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Mechanical Engineering MEng

Key Information

Course code

H301

H302 with placement

Start date

September

Placement available

Mode of study

4 years full-time

5 years full-time with placement

Fees

2024/25

UK £9,250

International £23,615

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Entry requirements

AAA - ABB (see specific subjects) (A-level)

DDD (see specific subjects) and A-level Maths at grade A. (BTEC)

31 (IB)

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Overview

Brunel's state-of-the-art teaching facilities include flight simulators and the Brunel Motorsport Centre. You can join our student racing team and compete in the annual Formula Student and Isle of Man TT competitions.

The Brunel Mechanical Engineering MEng gives students interested in pursuing careers in mechanical engineering an extra year of advanced study and training that will deepen your knowledge of the subject, expand your skill sets and put you on a fast-track to becoming a chartered engineer.

As with our Mechanical Engineering BEng degree, you’ll get a thorough grounding in the core principles of engineering science including solid body mechanics, thermodynamics and materials science as well as in the fundamentals of product design, development and manufacturing.

You’ll also get training in related disciplines integral to the profession such as computing, electrical engineering and electronics. And, as mechanical engineers not only design exciting products but venture into managing projects and companies, you’ll study elements of management, ethics, finance and law.

In your final year, along with studying specialist topics taught at master’s degree level, you’ll take part in a major group project to design and manufacture a product. This will give you valuable experience working in a team-based environment and on-the-job opportunities to develop your leadership and management skills, competencies sought by employers. Recent examples of projects include a novel means of filtering water and applying fuel-cell technology to motorcycles.

At the end of each academic year, engineering and maths students are invited to showcase their project work at Brunel Engineers +, an event that both celebrates their achievements and gives them the chance to network with industry figures and employers. This video shows some of the projects exhibited at the 2024 Brunel Engineers + event, with explanations by the students themselves.

Throughout your studies you’ll have use of our modern, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and 24-hour access to industry standard engineering design software at dedicated computer clusters on campus, so you’ll have the opportunity and equipment to explore ideas and tackle problems.

Our mechanical engineering MEng course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). (NB: we are seeking accreditation for the with-placement route). We offer two study options. You can choose four years full-time or five years full-time with a one-year professional placement that will give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned to a real-life working environment.

If you start on the full-time course, you can transfer to the professional development option, which includes the placement, at any time before the end of Level 2.

In a world where business, government and society depend more and more on technology, graduates with the knowledge and skills to design and build the machines and processes driving the technological innovation are in demand, particularly those with higher qualifications. Your Brunel MEng will give you that expertise and stand you in good stead for a rewarding career in engineering.

Course content

The course is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of how mechanical objects work and a fast-track route to qualification as a chartered engineer. You’ll study the scientific principles that govern how machines operate and the design and development processes involved in creating or improving mechanical devises.

Your mechanical engineering degree consists of compulsory modules and major independent and group projects.

Compulsory

  • Engineering Mathematics and Programming I

    Aims: To develop students’ ability to understand and apply fundamental methods of engineering mathematics; to introduce the use of programming in engineering, and develop students’ ability to represent and solve problems algorithmically.

  • Engineering Mathematics and Programming II

    Aims:  To develop students’ ability to understand and apply fundamental methods of engineering  mathematics; to introduce the use of programming in engineering, and develop students’ ability to represent and solve problems algorithmically.

  • Engineering Practice

    Aims: To develop the skills required by students studying in all engineering disciplines, thereby supporting their journey through Higher Education and into their professional life with the intention of maximising their employability. Skills development in the following areas will be addressed: problem solving; personal development; professional development; career planning; basic engineering design; introductory project management; communication; working in inclusive teams; health and safety; security.

  • Engineering Systems and Energy 1

    Aims: To provide a grounding in concepts of measurement and uncertainty; to provide knowledge about applied physics relations that govern engineering systems within their boundaries and via their variables of interaction; to establish ability to define system boundaries and apply relevant simple models.

  • Engineering Systems and Energy 2

    Aims: To provide a grounding in concepts of measurement and uncertainty; to provide knowledge about applied physics relations that govern engineering systems within their boundaries and via their variables of interaction; to establish ability to define system boundaries and apply relevant simple models.

