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Undergraduate Study

MEng Mechanical Engineering - 2025 entry

Please note: The below is for 2025 entries. Click here for 2024 entries.
UCAS code H302
Duration 4 years
Entry year 2025
Campus Streatham Campus
Discipline Engineering
Contact

Web: Enquire online
Phone: +44 (0)1392 724061

Typical offer

View full entry requirements

A level: AAA
IB: 36/666
BTEC: DDD

Contextual offers

A-Level: AAC
IB: 32/655
BTEC: DDM

Overview

  • Discover the exciting world of mechanical engineering and prepare for a future career where you'll be at the forefront of creating real-world solutions. 
  • You’ll learn from experts in the field on a diverse range of topics such as mechatronics, multi-functional materials, additive manufacturing, and thermodynamics. 
  • With an emphasis on project-based learning, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get involved in amazing projects such as designing and building the Exeter Formula Student car. 
  • Our core first year equips you with the knowledge and skills to work effectively across all the engineering disciplines before you specialise in your second year. 
  • You will have the opportunity to gain work experience through summer placements and the 'Year in Industry' programme. 

View 2024 Entry

Request a prospectus

Open days and visiting us

How to apply

Contact

Web: Enquire online

Phone: +44 (0)1392 72 72 72

Top 10 icon

Top 10 in the UK for Mechanical Engineering

9th in the Guardian University Guide 2025

Biofuel icon

Expertise in energy policy, marine renewables, biofuels, electrical power and networks, wind, photo-voltaic and thermal technologies

Spanners icon

Hands-on course with an emphasis on practical project work

Tree and building icon

£6.5million investment in our teaching labs, workshop spaces and equipment

Top 10 icon

Top 10 in the UK for Mechanical Engineering

9th in the Guardian University Guide 2025

Biofuel icon

Expertise in energy policy, marine renewables, biofuels, electrical power and networks, wind, photo-voltaic and thermal technologies

Spanners icon

Hands-on course with an emphasis on practical project work

Tree and building icon

£6.5million investment in our teaching labs, workshop spaces and equipment

Entry requirements (typical offer)

Qualification Typical offer Required subjects
A-Level AAA A in Mathematics, Pure Mathematics or Further Mathematics and A in another science subject*
IB 36/666 HL 6 in Mathematics (Analysis and approaches or Applications and interpretations) and HL 6 in another science subject
BTEC DDD Applicants studying one of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas will be considered without a GCE AL science subject, GCE AL Maths is still required: Applied Science, Aeronautical Engineering, Building Services Engineering Construction and the Built Environment, Civil Engineering, Operations and Maintenance Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Sustainability.
GCSE 4 or C Grade 4/C in GCSE English language
Access to HE 30 L3 credits at Distinction Grade and 15 L3 credits at Merit Grade. 15 L3 credits at Distinction Grade in an acceptable Mathematics subject area and 15 L3 credits at Distinction Grade in another science subject area.
T-Level Distinction T-level in Design and Development for Engineering & Manufacturing only. GCE A-level Maths is still required.
Contextual Offer

A-Level: AAC
IB: 32/655
BTEC: DDM

Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers.

Other accepted qualifications

View other accepted qualifications

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B1. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

NB General Studies is not included in any offer.

Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply

*GCE AL/AS science includes: Biology/Human Biology**; Chemistry; Computing; Design and Technology; Economics; Electronics; Environmental Science; Environmental Studies; Geography; Geology; Life and Health Sciences; Physical Education; Physics; Psychology; Science (applied); Statistics.

**If more than one of these is taken they would only count as one 'science' but could count as two A-levels towards our general requirements.

BTEC Extended Diploma

Applicants studying one of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas will be considered without a GCE AL science subject, GCE AL Maths is still required: Applied Science, Aeronautical Engineering, Building Services Engineering Construction and the Built Environment, Civil Engineering, Operations and Maintenance Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Sustainability.

For any questions relating to entry requirements please contact the team via our online form or 01392 724061.

Read more

Accreditations

Institution of Mechanical Engineers logo

Certain programmes are subject to accreditation and/ or review by professional and statutory regulatory bodies (PSRBs).

