Mechanical Engineering BEng (Hons) / MEng

Course Content

• Course Details

  Our BEng Mechanical Engineering degree has been developed to ensure that you gain the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your career and drive the industry forward. Within this course you will study mechanical engineering principles, mechanical design and simulation, materials science, control systems, thermo-fluids, corrosion and condition monitoring, as well as investigating sustainability and innovation within the industry and business practice.

  At the end of the third year, you can choose to either graduate with a BEng level qualification, or continue onto the integrated master’s fourth year to achieve the MEng qualification.

  Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 24/25. The modules relating to the academic year 25/26 will be available from June 2025.

  • Stage 1
    • Introduction to Engineering Design (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG1004

      Status: Compulsory
      The module introduces students to engineering drawing and the production of engineering models and drawings using computer technology. The selection of materials, engineering components, and the operating principles of simple machines will also be features of the module.
    • Materials Science (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG1007

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to provide Engineering students with a sound background knowledge and understanding of structure, properties, testing and application of engineering materials. Students will gain a broad knowledge of the range of manufacturing processes that can be applied to materials for a variety of manufacturing applications.
    • Engineering Industry Practice (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG1048

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to examine key factors which complement technical elements of engineering, understanding of which is regarded essential in todays industrial environment. Analysis of the key areas of quality, standards sustainability, project management and ethics form strong themes throughout the module.
    • Thermo-Fluid and Mechanical Principles (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG1049

      Status: Compulsory
      This module aims to provide an overview of fundamental scientific principles which underpin the design and operation of mechanical engineering systems providing a basis for further study in specialist areas of mechanical engineering and to develop analytical problem-solving skills in the context of mechanical engineering
    • Electrical and Electronic Principles (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG1050

      Status: Compulsory
      This module aims to provide Engineering students with the fundamental knowledge and analytical techniques to build a firm foundation for the analysis, operation, problem solving and circuit simulation exploring both DC and AC electrical and electronics circuits.
    • Mathematics for Engineers (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG1051

      Status: Compulsory
      This module aims to provide Engineering students with the fundamental knowledge and analytical techniques needed to enable them to study related engineering modules successfully and to analyse and solve practical problems through the application of mathematics and to develop analytical problem-solving skills in the context of engineering and engineering systems.
  • Stage 2
    • Engineering Design (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG2005

      Status: Compulsory
      The module is about the creation and development of an economically viable product that meets defined requirements. The module involves significant intellectual challenges as it requires you to integrate and augment your engineering knowledge and apply it to the solution of design problems.
    • Advanced Mathematics for Engineers (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG2045

      Status: Compulsory
      This module enables students to build on the basic mathematical principles studied in the first year and aims to give students the advanced knowledge and analytical techniques needed to enable them to study advanced engineering modules successfully and to analyse and solve practical problems through the application of advanced mathematics.
    • Industrial Appreciation (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG2046

      Status: Compulsory
      This module has a strong industrial focus. Considering those topics which support the technical elements of engineering, which are vitally important in the modern engineering environment. Students develop skill in research and the application of theoretical knowledge to solve cross-disciplinary problems.
    • Control Systems (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG2050

      Status: Compulsory
      The module applies knowledge gained in the study of Mechanical Principles and Electrical Principles and introduces the basic concepts of instrumentation and control systems. This module provides rigorous analysis of control systems, and studies the design of controllers and the implementation of control algorithms.
    • Solid Mechanics (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG2053

      Status: Compulsory
      This module is concerned with the mechanics of rigid and deformable solids in a state of equilibrium. It reviews the fundamental principles of rigid body statics extending them to deformable solid bodies. Concepts of stress and strain are introduced as will stress-strain relations describing the static behaviour of elastic bodies.
    • Advanced Thermo-Fluids (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG2055

      Status: Compulsory
      This module builds on the basic Thermo-Fluid Principles introduced in the first year. It presents an overview of fundamental scientific principles underpinning the design and operation of advanced mechanical engineering systems. The module aims to develop analytical problem-solving skills in the context of advanced mechanical engineering.
  • Stage 3
    • Lean Manufacturing and Quality Applications (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG3005

      Status: Compulsory
      This module has four key themes, which are vital in supporting technological industries. Focusing on the application of Quality Principles, Manufacturing improvement techniques, project management and personal performance and leadership. Many of the topics are discussed and evaluated using relevant industrial scenarios, applying knowledge gained to solve problems.
    • Machines and Mechanisms (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG3021

      Status: Compulsory
      This module provides students with instruction in the fundamentals of theory of machines. The theory of machines and mechanisms provides the foundation for the study of displacements, velocities, accelerations, and static and dynamic forces required for the proper design of mechanical linkages, cams, and geared systems.
    • Computational Fluid Mechanics (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG3023

