Connect with emerging industry
Step into world-class facilities
Be a “work-ready” graduate




Details
Year 1

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

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

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.
Year 4

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
Final year

Core modules
MECH545
Advanced FEA & CFD
20 credits
This module offers an exciting deep dive into Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) through a hands-on design project. You'll learn how to use industrial CAE tools effectively, understand their limitations, and apply validation techniques to improve accuracy and reduce uncertainty.
100% Coursework
MECH558
Design for Excellence
40 credits
Advance your engineering design skills by working in a team to create innovative and environmentally sustainable solutions to complex, real-world challenges. Use CAD and CAE tools to optimise technical performance across the product lifecycle. Validate your solution by building and testing a working prototype using our modern lab facilities. This module tests your perseverance to attend to the smallest of details!
100% Coursework
MAR541
Mechanics of Offshore Renewable Energy Systems
20 credits
Discover how offshore renewable energy systems work in this module. You'll explore the mechanics behind wave, tidal, and offshore wind energy converters and investigate the engineering challenges they face. Develop practical skills through modelling and simulation using industry-standard software, and test designs in the cutting-edge COAST laboratory for real-world insight.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MECH559
Advanced Materials Engineering & Nanotechnology
20 credits
In this module you will explore the forefront of material science with a strong focus on nanotechnology and its transformative impact on engineering. Gain in-depth knowledge of advanced materials - including metals, polymers, composites and ceramics. You will analyse product failures, assess alternative materials, and apply eco-design principles to drive sustainable, high-performance solutions.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
Optional modules
MATS500
Advanced Composites Technology
20 credits
In this module, you’ll gain essential expertise in advanced composites engineering. You'll develop a deep understanding of composites design and manufacturing, refine your skills in modelling, and master materials characterization. This is hands-on knowledge that elevate your engineering abilities and step into the future of composites technology.
100% Coursework
MECH544
Data Processing, Simulation and Optimisation of Engineering Systems
20 credits
Discover how engineers bring systems to life through modelling, simulation, and data. This module covers the basics of dynamical systems, hands-on simulation with MATLAB/Simulink, data visualisation, and optimisation. You’ll also explore how data processing powers real-world engineering solutions across a range of applications.
100% Coursework
Optional pathways
What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?
- 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.
- 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
Experience
Breaking, twisting, and snapping metal in our STEAM Material Testing Lab
I chose Plymouth 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.
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites graduate

Thriving industry connections

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.
Put learning into practice

- 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 Plymouth-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.”
Meet your expert teaching staff

Mr Adam Kyte
Lecturer in Mechanical & Marine Engineering Design (Engineering)

Professor John Summerscales
Professor of Composites Engineering

Dr Jahir Rizvi
Lecturer in Mechanical & Marine Engineering
Your clubs and societies

Life in Plymouth
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.
Current student



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.
Open the door to a successful future
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
£9,535 per year
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
£18,650 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Additional costs
Fund your studies
The Tamar Engineering Project
- £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

Apply
Entry requirements
120 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
A levels
International Baccalaureate
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
All Access courses
Extended entry requirements
Ready to apply?
H304
P60
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

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
120 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
English language requirements
Ready to apply?
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
H304
P60
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth