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Mechanical Engineering

Apply for this course

The deadline for UK students to apply for this course for entry in 2023 was 25 January 2023.

The deadline for international students was 30 June 2023.

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There are twenty-five courses related to Mechanical Engineering that you might be interested in.

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Bachelor of Engineering

A Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) is a bachelor’s degree awarded for an undergraduate programme in engineering.

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Course overview

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

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.

Accreditations in detail

Accreditations

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.

Course content

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

Electrical Circuits for Engineers (ELEC121)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

​To provide students with a basic understanding of electronics from first principles covering analogue and electromechanical systems. Basic circuits and theory will be introduced including the use of semiconductor devices such as diodes and transistors. Electromechanics will be developed to provide the student with a fundamental knowledge of the principles of DC and AC machines, transformers and linear actuators

ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS (ENGG121)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

To provide students with a basic understanding of modelling and simulation techniques. Mathematical modelling and graph theory will be introduced to develop practical skills in the modelling and designing of different types of systems including electromechanical systems.

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING (ENGG185)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module introduces students to the basic concepts and principles of elementary statistics and programming. It explains the purposes and advantages of analysing data collected specifically to solve problems in engineering, reviews available software tools and programming languages used to formulate and answer basic engineering questions. It draws on examples from applications across the range of School of Engineering program areas.​

INTRODUCTION TO STRUCTURAL MATERIALS (ENGG108)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

​​​This module introduces students to important mechanical properties of metallic alloys, polymers, ceramics, construction materials and composites used in engineering industry. It also introduces the mechanical testing techniques used to measure such properties, the common mechanisms of materials and component failure in use, and some appreciation of materials processing. The laboratory sessions are designed to familiase students with engineering laboratory methods and procedures, as well as providing an experience of hands-on mechanical testing techniques.

ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS (MATH198)

Credits: 22.5 / Semester: whole session

MATH198 is a Year 1 mathematics module for students of programmes taught in the School of Engineering, e.g. Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical or Industrial Design Engineering. It is designed to reinforce and build upon A-level mathematics, providing you with the strong background required in your engineering studies and preparing you for the Year 2 mathematics module MATH299 (Mathematics engineering II). In the first semester, the foundations are laid: differential calculus, vector algebra, integration and applications. Semester two covers complex numbers, differential equations, Laplace transformations and functions of two variables

MECHANICAL PRODUCT DISSECTION (MECH109)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

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: whole session

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.

Energy Science (ENGG116)

Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session

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.

Professional Engineering: a skills toolkit (ENGG111)

Credits: 30 / Semester: whole session

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

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide.

What's available on this course?

Year in China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.

  • Learn Chinese
  • Study in a bustling world heritage city
  • Improve employment prospects
  • Study Chinese culture
  • 30 minutes from Shanghai
  • Learn new skills

Read more about Year at XJTLU, China

Year in industry

Year in industry placements give you an in-depth workplace experience where you can develop your skills and apply your learning.

  • Develop key employability skills that graduate employers are looking for
  • Experience and understand workplace culture and disciple
  • Understand the relationship between academic theory and real world application
  • Begin your professional network
  • Gain industry insight and insight into potential career options.

If you'd like to undertake a year in industry, you can transfer to Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry BEng (Hons) during your studies, subject to meeting the academic requirements of your course.

View Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry BEng (Hons)

To spend a year in industry, you'll need to secure a placement with an organisation. If you're unable to find a placement, you'll continue with the standard version of the course without a year in industry.

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Study as a master's degree

This course is also available as a four year MEng programme.

View Mechanical Engineering MEng

Your experience

You’ll study in The School of Engineering, which hosts modern, world-class teaching and learning facilities.  This includes the Active Learning Laboratories, which feature lab space, manufacturing robots and prototyping facilities so you can learn, build and test.  You’ll also have access to high-spec workstations featuring industry-standard engineering software.

Virtual tour

Suppporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

What students say...

I chose engineering because I have always been passionate about the way things work and the method by which systems operate. I have always had more of a pure science background, but I also yearned to see the application of such theory with the tool of mathematics.

, BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

Careers and employability

Mechanical engineering graduates are sought after in engineering fields and a wide range of other sectors. Graduates go on to work in engineering fields including healthcare, food production, aerospace, construction, power generation and manufacturing.

Recent employers of Mechanical Engineering graduates include:

  • Aerospace/Aviation: Airbus, British Airways, Jaguar Land Rover, Rolls Royce
  • Engineering/Construction: Arup, Balfour Beatty, Bentley, Corus, Mott Macdonald, Mouchel, Pilkington, Siemens, Tarmac
  • Defense/Military: BAE Systems, British Army, RAF (Royal Air Force), Royal Navy
  • Utilities/Energy: BMI, National Grid Transco, National Nuclear Laboratory, United Utilities
  • Transportation/Infrastructure: Highways Agency, Network Rail.

4 in 5 of our engineering students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.

Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £25,750
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £12,875
Fees stated are for the 2023-24 academic year.

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 tuition fees, funding and student finance.

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.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study 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.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.

Scholarships and bursaries you can apply for from the United Kingdom

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.

Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

AAB including Mathematics and a second science.

Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is ABB with A in the EPQ.

You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.

If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course.

Available foundation years:

T levels

T levels are not currently accepted.

GCSE 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics
Subject requirements

Mathematics and a second science.

Applicants following the modular Mathematics A Level must be studying A Level Physics or Further Mathematics as the second science (or must be studying at least one Mechanics module in their Mathematics A Level).

Accepted Science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Economics, Electronics, Environmental Science, Further Mathematics, Geography, Geology, Human Biology, Physics and Statistics.

For applicants from England: For science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

Acceptable at grade Distinction* alongside BB in A Level Mathematics and a second science.

BTEC Level 3 Diploma

Distinction* Distinction* in relevant BTEC considered alongside A Level Mathematics grade B. Accepted BTECs include Aeronautical, Aerospace, Construction, Mechanical, Mechatronics and Engineering.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

D*DD in acceptable BTEC, plus B in A level Maths (not accepted without B in A level Maths)

International Baccalaureate

35 overall including 5 in Higher Level Mathematics and 5 in Higher Level Physics.

Irish Leaving Certificate H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H3, including H2 in Higher Maths and Higher Second Science. We also require a minimum of H6 in Higher English or O3 in Ordinary English
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

Pass Scottish Advanced Highers with grades AAB including Mathematics and a second science

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Acceptable at grade B alongside AA in A Level Mathematics and a second science.
Access Considered if taking a relevant subject. Check with Department or Admissions team.
International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

Changes to Mechanical Engineering BEng (Hons)

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.

7 December 2022: Module changes

Compulsory module list updated

Year 1 compulsory modules

ADDED:

ENGG116: Energy Science
ENGG111: Professional Engineering: a skills toolkit

REMOVED:

ENGG113: FLUID MECHANICS
MECH113: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN A
MECH114: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN B
ENGG112: THERMODYNAMICS I

Year 3 optional module list updated – See course page