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Engineering (Mechanical and Electrical), BEng

Engineering (Mechanical and Electrical), BEng

Course Overview

Overview

Joint degree combining Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.

Mechanical engineering is concerned with creative and imaginative use of engineering principles and science to shape the world around us, through the development of new materials, technologies, processes and products. Mechanical engineers design and develop everything that moves or has moving parts, ranging from spacecrafts and aeroplanes to racing cars, from household goods like refrigerators to the small motors that turn a CD in a CD player, from robotic control of machinery to nanotechnologies, from mechanical hearts and artificial limbs to fitness machines, and from oil and gas exploration and production technologies to wind turbines.

Our society relies on Electrical Engineers for everything from low power electrical machines, control systems, to high voltage electrical power generation and distribution systems. Electrical Engineering is at the core of the modern world, from computers, to digital circuits, photonics and a wealth of electronic devices.

AT A GLANCE
LEARNING MODE On Campus Learning
DEGREE QUALIFICATION BEng
DURATION 48 months
STUDY MODE Full Time
What You'll Study

The first two years cover general Engineering, with elements of Chemical, Mechanical, Petroleum and Electrical/Electronics, as well as Civil. In the later years you specialise, following your chosen discipline in greater depth. You do not need to finalise your choice of specialisation until you begin third year.

It is possible to move between MEng and BEng and this can be accomplished at any point until the second half session of fourth year. Successful BEng candidates will be offered the chance to change to the MEng and there is no quota, meaning that if grade requirements are met that transfer is guaranteed.

Compulsory Courses

Principles of Electronics (NT1008) – 15 Credit Points
Fundamentals of Engineering Materials (NT1012) – 15 Credit Points
CAD and Communication in Engineering Practice (NT1010) – 15 Credit Points
Fundamental Engineering Mechanics (NT1510) – 15 Credit Points
Engineering Mathematics 1 (NT1504) – 15 Credit Points
Electronics Design (NT1501) – 15 Credit Points
Professional Skills Part 1 (NT1001)

Optional Courses

Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.

Compulsory Courses

Engineering Mathematics 2 (NT2012) – 15 Credit Points
Process Engineering (NT2011) – 15 Credit Points
Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics (NT2004) – 15 Credit Points
Design and Computing in Engineering Practice (NT2501) – 15 Credit Points
Solids and Structures (NT2502) – 15 Credit Points
Electrical and Mechanical Systems (NT2503) – 15 Credit Points
Electronic Systems (NT2504) – 15 Credit Points

Optional Courses

Select a further 15 credit points from courses of choice.

Compulsory Courses

Control Systems (NT3043) – 15 Credit Points
Engineering Analysis and Methods 1 (NT3007) – 15 Credit Points
Fluid Mechanics (NT3019) – 15 Credit Points
Engineering Materials (NT3028) – 15 Credit Points
Electrical Power Engineering A (NT3557) – 15 Credit Points
Project and Safety Management (NT3599) – 10 Credit Points
Dynamics 1 (NT3511) – 15 Credit Points
Engineering Thermodynamics (NT3521) – 10 Credit Points
Design of Mechanical Elements (NT3522) – 10 Credit Points

Compulsory Courses

Sensing and Instrumentation (NT4017) – 10 Credit Points
Electrical Machines and Drives (NT40) – 10 Credit Points
Fluid Dynamics (NT40) – 10 Credit Points

Optional Courses

Select one of the following options:

Option 1

  • BEng Individual Project (NT4014)
  • Group Design Project (BEng) (NT4578)
  • Nonlinear Mechanics (NT4529)
  • Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice

Option 2

  • Engineering Project Abroad (BEng) (NT4011)
  • Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice in the first half-session
BEng Individual Project (NT4014) – 30 Credit Points
Engineering Project Abroad (BEng) (NT4011) – 60 Credit Points
Group Design Project (BEng) (NT4578) – 15 Credit Points
Nonlinear Mechanics (NT4529) – 15 Credit Points

Assessment Methods

Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:

  • coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
  • practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
  • written examinations at the end of each course.

The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.

Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.

Why Study Petroleum Engineering?
  • We are the only University in Scotland that offers an undergraduate Petroleum Engineering degree and also a general engineering curriculum.
  • With Engineering at its heart, our Petroleum Engineering programme draws upon well-established expertise in Petroleum Geology within the University, and the local oil and gas industry.
  • The first two years of our engineering programmes cover general engineering. This means you develop vital knowledge in all engineering areas – making you far more adaptable in employment.
  • We deliver teaching in world class facilities, including laboratories dedicated to particular areas of work such as satellite communications, computer aided design, electrical machines, materials testing, laser welding, hydraulics and fluids, large structures and geotechnics.
  • The School has produced thousands of world-class graduates over the decades, many who have progressed into Managing Director and Chief Executive roles in the oil and gas and wider energy industries.
  • Across a number of our programmes, we work closely with colleagues within geology, chemistry and business disciplines to ensure the teaching is fit-for purpose.
  • We are well connected with local, national and international industry, particularly in the oil/gas/energy industry where you get the chance to experience real-life industry challenges and projects, through guest lectures, company visits and networking events.
  • All of our degrees have been accredited by the relevant professional engineering institutions, providing you with your first step into becoming a Chartered Engineer. Undergraduate Engineers intending to follow a professional engineering career should consider student membership of the appropriate Engineering Institution.
  • Our award winning Society of Petroleum Engineers Student Chapter is one of the 230 student chapters around the world. We build strong relationships with members and non-members alike, and help you gain insight into the oil and gas industry.
  • Hands-on experience of laboratory experiments and of industry-standard software is used to enhance your learning. Group design exercises based on real case field data and supervised by practising professionals from industry prepares you for work.
  • Opportunities exist for industry sponsored scholarships and bursaries, final year individual projects undertaken with industry, and study abroad opportunities.

Careers

There are many opportunities at the University of Northampton to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success. The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us, from first to final year – and beyond. 

Your Employability

The University Careers Service aims to inspire and support your career success through collaboration, innovation and professionalism. We provide our students and recent graduates with the advice and information they need for effective career planning and skill development along with opportunities for networking and connecting with employers. 

Entry requirements

       

SQA Highers

Standard: ABBB (Mathematics and Physics or Engineering Science required*)
Applicants who achieve the Standard entry requirements over S4 and S5 will be made either an unconditional or conditional offer of admission.

Minimum: BBB (Good performance required in Mathematics and Physics*)
Applicants who achieve our Minimum entry requirements over S4 and S5 are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers / Advanced Highers maybe required in order to receive an offer of admission.

Adjusted: BB (Good performance required in Mathematics*)
Applicants who meet one or more of our Widening Participation criteria and who achieve good performance in Maths and one other subject may be made an adjusted offer of entry. Good performance in additional Highers / Advanced Highers maybe required in order to receive an offer of admission.

* These subjects can be either held at the time of application or be achieved during the appropriate admissions cycle.

A LEVELS

Standard: BBB (Good performance required in Mathematics, plus at least one from Physics, Design & Technology, Engineering or Chemistry). Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Standard entry requirements are encouraged to apply and may be made an offer of admission.

Minimum: BBC (Good performance required in Mathematics, plus at least one from Physics, Design & Technology, Engineering or Chemistry). Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Minimum entry requirements are encouraged to apply and will be considered.

Adjusted: BB (Good performance required in Mathematics)
Applicants who meet one or more Widening Participation criteria and who are predicted to achieve a good performance in Mathematics and one other subject may be made an Adjusted offer of entry.

FOR CHEMICAL AND PETROLEUM ENGINEERING PROGRAMMES

Please note: for entry to Chemical and Petroleum Engineering an SQA Higher or GCE A Level or equivalent qualification in Chemistry is required for entry to year 1, in addition to the general Engineering requirements.

