Mechanical Engineering - BEng (Hons)

Modules

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
 

Year one

Engineering Mathematics
 

Year: 1

This module provides an understanding of the language and terminology of mathematics, together with the mathematical techniques from algebra, calculus and statistics that are necessary for the description and analysis of engineering systems.

Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
 

Year: 1

This module will introduce students to studying Mechanical Engineering at Ulster University and will develop some of the foundational knowledge and skills that will enable them to succeed on their degree programme.

Design and CAE 1
 

Year: 1

This module provides an introduction to the fundamentals in the use of a modern 3D CAD system to create robust 3D part modules using an introductory range of feature types. This module provides an introduction to product design specification, design, build and analysis/testing of a product as part of a design project, working as part of a team.

Mechanical Systems & Analysis 1
 

Year: 1

Analysis of statics and dynamics systems are a key foundation for mechanical and mechatronic engineers. This module provides fundamental concepts and principles in order to solve static and dynamics problems, and gives a solid methodology and framework in order to tackle new and unfamiliar problems.
 

Its content includes: Basic and derived units, static equilibrium, statically stressed systems, theory of torsion and bending, kinematics of a particle and kinetics of a particle. Those theoretical and practical principles required within each topic area will be developed in lectures and applied in assignments and tutorials.
 

The Global Engineer
 

Year: 1

This module will introduce students to working in multidisciplinary teams to solve a real-world problem and present their solution to an audience of their tutors and peers.

Materials and Manufacturing 1
 

Year: 1

A module which integrates lectures with practical sessions in the study of the basics of common manufacturing methodologies and the behaviour of engineering materials. The student will consolidate their learning of the interaction among materials, manufacturing methods, quality and workshop safety. Production of a working electro-mechanical product will deepen knowledge and develop basic skills for selected manufacturing processes. Candidates will critique their work to improve the product design and select appropriate production processes for batch manufacture.

 

Year two

Design of Electro-Mechanical Systems
 

Year: 2

The understanding of electrical power systems, AC and DC motors including selection, performance and analysis; plus their relevance to mechanical drive systems.

Mechanical Systems and Analysis 2
 

Year: 2

This module provides an extension of the fundamental principles of Dynamics and Statics and Strength of Materials in relation to mechanical engineering and provides a methodology for their practical application.
 

Materials and Manufacturing 2
 

Year: 2

The module uses a blended approach to provide a sound understanding of the underpinning chemistry and microstructure of metals, ceramics, polymers and composites. How materials properties are controlled by processing techniques and the environmental impact of materials is also considered. In addition, a programme of industrial visits exposes students to a wide variety of production scenarios and processes.
 

Quality and Operations

 

Year: 2

The module teaches the basics of Operations and Quality. The Operations elements looks at the processes that produce the goods and services sold by the company in addition to optimising facility location and layout. The module also teaches topics such as stock control and scheduling.

 

The Quality part of the module covers the relevance and application of Quality principles and techniques to the manufacturing environment. Discussion of current topics in Quality Management and Quality Improvement is supported by study of the fundamentals of ISO 9001, Statistical Process Control, Measurement System Analysis and Non-Destructive testing. This module prepares the student to contribute to these challenging activities in their early employment.
 

Thermal Fluid Sciences
 

Year: 2

This module provides an introduction to the principles behind fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. Emphasis is placed on the application of this theory to everyday items, ranging from relatively simple devices such as pumps, pipes, bicycles, refrigerators and heating systems through to internal combustion engines, hydroelectric power stations, gas turbines and steam engines.
 

An understanding of how fluids flow, and the forces that result, along with knowledge of energy and how it can be transformed and made more useful are the intended outcomes of this module. It will enable students to continue their study of thermal fluid sciences at a higher level if desired.

 

Design and CAE 2
 

Year: 2

The module considers creativity in design; product innovation; technical and non-technical aspects of design; sustainability; design analysis techniques for economic product manufacture and assembly; functional analysis; visual design; value engineering; safety and reliability through design projects; manufacturing processes; assembly techniques; market intelligence; component and product inspection and testing. This module builds on the fundamentals of 3D solid part modelling with the introduction of more advanced solid modelling tools, assembly modelling, creation of 2D drawings and incorporation of all these tools and features within a design project, working as part of a team.
 

Year three

Industrial Placement
 

Year: 3

This module is optional
 

This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study. This experience allows students to develop, refine and reflect on their key personal and professional skills. The placement should significantly support the development of the student's employability skills, preparation for final year and enhance their employability journey.
 

International Academic Studies

 

Year: 3

This module is optional

This module provides an opportunity to undertake an extended period of study outside the UK and Republic of Ireland. Students will develop an enhanced understanding of the academic discipline whilst generating educational and cultural networks.
 

Year four

Design and Industrial Applications 3
 

Year: 4

This module is based on the execution of an industrially generated major design project through multi-disciplinary team activity involving aspects of: project management, market analysis, specification, concept design, budget costing, decision making, detail design, production planning, manufacturing requirements and product costing.

