical expertise for senior roles. An M.Eng. degree can set you apart from other professionals in the industry.
Higher earning potential: Graduates often earn higher salaries compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree.
Networking opportunities: M.Eng. programmes connect students with industry leaders, peers, and alumni, opening doors to collaborations and career opportunities.
Specialised knowledge: With a range of specialisations, an M.Eng. allows you to gain in-depth expertise in areas such as renewable energy, data science, or robotics.

Practical skills: The coursework and projects in M.Eng. programmes are designed to solve real-world problems, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.

Popular specialisations in M.Eng. programmes

Master of Engineering programmes offer diverse specialisations to match your interests and career goals. According to our data, these are the most popular options:

Electrical Engineeringspecialises in power systems, electronics, and communication technologies. Graduates of an M.Eng. in Electrical Engineering in this field contribute to the development of renewable energy solutions, smart grids, and advanced telecommunication systems.
Mechanical Engineering covers advanced mechanics, automation, and manufacturing processes. The M.Eng in Mechanical Engineering equips engineers to work on cutting-edge technologies like robotics, autonomous vehicles, and sustainable manufacturing.
Civil Engineering and Construction focuses on infrastructure design, construction, and sustainability. Graduates of an M.Eng in Civil Engineering and Construction in this area are pivotal in creating resilient urban spaces and advancing green construction practices.
Computer Science emphasises software development, algorithms, and artificial intelligence. The M.Eng. in Computer Science prepares engineers to lead innovations in machine learning, cybersecurity, and big data analytics.
Industrial and Systems Engineering concentrate on optimising complex systems and processes in manufacturing, logistics, and operations. Graduates with an M.Eng in Industrial and Systems Engineering help improve efficiency and productivity in industries ranging from healthcare to transportation.

Apart from the deep technical knowledge, these specialisations often align with the latest industry trends, ensuring graduates also gain practical skills.

Final words

A Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) is a good pathway to new career opportunities. It gives you a chance to lead large-scale projects, innovate sustainable technologies, or optimise complex systems by providing advanced knowledge and practical experience. If you're ready to take the next step, start by searching through our list of M.Eng. degrees, and you’ll certainly find the right one for you.

Additional resources

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get an M.Eng. part-time?

Yes, many universities offer part-time M.Eng. programmes to accommodate working professionals. Part-time options typically allow students to spread their coursework over 2–4 years, providing flexibility to balance studies with work and personal commitments. These programmes are ideal for those who want to enhance their qualifications without taking a career break.

2. How much does an M.Eng. cost?

The cost of an M.Eng. programme varies widely depending on the country, university, and specialisation. Check out the Sorting Tuition feature on Mastersportal to see programmes by price, from free to over 50,000 EUR per year.

3. Can I do an M.Eng. without a B.Eng.?

It is possible, but it depends on the programme and your academic background. Many M.Eng. programmes accept students with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as physics, mathematics, or computer science. Some universities may require you to complete prerequisite courses to ensure you have the foundational knowledge needed for advanced engineering studies.

4. Can I study for an M.Eng. online?

Numerous universities offer online M.Eng. programmes, providing a flexible and accessible option for students worldwide. Online programmes are designed to deliver the same quality education as on-campus options, often including virtual labs, interactive coursework, and project-based learning. This format is especially beneficial for working students or those who cannot relocate for their studies.

Was this article helpful?