Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Placement Year

Summary

Mechanical engineering is about turning ideas into real-world solutions. From concept to creation, it combines creativity, analysis and practical skills to design the products and systems that shape everyday life.

On this integrated master’s with Industrial Placement Year, you will develop advanced knowledge of mechanical engineering while learning how to apply it in design and innovation. You will gain the skills to take a product from initial concept through to development, testing and delivery.

In your first two years, you will study the core principles of mechanical engineering alongside systems design, modelling and computing, as well as aspects of law and management. This will give you a strong foundation in both the technical and commercial sides of engineering.

In your third year, you will tailor your studies to your interests, choosing from specialist topics such as orthopaedic biomechanics or automobile systems. You will also complete an individual project, bringing together the knowledge and skills you have developed. In your final year, you will take advanced modules and work on a group design project, applying your engineering knowledge to a real-world challenge.

You can also choose to take an Industrial Placement Year, giving you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional engineering environment.

Key features of the course

Take your learning further. This integrated master’s develops advanced knowledge and specialist skills in mechanical engineering.

Learn through application. Individual and group design projects allow you to tackle real engineering challenges and bring your ideas to life.

Shape your degree. Choose from a range of specialist modules to match your interests and career ambitions.

Gain real-world experience. An optional Industrial Placement Year allows you to work in an engineering organisation and build professional skills.

Access advanced facilities. These include the largest wind tunnel of any UK university, a high-resolution 3D imaging centre, dedicated design studios and workshops, and the materials and structures research facilities in the National Infrastructure Laboratory.

Prepare for your future career. This course is fully accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, supporting your route to chartered status.

Student support

Your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) will support you throughout your time at Southampton, offering academic guidance, career advice and signposting to wellbeing and pastoral services when needed.

You will be part of a collaborative learning environment, working with students and staff who are passionate about engineering and innovation.

Further information

You will study in a setting designed for hands-on and project-based learning, helping you to develop both technical expertise and professional skills.

The skills and experience you gain will prepare you for careers across a wide range of industries, including automotive, healthcare, energy and manufacturing.

Course Modules

Typical modules include:

Year one: An Introduction to Engineering Design; Electrical and Electronics Systems; Mathematics for Engineering and the Environment; Mechanics, Structures and Materials; Mechanical Systems Analysis; ThermoFluids.

Year two: Engineering Management and Law; Fluid Mechanics; Materials and Structures; Mathematics for Engineering and the Environment Part II; Mechanics, Machines and Vibration; Systems Design and Computing; Thermodynamics; Electronics and Control.

Year three: Individual Project; Engineering Design with Management; Finite Element Analysis in Solid Mechanics; Heat Transfer and Applications; Manufacturing and Materials; plus an additional module options.

Year four: Group Design Project; Materials, Manufacturing, and Supply Chains; plus module options to deepen your knowledge.

Testing is conducted through a combination of unseen written examinations and assessed coursework in the form of problem-solving exercises, laboratory reports, design exercises, essays, and individual and group projects. Experimental, research and design skills are assessed through laboratory reports, coursework exercises and oral presentations.

The Industrial Placement Year is assessed via an individual reflective report.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Mechanical Engineers, Institution of
• Accreditation of European Engineering Programmes (EUR-ACE)
• Engineering Council