Start Year:
2027/28

Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering BEng (Hons)

Undergraduate Full-time UCAS Code: HH37 2027/28

Take your natural curiosity, combine it with Maths, Science and Technology and use your imagination to design and manufacture the future.

  • UCAS Code
    HH37

  • Qualification Type(s)
    Bachelor of Engineering with Honours

  • Location
    Derry~Londonderry

  • Start Date
    September 2027

  • Study Mode
    Full-time

  • Professional Recognition
    Industry Endorsed

Overview

Learn about the design and manufacture of engineering machines and devices covering sectors such as automotive, aerospace, heavy machinery, sustainable development, energy and biomedical development to name a few. This degree combines the technical engineering knowledge needed for the mechanical and manufacturing sectors and helps you build the personal attributes needed to thrive in your professional career.

All engineers strive to solve problems. How can I design it to work? How can I make it better? How can I reduce the impact on the environment? Engineers are problem solvers!

Mechanical engineers will use their knowledge of science, technology and mathematics to understand how mechanical and electrical systems work. They are trained in the application of science and mathematics to design new products or improve existing ones. Nothing moves without a mechanical engineer. Mechanical engineers will use computer aided design, computer modelling, and simulation to prove their designs before eventually committing to the manufacture of prototypes or market-ready products. Selecting the most appropriate materials, ensuring failure is avoided, and designing for ease of manufacture are key aspects for any mechanical engineer to consider.

Manufacturing engineering concentrates on the processes and systems used to make physical products. There are many processes available to alter and change the shape and properties of feedstock materials to make finished products. Northern Ireland is home to some of the most advanced manufacturing facilities worldwide. However, manufacturing systems is the study of how to integrate all of these processes onto the factory floor to ensure an optimum outcome. How can industry best arrange its manufacturing facility and personnel to ensure maximum productivity, quality, and value for money.

Mechanical and manufacturing engineers often work together to achieve the best outcomes. Well-rounded mechanical engineers will understand manufacturing and well-rounded manufacturing engineers will understand mechanical engineering. Hence, at Ulster University we have combined these closely related disciplines into one degree programme. This degree programme is designed to open opportunities in both fields of mechanical and manufacturing engineering and ensures that candidates have an element of choice between sectors when graduating as engineers.

We’d love to hear from you!

We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.

Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:

  • Course specific information
  • Fees and Finance
  • Admissions

For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.

For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.

We look forward to hearing from you.

About this course

This four-year BEng(Hons) course is offered at the Derry~Londonderry campus and has been designed with industry leaders to address the future needs of the sector. The overall aim of the honours degree programme is to develop graduates with the necessary attributes to embrace current and future opportunities within the sectors of mechanical and manufacturing engineering. Moreover, the ambition is to develop engaged learners who will thrive during their time at Ulster University and develop beyond the undergraduate qualification to become collaborative professionals and active citizens within society.

As engaged learners, graduates from the programme will be equipped with graduate-level knowledge in science, mathematics, and engineering that will allow them to perform mechanical and manufacturing engineering analysis on complex problems where no obvious solution exist and that may contain wide-ranging or conflicting technical issues to be resolved. Students will be strongly encouraged to demonstrate creativity and resourcefulness through design, innovation, and sound application of engineering science.

As future collaborative professionals, graduates will be prepared for employment as responsible team players and future leaders. As effective communicators of technical information, graduates will be able to disseminate and interpret technical information for a broad audience. Graduates will be prepared with the qualities expected from practicing mechanical and manufacturing engineers and, with an appreciation of lifelong learning, they will be able to meet the needs of future roles. Our digitally fluent graduates will be prepared for future employment and for graduate-level study options.

Graduates will be prepared as active citizens within society and will understand their ethical and moral responsibilities especially within the context of risk and risk management in the mechanical and manufacturing engineering sectors. Our graduates will be developed to promote sustainability in the environment and security for all in a diverse and inclusive society.

