"It is equal parts challenging and rewarding and I have learned even more about railways than I thought possible. Coming to Birmingham has been a phenomenal choice."
MSc Railway Systems Engineering and Integration, 2015
Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?
I have always had an interest in trains and railways for most of my life, and I’m planning to make a career out of it, especially with the renaissance the industry is going through. While there are postgraduate programmes in railway engineering back home in the United States, they tend to more focus on the infrastructure side, such as track and bridges. The MSc programme at Birmingham goes into detail regarding a bit of everything in railways, and I wanted to gain the experience of living and studying abroad.
What do you think are the best points of your course?
The over-arching approach to the coursework is the best part of my course. Each module delves into a different aspect of railway engineering, ranging from operations management and railway economics to power and vehicle systems design, as well as infrastructure and control systems. The professors are also understanding and willing to help out or explain concepts in greater detail when needed.
What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?
The University has some great facilities and societies, providing students with plenty to do outside of their studying. They are still continuing to invest with a new sports centre currently under construction.
What’s your highlight of your time at the University?
One of the best aspects of studying at Birmingham is the chance to study a unique, in-depth and interesting field to better understand it. There are not many places around the world that offer anything similar in railway engineering so I feel that this has been the best opportunity for me to expand my existing knowledge.
What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?
Be prepared to work hard! The coursework and assignments are very interesting and I am enjoying working on all things railway-related as well as my research project. Overall I would say to expect a challenging but rewarding course.
Is there anything extra students thinking about studying on the course should know?
Absolutely give it a go! Like I’ve said, it is equal parts challenging and rewarding, and I have learned even more about railways than I thought possible, even with my background. Indeed, I can say that coming to Birmingham has been a phenomenal choice.