The quality of teaching, the supportive academic environment and the overall student experience made a lasting impression on me.
Joe Harrison
Masters graduate
Masters in Advanced Mechanical Engineering
2024
Joe was an undergraduate student in Sheffield and returned to pursue his Masters degree after working for a few years as he wanted to deepen his technical expertise and grow as a design engineer. .
Why did you decide to study a Masters, and why did you choose this course?
I chose to pursue a Masters degree in mechanical engineering to deepen my technical expertise and grow as a design engineer. I’ve always enjoyed solving real-world problems through innovative engineering solutions and I saw postgraduate study as an opportunity to strengthen both my theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Additionally, becoming a chartered engineer is one of my long-term career goals and a master’s-level qualification is an important step toward achieving this professional milestone.
Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?
I chose to return to the University of Sheffield for my Masters because I had such a positive experience here during my undergraduate studies. The quality of teaching, the supportive academic environment and the overall student experience made a lasting impression on me.
Coming back felt like a natural choice, not just because of the university itself, but also because of the city. Sheffield has a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere and a great sense of community. Combined with the university’s strong reputation in engineering and excellent research opportunities, it was the perfect place to continue my studies and take the next step in my career.
I chose to return to the University of Sheffield for my Masters because I had such a positive experience here during my undergraduate studies. The quality of teaching, the supportive academic environment and the overall student experience made a lasting impression on me.
Coming back felt like a natural choice, not just because of the university itself, but also because of the city. Sheffield has a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere and a great sense of community. Combined with the university’s strong reputation in engineering and excellent research opportunities, it was the perfect place to continue my studies and take the next step in my career.
What are the best things about studying a Masters in Advanced Mechanical Engineering?
One of the best things about the course was the wide range of engineering subjects available. It gave me the flexibility to choose modules that aligned with my goals as a design engineer, while also exploring topics of personal interest. A standout for me was the Tribology module which completely changed my trajectory. I enjoyed it so much that I shifted from my original career plan and decided to pursue a PhD with the University's Tribology research group.
One of the best things about the course was the wide range of engineering subjects available. It gave me the flexibility to choose modules that aligned with my goals as a design engineer, while also exploring topics of personal interest. A standout for me was the Tribology module which completely changed my trajectory. I enjoyed it so much that I shifted from my original career plan and decided to pursue a PhD with the University's Tribology research group.
How has this degree prepared you for your future career?
My master’s degree has equipped me with both the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to grow as a design engineer. The course deepened my understanding of core engineering principles while also exposing me to more advanced and specialised topics.
Working on real-world projects and engaging with industry partners gave me valuable experience in cross-disciplinary collaboration and problem-solving. I also built strong connections within the university’s research community which ultimately led to my decision to pursue a PhD.
Beyond the academic and professional development, the experience increased my confidence, adaptability and ability to communicate complex ideas which will be essential throughout my career and beyond.
My master’s degree has equipped me with both the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to grow as a design engineer. The course deepened my understanding of core engineering principles while also exposing me to more advanced and specialised topics.
Working on real-world projects and engaging with industry partners gave me valuable experience in cross-disciplinary collaboration and problem-solving. I also built strong connections within the university’s research community which ultimately led to my decision to pursue a PhD.
Beyond the academic and professional development, the experience increased my confidence, adaptability and ability to communicate complex ideas which will be essential throughout my career and beyond.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying your master's course at Sheffield?
Take advantage of the breadth of modules on offer, you can really tailor the degree to suit your interests and where you want your career to go. It’s also worth having a rough idea of what you’d like to focus on for your dissertation early on, as it’s a significant part of the course and comes around quicker than you might expect.
Keep in mind that the course runs for 12 months, not just the academic year, so time management and pacing yourself are important. And finally, make the most of Sheffield and the Peak District while you're here. The balance between study and quality of life is one of the best parts of being a student in Sheffield.
Were you involved in any extra-curricular activities?
Yes, I became a rep for the iForge makerspace. As an undergraduate, I found the makerspace incredibly valuable and I appreciated the support and guidance I received from the student reps. That experience inspired me to give back by helping current students with their own projects. I enjoy the opportunity to share knowledge, encourage creativity and be part of a supportive community where students can experiment, build and bring their ideas to life. It’s rewarding to help others the way I was once helped, and it’s a great way to stay connected to hands-on engineering alongside my academic work.
Yes, I became a rep for the iForge makerspace. As an undergraduate, I found the makerspace incredibly valuable and I appreciated the support and guidance I received from the student reps. That experience inspired me to give back by helping current students with their own projects. I enjoy the opportunity to share knowledge, encourage creativity and be part of a supportive community where students can experiment, build and bring their ideas to life. It’s rewarding to help others the way I was once helped, and it’s a great way to stay connected to hands-on engineering alongside my academic work.
What have you been doing since you graduated?
On completion of my Masters, I was given the opportunity to stay at the University of Sheffield to pursue a PhD in mechanical engineering, specialising in Tribology. My research focuses on understanding the wear of nickel-based superalloys, in collaboration with Rolls-Royce.
Alongside my studies, I also run my own engineering consultancy, providing design engineering services to SMEs. It’s a great way to stay connected to industry while continuing to grow both academically and professionally.
On completion of my Masters, I was given the opportunity to stay at the University of Sheffield to pursue a PhD in mechanical engineering, specialising in Tribology. My research focuses on understanding the wear of nickel-based superalloys, in collaboration with Rolls-Royce.
Alongside my studies, I also run my own engineering consultancy, providing design engineering services to SMEs. It’s a great way to stay connected to industry while continuing to grow both academically and professionally.