Our graduates will be thriving individuals with the ability to be resilient when required and to become the change-makers of the future in a global environment.

Associate awards

Diploma in Professional Practice DPP

Diploma in International Academic Studies DIAS

Diploma in Professional Practice International DPPI

Attendance

This full-time degree is designed to be undertaken over a 4-year period. Years 1 and 2 are undertaken in the academic environment of Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry campus. Year 3 is to be undertaken off-site as either work placement (in industry) or as study abroad (in a partner University). Year 4, which is the final year, is a full academic term undertaken on the Derry~Londonderry campus.

The degree programme follows a semesterised approach with 2 semesters in each academic year. Semester 1 starts in September, semester 2 starts at the end of January. Students are required to attend university over any semester for a 12-week teaching block and are then required to make themselves available for a 3-week period for assessment or for any deferred learning activities due to unforeseen circumstances. Attendance to all timetabled activities and assessment sessions is mandatory. Timetables for the 12-week teaching blocks are communicated at the commencement of each semester but are subject to change within the first 3 weeks. Assessment schedules are typically communicated early once the semester is underway. Detailed information of teaching and assessment delivery will be included in the module handbooks.

Prior to commencement of semester 1, a welcome week (including induction and orientation events) is held to support students with the transition into university. Attendance at induction is required.

Start dates

  • September 2027

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The programme is delivered through modules with specific credit value. Each academic year (years 1,2 and 4) requires the student to complete 120 credits in that given year. Typically, a single module delivered over a semester is worth 20 credits; therefore, it is typical to have 3 modules in a semester covering 60 credits per semester. There are exceptions to the credit value of the modules. In year 2 there are 2 shorter modules worth 10 credits each in semester 1. In final year, the individual project module spans 2 semesters and is worth 40 credits. However, the balance of credits always adds up to 120 credits in any academic study year.

Modules include formal lectures supplemented by tutorials, seminars, guest lectures and laboratory practical sessions, as appropriate. Practical hands-on workshop sessions are an integral part of many modules throughout the course. Case studies, group work and presentations are used extensively to support the student learning activity. All modules require attendance at the timetabled sessions but are deigned in such a way that students are expected to perform independent study to reinforce their learning outside of the classroom.

All modules are assessed by continuous coursework through the semester – there are no high-stakes, terminal examinations used on the programme. All assessment is done incrementally and in stepwise fashion to ensure that learning outcomes are met with good life-work balance for an improved student experience.

Academic Delivery and Award Information

The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.

Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:

Attendance and Independent Study

As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to some change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days and periods of attendance will be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.

Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10, 20, or 40 credit modules (more usually 20) and postgraduate courses typically 15 or 30 credit modules.

The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Teaching and learning activities will be in-person and/or online depending on the nature of the course. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.

Postgraduate Master’s courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.

Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be a combination of examination and coursework but may also be only one of these methods. Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes.  You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessments. This feedback may be issued individually and/or issued to the group and you will be encouraged to act on this feedback for your own development.

Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification, the assessment timetable and the assessment brief. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.

Normally, a module will have 4 learning outcomes, and no more than 2 items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised. The module pass mark for undergraduate courses is 40%. The module pass mark for postgraduate courses is 50%.

Calculation of the Final Award

The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6, (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).

Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Master’s degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.

All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study.

In Masters degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.

Figures from the academic year 2022-2023.

Academic profile

Teaching staff within the faculty are encouraged to become accredited members of the Higher Education Academy. Several staff within the school have past and current experience of external examining and other similar provision at other institutions.

As well as teaching, most staff are actively engaged in research that informs their teaching. In addition, some staff have substantial industrial experience prior to joining the University. A significant number are full members, or fellows, of appropriate professional bodies (e.g. IMechE, IET, IEEE, IEI). Staff from the school engage in high quality research in areas such as materials engineering, manufacturing processes and systems, embedded systems, digital systems design, with the growing strength in digital hardware design and neuromorphic engineering. In the most recent REF Unit of Assessment 12 for engineering (2021), 94% of Ulster's Engineering research was judged as world-leading or internationally excellent. Aspects of teaching and learning within the school have been demonstrated and published internationally; in particular our pioneering developments in the areas of managing placement are now used by several other universities across the globe. The school is leading on the area of Artificial Intelligence in education.