The MEng Mechanical Engineering, MEng Mechanical Engineering with Year in Industry and MEng Mechanical Engineering with International Study is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

The accredited MEng fully meets the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements, for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Course content

Collaborative modules in your first year will give you a broad knowledge across all core engineering disciplines. As you progress through your degree you’ll study increasingly advanced topics aligned to our research strengths in areas such as Mechatronics, Multi-functional Materials, Additive Manufacturing and Thermodynamics.

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

The multidisciplinary ethos of the first year builds core theoretical and practical knowledge in all engineering disciplines, giving you the opportunity to transfer at the end of the first year. A year-long multidisciplinary group project provides a means of putting core knowledge into practice.

Compulsory modules

CodeModuleCredits
ENG1002Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing 30
ENG1005Multi-Disciplinary Group Challenge Project 30
ENG1006Entrepreneurship 115
ENG1007Fundamentals of Mechanics15
ENG1008Fundamentals of Materials15
ENG1009Fundamentals of Electronics15

Your second year will build on the knowledge gained in your first year as well as introducing you to new topics such as computer-aided design and solid mechanics. You will also study more advanced ideas in entrepreneurship such as launching your own company.

Compulsory modules

CodeModuleCredits
ENG2013Sustainable Design Challenge Project30
ENG2011Solid Mechanics15
ENG2007Introduction to Fluid Dynamics15
ENG2009Modelling of Engineering Systems 15
ENG2004 Entrepreneurship 215
ENG2006Industry 4.015
ENG2012Structural Behaviour15

With International Study

If you choose the 'with International Study' variant of this degree you will spend a semester abroad in your third year. Depending upon where you study your work will differ, but almost always includes a project of at least 30 credits which is set and assessed by your supervisor abroad.

With a Year in Industry

If you are studying ‘with Year in Industry’ you will spend your third year on placement and carry out a 120 credit module.

Take a look at our course variants for further information.

The focus in year 3 is on acquiring core Mechanical engineering knowledge. You will study modules in Materials, Structural Mechanics, High Value Manufacturing, Heat Transfer and Control Engineering. A major part of your third year will be a hands-on design and build project that challenges you to develop, prototype (at scale) and explore the market for a solution to a Mechanical Engineering challenge.

Compulsory modules

CodeModuleCredits
ENG3018Control Engineering15
ECM3160Materials 15
ENG3008AMechanical Design and Build: Part 1 - Research 15
ENG3015Structural Dynamics15
ENG3016Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer15
ENG3008BMechanical Design and Build: Part 2 - Development15
ENG3022Finite Element Analysis for High Value Manufacturing15

Optional modules

CodeModuleCredits
Option Group A: Select 1:
ENG3005Fluid Dynamics and CFD15
ENG3012Mechatronics15
ECM3164Operations Management 15
PHY3222Energy, Materials and Sustainability15
ENG3023Zero Emission Vehicles 15

In your final year you will complete a 45 credit individual project in collaboration with an academic supervisor. This is the largest single part of your degree and provides you with the opportunity to develop deep knowledge and understanding in an area of your choice. The fourth year culminates in the Exeter Engineering Conference where you will be able to showcase your work from your final projects to staff and guests from industry. This event is a great opportunity to put your best work in front of potential employers.

Compulsory modules

CodeModuleCredits
ENGM015MEng Individual Investigative Project45

Optional modules

CodeModuleCredits
Manufacturing and Materials Engineering Stream Option Group A: Select 3:
ENGM003Advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA)15
ENGM017Composite Materials15
ENGM023Sustainable Manufacturing15
Manufacturing and Materials Engineering Stream Option Group B: Select 2:
ENGM001Additive Manufacturing 15
ENGM016Metamaterials15
ENGM026Design, Innovation & Entrepreneurship15
Computational and Control Engineering Stream Option Group A: Select 3:
ECMM148Advanced CFD15
ENGM003Advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA)15
ECMM141Multivariable State-Space Control15
ENGM023Sustainable Manufacturing15
Computational and Control Engineering Stream Option Group B: Select 2:
ENGM018Nonlinear Control15
ENGM020Robotics and Automation 15
ENGM010Data-Centric Engineering15

The best thing about my course is that it’s allowed me to complete an industrial placement during my summer break.

