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Undergraduate course
BEng (Hons)
Mechanical Engineering (Top-Up)
This one-year program lets students upgrade their qualifications to a BEng (Hons) degree. Learn from industry-savvy staff, hands-on labs, and tackle challenges like energy security, smart cities, and efficient manufacturing.Connect with emerging industry
Leverage our strong industry ties to gain hands-on experience in design and materials.
Step into world-class facilities
The Babbage Building offers cutting-edge research labs and specialist equipment, providing hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies. It’s the ideal space to collaborate on groundbreaking projects and develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
Be a 'work-ready' graduate
You will be highly regarded by employers for being “work-ready” and excel at top companies like Hoare Lea, Babcock Marine, BAE Systems, Kawasaki, BMT and the Ministry of Defence. Unique to Plymouth, our 'with composites' pathway gives you a competitive edge.
About
Do you have a passion for technology and design? Primarily problem solvers, mechanical engineers design, create and apply tools and methods across industries, from automotive to aerospace. They tackle crucial challenges that impact us all, such as energy security, efficient manufacturing and smart cities. At Plymouth, you will learn from enthusiastic staff with strong industry connections, who use laboratory sessions and hands-on demonstrations to reinforce academic concepts.
Dr Jahir Rizvi
Lecturer in Mechanical & Marine Engineering
This course is for you if...
you want to top up your existing academic qualifications to achieve BEng (Hons) level degree
you're captivated by technology and innovative design and enjoy solving complex problems across various industries
you're eager to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment
you seek a flexible program that aligns with your career goals
Details
Final year
You will deepen your understanding of computer aided engineering tools and control systems. You will also focus your specialism choosing to further your understanding of thermofluids and design methodology or choosing to study the theoretical and practical aspects of composites engineering on the 'with composites' pathway. Your dissertation project enables you to research the topics that interest you and will allow you to bring together all you have learnt so far.
Core modules
CONT318
Control and Intelligent Systems Design
20 credits
From autonomous ships to self-driving cars and aerial drones, this module explores how control engineering and AI power intelligent systems across land, air, and sea. You'll learn how engineers design smart technologies that make real-time decisions—just like the systems behind modern ships, aircraft, and vehicles.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
MECH341
Computer Aided Engineering
20 credits
In this module, you will gain expertise in two powerful Computer Aided Engineering methods: Computational Fluid Dynamics for fluid flow challenges and Finite Element Analysis for structural solutions. You’ll explore validation techniques to ensure reliable simulation results. You will develop your skills that set you apart in the world of engineering!
70% Coursework
30% Tests
PRME310
Engineering Honours Project
40 credits
Your Honours Project is your chance to focus on what really fascinates you. You will have freedom to choose almost any topic that aligns with your degree programme, and you will develop a deep understanding of it. Much of your work will be done independently (with regular guidance from your supervisor). You will present a poster at the end of the project where you can proudly show all that you have achieved.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
MATS347
Composites Design and Manufacture
20 credits
Composites are lightweight materials enabling sustainable fuel-efficient transport systems and large durable blades for renewable energy systems. In this module you will learn how to design composite materials and the manufacturing processes essential for such high-performance structures. You make a composite laminate, measure selected mechanical properties and compare the data with theoretical predictions.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MATS348
Composites Engineering
20 credits
Extending learning from MATS347, you will choose a component, prepare a product design specification (PDS), do individual designs, then agree a group design and manufacturing route, make the prototype(s) and test against the PDS. You also use numerical simulation to optimise the design of the composite structure. The coursework mimics industrial product development with staff acting as customers for your product.
100% Coursework
MECH343
Mechanical Engineering Design and Practice
20 credits
Supercharge your engineering design skills by creating innovative and sustainable solutions to complex, real-world challenges. Use CAD and CAE tools to bring your ideas to life, validate functionality, and optimise technical performance across the product lifecycle. Explore the ethical responsibilities of engineers by debating real-world dilemmas. This module is a deep dive into creativity, precision, and integrity!
100% Coursework
THER307
Thermal-Fluids Engineering
20 credits
In this module, you'll dive deeper into the fascinating world of thermal and fluid engineering, focusing on topics that are essential for mechanical engineering. Explore advanced concepts such as compressible flows, formation of shocks, heat engines, and thermal plumes and see how they apply to real-world engineering challenges.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
Athena Swan Silver
The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics was awarded an Athena Swan Silver award in September 2024 which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and success for all.
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Breaking, twisting, and snapping metal in our STEAM Material Testing Lab
We’ve packed it with specialist equipment sourced from world-leading global companies. This includes a sub-sonic wind tunnel, an autonomous vehicle test laboratory, an energy and sustainability laboratory, high performance computing facilities, a digital fabrication laboratory, virtual engineering suites and much more.
I envision a career as a Mechanical Engineer, concentrating on critical environmental projects. My aspiration is to make a positive change.
BEng Mechanical Engineering student
Elena Brake
.
Learn from our experts
The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics is a collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers focused on creating knowledge and innovative solutions that positively impact society.
Our
technical staff
are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Jahir Rizvi
Lecturer in Mechanical & Marine Engineering
Programme Leader
Dr Alexander Besinis
Associate Professor in Mechanical and Medical Engineering
Dr Pablo Borja
Lecturer in Control Systems Engineering
Plymouth Engineering Society
The Ƶ Engineering Society's main aim is to provide a platform for engineering students at the university to meet, socialise with and learn from their fellow students. We aim to promote links across all engineering disciplines and between all year groups from foundation year to masters year.
We will be hosting socials and events throughout the year so come and get involved! Once you have your membership be sure to follow the society's social media to keep up to date with all activities, socials, and events.
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Industry connections
As a course focused on employability, we’ve developed a number of relationships with industry to help provide you with the connections and opportunities you need to begin your career.
Sometimes I have to take a step back to remind myself that at the other end of this antenna I’m controlling a spacecraft around Mars or another spacecraft in deep space, it’s literally out of this world.
Senior Deep Space Operator at Goonhilly Earth Station, Cornwall.
Open the door to a successful future
Your degree opens doors to sectors as diverse as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing and energy.
With starting salaries from £26,000 to £30,000, our graduates have gone on to work for , , , , , the and the .
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Level 5 qualifications
A Level 5 qualification (e.g. Foundation Degree, Higher National Diploma, Diploma of Higher Education) in an engineering or related subject.
Contact the admissions team for further advice.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
H308
H308
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
H308
H308
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the Ƶ.
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