BEng (Hons) Integrated Engineering

The future needs of industry worldwide requires engineers with a new perspective and with a different range of enhanced engineering skills, understanding and competencies (Industry 4.0). Current, and future, engineering production, and other systems, rely on a decentralised intelligence. To function effectively this requires programming to control their operation as autonomous mechanical and mechatronic systems. Full automation of processes will be necessary in a modern engineering context and will only be achieved through further digitisation, networking and applying an interdisciplinary or systems approach to the engineering activity. In short, we now need engineers who have the key transferrable skills, ability and knowledge to be able to “think outside the box”. Studying for a BEng (Hons) degree in Integrated Engineering at the University of Plymouth will help you gain and develop these necessary professional attributes.

So where will this degree take you? Below are just a few potential employment possibilities:

Many other possible professional career pathways exist, the range only being limited by your vision and future career aspirations.

The BEng (Hons) Integrated Engineering course has been carefully developed to respond to the growing need in industry for engineers who understand the interconnectivity of engineering principles demanded in the modern digital age of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). The course will provide you with a sound understanding of the fundamental principles of contemporary engineering and its applications, in an uncertain and changing profession, one dominated by rapidly developing cyber-physical systems.The enhanced benefits and key features of studying this degree, in contrast to single-discipline courses, are:

• Year 1

• Each year comprises 120 credits of study.

  In the first year of your Integrated Engineering course, you will study alongside other engineering students from across the school to learn the fundamental engineering principles which will underpin the subjects you choose to study later in the course. You will develop your mathematical and computing skills and will enhance your engineering knowledge by studying additional topics chosen from civil and mechanical engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, and robotics engineering. You will also learn about generic design and computer-aided design processes. Laboratory sessions will form an important part of your learning.

  • Engineering Design (ENGR101) – 20 credits
  • Engineering Practise & Experimental Techniques (ENGR102) – 20 credits
  • Engineering Mathematics (ENGR104) – 20 credits
  • Mechanics & Structures (ENGR105) – 20 credits
  • Electrical & Electronic Principles (ELEC144) – 20 credits
  • Software Engineering 1 (COMP1000) – 20 credits
  • Optional Placement Preparation (BPIE115) – 0 credits

  Core modules

  • Stage 1 Mechanical Placement Preparation (BPIE115)

    This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

  • Software Engineering 1 (COMP1000)

    This module exposes students to the principles of software design and construction. The basics of constructing source code to solve a problem will be introduced, exposing students to common control structures alongside concepts such as types and generics. Major programming paradigms such as object orientation and functional programming are introduced. Additionally, key software development tools and methods are explored.

  • Electrical Principles and Machines (ELEC144)

    This module gives an introduction to the electrical properties of materials, capacitance, Inductance, and electromagnetism. Basic circuit principles and their application in dc and ac circuit analysis are then applied to electrical machines, transformers and energy conversion.

  • Engineering Design (ENGR101)

    This module introduces students to engineering design practice appropriate to civil, marine and mechanical engineering disciplines. Students will develop sketching and technical drawing skills and use computer-aided design (CAD) tools to create digital models of technical systems. Working in a team, students will be tasked to create sustainable solutions to real-world technical design challenges.

  • Engineering Practice and Experimental Techniques (ENGR102)

    The mainly experimental basis of this module allows students to extend their engineering knowledge and practical competence using a guided, student-centred, and laboratory-based approach to develop fundamental understanding of a range of engineering topics. The module will help students acquire good study skills and competency in technical communication.

  • Engineering Mathematics (ENGR104)

    This module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills, and techniques, which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.

  • Mechanics and Structures (ENGR105)

    This module introduces students to the fundamental scientific principles of engineering mechanics and structures appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications. Deeper understanding of these scientific principles will be developed through practical applications using hand calculations and computer software tools as appropriate.

• Year 2

• In the second year you will begin to develop and consolidate your chosen engineering study direction. Here you will choose modules from the coherent pathways indicated.  

  Pathway 1: Mechanical/Civil Engineering
  Pathway 2: Electro/Mechanical Engineering
  Pathway 3: Electro/Robotic Engineering
  Pathway 4: Robotic/Computing Engineering

  MATH237 is the compulsory mathematics module for all students and a total of 60 credits are studied in each semester. All students attend a placement preparation module (BPIE215). In addition, students should be aware of Stage 2 modules that are pre-requisites modules for Stage 4 modules. All modules are 20 credits.

