Mechanical Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons)

30 credits

This module provides you with a solid foundation in the core mathematical and computational skills required for modern engineering practice. You are introduced to key areas of engineering mathematics and shown how these are applied to the analysis and design of engineering systems. Alongside the mathematical content, you develop scripting and computational problem-solving skills using industry-relevant software tools such as MATLAB, Excel, and Python.

You learn the fundamentals of programming, including data handling, task automation, and algorithmic thinking, enabling you to implement mathematical methods effectively in software. Through practical examples and exercises, you gain experience in translating mathematical concepts into computational solutions. This computational skillset provides you with a strong foundation for future study in areas such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and advanced engineering analysis.

30 credits

This module introduces you to the fundamentals of structural analysis, including statics and dynamics, and to the mechanical behaviour of a wide range of engineering materials. In the mechanics component, you develop an understanding of the behaviour of particles and rigid bodies when stationary and in motion. You study bodies such as trusses in equilibrium and learn to define and calculate external and internal parameters, including force, moment, stress, and strain.

You apply theoretical and numerical methods to analyse structural components, developing skills that are essential for the design of real engineering structures. The module also introduces the dynamics of particles and rigid bodies and explores their engineering applications. Through material testing methods, you investigate the deformation and failure of different engineering materials.

30 credits

This module introduces you to core principles of mechanical engineering across fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and electronics. In the Fluid Mechanics section, you explore fundamental fluid properties, the basic conservation equations, and their engineering applications, alongside an introduction to dimensions and SI units. The Thermodynamics section examines the relationship between heat and other forms of energy, highlighting the central role of thermodynamic concepts across engineering and science, with practical examples such as internal combustion engines and air-conditioning systems. The governing laws of thermodynamics are studied in depth due to their wide applicability. The Electronics section introduces essential electrical quantities: charge, current, resistance, voltage, power, and energy, before progressing to fundamental components and their use in AC and DC circuits, and extending to more advanced devices and circuit analysis methods. The module is delivered primarily through lectures, supported by tutorials and laboratory-based practical sessions.

30 credits

This module will introduce you to Future Skills through engagement with Navigate, supporting the development of engineering design skills and good academic and professional practice to help you succeed during your course and progress towards professional status. You are introduced to the key aspects of planning an engineering project from start to finish, including design processes that incorporate sustainability, an awareness of interactions across different engineering disciplines, relevant regulatory frameworks, and Health and Safety procedures.

You are supported in developing effective learning techniques related to assessment, including the use of feedback, reflection, and feed-forward as integrated elements of your learning journey. These activities are reinforced through active participation in the Navigate Programme, enabling you to begin developing a design-thinking approach to Future Skills development.

30 credits

Building on your foundational knowledge from Level 4 modules, this module develops your understanding of thermofluids and solid mechanics principles and their engineering applications. In the Thermofluids section, you study thermodynamics, heat transfer, combustion, and fluid mechanics, exploring thermodynamic cycles and their application to steam power plants, gas turbines, and internal combustion engines. You examine heat transfer by conduction and convection, as well as combustion processes and boundary-layer behaviour, supported by engineering examples and problem-solving activities that develop your ability to analyse thermofluid systems.

In the Solid Mechanics section, you explore the principles governing the behaviour of deformable solids made from different materials under static and dynamic loading. Topics include mechanical properties of materials, types of loading, plane-stress and plane-strain conditions, beam design, torsion of shafts, and buckling. You develop the ability to design solid components and structures by selecting appropriate materials and geometry, and to apply analytical methods to evaluate stresses, strains, deformation, and dynamic response under varying load conditions.

The module strengthens your analytical and problem-solving skills for the design and evaluation of engineering systems.

30 credits

The Future Skills Explore Learning Outcomes are delivered in this module by immersing you in an interdisciplinary, industry-informed project environment. You work on a live brief shaped by industry input and professional practice expectations, applying subject-specific knowledge to authentic engineering and business challenges while developing professional behaviours in communication, teamwork, leadership, and project delivery.

You explore the links between engineering and business decisions using systems- and design-thinking approaches. Beginning with customer and stakeholder requirements, you apply tools to organise insights, translate needs into measurable objectives, and use the House of Quality to prioritise engineering characteristics. These analyses inform the development of a Product Design Specification, guiding concept generation and selection to ensure creative, research-driven, and well-justified solutions.

