Railway Systems Engineering and Integration MSc

You could be looking for a new role in railway engineering or for a step up the career ladder. On our course you’ll develop vital knowledge and project teamwork skills.

Course structure 

Our MSc is a 12-month full-time advanced course, comprising lectures, tutorials, team exercises and industrial visits. This course can also be taken on a part-time basis over two years. 

You’ll benefit from expert insights and great links into industry. Based at our new, technology enhanced 'smart' campus you’ll learn from academics in Birmingham as well as in Dubai, for a truly global experience.

• Graduate with the same University of Birmingham degree as you would at our UK campus
• Learn to operate at a senior level on major projects
• Research-led teaching means you’ll learn about the latest railway engineering developments

• Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields.
• Engage in tutorials that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning.
• Foster independence through project work, preparing you for professional environments and ongoing personal development.

The full-time programme comprises of classroom taught modules and coursework modules, scheduled over a period of 8 months. Part-time students follow the same syllabus as full-time students but complete the taught modules in a sequence that best suits their work-commitments. The MSc strand requires the submission of a dissertation that is based on a significant amount of independent research.

Facilities include railway system simulators, wind tunnel, electronics laboratories, pantograph testing rig, robotic arms, a railway track foundation rig, plus other equipment. We also have an aerodynamic moving-model testing facility for high-speed trains.

We offer a combination of evening and weekend classes which are designed to accommodate working professionals and those who choose to study full-time.

Our draft timetable for full-time students is designed to deliver teaching on weekday evenings from 18:00-21:00 and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00-18:00. All modules are block-taught in weeklong intensives. Part-time students will study during these hours as per the number of modules they choose to study.

Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

2025/26

Core modules:

English language requirements

In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.

Paying your tuition fees

We charge an annual tuition fee. The fees quoted are by full time or part time per year of study. For those studying courses over two or more years, the tuition fee will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Tuition fees can be paid in full or in three instalments per year of study.

Scholarships

Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive here, we have a number of scholarships available at our Dubai campus.

Choosing to study with the University of Birmingham Dubai is an exciting decision and you may have many questions on what to do next. Follow the steps below to help guide you through the process.

At Birmingham Dubai, our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network information, advice and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.

Careers Network

In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.

Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.

Accommodation

Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.

Living in Dubai

Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.

Campus life

Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.

Student support

Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.

Take a virtual tour

Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.