Several members of the team have been awarded Distinguished Fellowships in Teaching and Learning Support.

(Information gathered August 2025)

The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 60% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.

Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (19%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (22%) or Lecturers (57%).

We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic and learning support staff (85%) are recognised as fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advance HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.

The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise.  The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff.  This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.

Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.

Figures from the academic year 2022-2023.

Derry~Londonderry

Accommodation

High quality student accommodation in Derry~Londonderry, one of Europe's most vibrant cities. Located close to the campus and city centre, offering a supportive and vibrant living environment.

Find out more - information about accommodation (Opens in a new window)

Sports Facilities

Our facilities in Derry~Londonderry cater for many sports ranging from archery to volleyball, and are open to students and members of the public all year round.

Find out more - information about sport (Opens in a new window)

Student Wellbeing

At Student Wellbeing we provide many services to help students through their time at Ulster University.

Find out more - information about student wellbeing (Opens in a new window)

Modules

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Year one

Mathematics for Engineering I

Year: 1

This module provides students with a solid foundation in the fundamental topics in engineering mathematics. The material develops the student's competencies in the essential mathematics that forms an integral part of an undergraduate honours degree in engineering related disciplines.

Programmable Controller Systems

Year: 1

This module introduces programmable controller systems and the principles of modern interfacing to sensors and actuators. The module also discusses performance issues related to the interrupt and non-interrupt based software programming. Both elements of the module are presented through lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions and are assessed using continuous assessment methods.

Mechanical Science I

Year: 1

MEC102 provides the fundamental principles of statics, strength of materials and dynamics in relation to mechanical engineering and provides a methodology for their practical application. Its content includes:

(a) Basic and derived units, static equilibrium, shear forces, bending moments and friction.

(b) Statically stressed systems both determinate and indeterminate, the theory of torsion and bending.

(c) This module provides an understanding of dynamics, and its application to the solution of engineering problems.

(d) The theoretical and practical principles required within each topic area will be developed in lectures and applied in assignments, tests and tutorials.

Design and CAD

Year: 1

This module introduces students to the fundamentals of engineering design and computer-aided design (CAD). Through a combination of lectures, hands-on CAD tutorials, and team-based projects, students develop essential skills in problem-solving, concept development, 2D sketching, and 3D modelling. The module provides a strong foundation in design thinking and digital tools.

The module content includes freehand sketching, systems of projection, drawing conventions,
dimensioning and tolerancing, 3-D digital modelling of parts and assemblies, design
documentation, an introduction to the total design activity, formulation of a product design
specification (PDS), material selection, risk management and manufacturing considerations in design.

Manufacturing Processes

Year: 1

A module which integrates formal study with a significant practical programme for the understanding and application of common manufacturing processes.

Materials Science & Engineering

Year: 1

The module provides a general coverage of different classes of engineering materials.
Metallic and non-metallic materials are studied with respect to structures, properties, and processing.

Year two

Mathematics for Engineering II

Year: 2

This module provides students with a solid foundation in essential mathematics required for further study in engineering or related fields. It focuses on developing the mathematical skills needed to solve problems encountered during their undergraduate studies. The content is introduced in a practical and engaging way, helping students connect mathematical theory to real-world problems, making the concepts more meaningful and relevant for their future careers.

The module encourages a spirit of mathematical inquiry and discovery, fostering confidence in problem-solving. Students will engage in interactive learning and collaborative exercises, which will help them build both theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills.

To support their learning, students will be introduced to MATLAB, a tool for numerical computing that will help them explore and visualise mathematical concepts. However, the primary focus remains on developing mathematical theory and its application, with programming serving as a supplementary tool.

Assessment will ensure a balanced approach to both theory and application.