Alongside design and project activities, you develop essential business awareness, including value proposition design, business model development, customer analysis, cost modelling, budgeting, and commercial evaluation. Strong emphasis is placed on Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental, Social and Governance principles, showing how ethics, sustainability, environmental impact, and stakeholder expectations shape engineering practice and venture development. Through reflection, industry engagement, and Future Skills development, you articulate your professional identity and prepare for Level 6 project work and career pathways.

30 credits

This module builds on your Level 4 Engineering Design module and deepens your knowledge of design communication in accordance with British Standard BS8888. You develop skills in reading engineering drawings and producing product design specifications, as well as undertaking design analysis, validation, and optimisation. Design for Excellence (DfX) principles are supported through the use of integrated CAD/CAM/CAE software to help you solve and analyse engineering design problems.

You progress from 2D conventional engineering drawings to 3D digital models using parametric and free-form modelling techniques. Digital simulation activities introduce two key types of analysis: mechanism design and simulation, and finite element modelling (FEM) and analysis (FEA) using advanced industry-standard solvers.

The second part of the module focuses on the manufacturing stage of the engineering design process. You explore traditional design for machining and assembly methods, supported by CAD/CAM software to optimise design decisions, machining strategies, and manufacturing costs. Digital manufacturing techniques extend your skills from conventional approaches to 3D digital machining simulation using feature-based recognition, preparing you for modern engineering design and manufacturing practice.

30 credits

Technological advancements across engineering increasingly rely on intelligent and automated systems. In this module, you build on your Level 4 knowledge to develop a strong foundation in microcontrollers, control engineering, automation, and applied artificial intelligence for mechanical and automotive applications. You deepen your understanding of microcontroller platforms, sensors, actuators, and system integration, while learning to model, analyse, and design dynamic control systems.

Core topics include system dynamics, stability, feedback behaviour, signal conditioning, embedded programming, and advanced control approaches. You explore how AI-enabled decision-making and control enhance mechatronic and autonomous systems used in robotics, the automotive industry, and industrial automation.

You use MATLAB and microcontroller programming environments to connect theory with practice through simulation and hands-on experimentation. Learning is delivered through lectures, computing laboratories, practical workshops, and guided independent study. The module strengthens your analytical capability, applied problem-solving, and system-level engineering skills relevant to modern engineering practice.

30 credits

The Future Skills Explore Learning Outcomes are delivered in this module by immersing you in an interdisciplinary, industry-informed project environment. You work on a live brief shaped by industry input and professional practice expectations, applying subject-specific knowledge to authentic engineering and business challenges while developing professional behaviours in communication, teamwork, leadership, and project delivery.

You explore the links between engineering and business decisions using systems- and design-thinking approaches. Beginning with customer and stakeholder requirements, you apply tools to organise insights, translate needs into measurable objectives, and use the House of Quality to prioritise engineering characteristics. These analyses inform the development of a Product Design Specification, guiding concept generation and selection to ensure creative, research-driven, and well-justified solutions.

Alongside design and project activities, you develop essential business awareness, including value proposition design, business model development, customer analysis, cost modelling, budgeting, and commercial evaluation. Strong emphasis is placed on Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental, Social and Governance principles, showing how ethics, sustainability, environmental impact, and stakeholder expectations shape engineering practice and venture development. Through reflection, industry engagement, and Future Skills development, you articulate your professional identity and prepare for Level 6 project work and career pathways.

30 credits

This core module for Mechanical Engineering (Automotive Engineering) students provides a strong foundation in team-based engineering design. You develop your design capability through the use of industry-standard software and established design principles, supported by a project-based assessment approach that promotes robust, high-quality engineering outcomes and prepares you for Level 6 study.

Each year, you work in groups on the design of a different automotive subsystem, applying your technical knowledge to produce a comprehensive design report that covers design justification, CAD modelling, cost estimation, and manufacturing considerations. British Standards are applied throughout the module to reflect industrial practice and to strengthen your understanding of professional engineering requirements.

30 credits

This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of automotive powertrain, suspension, and chassis systems used in modern vehicles and race cars. Delivered through a project-based approach, the module combines lectures, tutorials, and practical laboratory sessions to develop both theoretical understanding and applied engineering skills.

