| UCAS Code: | N009 |
| Institution Code: | W46 |
Introduction
This is a University of East Anglia validated programme, delivered by West Suffolk College in our dedicated STEM Innovation Campus. Engineering council accreditation will be sought as soon as possible.
Engineers are involved in virtually all aspects of the modern world and is made up of many distinct pathways and specialisations. Our degree allows a student to get a thorough grounding in fundamental engineering principles and skills before specialising in a particular engineering discipline.
The study of mechatronics brings together electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering, providing a multi-skilled qualification. Especially applicable where automation is indicated, it combines well with hydraulics, pneumatics and robotics and incorporates industry 4.0.
The regular engineering topics are covered in year 1, additionally workshop practices and a research project are used to develop skills utilised in the future. In year two, students choose their preferred pathway, from a choice of manufacturing, design, management and mechatronics (subject to minimum numbers per pathway). The year continues to build the foundation topics, whilst beginning specialist study. Year 3 gives the option of a supervised work placement, obtained by the student, giving valuable experience of the engineering world. The final year includes a large engineering project, counting as two modules, with additional specialist units.
Course modules
Year 1
Computer Aided Design
Core skills are developed. The use of assemblies, user defined attributes, orthographic projections, tolerances, materials, kinematics and video output is investigated.
Electrical and Electronic Principles
The principles behind electrical and electronic devices, including power transmission, Kirchhoff and ohms laws, functions of components and design of circuits are investigated.
Engineering Mathematics
A grounding in the numerical and algebraic techniques used in the engineering world. Techniques are applied, experimentation will be used to prove theories.
Engineering Science & Materials
The application of physics and chemistry to the engineering world, the module provides core knowledge for structural analysis and links to material utilisation.
Workshop Practices
Students undertake hand fitting techniques, manual and computer numeric controlled machining. Assemblies are created using a variety of fixing methods.
Mechanical Principles
Static, dynamic and oscillating engineering systems are studied, Correlation to computer analysis is investigated.
Year 2
Engineering Design
This is the process of design, it looks at methods of design solution generation, creating specifications, solution selection, use of cad models and drawings for investigation and manufacturing.
Manufacturing Principles
An introduction to manufacturing for all classes of materials. Methodologies for high and low volume manufacturing are explored.
Quality Systems
Quality is a prerequisite for manufacturing worldwide. This module gives students the knowledge to ensure quality is assured and controlled in engineering.
Engineering Management Principles
Techniques and principles of management aligned to an engineering environment are studied. The structure, functioning and performance of organisations will be investigated
Control Systems
This looks at the science behind controlling simple and complex systems. Sensors, signal processing, open and closed control loops, Feedback and stability will be investigated
Electrical and Electronic Applications
This module provides students with the opportunity to design and build some commonly used electronic building blocks. Simulation and practical processes are used.
Year 3
Engineering Project
This module is the culmination of the degree course, giving students the opportunity to explore areas related to the rest of the course.
Lean Manufacturing
Minimising waste in both energy and materials is at the heart of lean manufacturing. It is a basic function of engineering.
Quality Management
Quality systems require an understanding of different philosophies, as well as where and how they can be applied.
Industrial Automation
The application of control systems and manufacturing techniques. Included are control systems associated with industry 4.0.
Design & Analysis of Control Systems
Control systems used in modern manufacturing and energy distribution are studied. The analytical and modelling skills to mathematically design, test, investigate and verify control systems are investigated.
Manufacturing Simulation
The module is concerned with proving designs and systems prior to manufacturing and installation, a cost-effective way of prototyping.
Optional Work Placement Module
The work placement module provides students with skills and experience employers seek. The placement should be over 32 weeks and sits between year 2 and 3. The module does not contribute to the degree classification but will be graded pass/ fail. Termly meetings in the workplace will take place. This is available to all students on all pathways.Career opportunities
Students have progressed into many careers such as, additional higher study at the MEng and/or PhD level, employment within regional and national organisations at an Engineer level, undertaking a wide array of engineering roles. Some have now progressed into supervisory and management roles.
Fees and finance
£1,417 per 20 credit module. On the part time course you will study 60 credits per year which equates to £4251 per year
Additional costs
Students are encouraged to join one of the engineering institutions. Fees vary depending on institution selected, approximately £20.
Entry requirements
UCAS tariff: 80 UCAS points
A Levels: Maths + at least 1 STEM subject to UCAS tariff requirement
Level 3 Diploma: STEM based subject to UCAS tariff requirement – should include Further Maths
Access to HE Diploma: STEM based to UCAS tariff requirement – should include Maths to further Maths standard
Scottish Higher: Maths + 1 STEM subject to UCAS tariff requirement
Other: students not meeting exact requirements can be assessed on a case by case basis, industrial engineering experience can be considered.
Days & times
Date(s) to be confirmed