Professional Development

Year: 2

This module is designed to equip students with the appropriate research and transferable skills needed to secure employment within the Computing and Engineering domain.

The module prepares students for professional work by developing knowledge of the responsibilities and obligations of employees, employers and clients as determined by codes of professional conduct. Students will have the opportunity to practise the presentation of themselves in, for example, application forms, curriculum vitae, interview, elevator pitches and aptitude tests.

The module provides an underpinning foundation of research concepts, methods and techniques necessary for project development and delivery. The students employ research skills developed during the module to gather research from a variety of sources and critically review this literature. Embedded in all these activities is the reinforcement of the need for adhering to recognised ethical standards and taking a professional approach to employability.

Engineering of Control Systems and Signals

Year: 2

This level 5 module will endow engineering students with the knowledge and skills to analyse and design control systems and signal processing systems. The module will present the core theoretical elements necessary for the design of continuous control and feedback systems. The specific theory and mathematics of Laplace transforms for control systems will be taught. In addition, the theory of digital signal filters and how to apply them to real problems will be presented.

Materials & Sustainability

Year: 2

The module provides a comprehensive overview of different classes of engineering materials, focusing on their properties and sustainability. It covers metallic and non-metallic materials, emphasising sustainable practices and lifecycle management. Students will be able to evaluate and select sustainable materials being equipped to make informed, environmentally responsible decisions in their engineering practices.

Mechanical Science II

Year: 2

MEC360 provides an extension of the fundamental principles of the statics and dynamics of mechanical systems in relation to the analysis and solution of mechanical engineering problems. Furthermore, MEC360 provides an introduction to the core principles of thermodynamics.

Design and CAE I

Year: 2

This module deepens students' understanding of engineering design by exploring advanced principles with an emphasis on design for manufacture. It covers the full design process, including concept development, design iteration, and prototyping, while integrating practical considerations such as materials, production methods, and functionality. Students will also engage in a comprehensive CAD program using SolidWorks, where they will develop complex 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings, alongside exploring simulation techniques such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to support performance evaluation and design improvements.

Manufacturing Technology

Year: 2

This module covers major aspects of manufacturing technology relating to manufacturing systems. In particular, the module covers the technologies implemented in the integration of various manufacturing processes, thereby promoting a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing systems.

Year three

International Academic Studies

Year: 3

This module provides an opportunity to undertake an extended period of study outside the UK and Republic of Ireland. Students will develop an enhanced understanding of the academic discipline whilst generating educational and cultural networks.

Placement - Engineering (SCEIS)

Year: 3

This module is a year's paid industrial placement programmed to complement the undergraduate engineer's academic studies. The student will be employed as a junior engineer to enable improvement in their understanding of the work environment and development of their transferable, communication and personal skills. The experience will enhance their engineering ability, maturity and eventual employability.

This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study. This experience allows students to develop, refine and reflect on their key personal and professional skills. The placement should significantly support the development of the student's employability skills, preparation for final year and enhance their employability journey.

Year four

Final Year Project

Year: 4

Students are required to undertake a major project during the final year of the course. The module offers students an opportunity to develop a realistic and meaningful piece of work during their final year. This module allows a chosen subject area to be researched in depth and a solution developed as a consequence. Students will have the opportunity to integrate and apply the learning achieved from other modules in the course. The module runs during both semesters and allows students to develop a comprehensive approach to all aspects of working on a large project. The project encourages innovation and creative thinking in the development of the solution. It also develops the entrepreneurial mindset, which can influence the challenges undertaken and final decisions made.

Industry 4.0

Year: 4

This module advances the understanding of Internet of Things in an Industrial context as Industry 4.0, encapsulating the trends and technologies that are transforming the way manufacturing and production operations manage their processes. Its focuses on how data is produced, stored, processed, analysed, and exchanged between operational systems inside industrial plants and in the cloud.

The elements of the module are presented through lectures and practical sessions and are assessed using continuous assessment methods.