You study internal combustion and electric powertrains, autonomous vehicle technologies, and key aspects of suspension and chassis design. Emphasis is placed on linking theoretical and mathematical models with experimental validation through simulation and laboratory-based exercises.

The module develops your analytical, problem-solving, and digital design skills in alignment with Kingston’s Future Skills framework, preparing you to tackle complex engineering challenges and work effectively within multidisciplinary automotive engineering teams.

30 credits

Technological advancements across engineering increasingly rely on intelligent and automated systems. In this module, you build on your Level 4 knowledge to develop a strong foundation in microcontrollers, control engineering, automation, and applied artificial intelligence for mechanical and automotive applications. You deepen your understanding of microcontroller platforms, sensors, actuators, and system integration, while learning to model, analyse, and design dynamic control systems.

Core topics include system dynamics, stability, feedback behaviour, signal conditioning, embedded programming, and advanced control approaches. You explore how AI-enabled decision-making and control enhance mechatronic and autonomous systems used in robotics, the automotive industry, and industrial automation.

You use MATLAB and microcontroller programming environments to connect theory with practice through simulation and hands-on experimentation. Learning is delivered through lectures, computing laboratories, practical workshops, and guided independent study. The module strengthens your analytical capability, applied problem-solving, and system-level engineering skills relevant to modern engineering practice.

30 credits

The individual project module provides you with a capstone learning experience in which you independently research, analyse, and develop a topic of personal and disciplinary relevance. You deepen your understanding of material studied earlier in the course while also engaging with new and advanced knowledge specific to your chosen area. Through the project, you demonstrate independent judgement, creativity, and critical thinking as you address a complex engineering or research problem.

The module supports the development of key professional competencies, including effective planning, time management, and maintaining regular communication with your supervisor. You are expected to define clear goals, work to agreed deadlines, and document your progress through written reports, a presentation, and a maintained project record.

30 credits

This module integrates control systems engineering with microcontroller-based systems to enable you to design, model, and control mechatronic systems. You apply engineering principles from control theory and microcontroller technology to develop systems that sense, process, and control real-world events.

You study the modelling of dynamic behaviour, including multi-degree-of-freedom systems, and the design of microcontroller-based sensor–actuator systems. Using appropriate software tools and hands-on programming of microcontrollers, you gain practical experience in implementing system control and translating theoretical models into working mechatronic solutions.

30 credits

This module offers you a comprehensive study of the modelling, design, and integration of key machine elements, including bearings, springs, gears, cams, and mechanisms. You analyse and model these elements using principles drawn from physics, mathematics, and mechanical engineering, including solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, manufacturing processes, and computer simulation through Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

You gain practical experience through a design project in which you design, model, and characterise a mechanical system relevant to real-world engineering applications. Problem sets linked to each topic reinforce the principles introduced in lectures and support the development of analytical and problem-solving skills.

15 credits

This module is designed to extend your knowledge of analytical and numerical techniques in thermofluids. Building on the material studied at Level 5, you further develop your understanding and skills in fluid and thermal analysis. You use computer simulations to solve complex engineering problems involving fluid flow and heat transfer through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

You study thermofluid mechanics with a focus on energy conversion and transfer in engineering systems, including turbomachines such as pumps and turbines, and heat exchangers. Through theoretical study and practical application, you develop the ability to analyse and model advanced thermofluid systems relevant to real engineering applications.

15 credits

This module gives you a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes. 

At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile. You will determine which attributes and skills you need to develop to support your career ambitions. In this process, you will be supported by a dedicated career coach, helping you explore a range of options that includes self-employment/freelancing, starting your own business, higher level study, and other professional graduate-level opportunities. Throughout the module, you will be given opportunities to engage with external mentors, to support reflection and to develop a professional network.

You will undertake a tailored series of activities and projects, aligned to your goals, from a menu of development options. This could include short courses, enrichment activities and experiential learning options such as micro-placements. You will also be able to reflect on activities outside the University that develop your graduate attributes, such as work or volunteering.