English Language Requirements

English Language Requirements

To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Northampton University it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:

 

IELTS Academic:

OVERALL – 6.0 with: Listening – 5.5; Reading – 5.5; Speaking – 5.5; Writing – 6.0

TOEFL iBT:

OVERALL – 78 with: Listening – 17; Reading – 18; Speaking – 20; Writing – 21

PTE Academic:

OVERALL – 54 with: Listening – 51; Reading – 51; Speaking – 51; Writing – 54

Cambridge English Advanced & Proficiency:

OVERALL – 169 with: Listening – 162; Reading – 162; Speaking – 162; Writing – 169

How to apply

  

This programm by online learning has start dates in September and January of each academic year. 

We recommend that you apply as early as possible; this is particularly important for applicants who may need to allow sufficient time to take an English language test

Documentation required

Applications are made online via the University Application Service, EUCLID.

Please follow the instructions carefully and make sure that you have included the following documentation with your application:

  • Degree certificates showing award of degree.
  • Previous academic transcripts for all past degree programmes.
  • A reference in support or your application. The reference should be academic and dated no earlier than one year from the start of study on the LLM programme.
  • Evidence of English language proficiency, if required.

If you are currently studying for your degree or you are not in a possession of an English test result you may still apply to the programme. Please note that it is your responsibility to submit the necessary documents.

After you apply

After your application has been submitted you will be able to track its progress through the University’s applicant hub.

Application processing times will vary however the admissions team will endeavour to process your application within four to six weeks of submission. Please note that missing documentation will delay the application process.

You will be informed as soon as possible of the decision taken. Three outcomes are possible:

  • You may be offered a place unconditionally
  • You may be offered a conditional place, which means that you must fulfil certain conditions that will be specified in the offer letter. Where a conditional offer is made, it is your responsibility to inform the College Postgraduate Office when you have fulfilled the requirements set out.
  • Your application may be unsuccessful. If your application has not been successful, you can request feedback from us or refer to our guidance for unsuccessful applicants, which explains some of the common reasons we why we reach this decision.
    View the University’s guidance for unsuccessful applicants
Terms and conditions of admissions
  • The University’s terms and conditions form part of your contract with the University, and you should read them, and our data protection policy, carefully before applying.

    Northampton University admissions terms and conditions

Engineering (Electrical and Electronic), BEng

Engineering (Electrical and Electronic), BEng

Course Overview

 

Overview

Electrical and Electronic Engineering is at the core of the modern world, from computers, to digital circuits, photonics and a wealth of electronics.

Our society relies on Electrical Engineers for everything from low power electrical machines, control systems, to high voltage electrical power generation and distribution systems. Electrical and Electronic Engineering is at the core of the modern world, from computers, to digital circuits, photonics and a wealth of electronic devices. Electrical and Electronic engineering is one of the most satisfying subjects that you can study.

If your interests are science, technology or mathematics, then consider electrical and electronic engineering as your career. You will use your imagination, creativity and knowledge to provide society with the complex systems it needs. In your future career you may design the machines that supply our energy needs, digital control systems for aircraft, internet-enabled sensors, design complete computer systems on a silicon chip, photonics to instrument the ocean depths, create stunning electronic displays, or design the latest communications satellite or mobile phone.

AT A GLANCE
LEARNING MODE On Campus Learning
DEGREE QUALIFICATION BEng
DURATION 48 months
STUDY MODE Full Time

In year 1 you can study topics such as Engineering Mathematics, Principles of Electronics, Electronics Design, Fundamental Engineering Mechanics, Fundamentals of Engineering Materials and Computer Aided Design & Communication.

Compulsory Courses

Principles of Electronics (NT1008) – 15 Credit Points
CAD and Communication in Engineering Practice (NT1010) – 15 Credit Points
Electronics Design (NT1501) – 15 Credit Points
Engineering Mathematics 1 (NT1504) – 15 Credit Points
Fundamentals of Engineering Materials (NT1012) – 15 Credit Points
Fundamental Engineering Mechanics (NT1510) – 15 Credit Points
Professional Skills Part 1 (NT1001)

Optional Courses

Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.