Engineering Design

Year: 4

This module is based on the execution of an industrially generated major design project
through multi-disciplinary team activity involving aspects of: project management, market
analysis, specification, concept design, budget costing, decision making, detail design,
production planning, manufacturing requirements and product costing.

Design and CAE II

Year: 4

This module provides a practical, hands-on treatment of Computer Aided Engineering in the
context of application in design practice or a manufacturing company. It majors on the more
advanced part modelling techniques, assembly modelling, good modelling practice,
collaboration and interoperabilty, design documentation, surface modelling
rendering, mechanism simulation, and Finite Element Analysis. It involves the utilisation of an
integrated, state-of-the-art CAD suite along with the teaching of the general principles of
these technologies.

Mechanical Science III

Year: 4

This module will permit the student to develop their understanding in the scientific and mathematical principles that underpin three areas of mechanical sciences: Strength of Materials, Mechanical vibration theory and Heat transfer.

Formal lectures, directed reading exercises, tutorial sessions, laboratory experiments, informal class quizzes, and peer discussion groups will form the learning activities that will lead to the intended learning outcomes.

Learning outcomes shall be assessed by (x2) formal in-class test and (x2) group laboratory experiments which take place throughout the duration of the module.

Standard Entry Conditions

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

The entry conditions below apply to applicants presenting qualifications from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland or Great Britain.

A Level Grades

BBC

A Level Subject Requirements

One of which must be from Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Technology and Design, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics, Double Award Science / Applied Science / Life & Health Sciences, Environmental Technology.

For applicants offering Maths, Further Maths or Physics a two grade reduction will be applied at the time of offer (CCC).

Applied General Award Profile

DMM

Accepted BTEC/OCR Qualifications

In a related Engineering subject area (not Advanced Manufacturing Engineering).

Also requires at least Merit in Engineering Principles and Merit in Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.

Irish Leaving Certificate

112 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at higher level)

Irish Leaving Certificate - Additional Requirements

To include English at H6 if studied at Higher Level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level. Higher Level subjects must include Mathematics with a minimum H5 and a minimum H6 in one of the following - Physics / Chemistry / Physics / Chemistry / Biology / Technology / Engineering / Technology & Design Design & Communication Graphics.

If an applicant is studying Ordinary Level Maths but has 2 of  the other subjects listed at Higher Level; 112 UCAS tariff points  with a minimum of a H5 and H6 in the required subjects they are are studying.

Access Course – NI/ROI

Overall profile of 63% (120-credit Access Course)

Access to Higher Education – GB

Overall profile of 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit (60-credit Access to HE Diploma). This means you'll need 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit level.

Additional Requirements for Access courses

NI Access Course - Engineering/Science/Technology Access and 63% in NICATS Mathematics module (Level 2) if the applicant doesn't possess at least grade C GCSE Maths.

GB Access to HE Diploma - Engineering/Science/Technology. GCSE English Language & Maths grade C.

GCSE

GCSE Mathematics Grade B/5 if offering GCE A Level Technology and Design, Design & Technology, Engineering , Electronics, Environmental Technology.

NOTE: Applicants presenting any of the above and who only have GCSE Maths Grade C, then Double Award Science at BB or above can be taken in conjunction with GCSE to top-up. Application of number is NOT accepted.

GCSE English Language at Grade C (or equivalent)/Essential Skills Communication is accepted.

NOTE: All applicants presenting BTECs as the subject require GCSE Maths minimum grade C and Merit in all relevant Maths modules.

Additional Entry Requirements

HNC Year 1 Entry - Electrical, Electronic, Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering subject.                

Overall Distinction and distinctions in 75 level 4 credits (plus GCSE Maths grade C or an acceptable alternative Maths qualification e.g. maths module in BTEC Level 3 qual).

HND Year 1 Entry - Electrical, Electronic, Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering subject.  