30 credits

The individual project module provides you with a capstone learning experience in which you independently research, analyse, and develop a topic of personal and disciplinary relevance. You deepen your understanding of material studied earlier in the course while also engaging with new and advanced knowledge specific to your chosen area. Through the project, you demonstrate independent judgement, creativity, and critical thinking as you address a complex engineering or research problem.

The module supports the development of key professional competencies, including effective planning, time management, and maintaining regular communication with your supervisor. You are expected to define clear goals, work to agreed deadlines, and document your progress through written reports, a presentation, and a maintained project record.

15 credits

This module is designed to develop, refine, and apply the knowledge and proficiency you gained in Level 5 modules covering electronics, control, and computing. You build the skills required to identify and solve problems related to the design and implementation of mechatronic systems and automation.

You are introduced to the techniques and knowledge needed to design and embed microprocessors within systems that integrate a range of sensors and actuators to sense, process, and control real-world events. Core topics include advanced microcontroller programming, understanding the operation and performance of sensors and actuators, interfacing techniques for signal optimisation and control, and the use of feedback to achieve accurate and reliable system performance. These concepts reflect systems commonly found in industrial instrumentation and process control.

30 credits

This module offers you a comprehensive study of the modelling, design, and integration of key machine elements, including bearings, springs, gears, cams, and mechanisms. You analyse and model these elements using principles drawn from physics, mathematics, and mechanical engineering, including solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, manufacturing processes, and computer simulation through Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

You gain practical experience through a design project in which you design, model, and characterise a mechanical system relevant to real-world engineering applications. Problem sets linked to each topic reinforce the principles introduced in lectures and support the development of analytical and problem-solving skills.

30 credits

Building on your Level 5 knowledge, this module introduces you to industry-standard software and advanced techniques for aerodynamic analysis and automotive design optimisation. Through practical CAD, CFD, and structural simulation activities, you develop creative problem-solving skills while addressing challenges in surface modelling, flow simulation, structural assessment, and design improvement.

Your digital competency is strengthened through the use of professional engineering tools for design, analysis, and optimisation, enabling you to apply modern engineering workflows to real-world automotive applications. The module encourages an enterprise mindset by emphasising industry relevance, adaptability, and iterative design development.

15 credits

This module gives you a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes. 

At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile. You will determine which attributes and skills you need to develop to support your career ambitions. In this process, you will be supported by a dedicated career coach, helping you explore a range of options that includes self-employment/freelancing, starting your own business, higher level study, and other professional graduate-level opportunities. Throughout the module, you will be given opportunities to engage with external mentors, to support reflection and to develop a professional network.

You will undertake a tailored series of activities and projects, aligned to your goals, from a menu of development options. This could include short courses, enrichment activities and experiential learning options such as micro-placements. You will also be able to reflect on activities outside the University that develop your graduate attributes, such as work or volunteering.

30 credits

The MEng Group Design Project provides you with a capstone learning experience in which you work as part of a team on a major engineering design problem that closely reflects real-world professional practice. You are assigned to a project with an outline description, specification, or customer requirements provided by the teaching team. As a group, you develop these requirements into a detailed technical specification and carry out the tasks needed to complete the project.

The module allows you to further develop academic and professional skills introduced earlier in the programme. To successfully complete the project, you establish a project plan and work schedule, undertake the necessary technical tasks, monitor progress, manage team activities, conduct and record formal design meetings, and resolve problems as they arise.

30 credits

The module is structured in a way that develops an understanding of the different stages in the lifecycle of a designed product, for example, from inception, through design and manufacturing, then into service and finally retirement. This module aims to help students develop an understanding of these stages in a product lifecycle and processes need to be undertaken in these stages and their interrelationships.

This module also aims to help students develop a fundamental understanding of the product lifecycle from a business and organisational perspective. Case studies are used to illustrate the application and relevance of taught concepts. Students will be asked to work in a team to perform a comprehensive product lifecycle analysis, using the knowledge learnt in this module as well as applying the knowledge acquired in pre-requisite modules. This will enable students to develop a set of skills to enhance their employability prospects in this demanding area. Core factual materials are provided via Canvas with keynote lectures.

30 credits

This module is designed for you as a Mechanical Engineering student, or from a related discipline, with prior exposure to relevant computational techniques and advanced mathematics. It extends your knowledge and skills beyond the basic fluid mechanics methods typically introduced at early undergraduate level and provides a theoretical and practical introduction to computational fluid dynamics (CFD).