  Pathway one

  • Structural Analysis & Design 1 (STAD200) – 20 credits
  • Placement Preparation (BPIE215) – 0 credits
  • Engineering Mathematics & Statistics (MATH237) – 20 credits 
  • Geotechnical Engineering 1 (GEEN200) – 20 credits 
  • Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering (HYFM200)
  • Engineering Quality Management (MFRG209) – 20 credits
  • Introduction to Robotics (ROCO224) – 20 credit

  Pathway two

  • Materials & Structural Integrity (MATS235) – 20 credits
  • Placement Preparation (BPIE215) – 0 credits
  • Engineering Mathematics & Statistics (MATH237) – 20 credits 
  • Software Engineering 2 (COMP2000) – 20 credits 
  • Power Electronics & Generation (ELEC237) – 20 credits
  • Mechanical Engineering Design & Commercialisation (MECH235) – 20 credits
  • Control Engineering (ROCO219) – 20 credits

  Pathway three

  • Placement Preparation (BPIE215) – 0 credits
  • Engineering Mathematics & Statistics (MATH237) – 20 credits 
  • Software Engineering 2 (COMP2000) – 20 credits 
  • Sensors & Actuators for Robotic Systems (ROCO222) – 20 credits 
  • Power Electronics & Generation (ELEC237) – 20 credits
  • Control Engineering (ROCO219) – 20 credits
  • Introduction to Robotics (ROCO224) – 20 credit

  Pathway four

  • Placement Preparation (BPIE215) – 0 credits
  • Engineering Mathematics & Statistics (MATH237) – 20 credits 
  • Software Engineering 2 (COMP2000) – 20 credits 
  • Sensors & Actuators for Robotic Systems (ROCO222) – 20 credits 
  • Artificial Intelligence (COMP2002) – 20 credits 
  • Power Electronics & Generation (ELEC237) – 20 credits
  • Introduction to Robotics (ROCO224) – 20 credits

  Core modules

  • Stage 2 Mechanical Placement Preparation (BPIE215)

    This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed build on the Level 1 module (BPIE111) and to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

  • Engineering Mathematics and Statistics (MATH237)

    This module provides an introduction to mathematical and statistical methods that are important in the study of electronic and communications engineering. The mathematical techniques (transforms) are central to the study of linear, time-invariant systems. As well as introducing descriptive statistics, basic probability distributions, the module also considers the more advanced topics of reliability and quality control.

  Optional modules

  • Software Engineering 2 (COMP2000)

    Students’ understanding of software engineering is expanded by introducing a range of topics that instil best practice. Students will learn how to implement faster software using parallelism and consider aspects of human-computer interaction. Object-orientation and functional programming are revisited, while event-driven programming is introduced. Common design patterns used in the construction of software are introduced.

  • Artificial Intelligence (COMP2002)

    This module provides students with an introduction to the principles of artificial intelligence and the methods used in that field. Topics covered include search and optimisation, knowledge representation and reasoning, and machine learning. Students will gain experience of modelling and simulation, and will apply analytical tools to evaluating results, and will consider the ethical implications of the introduction of AI.

  • Power Electronics and Generation (ELEC237)

    This module introduces power electronics devices and motors. Students will build switching power systems and also build and interface motor drive systems and generators.

  • Communication Systems (ELEC239)

    This module extends the student's knowledge and understanding of electrical engineering in order to develop a deeper understanding of electronic engineering principles and their application to electronic and communication engineering.

  • Geotechnical Engineering 1 (GEEN200)

    This module introduces Geology, and the properties/ behaviour of soil as relevant to Civil Engineering projects. The concepts of groundwater flow and consolidation are considered, with associated calculations. Methods of analysis for estimation of stability and deformation when the ground is loaded are also introduced.

  • Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering (HYFM200)

    This module develops hydraulic engineering concepts introduced in the first year, and introduces hydrodynamic concepts required for coastal engineering. Hydraulic engineering material includes predicting flow in pipes and open channels. Coastal engineering topics include study of waves and tides, and their application to coastal engineering. Learning is supported by laboratory work and a site visit.

  • Materials & Structural Integrity (MATS235)

    This module introduces students to the structural assessment of a range of engineering materials. It includes both a study of the materials themselves as well as their likely failure mechanisms under load. The module will also develop the underpinning mathematical analysis required to quantify these effects in an appropriate manner.