Overall Merit (with distinctions in 45 Level 5 credits). GCSE Maths grade C or an acceptable alternative Maths qualification e.g. maths module in BTEC Level 3 qual. HND applications may be considered for Year 2 entry where the curriculum sufficiently matches that of the Ulster University full - time Year 1 course.

Ulster Validated Foundation Degree - for Year 1 entry  

Successful completion in relevant subject area. Must already have Maths equivalent to GCSE grade C unless they have relevant Maths modules in BTEEC - Maths for IT Practitioners or Engineering Technicians.

Ulster Linked Foundation Degree - for Year 2 entry      

Overall mark of 50% and 50% in all taught level 5 modules . Must already have Maths equivalent to GCSE grade C unless they have relevant Maths modules in BTEC - Maths for IT Practitioners or Engineering Technicians.

Exemptions and Transferability

The majority of students enter this programme in year 1 at Level 4. However, applicants who provide evidence of previous relevant successful study may be considered for entry to Level 5 of the programme. Exceptionally applicants may be considered for entry at Level 6. Transfer will normally be admitted with exemptions depending on prior accredited knowledge.

Exemptions and Transferability Further

Transfer between this course and other similar courses within the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment may be possible on the basis of academic performance.

Exemption from parts of the course may be considered based on appropriate performance in a related, designated course or other approved experiential learning (APEL).

The course has been designed to enable students who graduate with a good honours degree to apply for postgraduate study towards a PhD, MSc, MRes or other higher qualification.

International Entry Requirements

We accept many international qualifications. For each course, we clearly explain the entry requirements and the level of English you need.

View international entry requirements

A Level Equivalent 

Grades CCC or higher and may include course specific subjects aligned to the degree.

Entry requirements will vary depending on your country of residence.

Check the specific entry requirements for your country here:

In addition to academic entry requirements, there are also English Language requirements for each course:

A Level Subject Requirements

One of which must be from Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Technology and Design, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics, Double Award Science / Applied Science / Life & Health Sciences, Environmental Technology.

For applicants offering Maths, Further Maths or Physics a two grade reduction will be applied at the time of offer (CCC).

GCSE

GCSE Mathematics Grade B/5 if offering GCE A Level Technology and Design, Design & Technology, Engineering , Electronics, Environmental Technology.

NOTE: Applicants presenting any of the above and who only have GCSE Maths Grade C, then Double Award Science at BB or above can be taken in conjunction with GCSE to top-up. Application of number is NOT accepted.

GCSE English Language at Grade C (or equivalent)/Essential Skills Communication is accepted.

NOTE: All applicants presenting BTECs as the subject require GCSE Maths minimum grade C and Merit in all relevant Maths modules.

English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5 or an accepted alternative test.

Verification of qualifications using Qualification Check

Applications to Ulster University are carefully reviewed and applicant supporting documentation, including qualifications are verified.

If we are unable to make the verification ourselves, we will require applicants to submit a verification check using Qualification Check.

If this applies to you, we will contact you to request for a Qualification Check.

If you have any questions related to entry requirements, please get in touch

Careers and Opportunities

Graduate employers

Graduates from this course are now working for:

  • Engineering Designers
  • Forensic Engineers
  • Manufacturing employers
  • Seagate Technology
  • Terex Corporation
  • DuPont

With this degree you could become:

  • Mechanical Design
  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Materials Engineer
  • Energy Engineer
  • Graduate CAD Technician
  • Quality Assurance and Control
  • Automotive Engineer

Job prospects in a wide range of engineering industries are excellent with most graduates finding employment within six months of graduation. Jobs arise in engineering design, energy and sustainability, failure analysis (forensics), materials development, manufacturing processes, robotics and automation, facility layout planning, quality assurance, and engineering management positions.

Graduates with BEng (Hons), first class or upper second-class award all satisfy the requirements for a wide range of postgraduate research posts and scholarships.

Work placement / study abroad

In Year 3, it is required to undertake either a paid placement in a work-place setting, opt to study abroad, or choose to undertake an enterprise Placement Year as a start-up entrepreneur.

