TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BEng (Hons)

Mechanical Engineering with Foundation Year

Want to pursue engineering but lack traditional requirements, or seeking a career change? This four-year degree, with a foundation year in mechanical engineering, covers design, mechanics and materials, enhancing your employability across industries.

Our typical offer

32 UCAS points

Connect with emerging industry

Leverage our strong industry ties to gain hands-on experience in design and materials. Opt for a voluntary placement year for extra industry exposure.

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.

Graduate ready for work

You will be highly regarded by employers for being work-ready and excel at top companies like Hoare Lea, Babcock Marine and the Ministry of Defence. Unique to Plymouth, our 'with composites' pathway gives you a competitive edge.
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Foundation Year
About Details Experience Careers Fees and funding Apply Register for open day

About

Mechanical Engineering student Elena Brake

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  

Primarily problem solvers, mechanical engineers design, create and apply tools and methods across industries, from atomic physics to space exploration. 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. 

 
 
 
 

What is a foundation year?

Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
 
A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
Further information on Ƶ courses with Foundation years . 
 
Progression opportunities include ...
 

This course is for you if...

you're captivated by technology and innovative design
Icon showing computer with cog in representing engineering
you enjoy solving complex problems across various industries
Three individuals linked by arrows, depicting collaboration
you're eager to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment
Icon showing hand and cog
you seek a flexible programme that aligns with your career goals.
Globe showing networks

Details

Progression routes
Completing this course enables you to progress onto these related courses and programmes with the Ƶ at level 4, as specifically defined by this programme’s progression agreement.
 
 
 

Foundation year

In your foundation year, you will prepare for the demands of a degree in mechanical engineering. We will ensure that your mathematics and physics are up to A level standard, as well as introducing you to the three main disciplines of the engineering industry: mechanical, civil and electronics engineering. You will also work on a collaborative project, developing a range of skills you will need over the course of your degree.
Mechanical engineering students

Core modules

COMP060
Principles of Computing and AI 30 credits

Exploit the power of high-performance computing and artificial intelligence in science: learn how programmes are designed and written and how computing can be used to address problems in your discipline. You will get ahead of the game by learning how to program in Python and apply your skills in real-world settings via a series of guest lectures from academics and industry figures leading weekly computing workshops.

100% Coursework

MATH060
Foundational Mathematics in STEM 30 credits

Ready to lay the foundation for your degree? Learn about the fundamental maths behind real-world phenomena that is vital across Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Add to your toolbox the skills of algebra, geometry and calculus and see how they are applied in your discipline. Most importantly, you will complete this module feeling confident with your ability to do calculations effectively and correctly.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

PHYS060
Physics, Mechanics and Applied Mathematics 30 credits

"Put your maths into a real-world context by modelling a range of fascinating phenomena in science, technology and engineering. A unique, lab-led approach exposes you to experiments in the university’s flagship STEAM and COAST labs and the physics behind them. Apply your maths skills to predict the outcome of these labs and statistics to process the data you collect to test your understanding of the physical world. "

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

SFPT001
Global Scientific Challenges: Projects and Labs 30 credits

Wondering how you can make an impact on wider society? Explore the UN Sustainability Goals related to your specific discipline and how science and technology can help to meet them. You will carry out lab experiments to collect and analyse data in a real world setting and see how you can contribute towards addressing global scientific challenges at the forefront of our current knowledge.

50% Tests

25% Coursework

25% Practicals

 
 
 
 
 
 

Optional pathways

Our flexible courses offer the opportunity to add a specialism in composites engineering, or choose an integrated masters (MEng) and enrich your undergraduate degree with an additional year at postgraduate level. 
Optional ‘with composites’ pathway 
Our fully accredited, and well respected, composites pathway will allow you to develop a firm foundation in the principles of mechanical engineering alongside the design and manufacture of specialist materials. This specialism will be acknowledged on your degree certificate.

What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?

BEng (Hons)
  • A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
  • Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
MEng (Hons)
  • A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
  • Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Successful completion of the Foundation year will allow you to progress on to the first year of Mechanical Engineering or Marine Technology programmes accredited by the Engineering Council through the IMechE, IMarEST, IoM3 and RINA.

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

The  Babbage Building: where engineering meets design is home to the engineers of the future.
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 chose Plymouth because it offered a tailored composites degree, which very few universities offer. Since finishing my degree, I went straight into a graduate role at the National Composites Centre in Bristol.

