Course summary

Mechanical engineering looks at how parts, machines and systems work, and how to design and analyse them. The vital role of mechanical engineers is becoming increasingly important as society attempts to meet the great challenges facing it in the future. From addressing the demands of a growing and ageing population, to seeking new sustainable energy approaches and preserving our environment, mechanical engineers will be at the heart of delivering solutions to future global issues. The focus of mechanical engineering on energy and design and its widespread applications within society, provides our graduates with opportunities to pursue a variety of interesting careers. Because it’s so broad, it makes an ideal undergraduate degree – providing an opportunity to learn about the full range of exciting engineering pathways without specialising too early. In Years 1 and 2 you’ll build a strong foundation in fundamental engineering concepts such as fluid mechanics, design, materials and mathematical modelling, whilst being introduced to Mechanical Engineering through our ‘Explore Mechanical Engineering’ module. Modules in design and experimental practice, will help you to develop the practical workshop and laboratory-based skills necessary for all engineers, and put core programme material into perspective and to practical use. In Year 3, you’ll be able to choose modules that fit with your own interests and skill set. This includes Designing for a Circular Economy, Robotics, Failure of Materials, Network Engineering, Heat Exchange and Recovery and Process Safety and Loss Prevention. The third-year design project will provide an opportunity for you to concentrate on your specific interests, whilst working on an industry-focused area in collaboration with the School’s world-leading researchers. Students who choose to take the MEng degree will learn advanced modules and carry out an industry or research-linked project that focuses on solving real engineering research and design problems. Recent projects have included assessing Britain’s Olympic bobsleigh and testing a combustor from a Rolls-Royce micro-gas turbine. We place strong emphasis not only on the technical content of our modules, such as mechanics, thermodynamics and design, but also on the cross discipline skills vital for an engineer to function in the work place. We have mapped the modules in our programmes to a range of attributes that we would like our students to attain, within the areas of creativity, resilience, communication and professional practice in order to produce well-rounded, interested and highly employable graduates. This not only ensures that the students develop technical knowledge and understanding as they progress through their degree, but it also gives us the confidence that students will graduate with skills they can apply to a range of future careers or higher-level study. We've recently undertaken a review of our programmes to ensure that they will prepare you for life beyond 2030 and ensure they reflect the global challenges facing both our society and your future as engineers. We have developed the modules we offer in consultation with our students, staff and industry to enhance your student experience and graduate employability.