With the placement option, students are ultimately responsible for securing their employment opportunity in advance of the placement year. The university offers a significant programme of supports for this purpose and works closely with industry to ensure suitable advertised positions are made available. Any placement secured by the student must be suitable in duration (typically 10 months) and be related in its subject matter to the degree programme being undertaken. Placement opportunities may be national or international.

The study abroad options are dependent on the partnership agreements. See our Go Global website for the range of study abroad options.

An enterprise placement year is also available as an option, where students take the opportunity to develop and grow a new venture or start-up business. You are essentially self-employed for the year but receive workshop sessions and university supports on your entrepreneurial journey.

Upon completing placement assessment, you become eligible for a diplomaward: Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) or International DPP. Diploma in International Academic Studies (DIAS) is awarded for successfully meeting the requirements of study abroad assessment.

Placement or study abroad is compulsory and is integral to the student’s professional journey. However, there are circumstances where exemptions may apply.

Professional Recognition

Accreditations reflect the excellence of our teaching, research, and knowledge exchange and ensure our programmes realise the highest expectations. By studying at Ulster University you’ll gain insight and be at the forefront of current industry practices, while our many accredited degree programmes open doors to the world’s top professional organisations, making you more attractive to future employers and giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Fees and Funding

2027/28 Fees

Undergraduate fees are subject to annual review, 2027/28 fees will be announced in due course.

See our tuition fees page for the current fees for 2026/27 entry.

Scholarships, awards and prizes

Students on this programme are eligible for the main engineering prizes within the school of computing, engineering, and intelligent systems, namely, the Terex year 1 Engineer of the year, Nuprint Technologies year 2 engineer of the year, and the Seagate Technology Graduate engineer of the year award.

Final year students are also eligible for the Lycra company Prize for Final Year Project in Mechanical Engineering, NIE Networks Final Year Project in Renewable Energy Engineering, and the FAST Technologies Final Year Prize for a Project involving Robotics and Automation.

Other Faculty Prizes can be viewed at: Ulster University Student Prizes and follow the links to the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment.

The Dean's List at Ulster University recognizes students for outstanding academic achievement each year for year 1 and 2.

Students on this programme can be eligible for other scholarships such as the SSE Renewables scholarship (where other eligibility criterion may apply) or McColgan Engineering scholarship. A list of scholarships is maintained on the university website.

Find the right scholarship for you

See if you can access financial or other forms of support, including mentorship to excel in your studies.

View available scholarships.

Additional mandatory costs

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.

There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.

See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.

There are additional fees for examination resits and library fines. Where a graduation ceremony is part of your course, please be aware that additional fees will apply.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.

See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.

Sustainability

Ulster continues to develop and support sustainability initiatives with our staff, students, and external partners across various aspects of teaching, research, professional services operations, and governance.

At Ulster every person, course, research project, and professional service area on every campus either does or can contribute in some way towards the global sustainability and climate change agenda.

We are guided by both our University Strategy People, Place and Partnerships: Delivering Sustainable Futures for All and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Our work in this area is already being recognised globally.  Most recently by the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact rating where we were recognised as Joint 5th Globally for Outreach Activities and Joint Top 20 Globally for Sustainable Development Goal 17:  Partnership for the Goals.

Visit our Sustainability at Ulster destination to learn more about how the University strategy and the activities of Ulster University support each of the Sustainable Development Goals.

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

We are passionate about sharing with our students the vital role they each have now and as future professionals in promoting a sustainable future for all. We believe that sustainability is not the domain of one discipline or profession. It is the responsibility of all disciplines, professions, organisations and individuals.

That is why on each of our courses within the School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems you will learn about the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the contribution you can make now, and as a graduate in Computing or Engineering.

Sustainable Development Goals Logo

Student and Employer Stories

“Over the years, we've welcomed several Ulster University graduates into our organisation, and they have consistently impressed us with their strong educational background and their ability to meet the needs of our plant. Their technical expertise, honed through Ulster University’s rigorous degree programs, has proven to be invaluable in tackling the complex challenges we face daily.

