Undergraduate Course

Mechanical Engineering with Foundation Year
BEng (Hons)

A sketch of an engine
This degree offers you the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence before you advance to stage one of your honours degree.
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Course details

Study options

Full-time: Four years

UK/EU fee

£9,250 per year* (2020/21)

International fee

£14,045 per year (2020/21)

UCAS points

72 (September 2020 entry)

UCAS code

H301

Course level

Undergraduate

Qualification

BEng (Hons)

Start date

September

Location

Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

Course description

Our Mechanical Engineering graduates can look forward to excellent future prospects. We offer high-quality teaching and plenty of practical experience, plus an ideal location in the high-tech city of Derby.

Foundation Year - helping you to achieve more

Including a foundation year as part of your four-year study programme will give you a head start in your academic and professional life. The foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence – with extensive support from our expert staff – before you advance to stage one of your honours degree. It could also be beneficial if you are planning a career change and want to get to grips with aspects of subjects which are new to you.

Our degrees with a foundation year are continuous, meaning that you won’t need to apply again once you have successfully completed the first year.

Why you should study Mechanical Engineering at the University of Derby

This dynamic degree will equip you with all the skills and knowledge which are essential to the modern mechanical engineer.

In-depth understanding

From computer aided design to structural analysis, vibration and dynamics to thermofluids, the BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering covers a broad spectrum of themes to put your career plans on a firm footing.

The course features a wide range of specialist modules such as Computational Fluid Dynamics, Advanced Material Design and Analysis, and Advanced Thermodynamics.

It also enables you to undertake an individual project which entails real experience of solving an engineering problem in industry. Prospective employers often regard this project as an excellent way to assess the skills of potential future employees.

Industry experience to set you apart

By choosing to spend a year on an optional industry placement, you can give yourself a real career advantage. You will find there is a significant number of SMEs, large, national and international companies looking for placement students each year.

We offer a full range of support to students who are keen to enhance their employability through internships and placements while studying. For more information, please get in touch with our Careers and Employment Service.

Study in a leading high-tech city

Derby is a city of technology, with world-famous companies including Rolls-Royce, Bombardier and Toyota right on the University’s doorstep. It has one of the most highly skilled workforces in the UK, with 12% of employees in hi-tech roles – that is four times the national average. It also has the highest average salary outside of London and the South East.

This all means that, as a BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering graduate, you will be ideally placed to make the most of the many career opportunities in the city.

Challenge yourself

We offer inspiring opportunities for you to take part in high-profile events such as the British Model Flying Association Payload Challenge, which is supported by BAE Systems and the Royal Aeronautical Society. The aim is to design, build, test and compete a radio-controlled aircraft against other national and international teams.

What you will study

Foundation YearFoundation YearYear 1Year 1Year 2Year 2Optional Placement YearOptional Placement YearYear 3Year 3
Core modules
Preliminary Mathematics
Scholarship for Technologists
Technology Project
Engineering Science
Introduction to Structural Analysis and Dynamics
Core modules
Computer Aided Design
Materials and Manufacturing Process
Engineering Design and Workshop Technology
Management of the Business Environment
Regulatory Systems
Applied Scientific Methods
Core modules
Corporate Responsibility and Professional Development
Engineering Design Modelling
Structural Analysis And Materials
Vibration and Dynamics
Thermofluids
Advanced Applied Analytical Methods 2
Core modules
Applied Professional Practice
Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice
Core modules
Advanced Engineering Design Modelling
Advanced Mechanical Design and Materials
Computational Fluid Dynamics
Independent Study and Professional Development (Mechanical)
Optional modules
Applied Thermodynamics
Advanced Powertrain Engineering
Back to Module List

Code: 3EJ502

Preliminary Mathematics

This module is an introduction to Mathematics in an engineering/technical context. It will concentrate on the principal mathematical tools of Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry and Calculus and will introduce you to the fundamental use of Maths in understanding and predicting the behaviour of engineering and technical processes and systems work.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3EJ503

Scholarship for Technologists

A crucial stage in the development of the student is in the assumption of responsibility for learning. The student must be self-motivated, organised and independent. The development of critical thinking and meticulousness is fundamental to university study. This module provides the student with a variety of scholarly and communication competencies necessary for a successful career in the engineering and technology fields. The module aims to develop the ability of the student to investigate, analyse and communicate technologic concepts effectively.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3EJ504

Technology Project

The module will develop your ability to work independently and safely, to carry out effective investigation within this technical field, and to apply relevant practical techniques.
40 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3ME500

Engineering Science

This module deals with basic engineering science concepts, together with analytical and practical applications in mechanical engineering science, providing a broad foundation of knowledge required by students in engineering and therefore preparing them for further studies in specific fields such as mechanical / manufacturing engineering.

This module also enables students to use fundamental mathematical techniques for the evaluation, analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems. It also aims to develop an understanding of basic electrical and electronic theory and principles.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 3ME502

Introduction to Structural Analysis and Dynamics

Engineers require different levels of knowledge in terms of structural behaviour, material properties and design choices, and an adequate understanding of these key areas in order to appreciate the role of structural theory.