  • Engineering Mechanics - Statics

    Aims: To provide a grounding in the fundamental principles of engineering mechanics; to provide knowledge and understanding of Newton’s laws and their application for the solution of static problems; to provide experience and confidence in problem-solving.

  • Engineering Mechanics and Materials (Mechanical and Aerospace)

    Aims: To provide a grounding in the fundamental principles of engineering mechanics – dynamics of rigid bodies; to provide knowledge and understanding of the common and important material properties for various engineering applications; to provide experience and confidence in problem-solving.

  • Mechanical Engineering Science

    Aims: To present principles governing the mechanics of solid bodies under static condition; to present interpret and apply concepts and theories of classical engineering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer to engineering systems; to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in modelling and analysing engineering problems; to achieve an appreciation of laboratory instrumentation and data analysis.

Compulsory

  • Design Process for Machine Elements, Manufacturing Processes, Materials and CAD
    This module introduces relevant mechanical components, assemblies in an engineering design context and Computer Aided Design (CAD). Students learn to consolidate the disciplines of materials science, materials engineering and modern manufacturing processes.
  • Dynamics of Machines
    This module helps to establish a foundation for vibration analysis and machine dynamics. It will introduce analytical and graphical methods for mechanism analysis and synthesis.
  • Engineering Design Team Project
    This module aims students to design, build and test relevant mechanical devices in a competitive engineering design team context. Students to apply design and make skills, while exercising personal initiative and responsibility.
  • Engineering Business (Core)
    This module helps to develop and demonstrate an understanding of project management by working as part of a team to research and plan a project and enhances student preparedness for work placement and employment.
  • Fluid Mechanics
    This module aims to deepen the understanding of fundamental fluid mechanics and introduce the basics of aerodynamics; compressible fluids. Students will learn basics of Computational Fluid Mechanics - CFD.
  • Solid Mechanics and Intro to FEA
    This module helps to establish a solid foundation for the analysis of solids and structures based on the fundamental principles of continuum mechanics. Students learn to link models and engineering applications with a range of real-life examples, experimental testing and comparative analysis of experimental measurements and theoretical results.
  • Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
    This module introduces new fundamental concepts of thermodynamics and apply to relevant thermal power and heating/cooling systems. Students learn basic concepts of heat transfer.
  • Engineering Mathematics and Programming

    The aim of this module is to enhance knowledge about application of mathematical modelling to engineering problems and to provide knowledge and understanding about various mathematical techniques that are used to solve mathematical problems relevant to engineering. Programming techniques will also be introduced for solving mathematical models

Compulsory

  • Applied Fluid Mechanics
    This module aims to develop ability to solve the Navier-Stokes equations numerically in students and apply appropriate modelling choices for different flows.
  • Design of Engineering Systems
    This module aims to develop the expertise required to plan, manage and complete a major engineering design project as a group activity based upon the students chosen specialism. Students to develop the ability of consider and manage wider aspects such as social, economic, legislative, and ethical issues related to the subject matter of the project.
  • Intro to AI Applications in Engineering
    This module aims to gain an in-depth knowledge of basic theory, principles and techniques in modern artificial intelligence. Students to develop capabilities and skills in developing AI solutions for practical engineering problems.
  • Mechatronics and Control Engineering
    This module introduces knowledge and methods for designing and implementing mechatronic systems for control and robot systems. Students will develop an understanding of modelling dynamic systems using transfer functions and block diagrams by providing a mathematical foundation for control systems analysis, design and performance improvement.
  • Mechanical Engineering Structures
    This module aims to introduce advanced concepts for the analysis and design of mechanical engineering structures and structural components. Students to develop further the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for the solution of mechanical engineering structures.
  • Major Individual Project
    This module provides experience in planning, researching and conducting a major engineering project in the specialised course of study. Students will apply engineering techniques, critically assess the findings, putting forward ideas and drawing conclusions.
  • Sustainable Engineering Management and Practice
    This modules helps to learn pertinent environmental, quality, health & safety issues, and their relevant related regulations, influencing engineering business. Students will develop professional and technical skills to assess and manage these impacts within the framework of industry-recognised Management Systems.

