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 pursue engineering but do not have the traditional entry requirements for a degree? Or perhaps you’re seeking a complete career change. This four-year degree program includes a foundation year that gives you a solid grounding in the key disciplines of mechanical engineering. You will actively engage in engineering projects, and our hands-on approach to learning covers design, mechanics and materials, enhancing your employability across various industries.

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
Progression opportunities include ...

A course with a foundation year is for you if…

  • You would like to build your confidence to study at university level.
  • You want to gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.

Careers with this subject

Open the door to a successful future

Your degree opens doors to sectors as diverse as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing and energy.
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.

What can you do with a mechanical and marine engineering degree?

Discover things to consider when choosing a career or considering further study after studying a mechanical and marine engineering degree.

Key features

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.

Designed to start your journey to becoming a qualified professional mechanical engineer

Our accredited programmes relies strongly on practical work and you will develop your design skills throughout the programme.

Connected for careers

industry contact throughout your course means you'll be connected and ready for you career

Facilities at your fingertips

from the start of your studies at Plymouth, you'll be in the labs and using industry equipment to apply your skills with confidence.

Discover your passion

Our combined first year allows you to switch to Marine Technology or Civil Engineering in line with your career ambitions.

Be unique

Our unique 'with composites' pathway allows you to focus on the design and manufacture of specialist materials.

Aim higher

You may progress onto the MEng course at the end of your second year if you are doing well.

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

Completing this course enables you to progress onto these related courses and programmes with the University of Plymouth at level 5 or level 6, as specifically defined by this programme’s progression agreement.

What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?
BEng (Hons)
A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

MEng (Hons)
A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Connect with emerging industry

Leverage our strong industry ties to gain hands-on experience in design, materials, nuclear science, and waste management, preparing you to support the UK’s nuclear industry. Opt for a voluntary placement year for extra industry exposure.

Step into world-class facilities

The Babbage Building offers cutting-edge research labs and specialist equipment, providing hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies. It’s the ideal space to collaborate on groundbreaking projects and develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

Be a “work-ready” graduate

You will be highly regarded by employers for being “work-ready” and excel at top companies like Hoare Lea, Babcock Marine and the Ministry of Defence. Unique to Plymouth, our 'with composites' pathway gives you a competitive edge.

This course is for you if...

  • you're captivated by technology and innovative design
  • you enjoy solving complex problems across various industries
  • you're eager to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment
  • you aspire to become a professional mechanical engineer
  • you seek a flexible program that aligns with your career goals
Jack Mason - MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering student

"I envision a career as a Mechanical Engineer, concentrating on critical environmental projects. My aspiration is to make a positive change".
BEng Mechanical Engineering student Elena Brake .
Engineering student Elena Brake

Put learning into practice

Take a paid year in industry to help consolidate and develop your engineering knowledge – many of our students receive job offers or sponsorship as a result of their placements.
Mechanical engineering
  • Get your career off to a great start by spending a year working professionally as a student engineer between years two and three.
  • You could earn £15,000 a year or more, and possibly gain sponsorship through your final year(s) at university.
  • Gain experience that will help you find a job when you graduate and a Certificate of Professional or Work Experience in addition to your degree award.

“I spent a year on work placement with Plymouth-based Fine Tubes, a manufacturer of precision tubes for a wide range of industries including aerospace, oil and gas, medical. As a result of my performance, the company sponsored the final year of my degree and offered me a job.”

Russell Lloyd
Breaking, twisting, and snapping metal in our STEAM Material Testing Lab
The Babbage Building is home to the engineers of the future.
We’ve packed it with specialist equipment sourced from world-leading global companies. This includes a sub-sonic wind tunnel, an autonomous vehicle test laboratory, an energy and sustainability laboratory, high performance computing facilities, a digital fabrication laboratory, virtual engineering suites and much more.

I chose Plymouth because it offered a tailored composites degree, which very few universities offer. Since finishing my degree, I went straight into a graduate role at the National Composites Centre in Bristol.

Joshua Wood
Joshua Wood, graduate in BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites

Industry connections

As a course focused on employability, we’ve developed a number of relationships with industry to help provide you with the connections and opportunities you need to begin your career.
 

Sometimes I have to take a step back to remind myself that at the other end of this antenna I’m controlling a spacecraft around Mars or another spacecraft in deep space, it’s literally out of this world.

Mechanical Engineering Graduate, Jamie Williams, took his deep interest in science, engineering and space and landed the career he always dreamed of.
Senior Deep Space Operator at Goonhilly Earth Station, Cornwall.
Jack Williams in the Bloodhound Supersonic Car

I can say with 100 per cent certainty that I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without my placement year. It made a huge difference to not only my CV, but my confidence and general business know-how.

University of Plymouth graduate Jack Williams spent four months with the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC) land-speed record project team.
Plymouth Engineering Society

Your clubs and societies

UPSU offer a range of opportunities for you to connect with others.
The University's Engineering Society provides a platform for you to meet, socialise with and learn from from fellow students.
The club aims to promote links across all engineering disciplines and between all year groups from foundation year to masters year. Socials and events are hosted throughout the year so come and get involved.

Learn from our experts

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics is a collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers focused on creating knowledge and innovative solutions that positively impact society.
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.
 

Accreditation and accolades

Our accredited BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering is designed to start your journey to becoming a qualified professional mechanical engineer.
Achieving TEF Gold is recognition of the University's excellence in teaching, learning, and achieving positive student outcomes.
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.