Mechatronic Engineering

The Foundation Degree in Mechatronic Engineering is validated by Ulster University

Why study this course?
Studying mechatronics at Level 5 offers a broad and versatile foundation in engineering principles, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enter the engineering field or advance their careers. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of various engineering disciplines, with a slant towards manufacturing automation.

It equips you with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that are highly valued by employers, enhancing employability and opening up diverse career opportunities. Additionally, it serves as a stepping stone for further education, such as progressing to a Level 6 Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.

About the course
The course provides opportunities to study a diverse range of subjects which will introduce core skills required by the engineers of the future, whilst achieving a Level 5 nationally recognised, vocationally specific qualification. This Foundation Degree programme aims to equip you with a broad range of engineering skills, providing a solid foundation in general engineering principles and enabling you to explore a range of subject areas relating to mechatronic engineering.

How will it make me more employable?
Ulster University and South Eastern Regional College are committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need. The course will help you develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to:

Technical Skills
• CAD skills (for example, Solidworks)
• Practical skills (Digital circuits, PLCs, Mechatronics)
• Design Tools and Techniques
• Project Management Skills
• Business Improvement Techniques

Employability Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team Working

Where will it take me?
Successful completion of this course will enable you to apply for jobs in the engineering industry or alternatively, you would be eligible to apply to related degree programmes where you will normally be able to start at second year of entry.

Linked Degree Programme- Students who successfully complete the Foundation Degree traditionally progress to one of the following areas:
• Direct Entry to Year 2 of Level 6 Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronic Engineering in Ulster University (you must have achieved at least 50% in Level 4 Engineering Mathematics and in all Level 5 modules, and the BEng Hons take two years)
• Other Degree Programmes- Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 6 qualification, at other universities. Entry requirements and year of entry are subject to the university.

**Employment -**This Foundation Degree programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to thrive in the changing world of work and can open doors to various career opportunities, including roles such as:
• Engineering Engineer: Working on the design, development, and maintenance of engineering systems
• Quality Engineer: Ensuring products meet quality standards and managing quality control processes
• Maintenance Engineer: Overseeing maintenance operations and ensuring machinery and equipment are in optimal working condition
• Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement Engineer: Involved in the production process, ensuring efficient and effective manufacturing operations

These roles leverage the technical skills and knowledge gained from the programme, providing a solid foundation for a successful engineering career.

Year 1 (Level 4):
Engineering Mathematics: Use fundamental algebra, trigonometry, calculus, probability, and statistics in the solution of realistic engineering problems.
Computer Aided Design: Take a problem and apply a structured design process to develop a solution by applying the principles of manual design techniques through traditional drawing and 3D modelling methods.
Engineering Science: Introduction to electrical and mechanical engineering science principles as a basis for further studies in more specialist areas of engineering.
Electronic Principles: Gain an understanding of the principles of operation of electronic devices and circuits.
Automation Principles: Develop an understanding of modern automation systems and the operation and application of fluid power systems and PLCs within these systems.
Professional Studies: Become aware of relevant local and global business challenges associated with being a professional engineer and gain an insight into continued professional development.

Year 2 (Level 5):
Programming & Embedded Systems: Gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to design, implement, and test embedded systems.
Mechatronics & Robotics: Develop practical skills and personal confidence to design, build, and test automation systems.
Computer Aided Manufacturing: Understand the operational characteristics of a CAM software system and its interface with CNC machines to manufacture components.
Business Improvement Techniques: Recognize which Six Sigma and Lean tools to use to address specific process issues.
Work-Based Learning: Gain authentic and innovative work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of your planned programme of study.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand.

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations. Each module is graded individually with an overall single final percentage. You are assessed using a range of methods. These may include:

Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.
Presentations: You will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate.
Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities.

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS