Mechanical Engineering

Course overview

Aston University's IMechE-accredited* mechanical engineering program ensures your readiness for a prosperous post-graduation career. Mechanical engineers play a pivotal role in virtually all man-made creations, resulting in a growing demand for professionals in this field. Upon completion, you'll possess the expertise and skills required to excel in global engineering challenges. This program encompasses not only technical and scientific subjects but also valuable skills in project management, teamwork, commercial awareness, and leadership.

"I am currently an engineer at Toyota, which is a very intense role. Aston set me up with the knowledge to get started in the job, as well as the more personal skills needed to succeed. The CDIO projects were a great way of improving communication and teamwork, which are vital skills in my every day life. My confidence also grew during my time at Aston, which means that I can now present to senior management regularly with few worries."

Emma Turner

Mechanical Engineering Graduate

Why Mechanical Engineering at Aston University?

Professionally accredited*

This programme is accredited by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

Gold standard teaching

Aston University was awarded Gold- the highest possible rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)

Longitudinal Education Outcomes (2023)

Aston engineering graduates are ranked 14th in median earnings on average of £40,200 in the five years after graduation.

Ranked 24th in the world

Aston University is ranked 24th in the world for reducing inequalities

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

Mechanical Engineering at Aston University

Mechanical Engineering student Tom Obee talks about his experience studying at Aston.

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

Rachel Krol

After Aston I project managed a new Cadbury chocolate bar

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.

AI & Digital

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Inclusive Leadership

Environmental Sustainability

Discover Power Skills

Course description

MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

This degree at Aston University will equip you with the tools and confidence to develop ground breaking solutions to challenges you will face in the future.

What we will provide

You'll receive exceptional education in the UK's second-largest city, led by a diverse team of inspiring instructors. Our excellent facilities enable hands-on, practical learning, and we integrate years of industry collaboration to deliver real-world-oriented education. Additionally, you'll enjoy complimentary IMechE membership, offering chartership opportunities upon graduation, along with access to project materials.

We are an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry. To find out more, visit here.

It is not mandatory to bring your own device for this course, however if you choose to do so please note will need laptop specifications of i5 or above (or AMD equivalent).

What you will provide
Developing a growth mindset is vital for your academic journey. Recognise that intelligence and achievement result from the effort, and demonstrate critical thinking, ambition, and a drive for excellence.

What skills we teach
You'll establish a strong base of technical expertise, encompassing CAD, model construction (including 3D printing and foam work), and metalwork. Additionally, you'll hone essential interpersonal skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and ethical awareness.

MEng year
Choosing the MEng year provides a chance to secure a valuable industry placement, enhancing specialised knowledge and professional growth. This experience grants a competitive advantage in the mechanical engineering field. While securing a placement is your responsibility, Aston University's Careers and Placements team offers robust support and maintains strong industry connections. Eligibility requires a minimum average mark of 50% in your third program year, and you can transition to the MEng program at any point during your BEng studies.

Career prospects
Aston University's mechanical engineering graduates are highly sought after by top global companies, securing roles like Graduate Mechanical Engineer, Development Engineer, Design Engineer, and Project Manager at firms like Jaguar Land Rover, Network Rail, BAE Systems, and Caterpillar Inc

Professional accreditation
*This programme is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

How you will learn

Our teaching approach is contemporary and inventive, centered on the CDIO framework (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate) and backed by 150 leading technical institutions worldwide. This framework integrates practical examples into your learning journey, preparing you for the workforce, while lectures cover theoretical subjects.

At Aston University, numerous extracurricular activities offer personal growth and exploration opportunities. Mechanical Engineering students can participate in IMechE's Formula Student competition, designing, building, and racing a single-seat car at Silverstone.

The Mechanical Engineering and Design Industry Club provides a platform to showcase your work, connect with employers, engage in live industrial projects, and interact with industry experts. International connections offer global experiences, such as student participation in conferences and competitions, as seen with recent travel to Norway for a challenge against students from around the world.

