This dynamic degree will equip you with all the skills and knowledge which are essential to the modern mechanical engineer.
Benefits of a foundation year
Taking a foundation year first is an ideal choice if you have the potential and ambition to study this BEng programme but lack the formal entry requirements or feel you are not quite ready to embark on a full honours degree right now.
It is also a smart move if you have changed your mind about your career direction since you chose your A-levels or BTECs and need to improve your skills in a different subject area.
The foundation year will cover general concepts in areas such as engineering science, structural analysis and dynamics, together with essential scholarship skills for technologists to aid your progress on the honours degree.
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. The Shell Eco-marathon project, for example, is fast becoming a flagship competition for our Mechanical Engineering team. We encourage you to join in and experience building and racing a real vehicle based on student design and analysis. Such is our profile in this arena that our Shell Eco Team was awarded a £9,000 sponsorship to build a prototype ethanol vehicle for the competition.
Another highlight is 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.
You will be assessed using a mixture of coursework assessment, examinations and professional presentations.
September 2019 typical entry requirements
| UCAS points | 72 (up to 16 from AS-levels) |
| Specific requirements at A-level | N/A |
| Specific requirements at GCSE | GCSE Maths and English are preferred, however if you don't have these qualifications you will be able to undertake Maths and English at L2 as part of your course of study. |
| IELTS | 6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area) |
| Interview / Audition | N/A |
| Portfolio | N/A |
Alternative entry qualifications:
- BTEC - MPP
- Pass Access to HE Diploma 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 and 15 at Level 2.
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.
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.
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 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, state-of-the-art 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
- Some educational software packages
- Use of resources such as computer rooms, workshops and laboratories
- PPE kits (safety boots, safety googles and ear plugs)
- One industrial visit during induction week/first year
- Industry speakers
- Small allowance for final year project
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
- Additional educational software approx. £100
- Computer accessories approx. £30
- Workshop material approx. £100
- Additional industry visits approx. £40
- Additional expenses for final year project approx. £50
- Printing approx. £120
Optional costs not included in your fees
- Not required but useful: a personal computer or tablet computer approx. £400
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.
