Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) MEng

Program Overview

The University of Birmingham's Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) MEng program blends a comprehensive academic foundation with real-world experience, preparing graduates for careers in automotive engineering. By emphasizing research and interdisciplinary collaboration, the program equips students with expertise in advanced automotive technologies, such as powertrain systems, vehicle dynamics, and sustainable energy. Graduates are highly sought after by leading automotive companies, well-equipped to tackle industry challenges and drive innovation.

Program Outline

The program aims to equip students with the expertise and knowledge necessary to develop and implement new automotive technologies. The program emphasizes a research-led culture, integrating the latest advancements in engineering science into its teaching. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to tackle real-world problems of industrial and societal significance. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, mirroring industry practices. Students work alongside Civil and Electrical Engineers, fostering teamwork and professional skills alongside technical knowledge. The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in UBRacing, the University's Formula Student racing team, providing hands-on experience in a competitive engineering environment.

Outline:

The Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) MEng program is a four-year Master of Engineering degree. The program is structured as follows:

Year 1:

• Electrical Engineering 1: Covers the fundamentals of electronic and electrical engineering, including analogue circuits, digital systems, and electrical power and machinery systems.
• Engineering Mathematics 1: Enhances students' knowledge and understanding of mathematics used in engineering.
• Fluid Mechanics and Energy Transfer: Covers the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and energy conservation, exploring engineering applications.
• Integrated Design Project 1A & 1B: Introduces students to the design process and skills employed within an engineering context.

Year 2:

• Integrated Design Project 2: Continues the design process and skills development.
• Engineering Mathematics 2: Builds upon the mathematical knowledge gained in Year 1.
• Mechanics 2: Delves deeper into mechanics principles and applications.
• Mechanical Design A: Introduces the principles of mechanical design.
• Thermodynamics and Fluids: Covers the fundamentals of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
• Mechatronics and Control Engineering: Explores the integration of mechanical, electrical, and computer systems.

Year 3:

• Integrated Design Project 3: Focuses on an automotive project, exploring commercial, legal, and safety aspects of product development.
• Powertrain and Vehicle Engineering: Covers the fundamentals of powertrain and vehicle engineering.
• Mechanical Design B: Builds upon the mechanical design knowledge gained in Year 2.
• Computational Fluid Dynamics and Finite Element Analysis: Introduces computational methods for fluid dynamics and structural analysis.
• Sustainable Energy and the Environment: Explores sustainable energy technologies and environmental considerations.
• Turbomachinery and Compressible Flows: Covers the principles of turbomachinery and compressible flow.

Year 4:

• Advanced Fuels and Powertrain Systems: Explores advanced fuel technologies and powertrain systems.
• Advanced Vehicle Engineering: Covers advanced topics in vehicle engineering.
• Individual Engineering Project (MEng): Allows students to pursue individual engineering interests and develop deep understanding in their chosen specialization.
• Synoptic Mechanical Engineering: Integrates and synthesizes knowledge gained throughout the program.

Optional Modules:

Students can choose 20 credits from a range of optional modules, including:

• Advanced Manufacturing: Explores advanced manufacturing technologies and processes.
• Bio-medical and Micro Engineering: Covers the principles of bio-medical and micro engineering.
• Industrial Automation and Robotics: Explores industrial automation and robotics systems.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module and may include:

• End-of-year exams: Written examinations to assess theoretical knowledge.
• Oral and poster presentations: Presentations to showcase research, design, and communication skills.
• Computer-based tests: Tests to assess proficiency in software and computational tools.
• Class tests: Short tests to assess understanding of key concepts.
• Laboratory and project reports: Reports to document experimental results, design processes, and project outcomes.
Assessment emphasis shifts from examinations in the early years to continuous assessment in project work in later years, reflecting the increasing specialization and practical application of knowledge.

Teaching:

Teaching methods include:

• Large-scale lecture tuition: Lectures to deliver core concepts and theoretical frameworks.
• Small-group teaching: Tutorials and seminars to provide personalized support, address individual problems, and facilitate discussion.
• Lab and other practical classes: Hands-on sessions to develop experimental skills, reinforce theoretical concepts, and apply knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Online learning tools: Online resources to supplement classroom learning and provide flexibility for students.
The program is taught by staff who are experts in their research fields, with extensive industrial connections and teaching qualifications. Students also have opportunities to work with internationally leading research groups and gain real-world experience through industry placements.

Careers:

Graduates of the Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) MEng program are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the automotive industry and related fields. Potential career paths include:

• Automotive Engineer: Designing, developing, and testing automotive components and systems.
• Vehicle Dynamics Engineer: Focusing on vehicle handling, stability, and performance.
• Powertrain Engineer: Designing and developing engine and transmission systems.
• Manufacturing Engineer: Optimizing manufacturing processes and production lines.
• Research and Development Engineer: Conducting research and developing new automotive technologies.
• Consultancy: Providing engineering expertise to automotive companies and other organizations.
The program has strong links with key employers in the automotive industry, such as Aston Martin, BP, Jaguar Land Rover, and Rolls-Royce, who provide projects, work placements, and recruitment opportunities for graduates.

Other:

• The program is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), meeting the academic benchmark requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
• The University of Birmingham has invested in state-of-the-art facilities for the School of Engineering, including a new building with dedicated teaching and research spaces, laboratories, and a Makerspace facility.
• The program emphasizes the importance of gaining industrial experience through summer placements or the MEng Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Year program.
• The University of Birmingham's Careers Network provides a range of services to support students in their career development, including one-to-one advice appointments, internship opportunities, and the Personal Skills Award.