Mechanical Engineering (with placement year)

Mechanical engineering applies the principles of physics and engineering science to the analysis, design and maintenance of mechanical systems. It defines how and why mechanical systems work, how long they will work for and predict when they will fail.

Mechanical Engineers are at the heart of a broad spectrum of UK and international industrial sectors. They design and specify products ranging from heart stents to bullet trains and work extensively in a large range of differing industrial sectors.

Covering an extensive range of disciplines from dynamics and control, to stress analysis heat transfer and thermodynamics, a diverse array of engineering science-based subjects are experienced, providing technical expertise and integration of skill sets. Mechanical engineering takes advantage of parallel engineering disciplines, blending subjects such as materials science, electronics and software engineering with the core subjects.

What's the difference between MEng and BEng?

If you’re choosing between the BEng and MEng, here’s the good news: the first three years are the same on both routes, so you’ll build the same strong foundation in engineering science, design and hands‑on problem‑solving whichever degree you start with.

A BEng gives you everything you need to launch into exciting early‑career engineering roles. You’ll learn the core technical principles, develop practical skills, and get plenty of opportunities to tackle real engineering problems. It’s a great choice if you want a solid engineering qualification in three years, with the flexibility to enter industry sooner.

The MEng includes everything in the BEng plus an additional year when you can dive deeper into the areas of engineering that excite you most. You’ll choose from a wide range of optional modules, allowing you to specialise and explore advanced topics. You’ll also take part in a major multidisciplinary design project that involves real companies or research teams to help strengthen your employability by building standout technical and teamwork skills.

If you’re already aiming high and want to become a future industry leader, the MEng is the most direct route. That extra year means the degree meets the educational requirements for later professional registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng), which many top employers look for.

Pick BEng if you want a high‑quality engineering degree with the option to start your career sooner. High‑performing BEng students can apply to move onto the MEng as long as you meet the required academic level, so you’re not locked into your choice.

Choose MEng if you’re ambitious, want to specialise, enjoy project‑based learning, and like the idea of graduating ready for professional recognition as a Chartered Engineer.

Both routes set you up for success. You just get to choose the path that suits your goals and ambitions best.

Course Modules

For a full list of areas studied, see the 'What You'll Study' section of the course page on our website.

Lecture based modules are assessed by a combination of coursework and formal examinations taken at the end of each semester.

Project module assessments require written reports and technical presentations, preparing you for your subsequent career.

The proportion of coursework assessment is approximately 30% to 50% depending on degree course, semester/year and optional modules.

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

• Mechanical Engineers, Institution of
• Engineering and Technology, Institution of