Compulsory Courses

Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics (NT2004) – 15 Credit Points
Design and Computing in Engineering Practice (NT2501) – 15 Credit Points
Process Engineering (NT2011) – 15 Credit Points
Engineering Mathematics 2 (NT2012) – 15 Credit Points
Electrical and Mechanical Systems (NT2503) – 15 Credit Points
Electronic Systems (NT2504) – 15 Credit Points

Optional Courses

Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.

Compulsory Courses

Geotechnics 1 (NT3027) – 15 Credit Points
Stress Analysis A (NT3015) – 15 Credit Points
Engineering Analysis and Methods 1 (NT3007) – 15 Credit Points
Fluid Mechanics (NT3019) – 15 Credit Points
Mechanics of Structures (NT3518) – 15 Credit Points
Design of Structural Elements (NT3519) – 15 Credit Points
Structural Dynamics A (NT3538) – 10 Credit Points
Civil Engineering Design and Surveying (NT3720) – 10 Credit Points
Project and Safety Management (NT3599) – 10 Credit Points

The major feature is the individual project in the area of your specialisation. The project occupies half of your study time and can be undertaken in Northampton or abroad. The opportunity exists to study a European language to support this study.

Compulsory Courses

BEng Individual Project (NT4014) – 30 Credit Points
Sensing and Instrumentation (NT4017) – 10 Credit Points
Electrical Machines and Drives (NT40) – 10 Credit Points
Computer and Software Engineering (NT40) – 10 Credit Points
Communications Engineering 2 (NT4546) – 15 Credit Points
Group Design Project (BEng) (NT4578) – 15 Credit Points

Optional Courses

Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.

What You'll Study

The first two years cover general Engineering, with elements of Chemical, Mechanical, Petroleum and Electrical/Electronics, as well as Civil. In the later years you specialise, following your chosen discipline in greater depth. You do not need to finalise your choice of specialisation until you begin third year.

It is possible to move between MEng and BEng and this can be accomplished at any point until the second half session of fourth year. Successful BEng candidates will be offered the chance to change to the MEng and there is no quota, meaning that if grade requirements are met that transfer is guaranteed.

Assessment Methods

Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:

  • coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
  • practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
  • written examinations at the end of each course.

The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.

Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.

Why Study Engineering (Electrical and Electronic)?
  • The first two years of our engineering programmes cover general engineering. This means you develop vital knowledge in all engineering areas – making you far more adaptable in employment.
  • We deliver teaching in world-class facilities, including laboratories dedicated to particular areas of work such as satellite communications, computer aided design, electrical machines, materials testing, laser welding, hydraulics and fluids, large structures and geotechnics.
  • The School has produced thousands of world-class graduates over the decades, many who have progressed into Managing Director and Chief Executive roles. 
  • Across a number of our programmes, we work closely with colleagues across geology, chemistry and business disciplines to ensure the teaching is fit-for purpose.
  • The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and the Engineering Society are active societies, offering you the chance to network and grow your skills away from the lecture theatre.
  • We are well connected with local, national and international industry, where you get the chance to experience real-life industry challenges and projects, through guest lectures, company visits and networking events.
  • All our degrees have been accredited by the relevant professional engineering institutions, providing you with your first step in to becoming a chartered engineer. Undergraduate Engineers intending to follow a professional engineering career should consider student membership of the appropriate Engineering Institution. Our EEE degree programmes are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
  • Years 3 and 4 of the programmes enable students to develop their skills in either electrical or electronics, supporting by experts from these subject areas.
  • TAU Racing was established in 2007 by a group of undergraduate engineers of various disciplines. The team’s goal each year is to design and build a single seat racing car to compete at Silverstone in the Formula Student competition.
  • Hands-on experience of laboratory experiments and of industry-standard software is used to enhance your learning. Group design exercises based on real case field data and supervised by practising professionals from industry prepares you for work.
  • Opportunities exist for industry sponsored scholarships and bursaries, final year individual projects undertaken with industry and study abroad opportunities.

Careers

 

Electrical engineers work with a wide range of large electrical devices, from power stations to renewable energy devices. They work with control systems involving motors and computers in industrial plant such as an offshore structure. Electronic engineers design and build computer systems, often specialised computers for a specific task. They develop instrumentation and optical systems that provide the eyes and wears we need to understand our world.

