12 Best Engineering Universities In The UK 2024

Finding a place where your engineering aspirations can take off? Your search ends here! We've figured it out for you and listed the top engineering universities in the UK that will manifest your dream into reality. From top-notch facilities to comprehensive courses and thoroughly experienced faculty, these top universities for engineering in the UK are key to unlocking your highest potential. 

Whether you're passionate about chemical, civil, mineral or petroleum engineering, these best engineering universities in the UK stand as your ideal choice, ready to kickstart a fresh academic journey. Join us as we uncover the details of your choice of the top engineering university in the UK.

1. University of Cambridge

Average Fees: £22,000 to £32,000 per year
Course to consider: Bachelors in Architecture and data science Engineering, etc. 
Requirements: Average SAT score: 1500, Average GPA: 3.7, Average ACT score: 34

Known for its state-of-the-art research and thorough Chemical Engineering program, the University of Cambridge stands out among the 10 best universities for engineering in the UK. Collaborative workspaces allow students to benefit from an immersive learning environment. Although, entry into the institution is competitive, demanding excellent academic performance. Given these, you can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey where innovation shines through.

2. Imperial College London

Average Fees: £20,000 to £30,000 per year
Course to consider: Bachelors in Data science, Earth science and engineering, Electrical and electronic engineering, Mechanical Engineering and etc. 
Requirements: Percentile ranking of 98.5 or above, Scores of 85%-90% overall across all grade 12 subjects, and AP tests 4-6. 

This college holds a special position in the 10 best universities for engineering in the UK due to its emphasis on hands-on experience and real-world applications. Here you will be engaging in cutting-edge projects and futuristic research initiatives. Imperial's Chemical Engineering program is made to prepare you with skills that extend beyond the theoretical realm because admission into the institution requires academic prowess and a genuine interest in the subject.

3. University of Oxford

Average Fees: £24,000 to £36,000 per year
Course to consider: Bachelors in Computer Science, Mathematics, etc.
Requirements: 90% or above/ A-levels

This university being one of the 10 best universities for engineering in the UK, boasts facilities that enhance academic experience. Entry requirements are stringent but something that is easily tackled by a student deeply committed to the subject. Oxford's Chemical Engineering program is designed to work and improve your critical thinking skills and your ability to solve complex problems, making it a holistic academic choice. Additionally, this program is very democratic with student initiatives.

4. University College London (UCL)

Average Fees: £22,000 to £32,000 per year
Course to consider: Bachelors in Architecture & Built Environment. 
Requirements: 19 points in three higher-level subjects, IB diploma average of 39 points, and grade 7 in Mathematics.

UCL stands among the best Civil engineering schools, given its modern laboratories and research centres. Here too, the entry criteria are competitive, emphasising your passion for making a positive impact on the industry at large. The institute's commitment to sustainability and innovation in civil engineering makes it a special choice, a choice that goes beyond traditional approaches, using only the latest technology and design.

5. University of Manchester

Average Fees: £22,000 to £28,000 per year
Course to consider: Bachelor in Engineering and Master in Engineering.
Requirements: Average grade of 4/C in GCSE English and Mathematics and AAA-ABB at A-level. 

Perhaps the leading factor that makes the University of Manchester an ideal choice for being called the top engineering university in the UK is its strong emphasis on practical experience and opportunities for hands-on experience. It does so by encouraging students to collaborate on large-scale infrastructure projects and securing industry placements. This program gears up students to become leaders capable of playing with and conquering the evolving needs of the civil engineering domain.

6. University of Leeds

Average Fees: £19,000 to £26,000 per year
Course to consider: Aerospace Engineering BEng and Mechanical Engineering BEng
Requirements:  GCE A-level, Average of 75% - 90%. 

Given its reputation for being one of the 10 best universities for engineering in the UK, this university facilitates your academic journey with cutting-edge technologies. Due to this fact, getting in is also difficult, but if you're a student who is not short of passion and excellence, you'll make it through easily. An important feature that stands out is the institute's focus on digital engineering and sustainable design initiatives, making it a cherished academic and environmental choice.