My experience with Aston Racing

We spoke to formula student leader Sherjit about his experience at Aston Racing and why studying engineering at Aston was the best choice for him!

Find out more

Facilities

Mechanical engineering is a hands-on discipline, you learn through combining lectures with practical lab-based work and engineering workshops. You will master both individual learning and group work with like-minded peers, guided by industry professionals and technical experts. Our engineering facilities mirror these environments with state-of-the-art facilities.

Within the model shop

3D printers
Maker space (with four additional 3D printers)
Laser cutting
Silicone moulding
Vacuum forming and foam cutting
Design Studio (an interactive space with PC’s and software)
Clay modelling facilities for automotive design
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign
Surface modelling using Solidworks and Keyshot
Dedicated project-based learning space and bookable student booths, assembly areas and professional drawing boards
Engine test lab (five engine test cells with hydraulic and electrical dynamometers, Kistler combustion analyser, emissions analyser)
Fuel characterisation and preparation lab
CNC Machine shop
Plasma cutting facility
Formula student garage & Shell Eco garage
Biomedical research lab with tissue and cell preparation areas, fume cupboards and microscopy facilities
Materials characterisation suite with advanced cyclic multi-axial testing equipment
Desalination and water treatment research lab with under-floor drainage
Solar array simulator
Solar thermal simulator

Our Mechanical Engineering course offers a range of excellent support for students, including additional mathematics 1-2-1 development, peer-assisted learning, expert technicians, and personal tutors.
Here, you will learn through hands-on experience by, for example, designing and building towers, wind turbines, and cars which you can then race in our Formula Student and Shell Eco Marathon competitions.

coursepage_mechnicalengineering_formulastudent

Check out the teaching spaces we have for our mechanical engineering courses, including workshops where areas such as hydraulics and high powered jets are covered in a safe environment.

Course objectives

Provides you with the opportunities to realise your academic potential through a range of learning experiences.
Encourage, through a practical approach, you will have a passion for engineering and an enthusiasm for learning
Provides you with a thorough grounding in the principles and practice of mechanical engineering including relevant aspects of societal, environmental, and commercial matters
Provides you an opportunity for advanced levels of study and a focus on skills and appreciation of the changing nature of engineering
Provides you with appropriately structured curricula, combining teaching and learning in theoretical issues with practical and digital skills training
Provides you with an up-to-date and professionally focused curriculum satisfying the accreditation* requirements of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers
Enables you to obtain relevant industrial experience by providing the option of a sandwich placement year.
Develops you to become a capable graduate engineer who is highly valued by employers.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Introduction to Design-Build-Test	15
Materials and Manufacturing 1	15
Introductory Mathematics for Engineering, Digital, and Physical Sciences	15
Introductory Programming for Engineering and Physical Sciences	15
Electronics 1	15
Engineering Science 1	15
Power Skills	15
Interdisciplinary Design Project	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate a basic theoretical knowledge of the mathematics, science and technology that underpins mechanical engineering.
Demonstrate a basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, principles, methodologies and design techniques appropriate to mechanical engineering.
Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science, programming, and engineering principles to solve engineering problems
Plan, conduct and report on a programme of work to technical and non-technical audiences using a variety of IT packages
Create a solution as part of (interdisciplinary) teams to a design problem subject to identified constraints, evaluate the design and make improvements, using appropriate design tools and techniques
Demonstrate the ability to contribute effectively in (interdisciplinary) teams and use basic team and resource management and documentation techniques to achieve engineering objectives
Use information from a variety of sources in the solution of an engineering problem
Evaluate and interpret data using industry-standard methods and communicate information effectively to ensure data-driven approaches to decision-making in solving complex problems
Use sustainable development strategies that reflect a deep understanding of the Circular Economy, Net-Zero strategies, Design and Systems Thinking, and Global Social Responsibility and lead to solutions that are ethically sound and globally relevant
Employ integrated problem-solving skills to analyse challenging and multifaceted problems considering professional, social, and ethical contexts.

