Cranfield University

What you'll study

The programme combines core theory in dynamics and control with practical training in sensing, state estimation, perception and path-planning for autonomous ground vehicles. Typical taught modules cover vehicle dynamics and tyre modelling, classical and modern control design, sensor fusion and localisation (GNSS, IMU, lidar, camera), model-based design and simulation, real-time embedded systems, and safety, testing and validation for autonomous systems.

Project work is a major component: you will apply the taught material to hardware-in-the-loop or software-in-the-loop projects, use vehicle simulators and on‑campus test facilities, and complete an extended research or industry-linked MSc thesis addressing a hands-on autonomy or control problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (typically a UK second-class upper division or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, mechatronics, robotics, electronic engineering, applied mathematics or a closely related discipline. You should have strong fundamentals in mathematics (calculus, linear algebra), dynamics and control theory.

Practical experience with programming (for example MATLAB/Simulink, Python or C/C++) and familiarity with signals, sensors or embedded systems is highly desirable. Professional experience in the automotive, robotics or related industries can strengthen an application. International applicants must meet Cranfield's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into roles designing and validating autonomy and control systems within automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, start-ups developing self‑driving platforms, and companies providing sensing, localisation and safety solutions. Typical roles include control systems engineer, autonomy software engineer, vehicle dynamics engineer, sensor fusion engineer, validation and test engineer, and systems engineer.

Alumni also progress into related sectors such as robotics, intelligent transport systems, defence and aerospace, or continue into research and PhD study focused on autonomous vehicles, machine perception or advanced control methodologies.

Why study at Cranfield University

Cranfield has a long-established emphasis on applied engineering and close industry collaboration, giving taught courses a strong practical focus. You will benefit from specialist vehicle dynamics and control laboratories, vehicle simulators and on‑site proving facilities that enable real-world validation of autonomy concepts.

The department’s teaching is delivered by academics and experienced practitioners working on current industrial projects, providing direct exposure to the tools and processes used by the mobility sector. The campus environment and Cranfield’s professional links help students develop transferable skills in systems engineering, testing and project delivery that employers value.