TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BEng (Hons)

Mechanical Engineering

Passionate about technology and design? With an emphasis on hands-on, industry-connected learning, we'll support your journey to becoming a qualified professional mechanical engineer working with and solving real-world problems.

Our typical offer

112 UCAS points

Connect with emerging industry

Leverage our strong industry ties to gain hands-on experience in design and materials. Opt for a voluntary placement year for extra industry exposure.

Step into world-class facilities

The Babbage Building offers cutting-edge research labs and specialist equipment, providing hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies. It’s the ideal space to collaborate on groundbreaking projects and develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

Graduate ready for work

You will be highly regarded by employers for being work-ready and excel at top companies like Hoare Lea, Babcock Marine and the Ministry of Defence. Unique to 91porn, our 'with composites' pathway gives you a competitive edge.
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

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About

Engineering student Elena Brake

I envision a career as a Mechanical Engineer, concentrating on critical environmental projects. My aspiration is to make a positive change.

BEng Mechanical Engineering student Elena Brake  

Primarily problem solvers, mechanical engineers design, create and apply tools and methods across industries, from atomic physics to space exploration. They tackle crucial challenges that impact us all, such as energy security, efficient manufacturing and smart cities. At 91porn you will learn from enthusiastic staff with strong industry connections, who use laboratory sessions and hands-on demonstrations to reinforce academic concepts. 

 

This course is for you if...

you're captivated by technology and innovative design
Icon showing computer with cog in representing engineering
you enjoy solving complex problems across various industries
Three individuals linked by arrows, depicting collaboration
you're eager to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment
Icon showing hand and cog
you seek a flexible programme that aligns with your career goals.
Globe showing networks

Details

 
 
 

Year 1

Get ready for an exciting start to your career as a mechanical engineer. Our "learning by doing" ethos is at the heart of our teaching approach. You will join forces with fellow engineering students in our unique, purpose-built laboratories to experience the fascinating world of engineering materials, structures and thermo-fluid mechanics. Alongside this hands-on approach, you will develop insight into the underpinning engineering science and mathematics that govern how the real world behaves.
By the end of this year, you will have developed confidence in core IT and computer aided design skills, and used your imagination and creativity to resolve real-world engineering challenges.
 
Mechanical engineering students

Core modules

BPIE115
Stage 1 Mechanical Placement Preparation 0 credits

Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.

ENGR103
Engineering Science 20 credits

This module covers the essential scientific principles of fluid mechanics for civil, marine, and mechanical engineering applications. We'll also delve into thermodynamics, focusing on the interaction between systems and their surroundings. Lastly, we'll explore the fundamental principles of electrical engineering, providing you with a solid foundation in circuits and electrical systems.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR104
Engineering Mathematics 20 credits

Build the maths skills every engineer needs. Want to design bridges, launch rockets, or create the next big tech breakthrough? It all starts here. This module gives you the core math skills and problem-solving techniques every engineer relies on. It’s the foundation for everything you'll build in your engineering journey.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR105
Mechanics and Structures 20 credits

We'll teach you the fundamental scientific principles of engineering mechanics and structures appropriate for engineering applications. You'll develop a deeper understanding of these key scientific principles through practical applications using hands-on calculations and also computer software tools.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR106
Engineering Materials 20 credits

Materials science is crucial for designing and manufacturing everything from bridges and airplanes to ships and medical devices. This module will teach you the properties and behaviours of different engineering materials—such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites—to allow you select or develop materials that meet specific performance, efficiency, safety and environmental requirements.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ENGR107
Engineering Design 20 credits

Problem solving is at the heart of everything, but to solve a problem, you must first understand it. Engineering design sharpens this skill, helping you develop valid solutions to real challenges. In Semester 1, you'll develop essential techniques: sketching, computer-aided design, and application of the design process. Then, in Semester 2, you’ll put those skills to the test, tackling real-world design problems head-on.

70% Coursework

30% Tests

ENGR108
Engineering Practice and Experimental Techniques 20 credits

Here you'll take a hands-on, practical approach to learning the fundamental principles of engineering science, with engaging experiments in our modern, student-centred labs. Along the way, you’ll develop essential study habits, strengthen teamwork skills, and build confidence in technical communication - key qualities for any aspiring engineer.