They are not only proficient in their technical roles but also bring fresh perspectives and a proactive attitude that drives improvements. it's clear that their education at Ulster University has set them up for success.”

Kevlar® Maydown, DuPont

“At Seagate, collaboration with Ulster University is vital to how we build future-ready talent and strengthen the region’s technology and engineering capability. The University plays a crucial role in preparing the next generation of engineers and technologists, and we are proud to work closely with its students and graduates.

Ulster University graduates consistently bring strong technical foundations, problem-solving capability, curiosity and a collaborative mindset into our workplace. They adapt quickly, challenge thinking and add real value from day one.

Their degrees provide a strong blend of theory and practical experience, particularly through industry placement and project-based learning, which sets them up well for real-world engineering and technology roles at Seagate.

We are also committed to developing that talent, actively supporting structured graduate programmes, mentoring and clear progression pathways, helping individuals grow their careers and reach their full potential within our organisation.”

Seagate Technology, Springtown

Terms and Conditions

1. We prepare our prospectus and online information about our courses with care and every effort is made to ensure that the information is accurate. The printed version of the prospectus is, however, published at least a year before the courses begin. Information included in the prospectus may, therefore, change. This includes, but is not limited to changes to the terms, content, delivery, location, method of assessments or lengths of the courses described. Not all circumstances are foreseeable, but changes will normally be made for one of the following reasons:

  • to meet external, professional, or accredited body requirements;
  • to provide for exceptional circumstances due to reasons beyond our reasonable control;
  • to improve or enhance your experience, or to adopt changes recommended in student feedback, with the aim of improving the student experience and/or student outcomes; and/or
  • to ensure appropriate academic standards are met, for example in response to external examiners’ feedback.

2. If there are insufficient enrolments to make a course viable, it may be necessary for the University to withdraw a course. If you have received an offer for a course that we subsequently have to close, we will contact you as soon as possible to discuss alternative courses. If you do not wish to study any alternative courses at the University, you may withdraw your application by informing us by email to admissions@ulster.ac.uk.

3. Please note that the University’s website is the most up-to-date source of information regarding courses, campuses and facilities and we strongly recommend that you always visit the website before making any commitments.

4. We will include a durable PDF when we send you an offer letter which will highlight any changes made to our prospectus or online information about our courses. You should read this carefully and ensure you fully understand what you are agreeing to before accepting a place on one of our courses.

5. The University will always try to deliver the course as described in the durable PDF you receive with your offer letter.

6. At any point after an offer has been made, students will be notified of any course changes in writing (usually by email) as soon as reasonably practicable and we will take all reasonable steps to minimise their impact where possible. The University will, where possible and reasonably practicable, seek the express consent of the student in regard to any changes concerning material or pre-contract information.

7. The University website will be updated to reflect the changed course information as soon as reasonably practicable.

8. If, after due consideration, you decide that you no longer want to study your course or to study at the University because of the changes, you may withdraw your application or terminate your contract with the University. In order to do so, you should notify us in writing by emailing admissions@ulster.ac.uk (and update UCAS if applicable). We will, on request, recommend alternative courses that you could study with us, or suggest a suitable course at an alternative higher education provider.

9. If you do not agree that the changes are fair, you can seek redress under the Student Complaints Procedures.

10. Providing the University has complied with the requirements of all applicable consumer protection laws, the University does not accept responsibility for the consequences of any modification, relocation or cancellation of any course, or part of a course, offered by the University. The University will give due and proper consideration to the effects thereof on individual students and take the steps necessary to minimise the impact of such effects on those affected.

11. The University is not liable for disruption to its provision of educational or other services caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control providing it takes all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to such services.

12. Further information can be found in our terms and conditions.

Student Terms and Conditions

The full Student Terms and Conditions is now available.

View Available Scholarships

Are you a GB & Islands or International Applicant?

Delivering Growth and Investment in Northern Ireland