Joshua Wood
BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites graduate
Joshua Wood, graduate in BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites
 
 
 

Thriving industry connections

From consultancy colleagues commissioning live briefs, to networking at conferences, you will develop relationships with industry to help provide you with the connections and opportunities you need to begin your career.
 
Jack Williams in the Bloodhound Supersonic Car

I can say with 100 per cent certainty that I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without my placement year. It made a huge difference to not only my CV, but my confidence and general business know-how.

Ƶ graduate Jack Williams spent four months with the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC) land-speed record project team.

 
 
 
 
 

Put learning into practice

Take a paid year in industry to help consolidate and develop your engineering knowledge – many of our students receive job offers or sponsorship as a result of their placements.
Mechanical engineering - student using a soldering iron
  • Get your career off to a great start by spending a year working professionally as a student engineer between years two and three.
  • You could earn £15,000 a year or more, and possibly gain sponsorship through your final year(s) at university.
  • Gain experience that will help you find a job when you graduate and a Certificate of Professional or Work Experience in addition to your degree award.

“I spent a year on work placement with Plymouth-based Fine Tubes, a manufacturer of precision tubes for a wide range of industries including aerospace, oil and gas, medical. As a result of my performance, the company sponsored the final year of my degree and offered me a job.”

Russell Lloyd
 
 
 
 
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

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 Keri Collins Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering


Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering

Dr Matthew Craven Associate Head of School (UG Education)


Associate Head of School (UG Education)

Dr James Edwards Associate Professor in Bioscience Education


Associate Professor in Bioscience Education

Show all
 
 
 

Your clubs and societies

UPSU offer a range of opportunities for you to connect with others.
The University's provides a platform for you to meet, socialise with and learn from from fellow students.
The club aims to promote links across all engineering disciplines and between all year groups from foundation year to masters year. Socials and events are hosted throughout the year so come and get involved.
Plymouth Engineering Society
 
 
 

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

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
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

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.

Mechanical Engineering graduate, Jamie Williams , took his deep interest in science, engineering and space and landed the career he always dreamed of – 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 .
Discover things to consider when choosing a career or considering further study after studying a mechanical and marine engineering degree.
  • ]

    95% of our mechanical and marine engineering graduates are in work or further study

  • [

    98% of our mechanical and marine engineering graduates say their degree was a formal requirement for their job or gave them an advantage*

*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.
 Data is based on our mechanical and marine engineering graduates.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

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 .
 

Classroom-based foundation years
On 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to cap the home student fee for the foundation year of this programme at £5,760, this will be applied from 1 August 2025. Subsequent years of this degree programme will be charged at the new standard rate for home undergraduate tuition fees of £9,535 per annum. Implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

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 .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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.
 

The Tamar Engineering Project

The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
  • £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • £1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
 

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.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above is required.

A level
32 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.
From a minimum of 2 A levels and one in a relevant subject. Relevant subjects include: applied ICT, applied science, applied business, biology, business studies, chemistry, computing, computer science, DT (product design resistant materials), DT (systems and control technology), DT product design (textiles technology), economics, economics and business, electronics, engineering, environmental science, further mathematics, use of mathematics, core mathematics, pure mathematics, mathematics, ICT, physics, science, statistics, technology and design - must have C at GCSE Mathematics. Excluding general studies.

18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma science/technology related subject: PPP
12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma science/technology related subject: MP
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses
Pass Access course (preferably from a science/technology subject) (including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above or equivalent). For candidates that do not have a science, electrical or technology background please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk for further advice.

T level
Pass from a Science/Technology pathway. Must have GCSE Maths 4/C.

International Baccalaureate
24 overall to include 1 subject from science or technology – English and mathematics must be included.

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.
 
Please note: We understand that many applicants remain anxious about meeting the exact terms of our standard conditional offers. We will look again at your application and revise our offer for those applicants who we continue to believe are a good match for our courses, once we have the certainty of your actual results in August.
UCAS course code
H305
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    32 UCAS points
     
     

    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.
     
    Short of the entry requirements for this course? Don’t worry you may be eligible for a foundation year to prepare you for possible entry onto this course for the following year.
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    H305
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth

    Other routes to this course

    If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the Ƶ International College (UPIC) . 
     
     
     
     

    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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    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.