ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ

School of Engineering and Informatics (for staff and students)

Mechanical Engineering

(BEng) Mechanical Engineering

Entry for 2024

FHEQ level

This course is set at Level 6 in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

Course Aims

The aim of this course is to produce engineering graduates who are equipped for success in a wide range of graduate careers; from those that require expertise in mechanical engineering directly, such as in the energy, automotive, transport, marine, construction and aerospace industries, to the many that require numerate graduates with a good understanding of project management, an ability to work effectively in teams and with excellent personal communication skills. The structure of the course reflects the need for broad-based knowledge as well as in-depth skills. Design is an essential component and spans specification, conceptual development, design embodiment, final design, manufacture, marketing and sales. All these factors are brought into play through group projects, in which students are expected to function as design teams, capable of interacting with 'clients' and presenting their work to a professional audience. A distinctive characteristic of the course is the general engineering focus of the first year, which aims to provide a solid foundation of engineering knowledge to equip the graduate for work in multidisciplinary teams.

Accreditation Marketing Text

Our courses are accredited to include the 2023 intake. We are currently in the process of securing re-accreditation for the 2024 intake onwards, according to the rules of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, which require periodic re-accreditation.

Course learning outcomes

C1 Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Some of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study

C2 Analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles

C3 Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, recognising the limitations of the techniques employed

C4 Select and evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to address complex problems

C5 Design solutions for complex problems that meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards

C6 Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of complex problems

C7 Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems and minimise adverse impacts

C8 Identify and analyse ethical concerns and make reasoned ethical choices informed by professional codes of conduct

C9 Use a risk management process to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks (the effects of uncertainty) associated with a particular project or activity

C10 Adopt a holistic and proportionate approach to the mitigation of security risks

C11 Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion

C12 Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate complex problems

C13 Select and apply appropriate materials, equipment, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations

C14 Discuss the role of quality management systems and continuous improvement in the context of complex problems

C15 Apply knowledge of engineering management principles, commercial context, project and change management, and relevant legal matters including intellectual property rights

C16 Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team

C17 Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences

C18 Plan and record self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD

Full-time course composition

YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
1Intersemester WeekCoreGlobal Design Challenge (H7103)04
 Autumn SemesterCoreElectrical Circuits & Devices (H6098)154
  CoreEngineering Maths 1A (H1033)154
  CoreMaterials and Manufacturing Processes (H7106)154
  CoreProgramming for Engineers (H1038)154
 Spring SemesterCoreEngineering Maths 1B (H1034)154
  CoreEngineering Mechanics (H1028)154
  CoreEngineering Thermodynamics (H3052)154
  CoreTechnical Drawing and Computer Aided Design (H7131)154
YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
2Autumn SemesterCoreDesign for Manufacture (H7104)155
  CoreEngineering Fluid Mechanics (H1029)155
  CoreEngineering Mathematics 2 (H1042)155
  CorePrinciples and Applications of Strength of Materials (H7102)155
 Spring SemesterCoreElectromechanics (H7133)155
  CoreNumerical Modelling and Engineering Simulations (H7137)155
  CoreProfessional and Managerial Skills (H1041)155
  CoreSystems Analysis and Control (H6104)155
YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
3Autumn SemesterCoreBusiness and Project Management (H7095)156
  CoreDesign of Mechanisms and Machines (H7110)156
  OptionDynamics of Machines & Vehicles (H7092)156
  Low Emission Vehicle Propulsion (H3051)156
 Autumn & Spring TeachingCoreIndividual Project (H1043)306
 Spring SemesterCoreHeat Transfer (H3055)156
  OptionElectrical Drive Systems (H6097)156
  New Generation Vehicle Technology (H7109)156
  Sustainability in Engineering (H7136)156

Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.

The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.

School of Engineering and Informatics (for staff and students)

School Office:
School of Engineering and Informatics, ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ, Chichester 1 Room 002, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QJ
ei@sussex.ac.uk
T 01273 (67) 8195

School Office opening hours: School Office open Monday – Friday 09:00-15:00, phone lines open Monday-Friday 09:00-17:00
School Office location [PDF 1.74MB]