Work+

Description

Take your natural curiosity, combine it with your interest in Maths, Science or Technology and use your imagination to design and build the future.

Summary

There is no product that exists in the world that has not been engineered – from the smallest computer chips using nanotechnology to the biggest structures, such as bridges and the world’s tallest buildings. All engineering comes down to one thing and that is the need to solve a problem – how can I make it better? How can I make it more useful? Mechanical and Manufacturing engineering concentrates on the design and manufacture of machines, from the smallest parts to large systems, covering industries as diverse as automotive, aerospace and medical. So if you have ever wondered how you can make an F1 racing car go faster or how we can design and build the next generation of space exploration, then mechanical and manufacturing engineering is for you.

About

This is the part time version of the BEng Hons Mechanical and Manufacturing course. Graduates from the programme are equipped to enter a variety of mechanical engineering areas, such as; design and consultancy, materials technology, process engineering and maintenance and particularly manufacturing and project management. The course places an emphasis on individual and team projects providing the opportunity for hands-on involvement and an understanding of engineering materials, processes, devices and systems. Analytical and communication skills are developed with an emphasis on computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacture (CAM). The skills and knowledge acquired are applied to a wide range of real-life engineering problems.

This course is currently in the process of renewing its Professional Body Accreditation. It is possible that there will be some changes to the course as described.

Attendance

Attendance for the first year is accelerated to be equivalent to the full-time program timetable over the first two semesters; hence, first-year attendance is typically up to four days per week. Attendance in years two, three, and four is part-time and typically requires one full day or two half days per week per semester. Each semester consists of twelve teaching weeks followed by a study week and two weeks for final examination (fifteen weeks in total). A final exam will be scheduled to take place on a specific day, with a maximum of three exams possible in any given semester. Not all modules have a final exam, as assessment can also take place during the teaching and study weeks. The attendance requirements may vary from semester to semester.

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Formal lectures are supplemented by tutorials and laboratory investigations, as appropriate. Practical hands on laboratory sessions are an integral part of many modules throughout all years of the course. Case studies, groupwork and mini-projects are also extensively used. In the final year there is a major individual project.

Generally, a combination of continuous assessment and examination is employed in each module. Continuous assessment includes class tests, library and laboratory based assignments, and individual and group project work. Some modules across all years of the course are continuously assessed.

Modules

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.

Design and CAD I

Year: 1

This module 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 and manufacturing considerations in design

Year two

Mathematics for Engineering II

Year: 2

This module introduces students to the essential mathematics with appropriate numerical computing and programming required for embarking on further study in engineering or a related discipline. It develops the students mathematical skills required to solve problems that arise in the context of their undergraduate study. The module content is introduced in a pragmatic way and then related to real world problems, which enhances understanding and makes the concepts more meaningful and relevant for the student. The module also aims to generate in the student a spirit of mathematical investigation and discovery leading to the development of mathematical confidence. An introduction is given to MatLab, the multi-paradigm numerical computing environment and fourth-generation programming language; assessment in also partially completed in MatLab.

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.

Introduction to Renewable Energy

Year: 2

The module provides a firm grounding in energy conversion through fundamental theory demonstrated in the analysis of conventional and renewable energy conversion systems.

Manufacturing Processes

Year: 2

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

Materials

Year: 2

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.

Statics and Dynamics 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.

Manufacturing Technology

Year: 2

This module covers major aspects of manufacturing technology including state-of-the-art for subtractive, additive, casting, and deformation processes. In addition, the module covers the technologies implemented in the integration of various manufacturing processes, thereby promoting a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing systems.

Year three

Circuit Analysis I

Year: 3

This module provides an introduction to the key electronic components, the basic concepts of electronic circuit design and the basic principles of electronic circuit testing and measurement taking. This module introduces the student to analogue electronics principles presented using a combination of lectures, tutorials and practical laboratories and are assessed using continuous assessment in the form of a class test and lab practical assessments.

Industry 4.0

Year: 3

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, tutorials and practical sessions and are assessed using continuous assessment methods.

Intro to Statics and Dynamics

Year: 3

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 CAE 2

Year: 3

The module considers creativity in design; product innovation; technical and non-technical
aspects of design; safety and product liability; design analysis techniques for economic
product manufacture and assembly; functional analysis; value engineering; safety and
reliability through design projects; manufacturing processes; assembly techniques; material
handling methods; component and product inspection and testing; factory simulation using
computer techniques; computer database application for manufacturing management and
processing; and design applications using 3-D computer graphics

Mechanical Science

Year: 3

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 and Mechanical vibration theory.

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

Learning outcomes shall be assessed by formal in-class test methods throughout the duration of the module and by a final formal examination.

Engineering of Control Systems and Signals

Year: 3

This module is optional

This level 5 module will endow engineering students with the knowledge and skills to analyse and design control systems and signal processing systems.