  • Mechanical Engineering Design & Commercialisation (MECH235)

    In this module, students develop and apply their engineering science knowledge in a practical design context. They learn to follow a structured design process to enhance creativity, logical analysis/decision making and commercial awareness. They apply this process to solve a design challenge. They also learn to use parametric calculations to optimise components/systems for specific design constraints.

  • Engineering Quality Management (MFRG209)

    This module provides the student with 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.

  • Control Engineering (ROCO219)

    This module introduces basic concepts in how to control systems that have dynamics. This can involve making an unstable system stable, like balancing a Segway transporter to ensure it always remains upright. Or to get a system to follow a desired input and reach the desired goal. For example, controlling a robot arm so it moves directly to a target location without oscillating or overshooting.

  • Introduction to Robotics (ROCO224)

    This module covers the theory and implementation of robotics, for both physical and simulated robots. Industry standard robot kinematics and simulations are used to analyse different robot designs, and are practically experienced through commercial tools. The basic mechanical principles for building physical robots are also covered, as well as the algorithms required for planning and generating movement.

  • Sensors and Actuators for Robotic Systems (ROCO226)

    A systems level study of the principles and design requirements of modern electronic motor systems. Operating performances of various electrical machines are characterised in four quadrants and the requirements of the corresponding power electronic converter topologies are examined. Control strategies are investigated in terms of drive system performance.

  • Structural Analysis and Design 1 (STAD200)

    This module extends the theoretical base established by the Stage 1 Mechanics and Structures module. It is intended to combine the basic principles of analysis with design to develop an integrated approach to solving problems in Structural Engineering. The module is supported by the use of computer software and laboratory work.

• Optional placement year

• You can decide to do an optional industrial placement during your third year of your studies. In preparation for this you must attend a suitable placement preparation module, from the selection shown below, during stage 2.

  • BPIE215

  Doing an industrial placement will allow you to integrate and consolidate your learning from your first and second years in a meaningful way. In addition, by taking the opportunity to spend an optional year in paid employment whilst still a student engineer, you will obtain recordable professional experience, build a network of industry contacts and often obtain offers of summer work, sponsorship or employment on graduation. Our placements team will support you in finding a placement, and we have an extensive network of employers across all sectors.

  Core modules

  • Mechanical Engineering Related Placement (BPIE335)

    A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study and to prepare for the final stage and employment after graduation.

• Final year

• In the final year, you will complete your Integrated Engineering degree by studying modules which will more fully define your chosen engineering specialism. Stage 4 students must study 120 credits chosen from one of the four clusters shown below. Students are expected to progress into the cluster that continues their Stage 2 pathway. 

  Cluster 1: Mechanical/Civil Engineering
  Cluster 2: Electro/Mechanical Engineering
  Cluster 3: Electro/Robotic Engineering
  Cluster 4: Robotic/Computing Engineering

  Each student must undertake PRME309 the 40 credit Integrated Engineering project module. A further 40 credits must also be studied in each semester. Not all module combinations in a cluster are available, the required combinations are shown.
  Cluster one

  • Integrated Engineering Honours Project (PRME309) - 40 credits
  • Fluid Mechanics (MATH3704) – 20 credits 
  • Modelling and Numerical Simulations (MATH3708) – 20 credits 
  • Computer Aided Engineering (MECH341) – 20 credits
  • Structural Analysis & Design 2 (STAD300) – 20 credits
  • Control and Intelligent Systems Design (CONT317) – 20 credits 
  • Geotechnical Engineering 2 (GEEN314) – 20 credits
  • Mechanical Engineering Design & Practise (MECH342) – 20 credits
  • Structural Engineering Design (STAD315) – 20 credits

  Cluster two

  • Integrated Engineering Honours Project (PRME309) - 40 credits
  • Advanced Embedded Programming (ELEC351) – 20 credits
  • Modelling and Numerical Simulations (MATH3708) – 20 credits
  • Computer Aided Engineering (MECH341) – 20 credits 
  • Structural Analysis & Design 2 (STAD300) – 20 credits
  • Machine Vision & Behavioural Computing (ROCO320) – 20 credits 
  • Control and Intelligent Systems Design (CONT317) – 20 credits 
  • Design & Control of Renewable Energy Technology (ELEC349) – 20 credits
  • Mechanical Engineering Design & Practise (MECH342) – 20 credits
  • Structural Engineering Design (STAD315) – 20 credits

