BEng Hons Mechanical Engineering

At the University of Portsmouth, experiential learning is at the heart of the BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering programme. The course goes far beyond classroom theory, giving students plenty of opportunities to gain real-world experience and develop the skills employers are looking for:

• Hands-on Projects: From the first year, students engage in practical lab sessions, design challenges, and engineering workshops, helping them understand how theory applies to real engineering problems.

• Industry Placements and Internships: Many students choose to take a placement year, working with industry-leading organisations across the UK and abroad. These internships offer valuable exposure to professional engineering environments and enhance employability upon graduation.

• Student Competitions and Engineering Societies: Students can participate in exciting national and international competitions such as Formula Student, where they design and build a racing car, or join university clubs that promote innovation and collaboration.

• Live Client Projects and Research: Final-year students often undertake their capstone project in collaboration with a real company, working on solutions to current industry challenges. There are also opportunities to contribute to ongoing research in areas like renewable energy, robotics, or advanced manufacturing.

• Global Opportunities: The university offers support for international placements and study-abroad options, giving students a chance to gain a global perspective on engineering and work in diverse teams.

The University of Portsmouth provides comprehensive career development support through its Careers and Employability Service, helping students make confident transitions from university to the professional world. This includes:

• One-on-one career guidance and planning sessions.

• CV and cover letter reviews to tailor applications for top roles.

• Mock interviews and assessment centre training to build confidence.

• Networking events, career fairs, and on-campus employer visits that connect students with top engineering firms.

Employability

Graduates of the BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering program are highly regarded by employers across a range of industries. Career paths include:

• Mechanical Design Engineer

• Automotive Engineer

• Manufacturing or Production Engineer

• Aerospace Engineer

• Energy Systems Engineer

• Robotics and Automation Specialist

• Maintenance and Reliability Engineer

The University’s strong industry connections and accredited curriculum mean that graduates are well-prepared to hit the ground running. Past students have gone on to work for companies such as Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Airbus, Siemens, and British Energy, as well as with startups and consulting firms worldwide.

Further Academic Progression

For those who wish to continue their studies, the BEng (Hons) degree provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate education. Many graduates go on to pursue:

• A Master’s in Mechanical Engineering (such as the MSc or MEng at Portsmouth or other UK universities)

• Specialised postgraduate degrees in fields like Sustainable Energy, Mechatronics, Robotics, or Biomedical Engineering

• Cross-disciplinary programs such as an MBA in Engineering Management

• Advanced research pathways leading to a PhD

Whether entering the workforce or continuing to postgraduate study, Portsmouth mechanical engineering graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a lasting impact.