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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 Plymouth, our 'with composites' pathway gives you a competitive edge.
About
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 Plymouth 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
you enjoy solving complex problems across various industries
you're eager to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment
you seek a flexible programme that aligns with your career goals.
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.
Core modules
BPIE115
Stage 1 Mechanical Placement Preparation
0 credits
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.
ENGR103
Engineering Science
20 credits
This module introduces students to the fundamental scientific principles of fluid mechanics appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications; the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics relating to the interaction between systems and their surroundings, including both flow and non-flow processes, heat engines, and mechanisms of heat transfer; and the fundamental principles of electrical engineering.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR104
Engineering Mathematics
20 credits
This module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills, and techniques, which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR105
Mechanics and Structures
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR106
Engineering Materials
20 credits
This module introduces students to a broad range of engineering materials appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications. The module will consider the relationship between structure, manufacture and properties, presenting practical applications wherever appropriate. Students will also be introduced to standard material test methods.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ENGR107
Engineering Design
20 credits
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.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
ENGR108
Engineering Practice and Experimental Techniques
20 credits
The experimental basis of this module allows students develop their engineering science knowledge and practical skills using a student-centred, laboratory-based approach to learning. The module will help students develop good quality study skills, teamwork, and competency in technical communication.
70% Practicals
30% 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.
Core modules
BPIE215
Stage 2 Mechanical Placement Preparation
0 credits
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.
CONT223
Engineering Mathematics and Control
20 credits
This module provides engineering mathematical techniques and methods (Laplace transform and linear algebra) for the analysis of practical engineering problems and introduces classical control systems theory.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
MATS236
Materials & Structural Integrity
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MECH236
Manufacturing Processes
20 credits
The module provides students with a comprehensive introduction to manufacturing. It will cover both the fundamentals of forming, shaping, joining and traditional machining processes in relation to a range of engineering materials and the relationship between structure, manufacture and properties. It will also include hands-on workshop activities to reinforce understanding and to develop additional engineering competences.
100% Coursework
MECH237
Thermo-Fluids
20 credits
This module will introduce key concepts in thermodynamics and fluids mechanics theory pertaining to mechanical engineering. It will also include an introduction to heat transfer and its application in design and performance of heat engines and other applications.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
MECH238
Mechanical Engineering Design & Commercialisation
20 credits
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.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
MFRG217
Engineering Quality Management
20 credits
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.
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.
Optional modules
BPIE335
Mechanical Engineering Related Placement
0 credits
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
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.
Core modules
MECH341
Computer Aided Engineering
20 credits
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.
100% Tests
CONT318
Control and Intelligent Systems Design
20 credits
This module explores the application of control engineering and artificial intelligence techniques in the design of engineering control systems.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
PRME310
Engineering Honours Project
40 credits
In this module students will carry out independent project work closely aligned to their programme of study. This will be carried out under the guidance of an appointed supervisor.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
THER307
Thermal-Fluids Engineering
20 credits
This module provides further studies in thermal and fluid engineering relating to specific topics relevant to mechanical engineering.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MATS347
Composites Design and Manufacture
20 credits
The module provides an integrated approach to design, materials and processing selection for composite materials.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MATS348
Composites Engineering
20 credits
This module introduces stress analysis and appropriate numerical methods and integrates the learning from the parallel module MATS347 in a practical assignment to produce a prototype composite component.
100% Coursework
MECH343
Mechanical Engineering Design and Practice
20 credits
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.
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.
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.
Engineering Council accredited degree
Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) accredited degree
Composites pathway: Accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IoM3)
Course-specific academic regulations
This course has unique rules relating to:
- Passing a module
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 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.
Joshua Wood
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites graduate
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites graduate
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.
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.
University of Plymouth 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.
- 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.”
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
Dr Pablo Borja
Lecturer in Control Systems Engineering
Dr Keri Collins
Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering
Your clubs and societies
UPSU offer a range of opportunities for you to connect with others.
The University's Engineering Society 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.
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth'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
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
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 Hoare Lea, Babcock Marine, Becton Dickinson, e2v, Edwards, the Shaw Group and the Ministry of Defence.
Discover things to consider when choosing a career or considering further study after studying a
mechanical and marine engineering degree.
*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 full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
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
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
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
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, 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.
Apply
Secure your place this September
Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
112 UCAS points
112 UCAS points
You may be eligible 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
H300
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
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
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.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
H300
H300
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes to this course
The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth 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 University of Plymouth.
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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.