Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering with Industrial Year BEng

Program Overview

The program emphasizes practical learning through design projects and an industry placement year, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and deploy intelligent technologies. The program is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and students benefit from access to state-of-the-art equipment, laboratories, and a supportive career network.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering with Industrial Year BEng program at the University of Birmingham is a four-year undergraduate degree that combines mechanical, computer, electronic, and electrical engineering to address the challenges of designing and deploying intelligent technologies. The program aims to provide students with strong theoretical and practical skills, enabling them to collaborate with experts in the field.

Objectives:

• To equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and deploy intelligent technologies.
• To foster a lively student community with a strong discipline identity and close working relationships with supportive staff.

Description:

The program emphasizes practical learning through integrated design projects, which run throughout Years 1-3. Students work alongside Mechanical and Civil Engineers to develop designs for technologies with real-world impact. The program also includes a year in industry, providing students with valuable experience applying their knowledge to real engineering challenges.

Outline:

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 student knowledge and understanding of mathematics used in engineering.
• Fluid Mechanics and Energy Transfer: Introduces the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and energy conservation, along with associated engineering applications.
• Integrated Design Project 1A: Introduces students to the design process and skills employed within an engineering context.
• Integrated Design Project 1B: Continues the design process and skills development within an engineering context.

Year 2:

• Digital Electronics and Electrical Machines: Covers digital electronics and electrical machines.
• Electronic Circuits and Devices and Electromagnetics: Covers electronic circuits, devices, and electromagnetics.
• Integrated Design Project 2: A substantial mechatronics group project encompassing electromagnetics, control, and embedded computing.
• Mechanics 2: Continues the study of mechanics in engineering.
• Microprocessors and Control Systems: Covers microprocessors and control systems.

Year 3 (Industry):

• Students undertake a paid placement year in industry, gaining practical experience and developing their skills.

Year 4:

• Core Modules:
• Integrated Design Project 3 (BEng):
A final design project.
• Individual Project: An individual mechatronics research project.
• Mechatronic Design: Covers mechatronic design principles.
• Optional Modules:
• Electronic Engineering:
Covers advanced electronic engineering topics.
• Engineering Mathematics 3: Covers advanced engineering mathematics.
• Power Electronics and Power Systems: Covers power electronics and power systems.
• The Internet of Things: Covers the Internet of Things.
• Telerobotics, Telepresence and Augmented Reality: Covers telerobotics, telepresence, and augmented reality.

Assessment:

Modules are assessed using a combination of exams, tests, and coursework. The specific mix of assessment methods varies depending on the module. Feedback is provided on all assessments, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods include large-scale lectures, small-group teaching, laboratory and practical classes, and online learning tools.
• Students are taught by staff who are experts in their research fields, with extensive industrial connections and teaching qualifications.
• The program emphasizes laboratory-based work to develop experimental practical skills and reinforce lecture concepts.
• Students have opportunities to work with internationally leading research groups and in industry.

Careers:

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

• Robotics
• All forms of transport
• Medical technologies
• Advanced manufacturing
• Space technologies
• Research and development
• The University of Birmingham has invested in new teaching spaces and laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and software.
• The program includes a significant level of project work in each year of study, designed to prepare graduates for teamworking, problem-solving, and project management.
• The University of Birmingham's Careers Network provides a wealth of resources and support to help students identify and achieve their career aspirations.
• The program includes an Industrial Liaison Officer who provides advice and support for students looking to complete an Industrial Year.
• The University of Birmingham has strong links with industry, and many companies regularly recruit students from the program.