100% Coursework

Year 2

In your second year, specialist subjects like control systems engineering and quality management are introduced, while continuing to enhance your proficiency in the core engineering sciences.  To support this, you will learn to apply powerful mathematical and computational tools to analyse, enhance and optimise engineering systems. The design-to-manufacture process is explored in depth using digitally-controlled machine tools to make prototype parts.
In parallel, an extensive programme of career development support will supercharge your professional and transferable skills in readiness for the workplace; helping you to find the perfect placement.
 
Fluid Dynamics Lab

Core modules

BPIE215
Stage 2 Mechanical Placement Preparation 0 credits

A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.

CONT223
Engineering Mathematics and Control 20 credits

Dive into the foundations of control engineering! In this module, you'll explore powerful mathematical tools such as Laplace transforms and discover how they're applied to model and analyse real-world engineering problems. In parallel, you'll be introduced to classical control systems theory, gaining insight into how engineers design controllers that keep everything from robots to airplanes stable and responsive.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MATS236
Materials & Structural Integrity 20 credits

In this module, you will be introduced to the structural assessment of a range of engineering materials. You will learn both a study of the materials themselves as well as their likely failure mechanisms when subjected to external loads. The module will also help you develop the underpinning mathematical analysis you will need to quantify these effects in an appropriate manner.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MECH236
Manufacturing Processes 20 credits

Here you’ll obtain a deep understanding of manufacturing processes through a blend of lectures and hands-on practicals. You’ll explore forming, shaping, joining, and machining processes with both metallic and non-metallic materials. Working in our workshops will reinforce key concepts of manufacturing and enable you to use CAD part models to drive additive and subtractive CNC machine tools. It's manufacturing in action!

100% Coursework

MECH237
Thermo-Fluids 20 credits

In this module, you'll dive into the key concepts of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics that are crucial for mechanical engineering. Discover how energy flow in heat engines and how fluids behave in various engineering scenarios and its application to areas such as aerodynamics.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MECH238
Mechanical Engineering Design & Commercialisation 20 credits

This module is your chance to use your creativity in an exciting mechanical engineering challenge, developing a product that you are proud of. You will learn to apply knowledge of engineering science (combined with 3D modelling) to optimise your designs. You will follow a structured design process as you would in industry, considering factors such as project/risk management, sustainability and product commercialisation.

70% Coursework

30% Tests

MFRG217
Engineering Quality Management 20 credits

This module gives you an understanding of the importance of Total Quality to a manufacturer, its measurement and some of the tools available to the designer/manager to ensure it is profitably achieved. It introduces the concept of the World-Class organisation, its culture and management as well as the international (ISO) management systems (quality, environment and H&S) involved.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

Optional placement year

The optional placement year is a fantastic opportunity to advance your career as a professional engineer by working in a commercial engineering team. The placement gives you invaluable experience beyond the classroom environment, developing skills crucial to your future employment. 
The whole world awaits: our students find opportunities in a diverse range of sectors including Formula 1, medical robotics, nuclear engineering and offshore renewables. Placement often results in an offer of graduate employment.
 
Mechanical engineering

Optional modules

BPIE335
Mechanical Engineering Related Placement 0 credits

A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.

Final year

The most significant element of this year is your dissertation project where you will apply all the skills and knowledge that you have learned to explore a topic that you find truly fascinating. The project is a hands-on research challenge allowing you to develop deeper insight and knowledge into an area that aligns to your careers aspirations.
Take ownership of your learning by selecting your preferred pathway: either deepening your understanding of thermo-fluids and design practice, or learning the theoretical and practical aspects of composites engineering on our unique 'with composites' pathway.
 
The Clean Room - Brunel laboratories

Core modules

MECH341
Computer Aided Engineering 20 credits

In this module, you will gain expertise in two powerful Computer Aided Engineering methods: Computational Fluid Dynamics for fluid flow challenges and Finite Element Analysis for structural solutions. You’ll explore validation techniques to ensure reliable simulation results. You will develop your skills that set you apart in the world of engineering!

