Sign up for updates
Interested in studying at the University of Hertfordshire and want to sign up to our mailing list to learn more about our facilities, living in the UK and student life? Use the form below and our team will also keep you informed of key updates such as events near you, applications opening and more!
MSc Smart Manufacturing and AI (16-month route)
About the course
The MSc Smart Manufacturing and AI (16-month route) is designed to equip you with the advanced knowledge, technical expertise and professional capabilities needed to progress your career in advanced manufacturing and digital engineering. Over 16 months, you’ll explore how AI and digital technologies are transforming modern manufacturing, developing the skills to deepen your expertise, move into a specialist role or take on greater technical and strategic responsibility.
You’ll develop your understanding of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques, industrial data management, lean manufacturing, quality management and smart supply chain strategies. You’ll learn how to use these approaches to design, implement and evaluate intelligent manufacturing solutions.
By bringing together technical, analytical and professional skills, the MSc Smart Manufacturing and AI supports progression into specialist and technical opportunities in advanced manufacturing and digital engineering. You’ll also consider responsible innovation, sustainability, and the ethical, societal and regulatory considerations associated with AI-enabled industrial systems.
Alongside your technical knowledge, you’ll develop professional skills in communication, project management, teamwork and continuous professional development, preparing you to contribute to responsible, sustainable and data-driven solutions in modern manufacturing environments.
Why choose this course?
- This MSc Smart Manufacturing and AI (16-month route) course is designed for the next generation of manufacturing professionals who want to combine manufacturing expertise with AI and digital technologies to develop intelligent manufacturing solutions.
- The course combines manufacturing and AI expertise within one School. Herts brings together engineering, computer science, AI and robotics expertise, providing a strong environment for developing skills in intelligent manufacturing.
- Learn through practical activities, case studies, computer-based analysis, teamwork, problem-solving and project work, applying your knowledge to real-world manufacturing challenges.
- Benefit from Herts’ established industry links, employer engagement, projects and placement opportunities, including connections with organisations such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover and BAE Systems.
- Choose the Advanced Project pathway to develop project delivery skills or Extended Professional Practice to gain relevant workplace experience.
What will I study?
Learn, apply, evaluate is the guiding principle of the MSc. You will first develop the theoretical foundations of smart manufacturing and AI, then apply those concepts to industrially relevant problems and critically evaluate technological, operational, sustainability and professional implications.
You’ll learn through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical activities, case studies, computer-based analysis, teamwork, problem-solving and project work, giving you opportunities to apply concepts to realistic manufacturing challenges and develop both technical and professional skills.
The interdisciplinary nature of the programme provides opportunities to develop expertise across manufacturing engineering, digital manufacturing, AI and data, management and professional practice.
Assessment therefore extends beyond traditional examinations to include technical reports, data analysis exercises, practical investigations, case studies, presentations, group projects, design and problem-solving activities, and an individual master’s project. This range of assessment methods enables you to demonstrate both your technical knowledge and your ability to apply it to complex, industry-relevant challenges.
For the MSc Smart Manufacturing and AI (16-month route), the taught stage develops advanced knowledge and practical capability in smart manufacturing and AI, followed by the individual MSc project.
Where will I study?
Learn in Spectra, our state-of-the-art School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building, featuring interactive learning zones. Access modeling, simulation, and research labs, our Merlin Flight Simulator, automotive workshop (including electric vehicle facility), wind tunnel, welding bay, and controls testing suite.
Benefit from our Academic Support Hub, designed to enhance your employability and academic skills. Connect with industry mentors offering pastoral support, career guidance, and progression opportunities.
Spectra provides collaborative spaces, including workshops, social areas, and meeting rooms. Designed with the University’s net-zero carbon target in mind, it’s part of our commitment to replacing inefficient older sites.
Further course information
| Programme specifications | |
|---|---|
| MSc Smart Manufacturing and AI (16 Month) - Full Time, Sem B | Download |
| MSc Smart Manufacturing and AI (16 Month) - Full Time, Sem A | Download |
| Additional information | |
|---|---|
Sandwich placement or study abroad year |
n/a |
Applications open to international and EU students |
Yes |