Manufacturing technology
 

Year: 4

This module involves the technology of fixed automation; computer numerical control; materials handling; low cost automation; computer integrated manufacturing; industrial robot technology; robot applications; automated inspection and advanced robotics.

Mechanical Systems and Analysis 3
 

Year: 4

This course provides students with an understanding of how solid engineering respond to different types of loading factors. For this, theoretical and practical principles required in static, dynamic and FEA disciplines will be taught in lectures and applied in assignments, laboratory sessions and tutorials. These will allow students to assess and deliver a solution for a variety of practical mechanical systems.

Research Methods and Management
 

Year: 4

The project is a substantial individual piece of work completed over 2 semesters. Each student taking this module will carry out an individual project on a topic relevant to their degree of study. Students will be expected to manage and design the project in collaboration with their supervisor. They will be responsible for carrying out the project and writing up and presenting their work in the form of written submissions and a final examination. General guidance on all aspects of the project is given through specific lectures devoted to the topics.

BEng Final Year Project
 

Year: 4

Each student taking this module will carry out an individual project on a topic relevant to their degree of study. Students will be expected to design the project in collaboration with a nominated supervisor. They will be responsible for carrying out the project and writing up results in the form of a final written report.

Functional Biomaterials
 

Year: 4

This module is optional

This module provides students with a detailed understanding of the composition, function and application of synthetic and natural biomaterials in the context of the medical implant devices they are used to fabricate. The approach taken highlights the important materials science issues involved in the provision of these systems. The increasing importance of functional biomaterials to the provision of enhanced medical implant devices that can more effectively replace damaged and/or diseased tissues and organs is also addressed.

Nanotechnology
 

Year: 4

This module is optional

This module gives the student an overview of nanotechnology and its applications in engineering.

Environmental Engineering
 

Year: 4

This module is optional

This module introduces environmental issues, key aspects and provides coverage of science, technology, design, regulations and management systems pertaining to environmental protection, resource conservation and alternative energy sources.

Advanced CAE

Year: 4

This module is optional

This module provides a practical, hands-on experience of Computer Aided Engineering in the context of industrial design and manufacturing. It focuses on advanced part modelling techniques, assembly modelling, creating associative links, good modelling practice, collaboration and interoperability, design documentation, 3D printing, surface modelling, photorealistic rendering, dynamic simulation and Finite Element Analysis. It involves the utilisation of an integrated, state-of-the-art MCAD suite, along with the teaching of the general principles of the aforementioned technologies.

All applicants to the University (from the UK and overseas) are required to show evidence of a minimum English language level in order to be accepted onto our courses.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English language in order to be granted a UK Student Visa to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level.
 

This level is often referred to as the ‘B2 level’.

• Most of our courses require a minimum English level of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent, with no band score under 5.5.
• Trinity ISE: Pass at level III (with a pass in each component) also meets this requirement.
• For September 2022 entry, we are accepting IELTS Indicator.
• Some of our courses ask for a higher score. It is therefore important to look at individual course requirements.
• If you meet the English language level for entry to your chosen course, you will also meet the minimum English language level required by UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) for a Student Visa.
• If you do not meet the English language requirement we may give you a conditional offer subject to you meeting the requirement before the commencement of the course.
• We accept a wide range of alternative English language examinations and tests so please check the list of other accepted tests.

Important notice - fees information
 

Fees illustrated are based on academic year 22/23 entry and are subject to an annual increase.
 

If your study continues into future academic years your fees are subject to an annual increase. Please take this into consideration when you estimate your total fees for a degree.
 

Additional mandatory costs are highlighted where they are known in advance. There are other costs associated with university study.

Fees (per year)

Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and EU Settlement Status Fees

£4,630.00

England, Scotland, Wales and the Islands Fees

£9,250.00

International Fees

£15,360.00

Graduate employers

Graduates from this course are now working for:

• Bombardier Aerospace
• CDE Global
• Fleming Agri Products
• Hutchinson Engineering
• JW Kane Precision Engineering Ltd.
• Randox Laboratories
• Thompson Aero Seating
   

Job roles

With this degree you could become:

• Aerospace Design Engineer
• Design Engineer
• Manufacturing Systems Engineer
• Operations Manager
• Product Improvement Engineer
• Project Engineer
• Quality Engineer
   

Career options

Job prospects in a broad range of engineering industries are excellent with most graduates finding employment within six months of graduation. Graduates with an MEng or BEng Hons, first class or upper second class award satisfy the entry requirements for a wide range of postgraduate research posts and scholarships in mechanical engineering, engineering materials and manufacturing engineering.
 

Work placement / study abroad

The industrial placement year is a significant, formative period for our student mechanical engineers. Involvement in the practice of engineering in an industrial setting will develop your engineering, transferable and personal skills and significantly enhance your employability on graduation. All students are therefore required to undertake a (paid) industrial work placement - normally in year 3 of the programme.