Study Mechanical Engineering and learn to design, build and test new products, processes and systems. You'll develop holistic engineering knowledge and problem solving abilities as you work towards an industry-accredited degree that's sought after in a wide range of sectors.
Introduction
Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest and broadest engineering disciplines and is the basis for a wide range of careers in engineering and beyond.
Our professionally accredited Mechanical Engineering programme offers an exciting blend of learning experiences. You’ll master the fundamentals of mechanical engineering science and develop the skills, attitudes and experience demanded by 21st century engineering and society. You’ll spend as much time outside the lecture theatre as possible, working in teams to apply your learning in the solution of practical problems. Graduates are well prepared for their careers ahead, and industry recognises them as highly employable.
Mechanical engineering students learn a wide range of theory and skills. This includes engineering science and practical skills such as project management and computer programming.
You’ll learn in a modern, well-equipped environment that includes up-to-date laboratories, tools and computing hardware and software.
As you progress through your degree, you can choose to specialise in one of five themes: biomedical engineering, materials engineering, manufacturing, management, or simulation and analytics.
What you'll learn
Design, build and test products and systems
Mechanical engineering scientific fundamentals
Thermodynamics
Fluid and solid mechanics
Dynamic systems
Materials
Electronics and mathematics
Project management
Computer programming
Engineering design
Collaborative design
Accreditation
Mechanical engineering programmes are accredited (or pending accreditation), by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. They’re a recognised qualification on the route to Chartered Engineer status.
BBC including Mathematics grade B and a second science.
International applicants need BBC including BC in Maths and Physics (in any order).
Pass required in science practicals. Accepted Science subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Economics, Electronics, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Human Biology, Statistics, Further Mathematics, Physics.
International Baccalaureate
28 points overall including 5 in HL Maths, 5 in HL second science plus 5 in SL English or 4 in HL English
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma
DDM and Mathematics grade B at A Level.
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
Grade C, plus A level Mathematics grade B and a second science grade B at A level.
Pass required in science practicals. Accepted Science subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Economics, Electronics, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Human Biology, Statistics, Further Mathematics, Physics.
Access
27 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 18 level 3 credits at Merit in a relevant Access Diploma.
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education
443 from 2 electives (including Extended Maths and Physics) plus one core subject (excluding Citizenship and Social Development) and a minimum grade 3 in core Mathematics. Grade 4 (with no component less than 4) in HKDSE English Language
India Standard XII
Overall average of 70% from four core subjects including 75% in Maths and 70% in Physics, a minimum of 75% in English dependent on exam board (not including Hindi, Regional Language, Environmental Education and PE)
English language requirements
If you’re an international applicant, you’ll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
Please see the full course information for details of the language tests and qualifications we'll accept as evidence of your English language ability for this course.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
Years one and two give students the scientific understanding underpinning the practice of professional engineering. You’ll also learn about project management, computer programming, and engineering design.
Compulsory modules
MECHANICAL PRODUCT DISSECTION (MECH109)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This is predominantly a practical module in which students work in small groups to examine in detail the workings and manufacture of a single-cylinder, 4-stroke petrol engine by dismantling it into component parts and documenting the disassembly process in a Wiki.
SOLIDS AND STRUCTURES 1 (ENGG110)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module aims to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and theory of how engineering structures work to sustain loads. It will also show how stress analysis leads to the design of safer structures. It will also provide students with the means to analyse and design basic structural elements as used in modern engineering structures.
Professional Engineering: a skills toolkit (ENGG111)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 3
This module aims to provide students with an interesting and engaging project that will help them to immediately relate the material being taught,both within and without this module, to a practical problem that is identifiable to their engineering discipline, thus reinforcing its relevance to the topixc.
The module:
1) Seeks to provide students with an early understanding of the preliminary design processes
2) Will introduce students to formal engineering drawing and visualisation
3) Will expose the students to group work and the dynamics of working in a team
4) Will expose students to the complexity of an engineering design task
5) Will enable students to develop data analysis and plotting skills
6) Will embody an approach to learning that will engage the students for the remainder of their lives
7) Seeks to provide students with an early understanding of the detail design and manufacturing process
8. Will introduce students to industry standard computer aided engineering drawing tools and practice
9. Will enable students to develop report writing and oral presentation skills
10. Will provide students with a basic understanding of engineering components and mechanisms
11. Will embody an approach to learning that will engage the students for the remainder of their lives
Energy Science (ENGG116)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
To develop an understanding of the basic principles of fluid mechanics, the laws of thermodynamics, and an appreciation of how to solve simple engineering problems. To develop skills in performing and reporting simple experiments.
