Q&A with Omar Shobair
Omar studies on the Engineering and Education MSc (class of 2026). He tells us about his time at IOE.
What is your educational background?
Before completing my MSc Engineering and Education postgraduate degree, I successfully completed my BEng (Hons) and MSc (with Scholarship) in Civil Engineering with First Class and Distinction Honours classifications, respectively.
Prior to this, I had completed my A-Levels in Mathematics, Physics, Spanish, and Psychology (only the first three were taken to A-Level, Psychology was dropped at AS Level).
What are your motivations for pursuing a graduate-level qualification?
I decided to pursue a graduate-level qualification because I wanted to deepen both my technical engineering knowledge and my understanding of how engineers learn, develop, and lead. After completing my BEng (Hons) and MSc in Civil Engineering, I realised how important education, training, and mentorship are within the profession.
I’ve always enjoyed supporting peers and engaging with the engineering community, so studying Engineering and Education felt like the right next step. It allowed me to explore the intersection of technical practice, pedagogy, and leadership, and prepared me for a future where I can contribute to both industry and education.
Why did you apply to UCL for graduate study?
I chose UCL because it offered a rare and exciting opportunity to study engineering through an educational and social lens.
The Engineering and Education MSc is a unique programme that connects two fields that are normally kept separate, despite how interdependent they actually are. UCL’s global reputation (ranked 7th/9th in different prestigious ranking tables), the expertise within the Institute of Education (1st in the world for the past 11 consecutive years), and the chance to learn from academics who are genuinely shaping conversations around engineering education made it the ideal choice.
I also knew that studying in London, surrounded by industry, research, and an incredibly diverse student community, would push me to grow personally and professionally.
What is the best thing about your course?
The best aspect of the course was the variety of perspectives you get to encounter. My cohort included students with backgrounds in aeronautical engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and more – and the discussions we had were always insightful.
The lecturers created a very supportive environment where you’re encouraged to question assumptions, bring your own experiences into the conversation, and think critically about what engineering education can and should look like. I’ve also really enjoyed being one of the two course representatives, which has allowed me to work closely with staff and contribute to shaping the student experience.
One element of the programme that has really impressed me is how closely it connects with UCL’s Integrated Engineering Programme (IEP). The modules often use scenario-based activities to encourage you to think not only about engineering itself, but about the systems, structures, and cultures that shape it. Learning about the IEP’s approach – especially its focus on scenario-based learning (SBL), problem-based learning (PBL), project-based learning (PjBL), self-directed learning (SDL), and interdisciplinary teamwork – has been incredibly valuable for understanding how engineering education is evolving.
It has given me a much deeper insight into how future engineers are trained, and how educational design can shape professional skills, identity, and confidence.
The support from the teaching team has also been excellent – they genuinely care about students’ growth!
What do you find interesting about your field of study and what inspires you?
I’m particularly interested in how engineering knowledge is developed, taught, and applied in real-world contexts. Coming from a structural engineering background, I’ve always been fascinated by the technical side of the discipline – but this programme has encouraged me to see engineering through a wider lens.
I’m inspired by the idea that better teaching, more inclusive educational practices, and stronger links between theory and practice can ultimately lead to better engineers that can address the pressing challenges of the 21st-century for better outcomes for society.
With rapid changes in sustainability, digitalisation, and global infrastructure needs, I believe thoughtful engineering education has never been more important.
What are your career plans once you’ve completed your current programme of study at UCL?
Now that I’ve officially graduated with a Distinction with Honours classification, I am due to publish a research article based on my Master's dissertation research, which will be titled ‘Sustainability Readiness in Structural Engineering Graduates: Perspectives from Academics, Industry and Recent Alumni within an Integrated Engineering Programme’ in the European Journal of Engineering Education (EJEE) – a Q1 ranked journal.
I am also currently working towards a PhD in the field at IOE. The MSc has broadened my thinking and given me tools that will not only support me throughout my doctoral studies, but also in my career, especially as engineering continues to evolve in response to technological and sustainability challenges.
How did studying at UCL benefit your career?
Studying at the world’s best education institution has been an excellent investment in terms of both academic and personal development. The course encouraged me to think differently, reflect deeply, and engage critically with ideas that shape the future of engineering and education.
The support from staff, the quality of teaching, and the connections I made all contributed to an experience that went far beyond a traditional postgraduate degree. I’ve grown more confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to the profession.
Personally, I can confidently say that all my lecturers were fantastic, which made the whole experience just that much more meaningful and enjoyable. My time at IOE has been a genuinely rewarding experience. The programme has challenged me to think in new ways, encouraged meaningful discussions, and helped me develop a broader understanding of engineering as both a technical and educational discipline.
I’m grateful for the supportive community, the quality of teaching, and the opportunities I’ve had to contribute as a course representative. Overall, this MSc has been an important and memorable part of my academic journey, and I look forward to applying the skills I’ve developed into my PhD research.
Have you undertaken any networking opportunities either as part of your degree or outside of your studies?
Yes, definitely. As one of the course representatives, I’ve been able to engage closely with staff, students, and the wider UCL community. Outside the programme, I’m actively involved in several professional institutions, including The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), where I’ve taken on ambassador roles and contributed to outreach and engagement projects.
These experiences have allowed me to meet engineers, academics, and industry leaders, and have strengthened my understanding of how education and practice connect across the sector.
How has receiving funding helped you achieve your aspirations?
Having received funding to support my studies has made a significant difference to my academic journey. It removed a great deal of financial pressure and allowed me to commit myself to the programme without the worry of juggling additional work alongside my Master's degree. The support gave me the freedom to focus on my learning, take on the role of course representative, and engage more deeply with the wider engineering education community. It also reinforced my confidence and motivation, knowing that others believed in my potential.
What is it like studying in London and do you think it has benefited your studies?
Studying in London has been incredibly enriching. I was born and raised here. The city brings together people from all over the world, and that diversity of experience really enhances the classroom environment.
From an engineering perspective, being surrounded by major infrastructure projects, industry headquarters, and world-leading institutions constantly brings theory to life. There’s also endless opportunities in London – whether academic, professional, or cultural – and that atmosphere of innovation and activity has definitely benefited my studies.
Last updated 17 December 2025.