Program Overview

Mechanical Engineering with Foundation Year BEng (Hons)

Course Description

Our Mechanical Engineering graduates can look forward to excellent future prospects. Offering high-quality teaching and plenty of practical experience – and in an ideal location with world-famous companies on our doorstep – the BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering will give you the edge in your career.

Study Options

• Full-time: Four years
• UK fee: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International fee: £16,900 per year (2025/26)
• UCAS points: 72 (September 2025 entry)
• UCAS code: H301
• Start date: September
• Location: Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

Course Details

Foundation Year

• Preliminary Mathematics
• Scholarship for Technologists
• Technology Project
• Engineering Science
• Introduction to Structural Analysis and Dynamics

Year 1

• Core modules:
  • Engineering Science
  • Introduction to Structural Analysis and Dynamics
  • Preliminary Mathematics
  • Scholarship for Technologists
  • Technology Project

Year 2

• Core modules:
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Advanced Material Design and Analysis
  • Advanced Thermodynamics
  • Individual Project

Year 3

• Core modules:
  • Advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Advanced Structural Analysis and Dynamics
  • Advanced Thermodynamics
  • Group Project

Optional Placement Year

• Spend a year on an optional industry placement to gain valuable work experience and enhance your employability.

Teaching Team

• Martin Sole: 30 years of experience in the aerospace and automotive sectors
• John Thorley: 25 years of experience in a variety of management and improvement roles in sectors including aerospace, food, power, and automotive
• Dr. Yiling Lu: Research in mechanical engineering with main applications in bio-engineering
• Dr. Jianfei Xie: Research interest in the area of fluid dynamics, particularly in the aerodynamics and structures of aeroplanes
• Professor Zhiyin Yang: Professor of Aerospace Engineering, conducts world-leading research, and has published over 100 scientific papers

Industry Experience

• Spend a year on an optional industry placement to gain valuable work experience and enhance your employability.
• Opportunities for placements with SMEs, large, national, and international companies.

Facilities

• Additive manufacturing lab
• Manufacturing automation lab
• Materials testing lab
• Dynamic testing lab
• Wind Tunnel and Thermodynamics lab
• Mechanical workshop
• Makerspace

Careers

• Engineering is a part of so many different industries, and completing an engineering degree will give you access to a wide range of opportunities.
• Careers at the cutting edge of mechanical engineering design, motorsport or automotive design, and the applications of advanced materials.

Entry Requirements

• UCAS points: 72
• A Level: DDD
• T Level: Pass
• BTEC: MMP
• GCSE: Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification
• Access to HE: Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 0, Merit: 30, Pass: 15
• English language requirements: IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)

Fees and Funding

• UK fee: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International fee: £16,900 per year (2025/26)
• Additional costs and optional extras:
  • Additional Educational Software approx. £100
  • Computer Accessories approx. £50
  • Workshop material approx. £100
  • Additional Industry visits approx. £50
  • Additional expenses for final year project approx. £50
  • Personal computer or tablet computer approx. £500

How to Apply

• Apply through UCAS for full-time undergraduate courses
• Apply directly to the University for part-time courses or if you already have your qualifications
• International students can apply through the University's online application portal or through a trusted local representative.