Digital Engineering (ENGG125)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Students completing the module should be able to understand simple computer programs and write their own simple MATLAB programs to solve problems and process data as required by other modules and in engineering practice.
Students completing the module will be able to understand simple electrical circuits with passive and active components, mechanical (mass-spring-damper) systems and electromechanical systems (DC machines). They will learn basic mathematical, practical and computational methods for analysing and modelling these.
Engineering Mathematics (ENGG198)
Credits: 22.5 /
Semester: semester 2
ENGG198 is a Year 1 mathematics module for students of programmes taught in the School of Engineering, e.g. Aerospace, Civil, Architectural, Mechanical, Product Design and Industrial Design Engineering. It is designed to reinforce and build upon A-level (or equivalent) mathematics, providing you with the strong background required in your engineering studies and preparing you for Year 2 mathematics modules.
Introduction to Engineering Materials (MATS105)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
To provide students with a basic introduction to various classes of engineering materials, their mechanical properties, deformation and failure and how the properties structure and processing can be controlled to design materials with desired properties for various engineering applications.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year two
Years one and two give students the scientific understanding underpinning the practice of professional engineering. You’ll also learn about project management, computer programming, and engineering design.
Compulsory modules
Aeroengines (AERO213)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 3
This module covers the main technical aspects of gas turbine engines used on aircraft and other mechanical applications (e.g. power generation, marine). It covers many topics from the basic principles of aeroengines (e.g. production of thrust) through to the design of axial flow turbomachinery (compressors and turbines). An understanding of the principles of compressible flow is also developed. Students do a laboratory using the Virtual Engine Test Bench to explore aeroengine components, thermodynamics and performance. In addition, they use a commercial CFD package to perform a compressible flow simulation.
Engineering Design (MECH212)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 3
Professional Engineering can be defined as the application of science in the solution of problems and the development of new products, processes and systems. It is vital that all Engineering graduates have a solid design education; and this module is a core part of that.
In Year 1 students are introduced to the basic tools and techniques involved in engineering design.
In this module students are taught the basics of design theory in a lecture setting; but crucially they are required to apply this learning in a 24-week group project to design an innovative engineering product.
Students are given a design brief and are "coached" through product design specification; creative conceptual design; detailed design; 3D CAD modelling; design for manufacture, assembly and environment; and materials selection.
The module also enables students to develop and practice teamwork, communication, project management and problem solving skills.
DYNAMIC SYSTEMS (MECH215)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Dynamic systems are encountered in most engineering disciplines such as mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering. These systems require specific techniques to be analysed for design or monitoring purpose.
In this module, students will learn the main methods for analysing dynamic systems in time and frequency domains. They will learn how to solve dynamical problems, how to evaluate and control the stability, the accuracy and the rapidity of a dynamical system.
This module will be mainly delivered through class lectures and assessed through a final exam. Additionally, students will be taught some experimental techniques related to second-order dynamical systems through an assessed laboratory work.
THERMODYNAMICS (MECH217)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 3
Steam, standard air and refrigeration cycles
MATERIALS PROCESSING AND SELECTION I (MATS214)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module introduces the main materials processing and manufacturing techniques used to shape metals. It also introduces technologies used to modify the surface properties of metal components, and heat-treatment procedures used to change materials’ mechanical properties.
MATERIALS PROCESSING AND SELECTION II (MATS210)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module covers non-metallic materials and materials selection. The students will understand the processing, microstructure and properties of ceramic, polymer and composite materials. The students will also learn how to derive materials performance indices and select materials for mechanical design.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT (MNGT202)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
Project Management is a core skill for professional engineers of all types and a sound education in this subject area is required by the professional accrediting bodies. The knowledge and skills developed in this module will equip students for their future UG project work and for their careers ahead.
This module teaches students the theory of fundamental techniques in project management, risk management, and cost management.
In this modules student undertake a group "virtual project" in which they undertake all stages of project management involved n a major construction projects. The five virtual project tasks require students to apply their theoretical learning; and they provide an opportunity to develop key professional skills.
EXPERIMENTAL METHODS (ENGG201)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
The module focusses on the essentials of data analysis and interpretation, engineering experimentation, measurement techniques and principles of instrumentation.