      Status: Compulsory
      This module introduces concepts in finite difference and finite volume methods as applied to various ordinary and partial differential model equations in fluid mechanics; fundamentals of spatial discretization and numerical integration; numerical linear algebra. It further introduces engineering and scientific computing environment. Advanced modelling topics are also covered.
    • Heat Transfer (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENG3025

      Status: Compulsory
      The aim of this module is to build and develop the fundamentals thermodynamics and Fluid mechanics covered at level 4 and advanced thermofluids covered at level 5. Students apply reasonable assumptions and boundary conditions to simplify the differential equations governing the heat transfer and thermodynamics in order to have analytical solution to heat transfer and thermodynamics problems. The concept and use of computational thermofluid mechanics as a numerical technique to solve more complex heat transfer and thermodynamics problems is introduced.
    • Engineering Project (40 Credits)
      Module code: ENG4004

      Status: Compulsory
      This module provides the opportunity to apply and develop theoretical knowledge in an individual project and individual report. By completing the module students will gain experience of researching the necessary technical information, of solving cross-disciplinary technical problems. This module could form the assessment for any University approved industrial placement opportunity.
  • Stage 4
    • Mathematical Modelling (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENGM001

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to provide students with thorough and comprehensive knowledge of principles and techniques of deterministic, stochastic, and differential equation based mathematical modelling. Real problems will be used to teach students how to develop and illustrate these techniques and derive a mathematical model. The students will be taught how to combine rigorous mathematical approaches/approximation, engineering estimates, and data analysis. In this module, a variety of physical phenomena and engineering applications will be considered. The use of methods of applied analysis, probability, statistics and stochastic processes will be described.
    • Computer-Aided Analysis and Visualization of Mechanical Systems (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENGM004

      Status: Designate
      This module provides an opportunity to learn advanced numerical algorithms for computer-aided analysis of moving mechanical systems with emphasis on the kinematic and dynamic analysis of mechanisms. These are illustrated with practical examples and case studies with technical computing and visualization implemented in MATLAB / Simulink and Simscape Multibody toolbox.
    • Group Industry Project (60 Credits)
      Module code: ENGM006

      Status: Compulsory
      This module provides the opportunity to develop experience in the execution of a group project. They will gain experience of researching technical information, solving cross-disciplinary technical problems and working to deadlines The module has a strong industrial focus and includes various methods of engagement, including industrial talks and company tours.
    • Professional Practice for Technologists (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENGM009

      Status: Designate
      This module provides an in depth study of key areas relating to the professional practice within a technological context. Looking particularly at; the role of project management; the impact of the individual and organisation within technological environments; the role of ethical principles and the value of sound research methodologies. The module aims to create a dymnamic, engaging environment to discuss and debate the key topics contained within the module.

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• IMechE Accreditation

  

  This Mechanical Engineering degree has been accredited by IMechE under licence from the UK regulator, the Engineering Council.

  Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). An accredited degree will provide you with some or all of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng). Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.

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• Student Perks

  At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

  If you join this full time Mechanical Engineering University of Northampton degree, you will receive a laptop when your course begins. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

  Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

  To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page.

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• Integrated Foundation Year (IFY)

  The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

  If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

  Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

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• FAQs

  Is there work experience?

  Integrated into the second year is the opportunity to work with one of our industrial partners for three to four days per week. These placements are fully supported by the University and using our links with the Northampton Engineering Training Partnership (NETP) we ensure that you are given the guidance and support you need to have a fulfilling and productive placement experience.

  How will I learn?

  We teach this course through a combination of theoretical and practical approaches so that you can learn system design techniques for electronic and mechanical purposes as well as how to optimise this design, depending on the application and purpose.

  To broaden your theoretical knowledge and appreciate the applications of systems in heat and mass transfer applications (including hot water circulation and thermally powered cooling) you will work in our thermo-fluidics laboratory and use computer simulation tools.

  There will also be small group work for collaborative research and development tasks which will help you learn how to work in multidisciplinary groups while improving your communication and presentation skills. The dissertation in your third year will consolidate everything you have learned and also develop your written communication skills.

  This can also be studied as a part-time Mechanical Engineering Degree, studying 80 credits or less per year. This will be taught over multiple days each week. If day-release study is what you would prefer, Engineering BSc offers this option.

  What is the schedule of the course?

  Typical modules are taught over four or five days per week.

  How will I be assessed?

  For the initial BEng (Hons) qualification, a wide range of assessment tools are used, essays, reports, end of stage examinations.

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