BEng Mechanical Engineering with a Foundation Year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Birmingham City University

Program Overview

The University of Birmingham offers a BEng in Mechanical Engineering with a Foundation Year, ideal for students who need to build a stronger academic base before diving into full degree-level studies. This program is designed to bridge the gap for learners who may not meet traditional entry requirements, offering them the tools, confidence, and support needed to succeed in a demanding engineering curriculum. Students develop a solid grounding in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles during the foundation year, laying the path for progression into the core degree.

Curriculum Structure:
The course is structured to offer a blend of academic theory and hands-on practical learning. The foundation year focuses on key subjects like applied mathematics, physical sciences, and computing. Once students enter the main BEng degree, they dive into core mechanical engineering areas including:

  • Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics

  • Materials and Manufacturing

  • Mechanics and Dynamics

  • Mechatronics and Control Systems

  • Design and CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
    The later years include more advanced technical modules and a final-year design project, where students apply everything they've learned to solve a real-world engineering challenge, often in collaboration with industry.

Accreditation:
The BEng program is professionally accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), ensuring it meets the high standards expected by industry and paving the way towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status after graduation.

Campus Location:
Located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, the university campus is home to cutting-edge facilities like the Engineering Design Centre, specialist materials labs, and simulation suites. Students benefit from a strong academic community and access to state-of-the-art resources in one of the UK's most respected Russell Group institutions.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The University of Birmingham focuses heavily on practical experience and employability. Students gain exposure to real-world challenges through:

  • Lab-based learning and industry-focused projects

  • Optional industrial placements or summer internships with top engineering companies

  • Student engineering societies, like UoB Racing and the Engineering Without Borders chapter, offering opportunities to apply skills outside the classroom

  • Participation in national and international engineering competitions, including Formula Student and Hackathons

  • Global opportunities through study abroad programs or international project collaborations

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Throughout the course, students receive guidance and support through the university’s careers network, which provides:

  • Tailored career advice and coaching

  • Help with CV building, mock interviews, and job applications

  • Access to exclusive placement and graduate job fairs, often attended by leading employers such as Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover, Siemens, and Arup

Employability:
Graduates from this course are known for their strong analytical thinking, hands-on technical skills, and problem-solving capabilities. Many go on to work in automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, or consulting roles. Employers value the Birmingham name and its reputation for producing well-rounded and industry-ready engineers.

Further Academic Progression:
Students can seamlessly progress into postgraduate studies after graduation, including MEng programs, specialised MSc courses, or even research pathways in fields like sustainable energy, robotics, or advanced manufacturing. The foundation year ensures that students are not only ready to succeed but also have room to explore where engineering can take them next.

Program Key Stats

£17,690
£ 28
Sept Intake : 15th Jan


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

CDD
3.2 - 3,6
24
55

NA
NA
6.0
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • mechanical engineers
  • CAD technicians
  • maintenance engineers
  • control and instrumentation engineers
  • land-based engineers
  • production managers
  • technical sales engineers
  • product designers
  • project managers
  • and research and development engineers

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