SOLIDS & STRUCTURES 2 (ENGG209)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module aims to introduce students to techniques for load and displacement analysis of simple structures.
Engineering Mathematics and Computing (ENGG295)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 3
Engineering Mathematics and Computing will provide a fundamental understanding of mathematical techniques used to solve Engineering problems. Successful completion of this module will provide students with basic skills and solution methodologies (mathematical, and using MATLAB) for various engineering applications. The module will expose the essentials of numerical methods to solve systems of linear, non-linear, ordinary and partial differential equations. A series of classic engineering problems, such as trusses, mass-spring dampeners, 2D trajectory calculation, and 2D heat flow will place the acquired knowledge in an engineering context.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year three
In year three, you’ll study advanced engineering science and undertake a 300-hour research project on a topic of your choice. You can also choose one of the following engineering specialisms: biomedical engineering, materials engineering, manufacturing, management, or simulation and analytics.
Compulsory modules
INTRODUCTION TO FINITE ELEMENTS (ENGG302)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
In this module the students will gain a basic understanding of the Finite Element method and learn to use some Finite Element software. This software will then be used to analyse a variety of different problems which are relevant to both mechanical and civil engineers.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (ENGG319)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
Computational fluid dynamics tools have become ubiquitous in engineering practice to design trains, planes and automobiles, to analyse the fluid flow in power generation systems and in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and many more applications. The module will provide students with the skills to use computational fluid dynamics tools with confidence with an understanding of the underlying theory and technology.
INDIVIDUAL PROJECT (ENGG341)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
The Year 3 individual research project; 300 hours student work over 2 semesters; 3 assessment stages (proposal 5%, interim 20%, final 75%).
HEAT TRANSFER (MECH301)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The aim of this module is to give the students a good understanding of the basic mechanisms of heat transfer and to equip them to solve significant engineering problems.
They will also learn about different designs of heat exchanger and how to carry out performance/design calculations.
VIBRATION AND CONTROL (MECH303)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module is built on MECH215. It consists of Vibration and Control as 2 main components. Both are on an advanced level and basically deal with multi-degree-of-freedom (or multi-input multi-output) systems.
The main mathematical tools are Laplace transforms, differential equations, simultaneous linear equations, complex numbers, trigonometry, vectors and matrices, eigenvalues and eigenvectors.
MECHATRONICS (MECH316)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aims to provide students with an appreciation of the challenges related to the design of Mechatronics systems.
Both hardware and software integration issues will be studied within this module.
General design principles will be introduced first and learning will focus on the popular Arduino platform.
ENGINEERING FLUID MECHANICS (MECH326)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module provides students with the fundamental concepts of Engineering Fluid Mechanics, and in particular: the role of viscosity in fluid mechanics, including the no-slip condition and the concept of vorticity; the basic principles of laminar and turbulent flow through pipes including definition and evaluation of the Fanning and Darcy friction factors; the concept of a boundary layer, including separation and transition, and basic equations for friction factor in laminar and turbulent flow with zero pressure gradient; the calculation methods of bluff-body drag using drag coefficients with qualitative explanations the potential-flow theory including the concept of irrationality and the principle of superposition; the analysis of compressible flow through constant-area ducts accounting for friction or heat transfer and to use the Fanno- and Rayleigh-flow tables; the analysis of external compressible flow including expansion and compression turns (Prandtl-Meyer expansions and oblique shock waves).
ADVANCED MODERN MANAGEMENT (MNGT352)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
The Aims of this module are as follows:
To introduce the student to various aspects of advanced modern management.
To develop a knowledge and understanding of modern management tools.
To stimulate an appreciation of management and its importance in organisational success.
Optional modules
UNCERTAINTY, RELIABILITY AND RISK 1 (ENGG304)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module covers broad aspects of uncertainty quantification methods, reliability analysis and risk assessment in engineering applications. It also provides understanding of statistical analysis of engineering data and computational methods for dealing with uncertainty in engineering problems.
CARDIOVASCULAR BIOENGINEERING (ENGG311)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
To introduce engineering students to various bio fluid mechanics problems. In particular the fluid mechanics of blood flow will be presented in terms that are familiar to students of engineering. Students will be expected to relate the biological structure of components of the circulatory system to mechanical and physical function.
