School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Foundation Year

UCAS tariff 32 - 48 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code H305
Institution code P60
Duration

4 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day
Apply at UCAS.com

Do you want to embark in engineering but do not have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Perhaps, you are looking for a complete career change. This four-year degree route incorporates a foundation year to give you a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning mechanical engineering. You will be actively involved in engineering projects and our hands-on approach to learning runs through design, mechanics and materials, improving your employability across many industries.

Key features
  • Open the door to a successful future
    With starting salaries from £23,000, our graduates have gone on to work for Hoare Lea, Babcock Marine, Becton Dickinson, e2v, Edwards, the Shaw Group and the Ministry of Defence.
  • Aim for professional qualification
    Subject to completion of the foundation year you will be eligible to progress onto one of our professionally accredited degree courses.
  • Make use of cutting-edge facilities
    Students in engineering, science and the arts have access to a range of specialist equipment and innovative laboratories in our new engineering and design facility .
  • Be flexible
    Our combined first year allows you to switch to marine technology or civil engineering in line with your career ambitions.
  • Be unique
    Our courses are the only ones in the country to have a named 'with composites' pathway; choosing this will allow you to stand out in the job market.
  • Learn hands-on
    We offer the latest industry-standard software, laboratory sessions and practical classes.
  • Aim higher
    You may progress onto the MEng course at the end of your second year if you are doing well.
  • Put learning into practice
    Take a paid year in industry – many of our students receive job offers or sponsorship as a result of their placements.
  • Go on to thrive
    Your degree opens doors to sectors as diverse as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing and energy.

Course details

  • Foundation year

  • In your foundation year, you will prepare for the demands of a degree in mechanical engineering. We will ensure that your mathematics and physics are up to A level standard, as well as introducing you to the three main disciplines of the engineering industry: mechanical, civil and electronics engineering. You will also work on a collaborative project, developing a range of skills you will need over the course of your degree.

    Core modules

    MATH051
    Mathematical Methods I 20 credits

    This module is intended to show how mathematics is a fundamental part of the world of engineering, science and computing as well as of the world around us. Assuming a base of GCSE grade C, the lectures and assessments are designed to lead to an understanding of the application of mathematics to GCE A Level grade C and above.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    MATH053
    Mathematical Methods II 20 credits

    This module is intended to show how mathematics is a fundamental part of the world of engineering and science as well as of the world around us. It extends the mathematics taught in MATH051 to include complex numbers, differential equations and numerical methods.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    MATH058
    Applied Mathematics 20 credits

    This module provides an introduction to applied mathematics. The focus of the module is on the use of mechanics to solve basic problems of an engineering and scientific nature in the real world. Topics studied are: modelling; forces; vectors; kinematics in one and two dimensions; Newton's laws; moments and energy.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    MECH050
    Mechanical and Marine Engineering 20 credits

    This module provides an introduction to mechanical and marine engineering and to the types of careers open to graduates in these disciplines. Each student will undertake a group project in one of these disciplines to enable them to make an informed choice of degree pathway.

    100% Coursework

    PHYS050
    Physics I 20 credits

    This module provides an introduction to physics and its applications in science and engineering. This module assumes little previous knowledge of physics.

    60% Coursework

    40% Examinations

    PHYS051
    Physics II 20 credits

    This module continues the work in Physics I, providing an introduction to physics and its applications in science and engineering.

    60% Coursework

    40% Examinations

  • Year 2

  • Core modules

    BPIE115
    Stage 1 Mechanical Placement Preparation 0 credits

    This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

    ENGR103
    Engineering Science 20 credits

    This module introduces students to the fundamental scientific principles of fluid mechanics appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications; the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics relating to the interaction between systems and their surroundings, including both flow and non-flow processes, heat engines, and mechanisms of heat transfer; and the fundamental principles of electrical engineering.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    ENGR104
    Engineering Mathematics 20 credits

    This module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills, and techniques, which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    ENGR105
    Mechanics and Structures 20 credits

