25 University Degrees That Are The Perfect Fit For A Career In Manufacturing

Have you ever considered a career in manufacturing? Whether you’re currently studying or have recently finished, this industry may be worth exploring. Manufacturing is a massive and ever-changing industry that brings together both blue-collar and white-collar professionals.

To help you navigate the possibilities, we’ve curated a list of the top 25 degrees that provide a rich skill set applicable to a multitude of roles within the manufacturing industry.

From streamlining processes to developing cutting-edge technologies, the world of manufacturing offers boundless opportunities for career growth and innovation. The best part? The field is incredibly diverse, encompassing everything from pharmaceuticals and medical devices to industrial engineering and data science. With such a wide scope, the possibilities are endless. Whether your passion lies in optimising production, designing innovative solutions, or managing operations, there’s a degree out there that can equip you with the skills and knowledge to excel in this dynamic industry.

Perfect For All Sectors

1. Business: A degree in Business is a perfect fit for the manufacturing industry as it provides a comprehensive understanding of managing and administering businesses, including manufacturing companies. Graduates are equipped with skills in operations management, supply chain management, and logistics management, making them valuable assets in optimising manufacturing processes, coordinating efficient supply chains, and ensuring smooth operations within the industry.

2. Operations Management: With a focus on streamlining business operations, this degree is a perfect fit for those interested in the manufacturing industry. Graduates of this program have the skills to refine production processes, manage quality control, and oversee supply chain management, making them ideal candidates for roles in manufacturing companies. If you’re looking for a career that combines your interest in business management and manufacturing, then an operations management degree may be the perfect fit for you.

3. Supply Chain Management: This program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to optimise procurement, streamline logistics, and effectively manage inventory. By understanding the intricacies of supply chain processes, graduates are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the manufacturing industry head-on. From overseeing the flow of materials to coordinating with suppliers and ensuring timely delivery, supply chain management professionals play a vital role in driving efficiency and profitability within manufacturing companies.

4. Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is paramount in today’s digitally connected manufacturing landscape. With the increasing reliance on computer systems and networks, the protection of sensitive data and the prevention of cyber threats are of utmost importance. A degree in cybersecurity equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to safeguard manufacturing processes from potential cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity professionals play a vital role in ensuring the integrity and resilience of manufacturing operations.

Industrial

5. Industrial Engineering: This degree is focused on streamlining manufacturing processes, including production planning, quality control, and supply chain management. Graduates of this program can pursue careers as manufacturing engineers, production supervisors, or process engineers.

6. Mechanical Engineering: Mechanical Engineering is an excellent fit for the manufacturing industry due to its core focus on the design and development of mechanical systems and equipment. With their expertise in this field, graduates possess the necessary skills to improve manufacturing processes, improve efficiency, and enhance product quality. Their knowledge of mechanical principles, materials, and manufacturing techniques allows them to design innovative solutions and troubleshoot any technical issues that may arise during production.

7. Electrical Engineering: Electrical Engineering specialises in designing, developing, and testing electrical systems used in manufacturing processes. Graduates can pursue careers as automation engineers, control systems engineers, or electrical systems engineers, bringing expertise in optimising automation and electrical components essential for efficient manufacturing operations.

8. Materials Engineering: A degree in Materials Engineering is a perfect fit for the manufacturing industry. It focuses on the study of materials and their properties, enabling graduates to pursue careers in materials research, product development, and quality control. With their expertise, Materials Engineers drive innovation by discovering and developing new materials that improve manufacturing processes.

9. Industrial Design: A degree in Industrial Design equips graduates with the skills to create innovative and functional product designs that meet the needs of both consumers and manufacturing processes. With a keen understanding of aesthetics, ergonomics, and manufacturing principles, Industrial Designers bring ideas to life and strengthen the efficiency and appeal of products. Their expertise in design thinking and prototyping allows them to collaborate seamlessly with manufacturing engineers and R&D teams, driving product innovation and ensuring manufacturability.

10. Data Science: A Data Science degree allows graduates to analyse and interpret data, enabling them to fine-tune processes, reduce waste, and enhance quality control. Their expertise in data analytics, process improvement, and quality management drives operational excellence in manufacturing. With a focus on efficiency and precision, data scientists revolutionise manufacturing practices and make a significant impact.

Science & Tech

11. Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineering revolves around designing and improving chemical processes used in manufacturing. These processes play a vital role in producing materials, energy, and consumer goods. Graduates in this field become skilled in enhancing these processes, making them indispensable in the manufacturing industry. They can pursue exciting careers as chemical engineers, process engineers, or research and development engineers, using their expertise to innovate manufacturing efficiency.