LASERS IN ENGINEERING (ENGG312)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
The Module provides an overview of the fundamental principles of laser technology including optical principles, key features and attributes of lasers, laser beam properties and the engineering applications context of the material.
ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS (MATS301)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aims to understand advanced engineering materials, focusing on non-ferrous alloys and composite materials. It covers the processing, heat treatment, microstructure and properties of Al, Ti and Ni alloys. It introduces constituent materials, manufacturing methods, test methods and mechanical response of composite materials.
SMART MATERIALS (MATS315)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces students to the facilitating world of ‘Smart Materials’. The term ‘Smart Materials’ is used to define a broad collection of materials that have the in-built ability to ‘actuate’ in some way in response to external stimulus. Examples of ‘Smart materials’ include piezoelectrics, electrostrictive materials, shape memory alloys, ferrofluids, various biomimetic materials plus a host of others. This module looks at a selection of smart materials and considers the underlying reasons for the actuating behavior, key performance indicators that aid materials selection, aspects of manufacturing associated with the exploitation of the materials, plus engineering applications of these facilitating and highly useful materials.
BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING (MECH305)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
This module will introduce the inter-disciplinary subject of biomedical engineering to engineering students with a focus on biomechanics of the cardiovascular system, the eye and bone.
The module will cover ageing and disease of tissues and prosthetic devices including their design and optimisation for tissue repair. The course will be delivered with lectures containing interactive elements.
Assessment will be via an exam and two pieces of coursework.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING (MNFG308)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
To provide an overview on the role of additive manufacturing in new product development. To develop a generic understanding on the principles and the complete process chain of additive manufacturing processes. To provide an awareness on recent developments in additive manufacturing and associated technologies.
Managing Product Development (MNGT205)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
The module teaches the management of new product development. It is taught in a traditional lecture style culminating in an exam.
Successful students will have acquired knowledge and understanding at a broad level of the process and how it is executed in a modern industrial environment.
Enterprise Studies (MNGT324)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
The module comprises a group based initiative to conceptualise design and develop a technology based business plan. Successful students will gain an understanding of enterprise and top level strategic company management. Assessment is through a combination of a report and a formal presentation.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching and assessment
How you'll learn
We are leading the UK’s involvement in the international Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate (CDIO) initiative – an innovative educational framework for producing the next generation of engineers.
Our degree programmes encompass the development of a holistic, systems approach to engineering. Technical knowledge and skills are complemented by a sound appreciation of the life-cycle processes involved in engineering and an awareness of the ethical, safety, environmental, economic, and social considerations involved in practicing as a professional engineer.
You will be taught through a combination of face-to-face teaching in group lectures, laboratory sessions, tutorials, and seminars. Our programmes include a substantial practical component, with an increasing emphasis on project work as you progress through to the final year. You will be supported throughout by an individual academic adviser.
How you're assessed
Assessment takes many forms, each appropriate to the learning outcomes of the particular module studied. The main modes of assessment are coursework and examination. Depending on the modules taken, you may encounter project work, presentations (individual and/or group), and specific tests or tasks focused on solidifying learning outcomes.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£27,200
Year in industry fee
£1,850
Year abroad fee
£13,600
Fees are correct for the academic year 2024/25. Please note that the Year Abroad fee also applies to the Year in China.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. All safety equipment, other than boots, is provided free of charge by the department.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to provide tuition fee discounts and help with living expenses while at university.
Check out our Liverpool Bursary, worth up to £2,000 per year for eligible UK students. Or for international students, our Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship offers a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for eligible international students starting an undergraduate degree from September 2024.
Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest and broadest engineering disciplines and is the basis for a wide range of careers in engineering and beyond.
Our professionally accredited Mechanical Engineering programme offers an exciting blend of learning experiences. You’ll master the fundamentals of mechanical engineering science and develop the skills, attitudes and experience demanded by 21st century engineering and society. You’ll spend as much time outside the lecture theatre as possible, working in teams to apply your learning in the solution of practical problems. Graduates are well prepared for their careers ahead, and industry recognises them as highly employable.
Mechanical engineering students learn a wide range of theory and skills. This includes engineering science and practical skills such as project management and computer programming.
You’ll learn in a modern, well-equipped environment that includes up-to-date laboratories, tools and computing hardware and software.
As you progress through your degree, you can choose to specialise in one of five themes: biomedical engineering, materials engineering, manufacturing, management, or simulation and analytics.