    This module introduces students to the fundamental scientific principles of engineering mechanics and structures appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications. Deeper understanding of these scientific principles will be developed through practical applications using hand calculations and computer software tools as appropriate.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    ENGR106
    Engineering Materials 20 credits

    This module introduces students to a broad range of engineering materials appropriate for civil, marine and mechanical engineering applications. The module will consider the relationship between structure, manufacture and properties, presenting practical applications wherever appropriate. Students will also be introduced to standard material test methods.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    ENGR107
    Engineering Design 20 credits

    This module introduces students to engineering design practice appropriate to civil, marine and mechanical engineering disciplines. Students will develop sketching and technical drawing skills and use computer-aided design (CAD) tools to create digital models of technical systems. Working in a team, students will be tasked to create sustainable solutions to real-world technical design challenges.

    70% Coursework

    30% Tests

    ENGR108
    Engineering Practice and Experimental Techniques 20 credits

    The experimental basis of this module allows students develop their engineering science knowledge and practical skills using a student-centred, laboratory-based approach to learning. The module will help students develop good quality study skills, teamwork, and competency in technical communication.

    70% Practicals

    30% Coursework

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

32 - 48

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

A level: From a minimum of 2 A levels and one in a relevant subject. Relevant subjects include: applied ICT, applied science, applied business, biology, business studies, chemistry, computing, computer science, DT (product design resistant materials), DT (systems and control technology), DT product design (textiles technology), economics, economics and business, electronics, engineering, environmental science, further mathematics, use of mathematics, core mathematics, pure mathematics, mathematics, ICT, physics, science, statistics, technology and design - must have C at GCSE Mathematics. Excluding general studies.
BTEC
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma science/technology related subject: PPP
12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma science/technology related subject: MP
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
Access: Pass Access course (preferably from a science/technology subject) (including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above or equivalent). For candidates that do not have a science, electrical or technology background please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.ukfor further advice.
T level: Pass from a Science/Technology pathway. Must have GCSE Maths 4/C.
International Baccalaureate:
24 overall to include 1 subject from science or technology – English and mathematics must be included.
GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above.
Other qualifications considered, please enquire.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates returning to study, who can offer work or other related experience in lieu of formal qualifications. Therefore candidates without formal science/engineering qualifications or with non-standard qualifications are assessed on an individual basis, usually viainterview. We encourage any candidate who is unsure re: the suitability of their qualifications or experience to contact Admissions in the first instance, who will then liaise with the Admissions Tutor and Programme Lead.
Where the prior level of qualifications falls significantly below our normal offer above, applicants will be invited to an interview to assess whether their prior experience may replace the more formal qualifications.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary .

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Additional fieldwork and equipment costs .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,385.
 Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Progression routes

Upon successful completion of this foundation year, you can progress to one of our following degrees:

Babbage Building: where engineering meets design

“The building provides a state-of-the-art setting to inspire the engineers and designers of tomorrow, making it the ultimate place to bring together students, academics and industry in an environment that not only benefits them but also society as a whole.” – Professor Deborah Greaves OBE
Situated on the western edge of our city centre campus, the landmark new facility is home to the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics
and offers additional space for the School of Art, Design and Architecture .
Exterior of Babbage Building

Careers

“Ever since my placement, I’ve had a dream to design technology which can cut down on carcinogenic and ozone-depleting emissions from manufacturing industries.”
Our degree won’t just boost your career options; it’ll spark passions that could change lives.
Russell Lloyd

Blair Gordon – graduate profile

“From having relatively poor A level results to achieving a first class honours degree is testament to the lecturers.”
Mechanical Engineer, AMEC Oil and Gas.
Find out more about Blair Gordon's journey
Graduate profile - Blair Gordon

Apply to the Tamar Engineering Project

Open for applications to ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study. Successful applicants will receive:
  • £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • £1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.

People

Meet our school technical staff

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Athena SWAN Silver Award logo

Athena Swan Silver

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics was awarded an Athena Swan Silver award in September 2024 which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and success for all.
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Unistats is updated annually in September.
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Unistats website.