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Railway Systems Engineering and Integration MSc
- CampusDubaiDelivery formatIn person
- Start dateSeptemberDuration1 year full-time; 2 years part-time
- AwardMaster of Science
- Entry requirementsA 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject (eg, Engineering, Physics, Economics or Mathematics).
- FeesSeptember 2025: AED 150,225 (full-time) / AED 75,113 (part-time)
Course overview
Join the next generation of railway business leaders. Our MSc will open up a world of career opportunities in global rail industries.
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.
This programme is subject to Ministry of Education Accreditation
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.
The first term provides a comprehensive understanding of railway subsystems and their interactions. You’ll build a solid foundation in Infrastructure and Rolling Stock Systems, focusing on technical characteristics, operations, and maintenance.
The Railway Control and Digital Systems module covers signalling and digital systems to ensure safety and reliability, while the Railway Operations, Management and Planning module explores operations and planning at different tactical and operational levels.
Course highlights
Learn how to design, build, operate and manage sophisticated subsystems and understand complex interfaces. Become part of a large and diverse railway research and education group. 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
Benefit from our extensive laboratories and facilities both on and off our campus for carrying out research in railway engineering.
Course delivery
Our MSc is taught in intensive, week-long blocks, allowing for part-time study or distance learning. You'll specialise in modules and complete a research project.
- 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.
Module information
This programme is a 1 year full time (2 years part time) taught master's degree (180 credits) consisting of 120 credits of taught modules and a 60 credit of a project-based module .
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
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:
Teaching staff
Dr Melody Khadem Sameni
Admissions Tutor
Profile of Dr Melody Khadem Sameni, Univeristy of Birmingham Dubai
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours degree
In a relevant subject (eg, Engineering, Physics, Economics or Mathematics).
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.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
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.
- AED 150,225
Full-time (September 2025)
- AED 75,113
Part-time (September 2025)
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
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.
Career opportunities
Design, build, operate and successfully manage the sophisticated subsystems and complex interfaces characterising existing and new railways. You can expect to occupy positions around the world in the railway industry.
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.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life.
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.