This module provides the fundamental concepts, together with elementary analytical and practical applications in engineering disciplines in order to reinforce students’ knowledge in scientific principles and thereby prepare students for future engineering studies. It also provides a framework for developing a good knowledge of the important theories, principles, procedures and codes that form the basis of structural analysis and design. It provides the student with basic analytical skills and an appreciation of how this knowledge might be applied in practice.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4ME501

Computer Aided Design

This module provides you with an introduction to the skills and knowledge required to use appropriate computer software as an aid to design for the engineering industry. The difference in approach between manual and computer aided design (CAD) is explained. The production of two/three dimensional drawings to introduce basic system commands is investigated.

This module concentrates on CAD using software for the production of two dimensional models of engineering components and assemblies. Industry standard layer convention and libraries of standard symbols along with system procedures and functions are used to speed up the drawing process. The three dimensional model is utilised to produce elevations, perspective various views and 3D models. Text insertion and automatic dimensioning to a drawing are investigated.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4ME503

Materials and Manufacturing Process

An awareness of the wide range of materials and manufacturing methods is essential if the designer is to optimise the product for a competitive market with due regard to environmental considerations in terms of energy and resources. The module will emphasise the requirement for interactive consideration of materials, manufacturing method and design in an examination of established and innovative methods of producing to meeting market demands.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4ME506

Engineering Design and Workshop Technology

The aim of this module is to give students an opportunity to experience the process of carrying out a design and build project. It will enable them to appreciate that design involves synthesising parameters which will affect the design solution.

The module will introduce them to the workshop and a number of manufacturing process including turning, milling and sheet metal forming.

These elements will allow the student to carry out a design and build project fully with the aim being to produce a working prototype/ model of the finished product.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4ME508

Management of the Business Environment

This module challenges the student to produce professional communications based on research into a range of engineering processes and procedures that are necessary to operate in a competitive global market. Students’ skills are developed using a range of current computer based software packages and tools in order to produce outstanding output for professional development planning and continuing professional development.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4ME513

Regulatory Systems

This module develops an awareness of the principles of regulatory systems including health and safety planning and implementation at the work place. It covers the UK and EU health and safety legislation including risk assessment and evaluation processes when applied to any potential hazard at work. The module also provides a flavour of continuing professional development, building on associated modules within the programme, such as the development of PDP work and the identification of a suitable professional institution to join.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4ME524

Applied Scientific Methods

The primary aim of this module is to provide the analytical knowledge and techniques needed to successfully undertake the technical elements of the first year of Engineering Degree.

It deals with basic concepts, together with analytical and practical applications in engineering science, providing a broad foundation of knowledge required by students in engineering and therefore preparing them for further studies in specific fields including analytical methods and mathematics, needed for the more advanced optional units. The module has been designed to enable you to apply algebra, trigonometry, vectors, and calculus to the analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems found at degree level and in the professional workplace.

More information
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME502

Corporate Responsibility and Professional Development

Appropriate corporate responsibility / environmental awareness and application of environmental principles is an ever-growing requirement for industry on a global basis. Initially an understanding of the significant environmental issues and constraints affecting industry is developed, and then appropriate strategies for minimisation of environmental impact (including environmental management systems) for industry are considered and evaluated.

The module investigates the role of the engineer in industry and society and to plan out their own career progression as part of a Personal Development Plan (PDP). This could be linked with professional bodies (e.g. IMechE or their equivalent) and the learner should develop an understanding of the varying routes to professional accreditation with a recognised body. It is also a vehicle to develop the technical skills and good practice used by engineers and technologists in the specific area in which they are, or intend to be, working within industry/society.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME505

Engineering Design Modelling

The growing use of Parametric modelling has transformed the Solid Modelling domain into an extremely powerful, near essential tool for the modern day engineer and designer. This inclusion allows you to retain full control over the models definition and scope and further allows the reduction of lead times in the case of variant production of the model.

This module, after ensuring that you are comfortable with the utilisation of modern engineering workstations, aims to cover the essential elements of parametric modelling and further concentrates on the parametric aspects from 2-dimensional parametric profiling to 3-dimensional parametric modelling including profile sweeping and primitive manipulation.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME517

Structural Analysis And Materials

An understanding of the effects of different loading types (bending, shear) on engineering components is vital to ensure that a component can perform satisfactorily during its service life.

This module develops basic stress concepts following those covered in the stress section of the Applied Scientific Methods based modules into more complex real-life loading situations. Many actual engineering situations are complex and basic structural calculations can only give approximate answers.

Engineers also need to optimise materials selection for different designs and sections. This can be assisted through the use of Performance Materials Design Indices. The skills to address these needs will be developed in this module for different loading situations. They will then be applied to real problems by using a materials selection package to select the most appropriate material for a component with regards to mass, cost and environmental impact.