During practical sessions, you focus on solving fluid mechanics problems in realistic mechanical engineering contexts. Emphasis is placed on developing your awareness of the limitations of CFD software and on understanding good practice in its application, including model selection, boundary condition definition, and result interpretation.

The module also develops your advanced computational skills in fluid dynamics, enhancing your employability in sectors such as energy and related engineering industries. Through a combination of theory, simulation, and applied problem-solving, you gain the confidence and competence to use CFD tools effectively and responsibly in professional engineering practice.

30 credits

This module provides you with an in-depth understanding of materials science and structural analysis by integrating advanced materials engineering with the theory and practical application of finite element analysis (FEA) and structural dynamics. In the materials component, you develop comprehensive knowledge of advanced materials, their development, and their performance in engineering applications. You examine how material design, manufacturing processes, and resulting properties are interconnected, supported by real industrial examples. This foundation enables informed materials selection, enhances employability, and prepares you for research-oriented study.

The analytical component introduces the theory and application of FEA as a numerical method for solving engineering and physical problems, with a focus on stresses, deflections, and temperature distributions. You also study key principles of structural dynamics, including natural frequencies, damping, mode shapes, and the response of flexible structures under dynamic loading - critical for avoiding vibration-related failures.

30 credits

The MEng Group Design Project provides you with a capstone learning experience in which you work as part of a team on a major engineering design problem that closely reflects real-world professional practice. You are assigned to a project with an outline description, specification, or customer requirements provided by the teaching team. As a group, you develop these requirements into a detailed technical specification and carry out the tasks needed to complete the project.

The module allows you to further develop academic and professional skills introduced earlier in the programme. To successfully complete the project, you establish a project plan and work schedule, undertake the necessary technical tasks, monitor progress, manage team activities, conduct and record formal design meetings, and resolve problems as they arise.

30 credits

The module is structured in a way that develops an understanding of the different stages in the lifecycle of a designed product, for example, from inception, through design and manufacturing, then into service and finally retirement. This module aims to help students develop an understanding of these stages in a product lifecycle and processes need to be undertaken in these stages and their interrelationships.

This module also aims to help students develop a fundamental understanding of the product lifecycle from a business and organisational perspective. Case studies are used to illustrate the application and relevance of taught concepts. Students will be asked to work in a team to perform a comprehensive product lifecycle analysis, using the knowledge learnt in this module as well as applying the knowledge acquired in pre-requisite modules. This will enable students to develop a set of skills to enhance their employability prospects in this demanding area. Core factual materials are provided via Canvas with keynote lectures.

30 credits

This module provides you with an in-depth understanding of materials science and structural analysis by integrating advanced materials engineering with the theory and practical application of finite element analysis (FEA) and structural dynamics. In the materials component, you develop comprehensive knowledge of advanced materials, their development, and their performance in engineering applications. You examine how material design, manufacturing processes, and resulting properties are interconnected, supported by real industrial examples. This foundation enables informed materials selection, enhances employability, and prepares you for research-oriented study.

The analytical component introduces the theory and application of FEA as a numerical method for solving engineering and physical problems, with a focus on stresses, deflections, and temperature distributions. You also study key principles of structural dynamics, including natural frequencies, damping, mode shapes, and the response of flexible structures under dynamic loading - critical for avoiding vibration-related failures.

30 credits

This module develops your advanced and integrated understanding of modern automotive powertrain systems across internal combustion, hybrid, and fully electric architectures. Delivered through lectures, simulation-led tutorials, and research-informed design activities, the module equips you with the theoretical, mathematical, and computational tools required to analyse, optimise, and validate high-performance and high-efficiency powertrains.

You explore state-of-the-art propulsion technologies, including downsized and boosted internal combustion engines, hybrid energy management systems, power electronics, electric machines, battery systems, hydrogen internal combustion engines, and fuel cell powertrains. Emphasis is placed on modelling, control, and optimisation, alongside understanding the trade-offs between efficiency, emissions, performance, cost, and thermal constraints.

You critically evaluate contemporary industry developments, apply advanced analytical and simulation techniques, and develop the capability to propose and justify innovative powertrain solutions for future vehicles and motorsport applications.