70% Coursework

30% Tests

CONT318
Control and Intelligent Systems Design 20 credits

From autonomous ships to self-driving cars and aerial drones, this module explores how control engineering and AI power intelligent systems across land, air, and sea. You'll learn how engineers design smart technologies that make real-time decisions—just like the systems behind modern ships, aircraft, and vehicles.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

PRME310
Engineering Honours Project 40 credits

Your Honours Project is your chance to focus on what really fascinates you. You will have freedom to choose almost any topic that aligns with your degree programme, and you will develop a deep understanding of it. Much of your work will be done independently (with regular guidance from your supervisor). You will present a poster at the end of the project where you can proudly show all that you have achieved.

100% Coursework

Optional modules

THER307
Thermal-Fluids Engineering 20 credits

In this module, you'll dive deeper into the fascinating world of thermal and fluid engineering, focusing on topics that are essential for mechanical engineering. Explore advanced concepts such as compressible flows, formation of shocks, heat engines, and thermal plumes and see how they apply to real-world engineering challenges.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MATS347
Composites Design and Manufacture 20 credits

Composites are lightweight materials enabling sustainable fuel-efficient transport systems and large durable blades for renewable energy systems. In this module you will learn how to design composite materials and the manufacturing processes essential for such high-performance structures. You make a composite laminate, measure selected mechanical properties and compare the data with theoretical predictions.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MATS348
Composites Engineering 20 credits

Extending learning from MATS347, you will choose a component, prepare a product design specification (PDS), do individual designs, then agree a group design and manufacturing route, make the prototype(s) and test against the PDS. You also use numerical simulation to optimise the design of the composite structure. The coursework mimics industrial product development with staff acting as customers for your product.

100% Coursework

MECH343
Mechanical Engineering Design and Practice 20 credits

Supercharge your engineering design skills by creating innovative and sustainable solutions to complex, real-world challenges. Use CAD and CAE tools to bring your ideas to life, validate functionality, and optimise technical performance across the product lifecycle. Explore the ethical responsibilities of engineers by debating real-world dilemmas. This module is a deep dive into creativity, precision, and integrity!

100% Coursework

 
 
 
 
 
 

Optional pathways

Our flexible courses offer the opportunity to add a specialism in composites engineering, or choose an integrated masters (MEng) and enrich your undergraduate degree with an additional year at postgraduate level. 
Optional ‘with composites’ pathway
Our fully accredited, and well respected, composites pathway will allow you to develop a firm foundation in the principles of mechanical engineering alongside the design and manufacture of specialist materials. This specialism will be acknowledged on your degree certificate.

What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?

BEng (Hons)
  • A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
  • Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
MEng (Hons)
  • A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
  • Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Course-specific academic regulations

This course has unique rules relating to:

  • Passing a module
View the full regulations for this course

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Breaking, twisting, and snapping metal in our STEAM Material Testing Lab

The  Babbage Building: where engineering meets design is home to the engineers of the future.
We’ve packed it with specialist equipment sourced from world-leading global companies. This includes a sub-sonic wind tunnel, an autonomous vehicle test laboratory, an energy and sustainability laboratory, high performance computing facilities, a digital fabrication laboratory, virtual engineering suites and much more.
 

I chose 91porn because it offered a tailored composites degree, which very few universities offer. Since finishing my degree, I went straight into a graduate role at the National Composites Centre in Bristol.

Joshua Wood
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites graduate
Joshua Wood, graduate in BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites
 
 
 

Thriving industry connections

From consultancy colleagues commissioning live briefs, to networking at conferences, you will develop relationships with industry to help provide you with the connections and opportunities you need to begin your career.
 
Jack Williams in the Bloodhound Supersonic Car

I can say with 100 per cent certainty that I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without my placement year. It made a huge difference to not only my CV, but my confidence and general business know-how.

91porn graduate Jack Williams spent four months with the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC) land-speed record project team.