  Cluster three

  • Integrated Engineering Honours Project (PRME309) - 40 credits
  • High Speed Communications (ELEC345) - 20 credits
  • Advanced Embedded Programming (ELEC351) – 20 credits 
  • Mobile & Humanoid Robots (ROCO318) – 20 credits 
  • Machine Learning for Robotics (ROCO351) – 20 credits 
  • Machine Vision & Behavioural Computing (ROCO320) – 20 credits 
  • Parallel Computing (COMP3001) – 20 credits 
  • Control and Intelligent Systems Design (CONT317) – 20 credits 
  • Design & Control of Renewable Energy Technology (ELEC349) – 20 credits

  Cluster four

  • Integrated Engineering Honours Project (PRME309) - 40 credits
  • Machine Learning (COMP3003) – 20 credits 
  • Statistical Data Modelling (MATH3702) – 20 credits 
  • Modelling and Numerical Simulations (MATH3708) – 20 credits
  • Mobile & Humanoid Robots (ROCO318) – 20 credits 
  • Machine Vision & Behavioural Computing (ROCO320) – 20 credits 
  • Parallel Computing (COMP3001) – 20 credits 
  • Alternative Paradigms (COMP3002) – 20 credits 
  • Advanced Computer and Networking Infrastructures (COMP3004) - 20 credits
  • Optimisation, Networks and Graphs (MATH3709) – 20 credits

  Core modules

  • Integrated Engineering Project (PRME309)

    In this module students will carry out an independent project that closely aligns with their programme of study. This project will be carried out under the guidance of an appointed supervisor.

  Optional modules

  • Parallel Computing (COMP3001)

    This module develops an understanding of problems in Computer Science which take advantage of general-purpose computing on GPUs. It provides practical methodologies to reformulate problems in terms of hardware architecture, graphics primitives and high-performance computing concepts, as supported by the most recent GPUs. It develops the skills to implement parallel solutions with common GP-GPU computing languages.

  • Alternative Paradigms (COMP3002)

    Imperative programming and related “classic” machines like finite state or Turing machines dominate the field of computing. This module aims to expose students to ways of thinking about computational problems that go beyond mainstream imperative styles (e.g., functional and declarative programming) and to ideas and workings of and behind unconventional and upcoming computing paradigms (e.g. quantum or neural computing).

  • Machine Learning (COMP3003)

    This module introduces machine learning, covering unsupervised, supervised and reinforcement learning from a Bayesian perspective. This includes theory behind a range of learning techniques and how to apply these representations of data in systems that make decisions and predictions.

  • Advanced Computing and Networking Infrastructures (COMP3004)

    This module introduces the infrastructures of the future Internet and cloud, both moving towards virtualisation and softwarisation, and describes how they underpin the development and deployment of multimedia Internet applications and services. Topics include virtualisation and cloud; services and applications; Software Defined Networking, and Network Function Virtualisation; load balancing, performance and resilience.

  • Control and Intelligent Systems Design (CONT317)

    This module explores the application of control engineering and artificial intelligence techniques in the design of control systems

  • High Speed Communications (ELEC345)

    A circuit and system design module covering analogue and high frequency techniques and their place in modern communications systems.

  • Design and Control of Renewable Energy Technology (ELEC349)

    The focus of this module is on the generation of energy using solar photovoltaic (PV) technology. The effect of the environment, the PV material characteristics and the technology to achieve maximum power point tracking (MPPT) are described.

  • Advanced Embedded Programming (ELEC351)

    The module aims to develop programming skills in embedded programming, by making use of advanced features of high-level programming languages and by deepening the knowledge of modern programming techniques in embedded systems. The module has a strong practical bias where students are required to solve various problems by programming existing microcontroller hardware.

  • Geotechnical Engineering 2 (GEEN314)

    This module considers the application of Soil Mechanics to analysis and design of a range of common Civil Engineering structures. This includes shallow and deep foundations, retaining structures, and slope stability.

  • Statistical Data Modelling (MATH3702)

    We study statistical models, including regression and the general and generalised linear models. We estimate model parameters in the classical and Bayesian inference frameworks, using R and Stan software. We describe related computer techniques, including computational matrix algebra and Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms. We work with multiple data sources using state-of-the art data handling tools.