12. Computer Science: With a strong emphasis on software and hardware development, computer scientists possess the expertise to design and implement automation and control systems that are vital to modern manufacturing processes. Their ability to create efficient algorithms, develop intuitive user interfaces, and maximise system performance is invaluable in streamlining operations and improving productivity. Additionally, computer scientists play a crucial role in advancing digital manufacturing technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

13. Mathematics: A Mathematics degree is a perfect fit for the manufacturing industry. Graduates possess the skills to model, simulate, and refining manufacturing processes, making them invaluable in operations research, process engineering, and data analysis. With their expertise, they drive efficiency and innovation, shaping the future of manufacturing.

14. Biomedical Engineering: A Biomedical Engineering degree allows graduates to combine their knowledge of engineering principles with a focus on medical devices and equipment. Their expertise in designing and developing innovative medical technologies, such as prosthetics, surgical instruments, and medical imaging systems, is highly sought after in the manufacturing sector.

15. Chemistry: A Chemistry degree is an ideal fit for the manufacturing industry. Graduates of this degree have an understanding of chemical properties and reactions, making them invaluable in developing new materials, analysing and controlling chemical processes, and enhancing product quality. With their expertise, they can pursue exciting careers in research and development, quality control, or production management within the manufacturing sector. From formulating innovative materials to ensuring optimal process performance, these graduates play a vital role in driving innovation and maintaining high standards of excellence in manufacturing.

16. Physics: With a deep understanding of natural phenomena, matter, and energy, graduates are equipped to drive innovation and advancement in manufacturing processes. They contribute to developing cutting-edge technologies, analysing, and enhancing product quality. Whether it’s pushing the boundaries of research and development, ensuring stringent quality control measures, or improving process efficiency as process engineers, these graduates bring valuable insights and expertise to the manufacturing industry.

17. Robotics Engineering: Robotics has transformed manufacturing processes, and there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can design and program robots to work alongside humans in manufacturing operations. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in areas such as robotics engineering, automation engineering, or control systems engineering, making them indispensable to the manufacturing industry.

18. Environmental Engineering: Environmental Engineering is a crucial degree for the manufacturing industry as sustainability and environmental responsibility have become top priorities. This program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to design and develop manufacturing processes that benefit the industry’s environment. With the increasing demand for sustainable practices, graduates can pursue careers in areas such as environmental engineering, sustainability management, or product design, playing a vital role in creating a greener and more responsible manufacturing industry.

19. Regulatory Affairs: This degree focuses on the regulation of medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in areas such as regulatory affairs, quality control, or compliance within the medical device manufacturing industry.

20. Pharmaceutical Sciences: With a focus on the science and technology of pharmaceuticals, including drug design, development, and manufacturing. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in areas such as research and development, quality control, or regulatory affairs within the pharmaceutical industry.

21. Biochemistry: This degree focuses on the study of the chemical processes and substances occurring in living organisms, including the biochemical processes involved in drug development and manufacturing. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in areas such as drug discovery, formulation development, or quality control within the pharmaceutical industry.

22. Biotechnology: A degree in Biotechnology prepares you for a manufacturing career by providing knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. With skills in process optimisation and quality control, you can contribute to efficient production and innovation in biopharmaceuticals and bio-based products.

Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)

23. Microbiology: Microbiology plays a crucial role in the food and beverage manufacturing industry, where ensuring product safety and quality is paramount. Graduates with a degree in microbiology can work in areas such as food safety and quality control, where they can use their knowledge of microorganisms to develop and implement strategies for preventing contamination and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.

24. Food Science: This degree focuses on the science of food and how it is processed, preserved, and packaged. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in areas such as product development, quality control, or research and development within the food and beverage manufacturing industry.

25. Nutrition Science: With the growing demand for healthier and more sustainable food options, the study of nutrition science has become increasingly important in the food and beverage manufacturing industry. Graduates with a degree in nutrition science possess the knowledge and skills needed to develop and improve products that are both nutritious and delicious. They can also apply their understanding of food composition and processing to ensure the quality and safety of food products. With opportunities in product development, quality control, and research and development, a degree in nutrition science can lead to a rewarding career in the food and beverage manufacturing industry.

In today’s booming manufacturing industry, there is a pressing need for skilled talent to meet the growing demands.

Choosing a career in manufacturing can offer job stability, competitive salaries, and opportunities for growth and advancement. Whether you’re interested in developing new products, optimising manufacturing processes, or being on the front line in the production of cutting-edge tech advancements, there are endless possibilities in this industry.

If you’re interested in exploring the possibilities or learning more about available roles, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of manufacturing specialists today.