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Engineering Science 2	15
Materials and Manufacturing 2	15
Advanced Mathematical Modelling	15
Thermofluids	15
Electromechanical Design, Dynamics and Control	15
Integrated Design Project	30
CDIO Team Project	15
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate a robust theoretical knowledge of mathematics, science, and technologies as appropriate to areas of mechanical engineering
Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of well-established concepts, principles, methodologies, and design techniques appropriate to mechanical engineering
Apply analytical skills using a range of IT, and mathematical modelling in the solution of advanced or ill-formed problems
Apply an integrated approach to solving complex engineering problems
Demonstrate awareness of the role the engineer in society including professional skills, legal responsibilities, ethical risks, health, safety, security, and environmental responsibilities
Explore a complex design problem, identify drivers and constraints, evaluate and iterate and document the design, using professional design tools and techniques
Interact effectively within a team, recognising and addressing situations likely to lead to conflict
Work with incomplete information and manage the risk arising from technical uncertainty.

Placement year modules

If you opt for an integrated placement year, you will spend your third year on placement. You will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module Title	Credits
EPS Placement Year	120

Placement year outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

Develop an understanding of business and the relevant commercial environment and/or intercultural study and their role within it
Gain knowledge of key aspects of good practice relevant to industry and/or intercultural study context
Develop new knowledge and understanding appropriate to the industrial, business, study or research sector related to degree programme
Communicate effectively in a variety of ways in a professional and industrial environment and/or in an intercultural study context

Third/fourth year modules

In your third year (if you opt for no placement year) or fourth year (if you opt for a placement year), you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Advanced Solid Mechanics and Finite Element Analysis	15
Advanced Dynamics and Control Systems	15
Advanced Thermofluids	15
Advanced Materials and Manufacturing	15
Engineering Design and the Environment	15
Professional Engineering Practice	15
Engineering Major Project	30
Total	120

Third/fourth year outcomes

On successful completion of the third/fourth year, you will be able to:

Apply a systemic knowledge of mathematics, science, and technology to advanced topics in mechanical engineering and related areas.
Apply an in-depth knowledge of concepts, principles, and analytical and computational skills to solve problems in specific areas of engineering.
Integrate abstract concepts and ideas to solve complex multidisciplinary real-world problems and critically evaluate the solutions with a focus on sustainability and climate change.
Demonstrate professional skills and responsibility towards legal and ethical issues
Evaluate potential impact on engineering activity when working with incomplete information and manage the risk arising from technical uncertainty
Audit a planned engineering activity, and identify risk issues, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk.
Reflect on their knowledge, skills, and competencies to formulate a personal development plan in line with their chosen engineering career
Plan, conduct, evaluate and report on a major individual programme of work initiated from a technical brief.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Smart Sensors and Control Systems	15
Machine Learning	15
Fluid-Structure Interaction	15
Renewable Energy	15
New Engines and Alternative Fuels	15
Aston Global Advantage	15
Multiphysics System Design	30
Total	120

Final year outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Synthesise a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematics, science, technology, mathematical and computational modelling techniques to advanced topics in mechanical engineering and related areas
Integrate knowledge from a range of areas, within and beyond engineering, and critically evaluate and apply that knowledge in engineering projects
Evaluate quantitative and computational methods with knowledge of their limitations, extract and evaluate data, and formulate engineering analysis techniques in the solution of unfamiliar complex problems
Formulate processes and methodologies to generate innovative designs for products, systems and components to fulfil new needs to unfamiliar situations or real-world problems
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of professional skills and responsibility towards legal and ethical issues, an awareness of the legal requirements governing engineering activities, and that they may differ internationally
Evaluate the key drivers for business success, including innovation, calculated commercial risks, and how these can be managed within an engineering project
Evaluate an engineering activity and identify risk issues, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk
Organise and reflect upon extensive knowledge of the characteristics of equipment, simulation software, processes or products and awareness of using technical literature and other sources to expand this knowledge.