  • Fluid Dynamics (MATH3704)

    In this module, students will learn how to use mathematics to model a variety of fluid flows. Fluid flow problems are described mathematically as ordinary or partial differential equations. These equations are then solved and the results interpreted for a mixture of theoretical and practical examples of both inviscid and viscous fluid flows. Applications from environmental and industrial modelling will be studied.

  • Modelling and Numerical Simulation (MATH3708)

    Simulations and modelling are crucial tools that support industrial research and innovation. Students will learn to analyse mathematical models and develop programs to solve them. They will investigate algorithms and discuss their performance. Students will code and run numerical programs on a high performance computer. These forward-looking skills are highly sought after by many employers.

  • Optimisation, Networks and Graphs (MATH3709)

    Optimisation and graph theory are related branches of mathematics with applications in areas as diverse as computer science and logistics. Graphs are used to capture relationships between objects, while optimisation studies algorithms that search for optimal solutions. This module provides both the theory and modern algorithms, including those used in artificial intelligence, required to solve a broad range of problems.

  • Computer Aided Engineering (MECH341)

    In this module, students learn to use two of the Computer Aided Engineering methods that are most commonly used in industry; finite volume Computational Fluid Dynamics (to solve fluid flow problems) and Finite Element Analysis (to solve structural problems). Students gain an overview of the theory that underpins these methods, and learn how to use a validation process to assess reliability of simulation results.

  • Mechanical Engineering Design and Practice (MECH342)

    This module further develops a methodical approach to engineering design. Students will create solutions to a complex engineering problem, embodiment designs using CAD tools, validate functionality, optimise technical performance and consider design for excellence targets across the product lifecycle. The module also considers the professional responsibilities of engineers, codes of conduct and typical ethical issues.

  • Mobile and Humanoid Robots (ROCO318)

    This module examines the technology, control and modelling of mobile and humanoid robot systems. Mathematical analysis and computational algorithms underpin practical considerations and case studies.

  • Computer Vision (ROCO321)

    The module will provide an advanced knowledge of artificial vision systems for interactive systems guidance and control. It will be underpinned by current theoretical understanding of animal vision systems.

  • Machine Learning for Robotics (ROCO351)

    This module introduces basic concepts in the area of machine learning, which is a rapidly expanding field that allows computers to learn how to behave and perform complex tasks without being explicitly programmed to do them. Applications range from signal processing, image recognition through to the control of robotics systems.

  • Structural Analysis and Design 2 (STAD300)

    This module focuses on the analyses and design of whole structures, i.e. multi-storey buildings. It includes computer modelling and analysis, and methods of the validation of the obtained results using approximate analysis.

  • Structural Engineering Design (STAD315)

    This module introduces students to standard industry design practices and builds on their previous knowledge by introducing them to the design of low rise and multi storey structures. Students will also be taught to design individual structural elements within the building envelope. Approximate forms of analysis will be used to asses a structural model and to develop an understanding of structure interaction.

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

BEng Integrated Engineering Programme Specification September 2023 7529

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.

A typical offer is 120 points to include C in Maths, C in second relevant subject in Science or Technology. Excluding General Studies.

GCSE
English and Maths grade C / 4 or above or equivalent.

BTEC National Extended Diploma
DDD in a relevant Science or Engineering subject. Must include Maths units. Candidates may be interviewed before an offer is made.

Access
Access to HE Diploma in a Science or Engineering.
Pass Access in Engineering to include 45 credits at level 3. Must include 33 credits to include at least 12 credits at level 3 in Maths with Distinction and 12 credits at level 3 in a second relevant subject with Merit. Must have GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4 or above or equivalent.

International Baccalaureate
International Baccalaureate: 30 points overall to include 5 at Higher Level Maths and 4 at Higher Level Sci/Tech subject.

Welsh Baccalaureate
120 points from Welsh Baccalaureate – accepted as additional points in addition to the two A levels described above.

Scottish Qualifications Authority
120 points including grade C in a relevant subject at Advanced Higher Level (applied ICT; applied science; biology; chemistry; computing; DT (product design); DT (systems and control tech); DT (textiles tech); electronics; engineering; environmental science; maths/further maths; stats; physics; science; tech and design). Plus pass Higher level maths.

Irish Leaving Certificate
Grades required: BBBBB including mathematics and a science or technology subject at higher level plus Ordinary Level Grade C Maths and English.

We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). 

UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code. 

To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.