Mechanical Engineering with Foundation Year BEng (Hons)

Discover BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering, where you’ll choose to specialise in aerospace technology, renewable technology, or mechatronics and robotics.

Designed in collaboration with our School’s Industry Advisory Board, and coupled with internships and industry placements, this course puts in-demand skills at the heart of its curriculum, meaning upon completion of the course you’ll have the knowledge employers are looking for.

* Please note this course is Subject to Validation.

Why study BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering at BNU?

Expert insight

Our BEng Hons Mechanical Engineering programme is designed in collaboration with industry experts from the School Industry Advisory Board, ensuring our students acquire the most sought-after skills upon graduating from the course. The program is also structured for future accreditation by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), setting our graduates on a clear path to achieve Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Industry demand

You’ll have the unique opportunity to specialise in one of three dynamic areas - aerospace technology, renewable technology, or mechatronics and robotics. This specialisation not only allows you to delve deeper into their areas of interest but also equips you with niche skills, that are highly sought after by employers in these burgeoning sectors.

Opportunities for you

During your time on the course, you’ll gain practical skills and real-world experience that enhance your chances of employability. You’ll have the opportunity to benefit from internships and industry placements with leading and relevant companies and organisations, guest lectures from experts in the field. 

As well as this, you’ll be well-positioned to network with industry professionals and secure exciting job opportunities with leading companies.

Facilities

At BNU, we prioritise hands-on learning in state-of-the-art engineering laboratories and workshops. During your time on the course you’ll have access to our state-of-the-art and brand-new Engineering and the Built Environment facilities, including;

  • Building Services Lab, to include Air Conditioning Trainer, Hydro-electric Turbine and Photovoltaic Cells
  • Concrete & Geotechnical Testing Lab, to include Slump Test, Concrete Density, Porosity, Flexural and Compression Testing, Soil Shear, Grading and Moisture Tests. 
  • Fluids/Thermo/Hydraulics Lab, to include Pneumatics Workstation, Digital Hydraulic Bench, Axial Flow Pump and Surface Tension Balance. 
  • Mechanical/Structural Lab, to include different Structural Test kits that will measure Deflection of Beams & Cantilevers, Bending Stress and Bending Moments
  • Electronics and High Voltage Lab, to include Power and Energy Electronics, Modern Electrical Machine Systems, Three Phase Power Systems
  • Automation/Manufacturing/General Workshop, to include 3D Metal Printer, Hardness Tester, Universal Tensile Testing, Impact Tester and and Dobot Smart Industry 4.0 Workstation
  • CAD Lab and Design Studio 
  • Immersive Virtual Reality Lab

What will I study?

Aimed at aspiring engineers seeking a solid foundation in mechanical engineering, the program caters to individuals with a passion for technology, innovation, and making a positive impact on society. 

On the programme you’ll have the option to develop expertise in one of three areas such as aerospace engineering, renewable technologies, and mechatronics & robotics. 

The BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering programme is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and applications of mechanical engineering. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, you’ll explore various facets of mechanical engineering, including mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, fluid dynamics, and control systems.

With a strong emphasis on fundamental principles, hands-on laboratory work, industry placements, and opportunities for innovation and creativity in design and problem-solving, you’ll develop skills crucial to the Mechanical Engineering Industry. 

With a focus on practical application and real-world relevance, graduates emerge with the ability to analyse complex engineering problems, design innovative solutions, and communicate effectively in multidisciplinary environments. 

The programme offers an optional placement year, providing an opportunity for students to complete a year-long industry placement. You can also study this course with a foundation year. 

How will I be taught and assessed?

This course strikes a key balance between theory and hands-on learning, ensuring that you not only grasp the theoretical underpinnings of mechanical engineering but also develop the skills necessary to translate theory into practice.

You’ll study in a close-knit tutor group where everyone’s input is recognised and valued. Not only will you make friends for life, you’ll also make important connections that will last through your career, and you’ll form a network, just like you’d find in the working-world.

Furthermore, the programme fosters a collaborative learning environment where you’ll work with your classmates on projects, engage in group discussions, and learn from each other's experiences. This collaborative approach promotes teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, which are essential qualities for success in the field of mechanical engineering.

A range of active teaching methods and authentic assessment strategies will be used during the course, with an emphasis on both practical and traditional teaching approaches. Laboratory sessions and a range of practical activities are crucial to building upon previous learning from lectures and tutorials. 

Traditional forms of assessment include; 

  • Written assignments
  • Report
  • Portfolio and digital models
  • In-class assignments
  • Computer-based test 
  • Set Presentations (for example, poster and oral) 
  • Proposal 
  • Dissertation

With Formula 1 motorsport businesses at the Silverstone Technology Cluster and space related industries at the Westcott Space Cluster are at doorstep, BNU engineering students have the opportunity to link with some of the high-tech industries in the world.

The programme also offers an optional placement year, providing an opportunity for students to complete a year-long industry placement. Working collaboratively with the Wescott Venture Park in Aylesbury, our students and academics will have access to extensive training facilities in the Wescott Space Cluster, further enhancing their practical and research capabilities.

At the heart of what we do is employability skills. You’ll learn the how to communicate solutions, problem-solving, teamwork, and project management. These skills are essential for success in the workplace and are cultivated through group projects, presentations, and other collaborative activities. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to benefit from workshops, guest lectures from industry professionals, and opportunities for networking and internships.

BEng (Hons) Award
Full-time Study Mode
4 years Duration
ME02 UCAS Code

Entry Requirements For This Course

For entry requirements please visit the course page. 

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