Entry requirements

       

SQA Highers

Standard: ABBB (Mathematics and Physics or Engineering Science required*)
Applicants who achieve the Standard entry requirements over S4 and S5 will be made either an unconditional or conditional offer of admission.

Minimum: BBB (Good performance required in Mathematics and Physics*)
Applicants who achieve our Minimum entry requirements over S4 and S5 are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers / Advanced Highers maybe required in order to receive an offer of admission.

Adjusted: BB (Good performance required in Mathematics*)
Applicants who meet one or more of our Widening Participation criteria and who achieve good performance in Maths and one other subject may be made an adjusted offer of entry. Good performance in additional Highers / Advanced Highers maybe required in order to receive an offer of admission.

* These subjects can be either held at the time of application or be achieved during the appropriate admissions cycle.

A LEVELS

Standard: BBB (Good performance required in Mathematics, plus at least one from Physics, Design & Technology, Engineering or Chemistry). Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Standard entry requirements are encouraged to apply and may be made an offer of admission.

Minimum: BBC (Good performance required in Mathematics, plus at least one from Physics, Design & Technology, Engineering or Chemistry). Applicants who are predicted to achieve the Minimum entry requirements are encouraged to apply and will be considered.

Adjusted: BB (Good performance required in Mathematics)
Applicants who meet one or more Widening Participation criteria and who are predicted to achieve a good performance in Mathematics and one other subject may be made an Adjusted offer of entry.

FOR CHEMICAL AND PETROLEUM ENGINEERING PROGRAMMES

Please note: for entry to Chemical and Petroleum Engineering an SQA Higher or GCE A Level or equivalent qualification in Chemistry is required for entry to year 1, in addition to the general Engineering requirements.

English Language Requirements

English Language Requirements

To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Northampton University it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:

 

IELTS Academic:

OVERALL – 6.0 with: Listening – 5.5; Reading – 5.5; Speaking – 5.5; Writing – 6.0

TOEFL iBT:

OVERALL – 78 with: Listening – 17; Reading – 18; Speaking – 20; Writing – 21

PTE Academic:

OVERALL – 54 with: Listening – 51; Reading – 51; Speaking – 51; Writing – 54

Cambridge English Advanced & Proficiency:

OVERALL – 169 with: Listening – 162; Reading – 162; Speaking – 162; Writing – 169

How to apply

  

This programm by online learning has start dates in September and January of each academic year. 

We recommend that you apply as early as possible; this is particularly important for applicants who may need to allow sufficient time to take an English language test

  

Documentation required

Applications are made online via the University Application Service, EUCLID.

Please follow the instructions carefully and make sure that you have included the following documentation with your application:

  • Degree certificates showing award of degree.
  • Previous academic transcripts for all past degree programmes.
  • A reference in support or your application. The reference should be academic and dated no earlier than one year from the start of study on the LLM programme.
  • Evidence of English language proficiency, if required.

If you are currently studying for your degree or you are not in a possession of an English test result you may still apply to the programme. Please note that it is your responsibility to submit the necessary documents.

After you apply

After your application has been submitted you will be able to track its progress through the University’s applicant hub.

Application processing times will vary however the admissions team will endeavour to process your application within four to six weeks of submission. Please note that missing documentation will delay the application process.

You will be informed as soon as possible of the decision taken. Three outcomes are possible:

  • You may be offered a place unconditionally
  • You may be offered a conditional place, which means that you must fulfil certain conditions that will be specified in the offer letter. Where a conditional offer is made, it is your responsibility to inform the College Postgraduate Office when you have fulfilled the requirements set out.
  • Your application may be unsuccessful. If your application has not been successful, you can request feedback from us or refer to our guidance for unsuccessful applicants, which explains some of the common reasons we why we reach this decision.
    View the University’s guidance for unsuccessful applicants
Terms and conditions of admissions
  • The University’s terms and conditions form part of your contract with the University, and you should read them, and our data protection policy, carefully before applying.

    Northampton University admissions terms and conditions