Overview

The Virtual Prototyping for Vehicle Structures MSc at Cranfield University provides students with the advanced simulation tools and analytical skills required to excel in modern automotive design. This programme addresses the industry's shift towards digital development by focusing on stress analysis, passive safety, and material characterisation. Graduates are equipped to deliver data-driven solutions that accelerate vehicle performance and safety across both road and racing sectors.

Why Virtual Prototyping for Vehicle Structures at Cranfield University?

Students benefit from access to world-class facilities, including the Cranfield Impact Centre, one of the most advanced crash testing sites globally. The curriculum is guided by an Industrial Advisory Panel featuring senior engineers from leading automotive and motorsport organisations. This ensures the training remains aligned with current CAE and structural design requirements, offering unique exposure to industry-leading techniques and professional practitioners.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: GBP 29025 per year
National fee: GBP 13005 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of compulsory modules designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of vehicle structures and simulation. Modules may include:

Vehicle Design, Propulsion and Performance
Experimental Mechanics
Vehicle Passive Safety
Vehicle Dynamics
NVH and Durability
Vehicle Materials and Manufacturing
Vehicle Structures
Simulation of Composite Structures

Careers with Virtual Prototyping for Vehicle Structures

Graduates are prepared for high-level technical and management roles within the CAE and structures departments of global automotive and motorsport companies. The specialised training in finite element modelling and crashworthiness makes alumni highly sought after by employers such as Formula One teams and vehicle manufacturers. Common career destinations include:

Structures Analyst
CAE Engineer
Structural Simulation Engineer
Vehicle Design Engineer
Crash Safety Engineer

Programme Structure

Taught modules 40%, Group project 20%, Individual research project 40%

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-10-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-21 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-10-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-22 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cranfield, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Mechanical Engineering Automotive Engineering Structural Engineering View 42 other Masters in Structural Engineering in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

We welcome applications from talented individuals of all backgrounds and each application is considered on its individual merit. Usually applicants must hold:

A UK lower second-class (2:2) undergraduate degree with honours, as a minimum, or equivalent international qualification.

Ideally applicants will have studied in engineering, mathematics or an applied science subject.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

29025 GBP / year

≈ 29025 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

13005 GBP / year

≈ 13005 GBP / year

Living costs

Cranfield

United Kingdom

700 - 1300 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Virtual Prototyping for Vehicle Structures.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Cranfield

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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