Mechanical Engineering

UCAS code: H304

Here's what University of Plymouth says about its Mechanical Engineering course.

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.

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.

Be a "work-ready" graduate 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Year 4 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.

Final year In your final year, take your engineering skills to the next level through advanced, real-world applications. You will work through design and prototyping projects for mechanical and offshore renewable energy applications to give you the skills to enact the world's transition to cleaner, more innovative and more sustainable engineering systems.

Our pathway options allow you to hone your skills in modelling and characterisation of composite materials or to dive deeper into industry-standard computer modelling and simulation tools. This is where engineering theory meets industry-focused innovation - fuelling your transition from student to impactful professional.

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.

43% of assessment is by exam, 56% by coursework and 1% practical assessment

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.