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.
As an Aston student, you will develop expertise in four key areas:

AI & Digital

Join the rise of the humans. Don't fear AI, master it and use it for good. Develop digital skills for the future, whatever career you want to pursue.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Don't follow the rules, rewrite them. Today’s fast-changing world needs original thinkers. Creators. Innovators. Risk takers. So get ready to think smart and reach the next level.

Inclusive Leadership

Make space for every voice to be heard. Be the one who brings people together with a shared vision. Learn to break down barriers and be the leader the future needs.

Environmental Sustainability

It's not game over for our planet. It's game on. Together we can create a greener tomorrow. The world urgently needs graduates who can shape more sustainable and ethical ways of working. The future depends on it.

Entry requirements

A Levels
BBC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subject
BCC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subject (with an EPQ or Core Maths* at grade B)
CCC when including Maths and one other STEM (a) subject (contextual offer)

List of STEM (a) subjects: Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Design Technology, Chemistry, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Biology and Electronics.

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Math.

Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

If BTEC is in Engineering:

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (Engineering): DDM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
1 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (Engineering): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
2 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (Engineering): DM, plus 1 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (Engineering): DM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics, plus 1 A-level at a minimum Grade B.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (Engineering): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B. This must include the following units at Distinction if one A level is not in Mathematics: (QCF) Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Distinction, with the following units at Distinction: Mathematics for Engineering, Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems, or Further Engineering Mathematics.
Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade Distinction, plus an A-Level in any subject at grade C. This must include the following units at Distinction: Mathematics for Engineering, Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems, or Further Engineering Mathematics.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

If BTEC is in any other subject:

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (any subject): DDM, and A Level Maths at grade B.
1 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (any subject): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B in Mathematics and another STEM (a) subject listed above.
2 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (any subject): DM, plus A-level Mathematics at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (any subject): DM, plus A-level Mathematics at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B including Mathematics.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

29 points overall with 5, 5, 4 in Higher Level, including Mathematics and another STEM (a) listed subject.

We accept the QAA-recognised Access Diploma which must consist of at least 15 Distinctions and 30 Merits at level 3; including at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Mathematics units and at least 15 credits at Level 3 in STEM (a) subject units.

Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification and you must meet the GCSE entry requirement.

The following T levels are accepted qualifications for this course:

Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Building Services Engineering for Construction
Onsite Construction
Design and Development for Engineering Manufacturing
Engineering Manufacturing Processing and Control
Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering Manufacturing

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement each applicant must meet a GCSE (level 2) requirements:

GCSE English Language or Literature minimum grade C/4
GCSE Mathematics minimum grade C/4

Non-standard qualifications

Degree

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent Level 3) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second-year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space in that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second-year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have successfully passed (or be expected to pass) your first year with 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university with very similar module content.

The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,535*
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£21,500
During placement year:	£2,500

UK students (Home Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £9,535 (subject to the passing of legislation implementing the Government’s policy to increase the maximum tuition fee from £9,250, payable by Home Undergraduate students on full-time courses). The fee for the placement year is £1,250.

International students (Overseas Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £21,500. The fee for the placement year is £2,500.

All students:

The duration of your programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions and subject at all times to the maximum tuition fee caps set by Government from time to time. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

The programme will be assessed through a combination of written and oral exams as well as practical work-based competencies such as log bookkeeping, teamwork evaluation, reports, presentations, and portfolios. Your final degree will be determined by your performance in all years.

Career prospects

The UK is a major contributor to the global engineering industry and our students have an excellent track record of employability upon graduation. Our recent graduates have successfully gone on to place roles such as Mechanical Engineers, Design Engineers, Project Managers and Consultants in world-leading companies such as BAE Systems, Bentley Motor Cars, Network Rail, Caterpillar Inc, Corus and Jaguar Land Rover.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Why study Mechanical Engineering at Aston?

If you’re interested in a career in industry or commerce, using your engineering skills, this course will give you the necessary academic knowledge and understanding

How will a placement year benefit me?

We think that the knowledge you gain through your studies are best applied to real life and the most effective way to do this is by working in a company. As well as the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, you’ll also gain invaluable communication and team skills.

We have excellent links with industry and will help to arrange this placement for you.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham