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EduSCOT
Engineering & Technology

How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland

Design and develop mechanical systems — from offshore energy equipment to medical devices.

Maths + Physics/Engineering Science essential

Offshore and renewables sector in Scotland

Graduate Apprenticeship available

MEng preferred for chartership

Highers You Need

Typical entry: AABB at Higher. You also need English (C) at National 5.

Required Highers

  • Maths— Applications of Maths NOT accepted at any Scottish university
  • Physics or Engineering Science

Route to Qualification

Degree: BEng / MEng Mechanical Engineering (4 years at university).

1

BEng (4 years) or MEng (5 years)

4–5 years

2

Graduate Apprenticeship in Engineering

4–5 years

Employer-funded

Scottish Universities Offering This Course

Scottish-domiciled students can apply through UCAS and have tuition fees funded by SAAS.

  • University of Edinburgh
  • University of Glasgow
  • University of Strathclyde
  • Heriot-Watt University
  • University of Dundee

Professional Registration

To practise as a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland, you must register with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). Registration is required by law and must be maintained through continuing professional development.

Salary in Scotland

Starting salary

£28,000–£36,000

Newly qualified

Mid-career salary

£45,000–£65,000

5–10 years experience

Graduate mechanical engineer starting salary. Oil & gas and renewables sectors in Scotland offer premiums.

EduSCOT note

Scotland's offshore wind and subsea sectors create strong demand for mechanical engineers — particularly around Aberdeen, the Firth of Forth, and Orkney.

Subject choice guide

Planning your S3 or S5 Highers with Mechanical Engineer in mind? Read the detailed guide.

Subject choices for Mechanical Engineer

Frequently Asked Questions

What Highers do you need to become a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland?▾
To become a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland, you typically need Higher Maths, Physics or Engineering Science. The typical grade offer is AABB. You also need English (C) at National 5 level.
Which Scottish universities offer BEng / MEng Mechanical Engineering?▾
The following Scottish universities offer routes into Mechanical Engineer careers: University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde, Heriot-Watt University, University of Dundee. Scottish-domiciled students are eligible for tuition fee funding through SAAS.
How long does it take to become a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland?▾
The main degree route takes 4 years. Alternative routes include: Graduate Apprenticeship in Engineering (4–5 years). After completing the degree, registration with Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) is required before you can practise.
What is the salary for a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland?▾
Starting salary for a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland is typically £28,000–£36,000. Mid-career salary is typically £45,000–£65,000. Graduate mechanical engineer starting salary. Oil & gas and renewables sectors in Scotland offer premiums.
Is there an apprenticeship route to becoming a Mechanical Engineer in Scotland?▾
Yes — Graduate Apprenticeship in Engineering (4–5 years). Graduate Apprenticeships are funded through Skills Development Scotland and employers — tuition fees are covered.
Does SAAS cover tuition fees for Mechanical Engineer degrees in Scotland?▾
Scottish-domiciled students studying BEng / MEng Mechanical Engineering at a Scottish university are eligible for SAAS (Student Awards Agency Scotland) tuition fee funding. For 4-year undergraduate degrees, SAAS covers tuition in full. Professional or postgraduate stages (such as a Diploma in Legal Practice or pre-registration year) may not be covered — check the SAAS website for your specific course.