Engineering Fluid Mechanics for the Offshore, Coastal and Built Environments MSc
Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, United Kingdom
Engineering Fluid Mechanics for the Offshore, Coastal and Built Environments MSc
Imperial College London
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Program Overview
This one-year MSc programme at Imperial College London trains future engineers who specialise in fluid mechanics, with a specific focus on offshore, coastal, and built environments. You will gain expertise in theoretical concepts, problem-solving tools, advanced numerical methods, experimental techniques, and design principles applied to civil and environmental engineering challenges.
The programme combines rigorous treatment of fundamental fluid mechanics principles with applied design activities carried out alongside internationally-leading industrial partners such as Ramboll, ARUP, and Foster + Partners. You will gain hands-on experience in Imperial's Hydrodynamics Laboratory, which covers some 3,000 square metres, and access the High Performance Computing facility for computationally intensive research work.
The course is both theoretical and practical, with a strong design component and a substantial research project that makes up one third of your qualification. Whether you aim to enter professional practice in renewable energy, coastal engineering, or consulting, or pursue a PhD, this programme equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in fluid mechanics.
Key Program Highlights
- Access to Imperial's state-of-the-art Hydrodynamics Laboratory spanning approximately 3,000 square metres for hands-on experimental investigations
- Industry-integrated design projects with contributions from leading firms including Ramboll, ARUP, Breathing Buildings, and Foster + Partners
- Research project comprising one third of the qualification, undertaken with guidance from an Imperial supervisor or in collaboration with industry
- Pre-session modules in Mathematics and MATLAB ensuring all students start with a solid foundation regardless of background
Curriculum and Modules
The programme is structured across three terms: the first term focuses on theoretical foundations and analytical tools, the second term becomes increasingly design-oriented, and the final term is dedicated to independent research. All students must undertake all core modules, complemented by pre-session preparatory modules in Mathematics and Fluid Mechanics fundamentals.
Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics
Core ModuleCovers the fundamental physics of fluid flows including conservation laws, steady and unsteady flow, Euler and Navier-Stokes equations, laminar and turbulent flows, scaling, similarity, and an introduction to turbulence.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
Core ModuleEquips you with practical skills to set up, run, and interpret CFD analyses of real fluid flows, combining hands-on computational work with underlying principles of numerical modelling for reliable engineering practice.
Transport Processes
Core ModuleExplores pollutant dispersion and sediment transport processes, covering the physical processes governing fluid and tracer transport, the influence of turbulence and dispersion on scalar transport, and mathematical modelling approaches.
Wave Mechanics
Core ModuleDerives and applies linear and non-linear theories explaining wave motion and propagation needed in fundamental engineering and oceanographic applications, covering commonly applied wave theories and recent research developments.
Fluid Mechanics in the Built Environment
Core ModuleExplores current thinking on modelling the built environment and the tools required for both internal and external fluid flows, addressing ventilation, urban air quality, and energy-efficient building design.
MSc Research Project
Core Module (One Third of Qualification)A substantial independent study and original research project undertaken with regular guidance from an Imperial supervisor, by private study, or by arrangement at your place of employment.
Additional Specialist Topics
Admission Requirements
Imperial College London seeks highly motivated candidates with a strong academic background in science or engineering. Admission is competitive, and all applicants must demonstrate both academic excellence and English language proficiency. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Degree ClassificationUK 2:1 Honours degree (or international equivalent) in Science or Engineering
- Mathematics BackgroundSuitable grounding in Mathematics required (e.g. A-level grade B or higher)
- Relevant SubjectsEngineering, Physics, Mathematics, or closely related disciplines
- International QualificationsA wide variety of international qualifications are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for equivalency guidance
- ATAS CertificateNot required for this course
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 6.5 with minimum 6.0 in each component (standard university requirement)
- TOEFL iBTMinimum overall score of 92 with minimum section scores as per university standard requirement
- PTE AcademicMinimum score of 62 with consistent scores across each section
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Imperial College London offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for postgraduate taught students. Several awards are available to both home and international students studying in the Faculty of Engineering. Contact Uni4Edu to explore the funding options best suited to your profile.
GREAT - Imperial College London Scholarship
GBP 15,000 towards tuition feesOffered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, this scholarship supports students from eligible countries applying for full-time one-year Master's programmes across all faculties. Eligibility varies by country of residence.
Bseisu - Imperial College London Scholarship
100% of tuition fees coveredUp to three awards covering the full cost of tuition fees for eligible one-year Master's programmes in the Faculty of Engineering. Preference is given to applicants from financially disadvantaged backgrounds with relevant work experience.
TEV UK-Imperial Scholarship
Full tuition fees plus stipend and travelA fully funded scholarship covering tuition fees, an annual stipend, return flights, visa costs, and Immigration Health Surcharge for eligible Master's students in the Faculty of Engineering, Natural Sciences, or Medicine.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of this MSc programme are well-prepared for diverse career paths in industry, government, and academia. The programme's strong industry connections with firms like Ramboll, ARUP, and Foster + Partners, combined with Imperial's location in London, provide excellent networking and employment opportunities across multiple engineering sectors.
Typical Graduate Roles
Notable Employers and Industry Partners
Rankings and Recognition
Imperial College London is consistently recognised as one of the top universities in the world, with particular strength in science, engineering, and technology. The university's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is highly regarded for its research output and teaching quality in fluid mechanics and related fields.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering | Guardian University Guide | #2 in the UK |
| Engineering and Technology | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 10 Globally |
| Aerospace Engineering | Guardian University Guide | #1 in the UK |
| Earth and Marine Sciences | Guardian University Guide | #8 in the UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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