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.

Design and CAE 3

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.

Computer Aided Engineering

Year: 4

This module provides a practical, hands-on treatment of Computer Aided Engineering in the
context of application in design practice or manufacturing company. It majors on the more
advanced part modelling techniques, assembly modelling, good modelling practice,
collaboration and interoperabilty, design documentation, 3D printing, surface modelling
rendering, mechanism simulation and Finite Element Analysis. It involves the utilisation of an
integrated, state-of-the-art MCAD suite along with the teaching of the general principles of
these technologies.

Award

BEng (Hons)

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

A level

For the Degree apprenticeship you must be in full-time employment in an engineering capacity regarded as satisfying the industrial training requirements of the equivalent full-time courses. You must also be part of the company as a Degree Apprentice under the Department of Economy Higher Level Apprenticeship programme.

THE INITIAL CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS FOR THIS COURSE IS 31 MARCH 2024.

Grades BBBto include ONE from GCE A Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Technology and Design, Design and Technology, Double Award Life and Health Sciences, Double Award Science/Applied Science, Engineering, or Electronics.

Desirable Subject Offer: BCC

For applicants offering Maths, Further Maths or Physics in GCE A Level, a two grade reduction will be applied.

Please check the GCSE requirements below for entry to this course.

Applied General Qualifications

BTEC Level 3 QCF Extended Diploma in a relevant Engineering subject area with overall award profile of DDD. Also requires a Merit in either Mathematics for Engineering Technicians or Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, ANDa Merit in Mechanical Principles and applications.

OR

BTEC Level 3 RQF National Extended Diploma in a relevant Engineering subject area with DDM overall award grades to include a Merit in Engineering Principles and Merit in Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.

The following are acceptable in particular combinations or with A-Level (s) -

NB Subject requirements apply (see above and A-level section).
BTEC Level 3 QCF Subsidiary Diploma, BTEC RQF National Extended Certificate,
BTEC Level 3 QCF 90-credit Diploma, BTEC Level 3 RQF National Foundation Diploma,
BTEC Level 3 QCF Diploma, BTEC Level 3 RQF National Diploma.

Entry equivalences can also be viewed in the online prospectus at http://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements/equivalence

Please contact Admissions (contact details below) for further information about acceptable combinations for entry to this course.

Irish Leaving Certificate

120 UCAS Tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at Higher Level) to include English at H6 if studied at Higher Level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.

Course Specific Subject Requirements

Higher Level subjects must include Mathematics and one from Physics, Chemistry, Physics/Chemistry, Biology, Technology or Engineering, Technology & Design.

Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency

• View tariff point chart

Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency

• View tariff point chart

Access to Higher Education (HE)

Access Diploma

Overall profile of 65% (120 credit Science/Technology Access Course) (NI Access Course); to include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 55% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics passed at 55% as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.

Overall profile of 24 credits at distinction and 21credits at merit (60 credit Science/Technology Access Course) (GB Access Course); to include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 65% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics passed at 65% as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.

NBApplication of Number Level 2 is not acceptable as an alternative to GCSE Grade C Mathematics for entry to this course.

PLUS GCSE English Grade C or Essential Skills Communication Level 2 or Communication Module (Level 2) in Access programme

GCSE

GCSE (or equivalent) - Grade C or above in English

GCSE (or equivalent) - Grade B or above in Mathematics

Essential Skills in Application of Number is not acceptable for entry to this degree.

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. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

• English language requirements

• Your country

Additional Entry Requirements

OCR/Cambridge Technical Combinations
The University accepts a range of alternative combination of qualifications including OCR Nationals and OCR Cambridge Technicals. However these qualifications do not satisfy the subject requirements for this course but can be used for grade purposes in combination with BTec/A-level subjects which meet the subject requirements (see above for more information).

HNC in Electrical, Electronic, Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering subject
Overall Distinction (with distinctions in 90 Level 4 credits) for year 1 entry only

HNDin Electrical, Electronic, Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering subject

Overall Merit (with distinctions in 60 Level 5 credits)

HND applications may be considered for Year 2 entry where the curriculum sufficiently matches that of the Ulster University full - time Year 1 course.

Foundation Degree
Pass in a relevant subject with overall 55% and minimum 55% in all taught level 5 modules. Applicants will normally be considered for entry to an associated Honours degree (normally Year 2 entry).

For further information regarding all of the above qualifications please contact Admissions -see contact details below.

Entry equivalences can also be viewed in the online prospectus at http://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements/equivalence

Exemptions and transferability

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.

Duration

4

Start Date

Thursday 12 September 2024

End Date

Monday 25 June 2029

Progression Pathway

Career options

Job prospects in a wide range of engineering industries are excellent with the majority of graduates finding employment within six months of graduation. 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

Part-time mode of study normally does not involve a work placement.

Professional recognition

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.