Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship

Program Overview

The Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship is a collaborative program between Teesside University and employers, designed for individuals employed in manufacturing who seek professional development. It combines on-the-job training with academic study, leading to a BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering degree. The program equips apprentices with knowledge, skills, and experience in manufacturing engineering, preparing them for successful careers in the industry. It is fully funded by the employer and accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship is a program designed for individuals who are currently employed in the field and have the support of their employer to pursue further professional development in the area of manufacturing engineering. This program is a collaboration between Teesside University and employers, offering a unique blend of on-the-job training and academic study leading to a BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering degree. The program aims to equip apprentices with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to excel in the field of manufacturing engineering. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical experience, apprentices will develop a strong understanding of engineering principles, design, and manufacturing processes. This program also emphasizes the development of key employability skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

Outline:

The Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship program is structured over a period of 4-6 years, depending on the entry qualifications of the apprentice. The program includes a combination of work-based learning and blended (on-campus and online) learning. Apprentices typically attend one day of on-campus learning per week, with the remaining learning completed online. The program consists of a series of modules covering various aspects of mechanical engineering and manufacturing. Some of the key modules include:

• Electrical Principles (AC/DC): Explores the fundamentals of electrical circuits and their applications.
• Engineering Mathematics: Develops mathematical skills relevant to engineering, including calculus, statistics, and linear algebra.
• Materials and Sustainability: Examines material properties and their impact on engineering design and sustainability.
• Mechanical Engineering Practice: Focuses on developing practical skills and knowledge in mechanical engineering design and project management.
• Structural Mechanics: Introduces common structural types, analyzes their behavior under various loads, and provides tools for design and analysis.
• Thermofluids: Covers the principles of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer, applied to various engineering systems.
• Aeroengines and Rocket Science: Explores the operation and design principles of a variety of engines, including gas turbines, jet engines, and rockets.
• Applied Mathematical Methods: Extends mathematical skills for solving engineering problems using various numerical methods.
• Group Design and Build Project: Involves working in teams to solve industry-relevant design problems and develop project management skills.
• Manufacturing Processes: Provides an in-depth understanding of various manufacturing processes, including casting, rolling, and modern technologies like powder metallurgy.
• Mechanics of Materials 1: Examines the essential theories and principles of mechanics of materials and their application in engineering design.
• Product and Assembly Design Modelling: Develops skills in 3D modeling and design using industry-standard software.
• Computer Aided Analysis: Introduces advanced techniques for computer-based analysis and design using finite element analysis (FEA).
• Dynamics and Vibration: Studies the behavior of mechanical systems under dynamic loads and vibration.
• Mechanics of Materials 2: Builds upon the principles of mechanics of materials and applies them to solve complex engineering problems.
• Project: Allows apprentices to independently investigate an area of engineering or technology and present their findings through a report or presentation.
• Sustainable Systems and Industry 4.0: Explores the integration of sustainability principles and Industry 4.0 technologies in manufacturing systems.
This list represents a sample of the modules offered. The specific modules may vary depending on the program year and the needs of the participating employer.

Assessment:

The Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate the knowledge and skills acquired by apprentices. These methods include:

• Coursework assignments: Regular assignments designed to test understanding of key concepts and their application to practical problems.
• Examinations: Formal exams testing knowledge across various modules and topics.
• Project work: Independent research projects requiring application of knowledge and skills to investigate a specific engineering problem.
• Presentations: Formal presentations of project findings or other work, demonstrating communication and presentation skills.
• End-point assessment: A comprehensive assessment conducted at the completion of the program, evaluating the overall knowledge, skills, and behaviors acquired by the apprentice against the industry standards.

Teaching:

The Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining on-campus learning with online components. The on-campus sessions are delivered by experienced faculty members with expertise in their respective fields. These sessions include lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and group discussions. The online learning components are delivered through the University's virtual learning environment (VLE) and may include recorded lectures, online tests, blogs, journals, and portfolio submissions. The program also incorporates workplace learning, where apprentices apply the acquired knowledge and skills in their daily work under the supervision and guidance of experienced professionals within their company.

Careers:

The Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship program prepares graduates for a successful career in the field of manufacturing engineering. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue various roles within the manufacturing industry, including:

• Manufacturing Engineer
• Design Engineer
• Production Engineer
• Quality Engineer
• Project Manager
• Research and Development Engineer
• Technical Sales Engineer
The specific career path an individual pursues will depend on their interests, skills, and the specific needs of their employer. The program also opens up opportunities for graduates to pursue further postgraduate studies or research in specialized areas of manufacturing engineering.

Other:

The Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship is a valuable opportunity for individuals who are passionate about engineering and seek to develop their skills while earning a recognized degree. The program offers a unique combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing graduates for successful careers in the evolving field of manufacturing.

Additional Information:

• The program is accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council.
• The program is suitable for individuals without prior engineering qualifications, as long as they meet the entry requirements.
• The program is fully funded by the employer, with no tuition fees for the apprentice.