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BEng Mechanical Engineering

Key facts

3 years full-time / 4 years full-time with integrated placement year

UCAS Code: H300

Typical offer level
A Level:
BBB-ABB
BTEC National Diploma: DDD in relevant National Diploma
IB: 32 points (including Maths, Physics or appropriate subject at Higher Level)

Specific subject requirements
A Level: Maths and Physics required (consideration may be given to Further Maths, Design Technology, Engineering Science and Electronics if Physics is not studied at A Level). 
GCSE: Maths Grade B and English Grade C
A suitable combination of two A Level and two AS Level subjects may be accepted

Tuition fees: £9,000 (£1,000 during placement year) for UK/EU students. (2012).  More on fees



Applicants receiving offers are invited to an open day.

Information on visas for international students

Key benefits

Emphasis on management, project and communication skills

Excellent paid sandwich placement opportunities

Transfer between MEng and BEng programmes is possible depending on academic achievements

General engineering at Aston rated at grade 5 for Research

Availability of excellent product design and computer-aided design facilities

 One of the few DTUS Universities with close links to officer training in the armed forces.

Mech Eng
The application of computers to machines, advances in materials technology and process development and the use of advanced control systems have revolutionised the engineer’s role. The challenges and rewards for skilled engineers who can design, manufacture and manage products and processes are greater than ever. Our programmes will help you reach the professional and intellectual standards required for an exciting and rewarding career in a wide variety of industries.

Information Technology is used to underpin programmes and state-of-the-art, industry standard software is used for design and system simulation.

Subject guide & modules

A 3-year full-time or 4-year sandwich programme incorporating a year of relevant professional experience. The first year of our programme encompasses a broad study of the fundamental disciplines of mechanical, electrical and design engineering. It is structured to suit students from all backgrounds. The flexible structure of our degrees enables transfer between Mechanical and ElectroMechanical and Design Engineering programmes and full-time/sandwich routes during these first two years.

Your second and final year incorporate a combination of core material and elective modules which will give you the opportunity to study areas of particular personal interest or professional relevance. Your final year project, involving design, experimental or analytical work can also be tailored to suit your own interests.

Throughout the programme we emphasise business and communication skills which will enhance your ability to write and present technical essays and reports.

The broad basis of our programme, together with the possibilities for specialisation, will make you attractive to employers from a wide spectrum of industries.

Year 1

Modules

  • Transition Mathematics
  • Mathematics for Engineers
  • Electrical Science
  • Principles of Mechanics
  • Engineering Practice
  • Energy Conversion 1
  • Materials & Processes
  • Introduction to CAD
  • IT Applications - MATLAB
  • Introduction to Business Management
  • IT & Communications Skills

Year 2

Modules
  • Value Based Management
  • Numerical Methods/Statistics
  • Engineering Mathematics 2
  • Electrical Systems Engineering
  • Solid Mechanics
  • Thermodynamics & Fluids
  • Dynamics & Vibrations
  • Measurement & Instrumentation
  • Product Modelling
  • Engineering Materials
  • Quality Engineering

Year 3 - Optional placement year

See placement year section or find out more about the Aston placement year.

Final Year

Modules
  • Individual Main Project
  • Advanced Dynamics & Control
  • Sensors & Actuators
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Design Failure Analysis
  • Project Management 2
  • Thermodynamics & Fluids
  • Heat Transfer & Turbomachinery
Choice of one module from:
  • Design Project (Sustainability)
  • Design & Engineering Competition

Learning, teaching & assessment

You will benefit from a wide range of teaching methods and learning styles, including:

  • lectures, tutorials and seminars
  • video and computer-aided learning
  • lab classes and project work
  • a strong personal tutor system

Assessment is by a combination of exams, continuous assessment and projects. Students are also able to take part in the Formula Student Racing Car Project at which Aston teams have enjoyed a strong track record.

Professional accreditation

The BEng Mechanical Engineering is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

Career prospects

Our close links with industry and the broad basis of our degree programmes ensure our students’ attractiveness to a wide range of employers and enhance our graduate employment record. Graduate opportunities exist in the fields of:

  • research, development and design
  • manufacturing systems engineering
  • advanced technology and computeraided design
  • accountancy, management, marketing
  • Navy, Army and RAF Officer training

Our graduates work for automotive, aerospace and electronics companies, pharmaceutical and chemical organisations and computer software houses. For example our recent graduates found graduate engineer, and consultancy positions with companies including Corus, IMI Plc, Army/Royal Air Force, Yamazaki Mazak, Carillion, BOC, NTL, BAE Systems, Nissan, Lloyds TSB, Phillips, Jaguar, TRW and EDF Energy. Over 90% of our 2005-6 graduates entered graduate level destinations (Times Good University Guide 2008).

Facilities & equipment

You will have access to state-of-the-art computing facilities, including CAD labs, numerically controlled machine tools, design studios and PCs for word-processing and self tuition. You will develop your programming skills and use computers to solve engineering problems and to simulate and analyse engineering systems. The School of Engineering and Applied Science has invested heavily in the creation of stateof-the-art computer laboratories. Our Mechanical Engineering and Product Design students have their own access to specific computer facilities for design.

Further information

EAS Undergraduate Admissions Office
+44 (0)121 204 3400
engineering@aston.ac.uk

Placement Profile

Placement Profile

Rachel Liddiard

BEng Mechanical Engineering

"Researching a placement was hard work, however, it was all worthwhile as I managed to secure a placement with Cadbury. I find that Cadbury really puts you in the heart of the business and gives you jobs and projects that really count towards a cost saving or a better running process, you find your actions have a real effect on the company."

 
Open days and visits

Outstanding graduate career prospects

Outstanding graduate career prospects

82% of Aston's recent graduates entered graduate level employment. This was the 10th highest proportion of all UK universities.

Accommodation

Accommodation

All our accommodation is based on campus and over 80% of our rooms are ensuite. We offer a guarenteed place scheme for first years.

Student life

Student life

Our city centre location gives you the best of both worlds: a welcoming, lively campus community, in the heart of a vibrant city.

International students

International students

Aston offers a world-class education and is home to students from over 120 countries.

Birmingham - home to 65,000 students!

Birmingham - home to 65,000 students!

With fantastic nightlife, great restaurants, beautiful parks, superb shopping and much more, Birmingham is a true student city.