Compulsory

  • Major Group Project
    The project aims to give experience of design practice and engineering systems design through undertaking a large multidisciplinary project. It aims to develop the necessary skills in design project management and planning, and to enable students to apply these skills in diverse situations.
  • Additive Manufacturing and Advanced CAD
    This module aims to learn the state of the art in advanced additive manufacturing, and its impact on manufacturing, industries, and the global market. It will enable students with more advanced features of CAD.
  • Strategy and Business Planning
    This module aims to critically evaluate the strategic positioning of an organisation for strategy decisions, analyse and assess an organizations resources and capabilities, in relation to an organisations strategic direction in order to develop an effective business development plan for an engineering company.

Optional

  • Advanced Solid Body Mechanics and FEA

    This module aims to introduce students to the main principles of nonlinear modelling of solids and structures; nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA); and failure modes of solids and structures, including plastic collapse, fracture and buckling.

  • Advanced Thermofluids

    This module aims to introduce advanced simulation and modelling techniques for thermofluids; advanced experimental techniques for thermofluids and teach skills of numerically solving engineering flow using advanced modelling techniques and reporting, analysing results.

  • Application of Computational Modelling on Cardiac Vascular Disease

    This module aims to introduce knowledge of blood flow in the cardiovascular system. Students will learn to enhance their ability of using engineering techniques in modelling blood flow in arteries.

  • Medical Device Engineering

    This module aims to introduce multiphysics computer modelling for the design and analysis of MEMS structures. Students to learn practical use of microfluidic technologies currently under development in industry and research laboratories.

  • Principles of Heat Transfer

    This module aims to present theory and practical concepts of single and two-phase heat transfer. Students will learn to extend the analytical study of heat transfer and apply this to heat transfer equipment.

  • Robotics and Automation

    This module aims to introduce principles of actuation, sensing, and control methods. Students will have an understanding of robot modelling overview including forward and inverse kinematics, and control methods.

  • Renewable Engergy Systems for the Built Environment

    This module provides a fundamental understanding of the renewable energy systems and also explores the requirement to integrate renewable energy systems in the built environment.


This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.

This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.


Please note that all modules are subject to change.

Read more about the structure of undergraduate degrees at Brunel.

Careers and your future

If you opt for a placement course, you will have the added bonus of putting your academic study into practice and developing ideas about future careers. Some graduates are offered full-time graduate posts at the companies where they carried out their work placements.

Our graduates go on to work in exciting industrial, commercial and public sector areas including aviation, automotive design, building services, energy and environmental engineering, gas and water supply, oil production, mining and mineral processing, nuclear power, patent engineering, pharmaceutical engineering, banking, biomedical, the armed forces and the railways.

UK entry requirements

2025/26 entry

    • GCE A-level AAA-AAB including grade A in Maths and grade B in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, Electronics, or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, Mathematical Studies and General Studies not accepted).
    • BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (QCF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with Distinctions in Further Mathematics for Technicians and Further Mechanical or Further Electronic/Electrical Principles modules and grade A in A Level Maths.
    • BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with Distinctions Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems, AND grade A in A Level Maths.
    • BTEC Level 3 Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (RQF) DD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, with Distinction in Further Mechanical or Further Electrical Principles (QCF), Engineering Principles & Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems (RQF), AND A Level Maths at grade A. 
    • BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (RQF) D in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with A Levels grades AB to include grade A in Maths and grade B in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, Electronics, or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Critical Thinking, and General Studies not accepted).
    • International Baccalaureate Diploma 31 points, including 6 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 5 in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Geography or Design Technology. GCSE English equivalent SL 5 or HL 4 and Mathematics SL 4 or HL 4.
    • Access to Higher Education Diploma Applicants should apply for the BEng and those who achieve the progression requirement can then transfer to the MEng at the end of Level two.
    • T levels : Not accepted.
    • Applicants who will need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate. To find out if you will need an ATAS certificate, please visit this webpage: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/find-out-if-you-require-an-atas-certificate#when-you-need-an-atas-certificate. The deadline for Admissions to make offers to applicants who will require an ATAS certificate is approximately the end of July each year. This is to ensure any offer holders who need an ATAS certificate have plenty of time to obtain the certificate before their course starts.

    For Engineering with Integrated Foundation Year progression requirements, see the course page.

    A minimum of five GCSEs are required, including GCSE Mathematics grade C or grade 4 and GCSE English Language grade C or grade 4 or GCSE English Literature grade B or grade 5.

    Brunel University London is committed to raising the aspirations of our applicants and students. We will fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.

    Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.

EU and International entry requirements

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6 (min 5.5 in all areas)
  • Pearson: 59 (59 in all sub scores)
  • BrunELT: 58% (min 55% in all areas)
  • TOEFL: 77 (min R18, L17, S20, W17) 

You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.

Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.

Fees and funding

2024/25 entry

UK

£9,250 full-time

£1,385 placement year

£3,000 fee reduction in final year

International

£23,615 full-time

£1,385 placement year

£3,000 fee reduction in final year

Fees quoted are per year and may be subject to an annual increase. Home undergraduate student fees are regulated and are currently capped at £9,250 per year; any changes will be subject to changes in government policy. International fees will increase annually, by no more than 5% or RPI (Retail Price Index), whichever is the greater.

More information on any additional course-related costs.

See our fees and funding page for full details of undergraduate scholarships available to Brunel applicants.

Please refer to the scholarships pages to view discounts available to eligible EU undergraduate applicants.

Teaching and learning

First Year Students

The Engineering Year 1 is common to all disciplines during term 1 (Chemical; Civil; Electronic and Electrical; Mechanical; Automotive and Aerospace Engineering), providing a broad educational base and opportunities for cross-disciplinary study. While much of the teaching will remain common to all disciplines during term 2, there will also be some opportunity for discipline-specific teaching activities.

Lectures

Lectures will be delivered using a variety of different methods. Some will be delivered live online or in-person on-campus, while others will be pre-recorded and made available online for you to access prior to engaging in interactive in-person tutorials or seminars on campus. Some on-campus live lectures will be simultaneously livestreamed; all live lectures, whether delivered online or on-campus, will be recorded and made available for you to review after each lecture has taken place.

Tutorials

All lecture-based modules will be supported by regular (in most cases, weekly) tutorials or seminars that will all be held on campus, allowing you to work with both staff and other students on the practical application of what has been discussed during lectures.

Laboratory classes

Laboratory classes will be held on campus. Students will have the opportunity to perform experiments and carry out other hands-on practical activities in the engineering labs and workshop spaces. Small group project work will also be carried out in person on campus, supported by regular on-campus interactive discussion sessions (workshops).

You'll need to come onto campus on most days to participate in all the teaching activities that make up the Engineering Year 1.

The University’s online digital assessment platform will be used for the submission of written course work. All examinations will take place in person on campus. Other forms of assessment, such as presentations, are also expected to be run on campus.

All other undergraduate students (year 2, 3 and MEng year)

To ensure you receive the maximum support and have the greatest opportunity to reach your full potential; the expectation is that you enrolled on these programmes and attend in-person all teaching activities including examinations that are scheduled on campus. This will be the majority of all activities. However, where for pedagogical reasons alternative methods of delivery are used for activities; you'll be notified and be expected to engage with the activity at the time of delivery.

Laboratory Support

  • For modules with practical learning content, these will be delivered in-person on campus in the laboratories.

Assessment

  • Traditional examinations will be taken in-person on campus.

Access to specialist software

  • You'll have access to relevant engineering software on campus. You're also able to install software on your own personal laptops and connect to the Brunel License server through a VPN connection. This provides continued access to all services.

Contingency

If for any reason there are access restrictions imposed on staff or students, alternative arrangements will be made and due notice given.

Access to a laptop or desktop PC is required for joining online activities, completing coursework and digital exams, and a minimum specification can be found here.

We have computers available across campus for your use and laptop loan schemes to support you through your studies. You can find out more here.

Our staff have national and international reputations for their research, publications and applied work. Many carry out much of their research in collaboration with major oil companies, plant and equipment manufacturers and leading industrial firms. This means that your education will be at the forefront of industry knowledge.

Your course will consist of lectures, laboratory practicals, design workshops, individual and group projects and one-to-one supervision.

Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.

Assessment and feedback

Modules are assessed by combinations of coursework, project work, reports on laboratory practicals, oral presentations and short tests. There are written examinations in May of each year. In Level 3, all students undertake a major individual project. This is worth a third of the overall marks for the year.

In your final year, assessment is predominantly coursework, and there are fewer exams. This reflects the workload of projects found in the engineering industry.

The final degree classification is calculated from a combination of Level 2, Level 3 and final year grades. Level 1 does not count towards your final degree, but you must pass the year in order to progress.