7. University of Exeter

Average Fees: £17,000 to £21,000 per year
Course to consider: Bachelors and MEng in Engineering, Management, Mechanical Engineering. 
Requirements: A levels. A*AB with mathematics and physics. 

The University of Exeter is recognised for its well-known Mineral and Mining engineering programs, particularly because of its liking towards courses integrating fieldwork, industry exposure and laboratory experiments. This program also specifically focuses on preparing students to address environmental concerns in the mining industry.

It is because of this inclusive approach that this institution is among the best engineering universities in the UK.

8. University of Aberdeen

Average Fees: £19,000 to £20,000 per year
Course to consider: BEng in Chemical Engineering, Engineering (Mechanical) (BEng), and BEng in Civil Engineering. 
Requirements: 3 A Levels at BBB with a B in Mathematics and B in Physics. 

The University of Aberdeen specialises in teaching Mineral and Mining Engineering, teaching you skills required for the exploration and extraction of mineral resources. Despite the entry requirements being competitive and tough, it's probably the best engineering university in the UK. Also, this program focuses on making students familiar with the latest trends in the Mineral and Mining Engineering sector.

9. University of Birmingham

Average Fees: £21,000 to £46,000 per year
Course to consider: Bachelors in Computer Science Engineering. 
Requirements: A level requirements of AAA = 85%, A level requirements of AAB = 80%.

Revolutionary infrastructure suited for the effective absorption of the most complex of engineering materials makes this university one of the 10 best universities for engineering in the UK. Having enjoyed strong attention to the latest technological advancements, you become prepared for comprehensive research and industry projects, setting the tone for your commanding leadership roles and securing a prosperous financial future. However, these perks also come with a requirement that you display a strong academic skill set.

10. Heriot-Watt University

Average Fees: £20,000 to £26,000 per year
Course to consider: BEng (Hons) Engineering
Requirements: Scottish Highers of AABB, A-Levels of BBC - ABB with mathematics and physics. 

As one of the top universities for Engineering in the UK, it is well-known for its flexibility and modern approach to education, helping you reflect on the best technologies helpful in your engineering academic pursuits. Enrolling in the program equips you with the knowledge of dealing with any challenges that might come through. Your hands-on experience with the practical aspects of the industry demands you overcome the wall of a rigorous academic screening process as well.

11. University of Surrey

Average Fees: £16,000 to £21,000 per year
Course to consider: Civil Engineering BEng (Hons) or MEng in Civil Engineering. 
Requirements: average score 55-75%

The University of Surrey's disciplined and focused academic curriculum is open to your understanding once you pass its strict entry requirements, replenished with your level of dedication and passion for the subject. But, once done, the course equips you with the nitty gritty not only of the traditional aspect but also of the latest developments in the niche. The course mainly focuses on environmental science and renewable energy, among other emerging topics of concern. It can be your ideal candidate for the top engineering university in the UK.

12. University of Bradford

Average Fees: £18,000 to £22,000 per year
Course to consider: Mechanical Engineering BEng (Hons) and Engineering Management MSc
Requirements: A minimum of 2 years experience working in an engineering position and IELTS score of 6.0 or above. 

Comprehensive study material and state-of-the-art facilities make the University of Bradford one of the top universities for engineering in the UK. The course entails special stimulation exercises designed to train the mind for the projects to come, and these projects specifically train those skills that make you future-ready, making this university an ideal choice for your engineering goals. Being so versatile, they also demand you pass their screening criteria, assessing your skill set and knowledge about technologies like drilling, reservoir engineering, sustainable energy and so on.

The 10 best universities for engineering in UK offer an exceptional foundation for aspiring engineers. With cutting-edge facilities, renowned faculty, and diverse courses, they pave the way for success. Whether you dream of designing revolutionary structures, developing groundbreaking technologies, or solving complex global challenges, these universities are the launching pad for your ambitions. 

As you embark on your engineering journey, don't forget to prioritise your well-being by availing of student insurance with reliable student services. Unleash your potential and shape the future!