Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering MEng

Program Overview

Graduates are prepared for careers in robotics, transportation, medical technologies, and other fields, and the program meets the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering MEng degree program at the University of Birmingham is a four-year Masters of Engineering degree that combines mechanical, computer, electronic, and electrical engineering to address the challenges of designing and deploying intelligent technologies. The program aims to equip students with strong theoretical and practical skills, enabling them to thrive in the 21st century engineering landscape.

Objectives:

• To provide a solid grounding in the underlying physical and mathematical principles of mechatronics and robotics.
• To develop students' expertise in integrated system issues through group and individual project work.
• To foster vital employability skills, including teamworking, problem-solving, and project management.
• To prepare graduates for successful careers in robotics, transportation, medical technologies, advanced manufacturing, space technologies, research and development, and product design.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Electrical Engineering 1 (20 credits): Covers the fundamentals of electronic and electrical engineering, including analogue circuits, digital systems, and electrical power and machinery systems.
• Engineering Mathematics 1 (20 credits): Enhances students' knowledge and understanding of mathematics used in engineering.
• Fluid Mechanics and Energy Transfer (20 credits): Explores the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and energy conservation, introducing associated engineering applications.
• Integrated Design Project 1A (10 credits): Introduces students to the design process and skills employed within an engineering context.
• Integrated Design Project 1B (10 credits): Continues the design process and skills development within an engineering context.
• Mechanics 1 (20 credits): Covers the mathematics and scientific principles related to mechanics in the context of engineering applications.

Year 2:

• Digital Electronics and Electrical Machines (20 credits):
• Engineering Mathematics 2 (20 credits):
• Electronic Circuits and Devices and Electromagnetics (20 credits):
• Microprocessors and Control Systems (20 credits):
• Integrated Design Project 2 (20 credits):
• Mechanics 2 (20 credits):

Year 3:

• Electronic Engineering (20 credits):
• Integrated Design Project 3 (MEng) (20 credits):
• Mechatronic Design (20 credits):
• Power Electronics and Power Systems (20 credits):
• Optional Modules (40 credits): Examples include Telerobotics, Telepresence and Augmented Reality, Engineering Mathematics 3, and The Internet of Things.

Year 4:

• Advanced Mechatronic Design Project (20 credits):
• Data Mining and Machine Learning (20 credits):
• Individual Engineering Project (MEng) (40 credits):
• Sensing and Control for Autonomous Systems (20 credits):
• Optional Modules (20 credits): Examples include Computer and Communication Networks and Small Embedded Systems.

Assessment:

Modules are assessed using a combination of exams, tests, and coursework. The specific mix of assessment methods varies depending on the module.

Teaching:

• The program utilizes a combination of large-scale lecture tuition, small-group teaching (six students or fewer), and lab and other practical classes.
• Extensive use of online learning tools is incorporated to facilitate flexible learning.
• Laboratory-based work is an integral part of the course, reinforcing concepts introduced in lectures and developing experimental practical skills.
• All undergraduate programs feature a significant level of project working in each year of study, designed to prepare graduates for teamworking, problem-solving, and project management.
• Students are taught by staff who are experts in their research fields, including those with extensive industrial connections, research staff, and staff with teaching qualifications.
• Opportunities exist to work with internationally leading research groups and in industry, providing real-world experience.

Careers:

Graduates of the Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering MEng program are well-prepared for successful careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Robotics
• Transportation (all forms)
• Medical technologies
• Advanced manufacturing
• Space technologies
• Research and development
• The department fosters a lively student community with a strong discipline identity and close working relationships with supportive staff.
• Graduates have gone on to work for highly respected organizations such as IBM, the National Grid, and National Rail.
• The School of Engineering has invested in new teaching spaces, labs equipped with hi-tech equipment, and extensive key software through a partnership agreement with Microsoft.
• The University of Birmingham provides a wealth of career development opportunities through its Careers Network, including one-to-one advice appointments, employer-endorsed awards, and internship programs.