BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering (Top-Up)

Program Overview

The BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering (Top-Up) program is a one-year program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to be accomplished Automotive Engineers. The program focuses on key areas such as vehicle dynamics, electrical systems, design and materials, along with necessary skills and knowledge that professional engineers require. Graduates are highly sought after by local and global industrial companies across various sectors, including automotive design and development, manufacturing engineering, research and development, project management, and consultancy.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering (Top-Up) program is designed to top-up your existing qualification to a full honours degree in just one year. It equips you with the skills and knowledge required to be an accomplished Automotive Engineer, preparing you for a career working with Automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), in motorsport, and other various sectors. The program focuses on key areas such as vehicle dynamics, electrical systems, design and materials, along with necessary skills and knowledge that professional engineers require. It also aims to develop your research and problem-solving skills, preparing you to tackle real-world engineering challenges.

Outline:

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, group work, and practical laboratory sessions. You will also engage in virtual work using engineering-specific software, promoting independent study skills and collaborative learning. The program is structured as follows:

• Year 1 (National Level 6):
• Automotive Dynamics and Control (20 credits):
This module delves into aspects of dynamic performance, including vehicle ride, handling, and stability. It also explores developments in emission control, comparing conventional internal combustion engine management systems with emerging electric and hybrid technologies. Students will learn to utilize both manual and computer-based techniques to model vehicle system components. Additionally, they will acquire the skills to design, construct, critically analyze, and test vehicle control systems.
• Professional Engineering Management Techniques (20 credits): This module focuses on developing the soft skills outlined in the UK-SPEC, preparing you for chartered engineer status.
You will enhance your communication and interpersonal skills, and learn about design and development processes, including project management techniques.
• Mechanical Design and Material Selection (20 credits): This module will deepen your understanding of material selection in a wider engineering context and emphasize the interdependency of design, manufacturing, economics, and environmental considerations.
You will undertake a design exercise based on a real-world engineering problem, selecting appropriate materials for various components or assemblies. This module will refine your problem-solving skills and enable you to synthesize solutions using the knowledge and techniques gained throughout your studies.
• Project (40 credits): This module allows you to undertake a unique engineering project, building upon specific topics covered throughout your course.
You will conduct research and provide solutions to an engineering problem relevant to your chosen area of interest. This project will enhance your time-management and research skills, and deepen your understanding of the engineering design process.
• Manufacturing System Design (20 credits): This module equips you with a range of tools to analyze existing manufacturing performance and develop models and systems for enhanced productivity.
You will gain knowledge of modern measurement and control tools, enhancing your ability to optimize manufacturing processes.
• Part-Time Option: If you choose the part-time option, you will complete the program over two years, attending campus one day per week.

Assessment:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These methods include:

• Exams: Traditional written exams are used to assess knowledge and understanding of specific topics.
• Multiple-choice tests: These tests evaluate students' recall of key concepts and principles.
• Projects: Individual and group projects allow students to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
• Presentations: Students present their work and findings to peers and faculty, developing their communication and presentation skills.
• Coursework: Assignments, essays, and reports are used to assess students' understanding of specific topics and their ability to analyze and interpret information.

Teaching:

The program utilizes various teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and provide a comprehensive educational experience. These methods include:

• Lectures: These sessions provide an overview of key concepts and principles, delivered by experienced faculty members.
• Seminars: Smaller group discussions allow for deeper exploration of specific topics and encourage active student participation.
• Group work: Collaborative projects and assignments foster teamwork skills and the ability to work effectively with others.
• Practical laboratory work: Hands-on experience with equipment and software consolidate theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills.
• Virtual work: Utilizing engineering-specific software allows students to explore virtual environments and enhance their understanding of complex systems.
• Independent study: Students are encouraged to develop independent study skills, allowing them to further explore areas of interest and deepen their understanding.
The program is delivered by a team of experienced and qualified faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. They are passionate about teaching and are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality educational experience.

Careers:

Graduates of the BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering (Top-Up) program are highly sought after by local and global industrial companies across various sectors. They are well-equipped to pursue careers in areas such as:

• Automotive design and development
• Manufacturing engineering
• Research and development
• Project management
• Consultancy
The program's focus on practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge prepares graduates for a smooth transition into the workforce. Additionally, the program's emphasis on professional development and soft skills equips graduates with the necessary tools to excel in their chosen careers.

Other:

• The program is offered full-time and part-time, allowing flexibility for students with existing commitments.
• The program is delivered at the David Goldman Technology Centre, which boasts state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories.
• The program curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it remains relevant to the evolving needs of the automotive industry.
• The University of Sunderland has a strong track record of graduate employment in the automotive and related sectors.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• The annual, full-time fee for this course is:
• £9,250 if you are from the UK/Europe
• £16,000 if you are an international student (EU nationals will receive a £5,750 scholarship to reduce their fee to £10,250)
• Part-time fees are £6,935 per 120 credits.
Part-time courses are not available to international students who require a Student visa to study in the UK.
• The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter.
Learn more in our Help and Advice article.