Engineering is a well-established industry that is constantly expanding to keep up with the ever-changing world around us. Engineers are an integral part of society and it’s a profession that requires a broad range of skills and knowledge in subjects such as Science and Mathematics.
Mechanical Engineering, one of the oldest engineering disciplines, focuses on the design and manufacturing of products and machines. The main goal of an Engineer is to improve aspects of life and make things more efficient, so it’s a great career path if you’re hoping to make an impact on the world.
What are the best universities for Mechanical Engineering?
Many of Kaplan’s partner universities are home to renowned Engineering departments and are very highly ranked for their Mechanical Engineering courses. Here are our best universities for Mechanical Engineering in the UK and USA.
University of Bristol
The Engineering department at the University of Bristol is held in extremely high regard, and has long been acknowledged as one of the very best in the UK. The establishment is ranked 17th in the UK for Mechanical Engineering (Guardian University Guide 2024). Since 2017, the University has invested over £22 million into its world-class Engineering facilities.
The University of Bristol is also ranked by High Fliers Research 2022 as the 3rd most-targeted university in the UK, which will serve as a huge advantage in terms of career prospects.
Cranfield University
Cranfield University is ranked 5th in the UK for their Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering course (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024). The specialist university offers exclusively postgraduate study, and its reputation for excellence in Engineering makes it a great place to consider for a master’s degree in one of many Engineering courses.
University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers a wide variety of Engineering degrees, with its Mechanical Engineering course being ranked in the top 15 for the UK (Complete University Guide 2025). The University prides itself on the leading research and facilities it provides for Engineering students, and there is even a New School of Engineering building that opened in February 2021.
University of Glasgow
The prestigious University of Glasgow is ranked highly for many Engineering disciplines, and is 20th in the UK for Mechanical Engineering (Complete University Guide 2025). Students can benefit from the facilities housed within their School of Engineering, as the University continues in its mission to set the standard for research, education and opportunities in this particular field.
UWE Bristol
UWE Bristol is ranked 36th in the UK for Mechanical Engineering (Guardian University Guide 2025). The University’s Department of Engineering Design and Mathematics has an excellent reputation. Its unique partnerships with industry leaders provide invaluable opportunities for students, supported by cutting-edge facilities.
University of Nottingham
Holding the 11th spot in the rankings for Mechanical Engineering in the UK (Complete University Guide 2025), the University of Nottingham is another great place to study the subject. In 2021 the University invested over £3 million into their industry-leading, state-of-the-art facilities to provide an outstanding learning experience for all of its Engineering students.
University of Connecticut
The University of Connecticut is #69 for Engineering in the USA (U.S. News Best Colleges 2024) thanks to its competitive research programme and strong connections with industry partners.
It’s an institution that values innovation and encourages its students to be experimental and forward-thinking in their approach to the subject. This creates an inspiring environment where students can address worldwide challenges and find innovative engineering solutions.
Study a Mechanical Engineering degree in the UK or USA
Whether you’re interested in studying Mechanical Engineering straight after school, or want to further your education and expertise in the subject with a specialist master’s, we can guide you on your journey to studying at one of the best universities for Mechanical Engineering in the UK or USA.
If your grades don’t currently meet the entry requirements, our pathway courses are available to help you gain entry to your desired degree.
