This is a four-year version of our popular BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering course, with an integrated foundation year. Learn a range of diverse subjects from thermodynamics, design and the mechanics of machines, to state-of-the-art technological solutions such as finite element analysis, computer-aided design (CAD) and computational fluid dynamics. Graduate with a choice of career options in design, process, manufacturing and management.
Overview
Mechanical Engineering is the broadest of all engineering disciplines. This course covers topics such as electrical principles, mechanics, manufacturing and materials, microprocessors and thermofluids.
You are encouraged to apply to undertake a year-long placement between the second and final years, although it is not compulsory. Past students have secured paid placement with companies such as Jaguar, Nissan, GlaxoSmithKline, Assystem, Cummins Engines, Delphi Powertrain Systems and Tata Steel.
Staff use their real-world experience to enhance the already excellent teaching and support, which is enriched by the University’s leading-edge research into areas such as manufacturing systems and advanced maintenance.
Course Structure
Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, group work, laboratory projects and e-learning. We encourage you to develop independent study skills. You will also have opportunities to present ideas to other students and develop concepts within groups.
As well as assessments that count towards your degree, there are also on-going assessments for feedback and consolidating your learning. Assessment methods include exams and projects.
Foundation Year
Core Modules
- Engineering Practice
- Essential Study Skills
- Foundation Project
- Foundations of Engineering
- Mathematics for Engineering and Computing
Year 1 (National Level 4)
Core Modules
- Applied Mechanics
- Design, Drawing and Practical Skills
- Electronic & Electrical Principles
- Energy Conversion
- Engineering Mathematics
- Manufacturing and Materials
Year 2 (National Level 5)
Core Modules
- Automation for Manufacturing
- Computer Aided Engineering
- Engineering Mechanics
- Manufacturing Processes
- Mechanical Design – 2
- Thermofluids
Optional Modules
- Engineering Placement
Final Year (National Level 6)
Core Modules
- Engineering Dynamics and Thermofluids
- Manufacturing Systems Design
- Mechanical Design and Materials Selection
- Professional Engineering Management Techniques
- Project
Facilities
You will be based at the David Goldman Informatics Centre. Our specialist labs include:
- Product Development Lab
- Electronics Lab
- Automation Lab
- Project Lab
- Material Characterisation Lab
- Formulation Lab
- Thermofluids Lab
- Mechanical Engineering Lab
You will have access to a range of industry leading technologies at the Industry Centre, the home of the Institute of Automotive and Manufacturing Advanced Practice as well as access to industrial standard software to help prepare you for a future career in a digital context.
Entry Requirements
The Integrated Foundation Year is specially designed to support you where you have just missed the grades required for direct entry onto a three-year degree, or if you have relevant work experience and are now looking to broaden your subject knowledge but want more time to develop study skills before starting your degree.
Entry requirements are provided for guidance only and we may offer you an entrance interview which will help us determine your eligibility for your chosen degree. This enables us to consider making you an offer if you are perhaps a mature student who has been out of education for a period of time, or you have gained significant knowledge and skills through employment rather than traditional education.
Eligible Entry Qualifications
- Normally a minimum of three Level 2 qualifications (NVQ, GCSE or equivalent), including Maths and English at grade C or above** and a minimum of 40 UCAS tariff points from Level 3 qualifications (e.g. A or AS Levels, BTEC certificates/diplomas, access courses or equivalent) OR
- Demonstrable evidence of appropriate knowledge and skills acquired from at least three years of post-school work experience.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth using the UCAS Tariff calculator.
If you are unsure of whether you think you might be suitable for the course, please contact us!
** If you have studied for a GCSE which has a numerical grade then you will need to achieve a grade 4 or above. Equivalent alternative qualifications are also accepted, such as Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number. If you have not achieved a grade C in Maths and English we may be able to work with you to ensure that you are able to gain these in the first year of the course, depending on your experience.
If English is not your first language, please see our English language requirements.
For more information about our Integrated Foundation Year courses please see our Help and Advice articles.
Career Ready
Recent graduates have secured graduate jobs that pay around £28,000 a year, with companies such as McLaren Automotive, General Motors and Nissan.
Graduate Success
Our recent graduates have gone on to work for companies such as McLaren Automotive, General Motors, Jaguar, Perkins Engines, GSK, Northumbrian Water, Hitachi and Parametrics Technology. Other graduates conduct research within major automotive manufacturers such as Ford, Vauxhall and Nissan.
Placements
To further enhance employability we encourage you to apply for a 48-week placement where available between your second and final year. Placements are subject to availability and interviews are required. They are usually paid, with past students having earned an average salary of £14,000-£18,000 a year depending on location.
Placements are an excellent opportunity to put your learning into practice and understand the context for your new knowledge. The contacts made during placements can also be valuable for future job offers. Examples of companies that have offered placements to Sunderland students include Jaguar, Vauxhall, Nissan, Caterham Cars, Cummins Engines and Tata Steel.