 
 
 
 
 

Put learning into practice

Take a paid year in industry to help consolidate and develop your engineering knowledge – many of our students receive job offers or sponsorship as a result of their placements.
Mechanical engineering - student using a soldering iron
  • Get your career off to a great start by spending a year working professionally as a student engineer between years two and three.
  • You could earn £15,000 a year or more, and possibly gain sponsorship through your final year(s) at university.
  • Gain experience that will help you find a job when you graduate and a Certificate of Professional or Work Experience in addition to your degree award.

“I spent a year on work placement with 91porn-based Fine Tubes, a manufacturer of precision tubes for a wide range of industries including aerospace, oil and gas, medical. As a result of my performance, the company sponsored the final year of my degree and offered me a job.”

Russell Lloyd
 
 
 
 
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics is a collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers focused on creating knowledge and innovative solutions that positively impact society.

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Alexander Besinis Associate Professor in Mechanical and Medical Engineering


Associate Professor in Mechanical and Medical Engineering

Dr Pablo Borja Lecturer in Control Systems Engineering


Lecturer in Control Systems Engineering

Dr Keri Collins Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering


Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering

Show all
 
 
 

Your clubs and societies

UPSU offer a range of opportunities for you to connect with others.
The University's provides a platform for you to meet, socialise with and learn from from fellow students.
The club aims to promote links across all engineering disciplines and between all year groups from foundation year to masters year. Socials and events are hosted throughout the year so come and get involved.
91porn Engineering Society
 
 
 

Life in 91porn

91porn's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what 91porn and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Sometimes I have to take a step back to remind myself that at the other end of this antenna I’m controlling a spacecraft around Mars or another spacecraft in deep space, it’s literally out of this world.

Mechanical Engineering graduate, Jamie Williams , took his deep interest in science, engineering and space and landed the career he always dreamed of – Senior Deep Space Operator at Goonhilly Earth Station, Cornwall.
 
 

Open the door to a successful future

Your degree opens doors to sectors as diverse as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing and energy.
With starting salaries from £26,000 to £30,000, our graduates have gone on to work for , , , , , the and the .
Discover things to consider when choosing a career or considering further study after studying a mechanical and marine engineering degree.
  • ]

    95% of our mechanical and marine engineering graduates are in work or further study

  • [

    98% of our mechanical and marine engineering graduates say their degree was a formal requirement for their job or gave them an advantage*

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at 91porn, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

The Tamar Engineering Project

The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
  • £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • £1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
112 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C or above is required.

A levels
112 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.
To include grade C in A level Maths and grade C in a second relevant science subject. Relevant subjects include Applied ICT, Applied Science, Applied Business, Biology, Business/Business Studies, Chemistry, Computing, Computer Science, Design and Technology (Product Design Resistant Materials), Design and Technology (systems and Control Tech), Design and Technology Product Design (Textiles Tech), Economics, Economics and Business, Electronics, Engineering, Environmental Science, Design and Technology, ICT, Physics, Science, Statistics, Further Maths, Use of Maths, Pure Maths.

International Baccalaureate
28 to 32 points overall to include 4 in Higher Level Mathematics and 4 in a second relevant Higher Level science/technology subject. English and mathematics must be included.

18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM – DDM in a relevant Science, Engineering or Technology subject, to include Merit in a relevant Mathematics unit.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 33 level 3 credits with at least 12 Level 3 credits at distinction in Mathematics and 12 credits at Merit in another Science, Engineering or Technology subject. Plus, GCSEs: English and Maths at a Grade C/4.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
Please note: We understand that many applicants remain anxious about meeting the exact terms of our standard conditional offers. We will look again at your application and revise our offer for those applicants who we continue to believe are a good match for our courses, once we have the certainty of your actual results in August.
UCAS course code
H300
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
91porn

    • Other routes into this course

    The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

    BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Foundation Year

    Want to pursue engineering but lack traditional requirements, or seeking a career change? This four-year degree, with a foundation year in mechanical engineering, covers design, mechanics and materials, enhancing your employability across industries.

     

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    112 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
    Short of the entry requirements for this course? Don’t worry you may be eligible for a foundation year to prepare you for possible entry onto this course for the following year.
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    H300
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    91porn

    Other routes to this course

    The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to 91porn degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
    Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the 91porn.
     
    Book your place
    Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
     
     
     
    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.