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Automotive Engineering

Course details
  • BEng (Hon)
  • 3 Years
  • Full-time
  • 21 September 2026
  • Undergraduate
Course location
SA1 Waterfront Campus, Swansea
Awarded by:
University of Wales Trinity Saint David (Prifysgol Cymru Y Drindod Dewi Sant)

Course summary

The next decade promises to bring exciting changes to the automotive industry. As we move from the internal combustion engine to hybrid powertrains and electrical powertrains, there is a growing need for new engineering skills. We have invested significantly in our engineering facilities. As a student in the Automotive Engineering BEng programme, you will have access to specialised automotive workshops, engine diagnostic laboratories, chassis dynamometers, hybrid/electric powertrain facilities, and extensive fabrication and machining facilities.

We closely collaborate with the automotive industry to ensure you gain the knowledge and passion needed for both performance and mainstream vehicles.

The course aims to develop your understanding of fundamental physics and engineering skills through practical applications in car development, including suspension, ride, handling, and NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness). Special emphasis is placed on the development of the powertrain as we shift towards sustainable fuels and advanced battery technologies.

Our programme also highlights the environmental aspects of design and technology, which are crucial for a wide range of employment opportunities. You will have the chance to apply the theoretical knowledge from your modules to real-life automotive applications through various extracurricular opportunities.

In this course, you will learn about the design and manufacture of mechanical and electrical systems in on-road, off-highway and autonomous vehicles. You will gain insights into the latest trends and technologies, including the development of cleaner and efficient vehicles.

By the end of this course, you will be prepared to become a modern automotive engineer, equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed in an ever-evolving industry.

The accredited BEng (Hons) will meet, in part, the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer and Students will need to complete an approved format of further learning pursuant to the requirements of UK-SPEC.

Modules

We are committed to providing a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Our Automotive Engineering BEng (Hons) course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for the evolving automotive industry.

Year 1

In the first year, you will build a strong foundation in essential engineering principles. You will study analytical methods, engineering science, and an introduction to vehicle technology. Hands-on experience in our automotive workshops and engine diagnostic laboratories will complement your theoretical learning.

Compulsory

Analytical Methods (20 credits)
Engineering Design & Materials (20 credits)
Engineering Science (20 credits)
Vehicle Technology (20 credits)
Electrical Control Systems (20 credits)
Workshop & Practice (20 credits)

Year 2

The second year focuses on advanced topics such as alternative propulsion systems, automotive chassis systems, and stress analysis and computer aided engineering (CAE). You will also delve into thermodynamics and combustion, enhancing your understanding of sustainable technologies. Practical sessions with chassis dynamometers and fabrication facilities will further develop your engineering skills.

Compulsory

Alternative Propulsion Systems (20 credits)
Thermodynamics & Combustion (20 credits)
Engineering Management (20 credits)
Automotive Chassis Systems (20 credits)
Group Design Project (20 credits)
Stress Analysis & CAE (20 credits)

Year 3

In the final year, you will specialise in areas such as automotive materials and sustainability. You will undertake a major project that brings together your learning, applying it to real-life automotive applications. Emphasis is placed on the environmental aspects of design and technology, preparing you for a range of employment opportunities.

Compulsory

Independent Project (40 credits)
Ride, Handling & NVH (20 credits)
Contemporary Powertrain Design (20 credits)
Structural Design & Fluid Analysis (20 credits)
Automotive Materials & Sustainability (20 credits)

Assessment method

The course is assessed by a mixture of coursework, phase tests, presentations, vivas and examinations.

Qualified teacher status (QTS)

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

How to apply

Apply by
14 January

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

Course code:
H330
Institution code:
T80
Campus name:
SA1 Waterfront Campus, Swansea
Campus Code:
T

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

International applicants

If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa. For courses of more than six months’ duration you will require a Student visa. International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. For full information read our visa application and guides. Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.

Entry requirements

UCAS Tariff 112 - 128 points

The UCAS tariff score is applicable to you if you have recently studied a qualification that has a UCAS tariff equivalence. UCAS provides a tariff calculator for you to work out what your qualification is worth within the UCAS tariff.

GCSEs Maths or Physics grade B (or 6) or equivalent.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests.

Acceptable Evidence of English https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/apply/international-applications/english-language-requirements

Contextual admissions

Universities and colleges consider more than grades when assessing applications and may make offers based on a range of criteria. Learn more about contextual offers.

We may make you a lower offer based on a range of factors, such as your background, experiences and individual circumstances. This is known as ‘Contextual Admissions’. For specific advice and support you can contact our enquiries team for more information about entry requirements.

Learn more on the University of Wales Trinity Saint David website

Historical entry grades data

This section shows the range of grades that students who received offers were previously accepted on to this course with (learn more).

It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place.

Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Not enough data available

We are unable to show previous accepted grades for this course. This could be because the course is new, it's a postgraduate course, there isn't enough historical data, or the provider has opted out of sharing their entry grades data for this course - learn more.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Per year tuition fees

LocationFeeYear

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.

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