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.
Mechanical engineering covers the design, development and manufacture of mechanical objects – from large-scale industrial machinery to trains, planes and automobiles to medical devices, mobile phones and millions of consumer goods. In fact, every product, technology or system has probably been touched by a mechanical engineer.
The Brunel Mechanical Engineering BEng will give you the specialist knowledge and skills needed to get started on a lucrative career in this diverse and challenging profession.
You’ll get a solid grounding in the core principles of engineering science including solid body mechanics, thermodynamics and materials science as well as in the fundamentals of design and manufacturing.
You’ll also get training in related disciplines integral to mechanical engineering such as computing – used in modelling and predicting outcomes; electrical engineering – to gage how much energy is needed to run a machine and how it can be generated and controlled; and electronics - because parts in many machines are electronic as well as mechanical. And, as mechanical engineers not only design many exciting products but venture into managing projects and companies, you’ll study elements of management, ethics, finance and law.
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.
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.
Our mechanical engineering BEng 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 three years full-time or four years full-time with a one-year work placement between years two and three that will give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned to real-life situations.
If you start on the full-time course, you can transfer to the professional development option at any time before the end of Level 2.
In a global economy where progress depends heavily on technological innovation, graduates with the knowledge and skills to design, develop and improve the machines and processes fuelling growth are in demand. Your Brunel BEng will give you that expertise and help open doors to a career in engineering.
You can explore our campus and facilities for yourself by taking our virtual tour.
Course content
The course is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of how mechanical objects work. 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 a major independent project.
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 tmathematics;o 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
- Dynamics of MachinesThis module helps to establish a foundation for vibration analysis and machine dynamics. It will introduce analytical and graphical methods for mechanism analysis and synthesis.
- Design Process for Machine Elements, Manufacturing Processes, Materials and CADThis 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.
- 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.
- ME2615 - Elements of Engineering Design ProjectThis module aims to teach 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.
- Fluid MechanicsThis 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 FEAThis 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 TransferThis 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 MechanicsThis 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 SystemsThis 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 EngineeringThis 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 EngineeringThis 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 StructuresThis 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 ProjectThis 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 PracticeThis 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.
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
2024/25 entry
- GCE A-level AAB-BBB including Maths and one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths and General Studies not accepted).
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (QCF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with Distinctions in Further Mathematics for Technicians and Further Mechanical or Further Electronic /Electrical Principles modules.
- BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with Distinctions in Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.
- BTEC Level 3 Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (RQF) DD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with Distinction in Further Mechanical or Electrical Principles (QCF), Engineering Principles & Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems (RQF), AND A-Level Maths at grade B (Use of Maths not accepted).
- BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (RQF) D in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with A-Levels grades BB to include Grade B in Maths and Grade B in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, or Design and Technology (Use of Maths and General Studies not accepted).
- International Baccalaureate Diploma 30 points, including 5 in Higher Level Maths and Higher Level 5 in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Geography, or Design Technology.
- Obtain a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma Engineering with 45 credits at Level 3. All Maths and Science units must be Distinctions at level 3.
- Engineering with Integrated Foundation Year courses For Engineering with Integrated Foundation Year progression requirements, see the course page.
- T levels : For subjects accepted and grade requirements please contact the admissions office.
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 aspiration 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
If you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you must prove knowledge of the English language so that we can issue you a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). To do this, you will need an IELTS for UKVI or Trinity SELT test pass gained from a test centre approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and on the Secure English Language Testing (SELT) list. This must have been taken and passed within two years from the date the CAS is made.
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
International
£23,615 full-time
£1,385 placement 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.
Scholarships and bursaries
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, 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
You will undertake assignments, 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. The final degree classification is calculated from a combination of Level 2 and Level 3 grades. Level 1 does not count towards your final degree, but you must pass the year in order to progress.
Read our guide on how to avoid plagiarism in your assessments at Brunel.