More information
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME518

Vibration and Dynamics

Mechanical systems in motion present a range of engineering problems associated with movement. Individual components may have undesirable dynamic characteristics - i.e. vibration. Mechanisms - systems of components can have complex motion and the control of these systems by means of feedback can lead to instability.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME519

Thermofluids

The aim of this module is to extend your knowledge of the principles of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer and the techniques used in engineering applications.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME526

Advanced Applied Analytical Methods 2

The aim of this module is to provide the advanced analytical knowledge and techniques needed to support the technical elements of the 2nd year of Engineering Degrees within the engineering subject area. This will cover aspects of engineering mathematics used in the design and analysis of typical engineering problems.

The module is designed to develop your understanding of, and the ability to apply, a broad spectrum of advanced mathematical techniques in a range of typical engineering problems found at degree level and in the professional workplace.

More information
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME886

Applied Professional Practice

This module provides a framework for the development of “lifelong learning” skills appropriate to all areas of professional practice; including objective setting, planning, negotiating, implementing, demonstrating and reflecting.

The emphasis in this module is on the analysis and evaluation of the work completed within the organisation. This module also gives you the opportunity to relate your academic knowledge to the work environment.

More information
40 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5ME887

Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice

Students need to be aware of the commercial realities and external factors that influence the success of an organisation. This module provides opportunities for students to acquire an understanding of contemporary issues that may impact on industrial and professional practices relevant to a career within their chosen discipline.

During this period of work experience, students can gain a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities arising from both corporate and individual responses to such issues, thus enabling them to relate to the wider world when exploring a personal direction for potential career development.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6ME500

Advanced Engineering Design Modelling

Rapidly advancing technology in the area of 3-Dimensional Parametric Solid Modelling and Profiling has caused a significant shift in the working practices of traditional design engineers.

This module aims to impart a significant understanding of parametric principles and will update the student's skills to the application of such techniques in a 3-Dimensional Parametric Solid Modelling/Conceptual Design environment using enhanced modelling techniques. It is essential that such a designer be able to parametrically specify and functionally examine models constructed from initial concept.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6ME503

Advanced Mechanical Design and Materials

An integrated design, material and analysis approach provides one of the key enabling capabilities needed in effectively evaluating specific areas of initial concept development and in performing detailed engineering design and analysis throughout a product's development cycle.

This integrated engineering approach incorporates the infrastructure and design and analysis formats and tools that can be exercised in a concurrent nature and provides benefits from a standpoint of producing a better design, faster results, lower cost uncertainties and reduced risk.

More information
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6ME505

Computational Fluid Dynamics

Computational Fluid Dynamics is critical to modern mechanical design analysis. This module will enable you to understand the principles governing computational fluid dynamics in relation to modern mechanical problem solving.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6ME993

Independent Study and Professional Development (Mechanical)

The individual project is regarded as an important element of the specialist degree. It provides students in their final year with a challenge to identify and undertake an original and detailed study and present a major piece of relevant work to a critical and informed audience.

It aims to develop the student's power to work independently, researching in depth a topic of their choice, using relevant concepts and techniques.

More information
40 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6ME511

Applied Thermodynamics

This modules aims to enable students to develop further skills and knowledge for the analysing, designing and evaluating engineering thermodynamics applications.
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6MV500

Advanced Powertrain Engineering

The aim of this module is to give students an in-depth technical information concerning the design, operating principles of the modern high-performance power unit and its associated systems and to the modern types of transmission system used in Automotive Engineering and Motorsport, and for them to critically evaluate the systems, apply techniques and analyse the processes concerned. Students will also be given an awareness of the environmental aspects and impacts of engine design and emissions outputs.
20 Credits
optional
Exam
Coursework

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

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How you will learn

You will be assessed using a mixture of coursework assessment, examinations and professional presentations. 

Who will teach you

Programme leader

Martin Sole

Entry requirements

September 2020 typical entry requirements

RequirementWhat we're looking for
UCAS points72 (up to 16 from AS-levels)
Specific requirements at A-levelN/A
Specific requirements at GCSEGCSE Maths and English Grade C/Grade 4 (or above) or equivalent qualification
IELTS6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area)
Interview / AuditionN/A
PortfolioN/A

Alternative entry qualifications:

We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.

Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.

Fees and funding

2020/21 Fees

 Full-timePart-time
UK/EU

£9,250 per year*

N/A

International

£14,045 per year

N/A

* The fees stated above are for the 2019/20 academic year; fees for 2020/21 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. We will update this information as soon as it is available.

Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to.

Additional costs and optional extras

How to apply

UK/EU students

Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.

Apply through UCASApply directly to the University

Guidance for EU students post-Brexit

International students

Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.

Apply through UCASApply directly to the University

Guidance for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree

Careers

This course prepares you for careers at the cutting edge of mechanical engineering design, motorsport or automotive design and the applications of advanced materials.

You could also take your studies to postgraduate level with our MSc Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering.

Contact us

If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.

Contact us Contact us

Additional information about your studies

Download programme specification

Teaching hours

Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.

Additional costs and optional extras

We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.

Included in your fees

Mandatory costs not included in your fees

Optional costs not included in your fees

Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.

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