I’ve gained vital work experience while having it count towards my degree, relieving the pressure on my final year and giving me a taste of life after university.

Read more from Cam

Cam

Studying MEng Mechanical Engineering

Course variants

UCAS code: H307

Our five year ‘with Year in Industry’ programme takes an extra year to complete and includes a paid placement in business or industry for the duration of your fourth year. Work experience is a real advantage when entering the graduate job market. It’s also a great way to try out different jobs and to make contacts within companies you’re interested in working for.

Does it count towards my degree?

Yes, it’s worth 120 credits.

How does it affect my tuition fee?

During this year you will pay a reduced tuition fee. Visit the Tuition Fees page for more information.

How do I apply? 

You can apply for this programme through UCAS using the code at the top of this page, or transfer onto this option at the end of your first year in an Exeter-based Engineering degree.

Preparation and support 

We will help you to prepare for your work placement from early in your studies. A special module 'Employability and Placement Preparation for Engineers' takes place at the start of your second year. This is an opportunity to start thinking about your placement well in advance. You’ll also be invited to attend workshops offering guidance and support.

Fees

Tuition fees for 2025 entry

UK students: £9,535 per year
International students: £30,900 per year

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.

Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.

* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.

Find out more about tuition fees and scholarships

Learning and teaching

You’ll typically have between 15 and 32 hours of direct contact time per week with your tutors and you will be expected to supplement your lectures with independent study. You should expect your total workload to average about 40 hours per week during term time.

In addition to lectures you’ll also have access to our workshops and laboratories where you’ll be trained to use specialist equipment, supporting and developing what you’ve learnt in the classroom and enabling you to put what you’ve learnt into practice.

A research and practice led culture

All our academic staff are internationally-recognised scientists working across a wide range of topics. Your course will draw on the very latest ideas, research discoveries and new technologies in the field. You’ll be able to participate directly with current research at various stages throughout your degree.

Student projects are often linked to our research activities and may involve working with industrial partners. Recent projects have involved the hybridisation of an off-road vehicle and constructing Exeter’s Formula Student racing car.

Assessment

Modules are assessed by a combination of continuous assessment through small practical exercises, project work, essay writing, presentations and exams. You must pass your first year assessment in order to progress to the second year, but the results do not count towards your degree classification.

Project work is a core element of this degree, providing invaluable experience of problem-solving, engineering design and team working. Projects are typically industrially driven, are commercially relevant and often directly involve a company.

Optional modules outside of this course

Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.

Proficiency in a second subject

If you complete 60 credits of modules in one of the subjects below, you may have the words 'with proficiency in [e.g. Social Data Science]' added to your degree title when you graduate.

  • A Foreign Language
  • Data Science
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Innovation
  • Law (Penryn Campus only)
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Social Data Science

Find out more about proficiency options

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Your future

Students with wave machine experiment

Our graduates are now working for major international organisations in a diverse range of sectors, or have successfully launched their own companies.

Engineers have a reputation as being articulate, numerate, problem solvers, who claim great job satisfaction. Typically, salaries are significantly higher for engineering graduates than the average for other graduates.

Exeter has an excellent reputation with graduate recruiters and a strong employment record. Our graduates excel in specialist engineering fields and across a broad range of other sectors. We offer a very wide range of opportunities for you to develop the skills employers are looking for.

Employer visits

Throughout your degree you will have the opportunity to meet with graduate employers. Professional engineers visit the university to hold mock interviews, allowing you to discuss your career opportunities at an early enough stage to inform your choice of modules and placement decisions.

Career paths

The broad-based skills acquired during your degree will give you an excellent grounding for a wide variety of careers, not only those related to Engineering but also in wider fields. Examples of roles recent graduates are now working as include:

  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Chartered and Certified Accountant
  • Civil Engineer
  • Electronics Engineer
  • Engineering Project Manager
  • Project Engineer
  • Information Technology Professional
  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Programmer
  • Software Developer

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The opportunities to be involved with real projects such as the Formula Student team as well as within the academic projects in third and fourth year allowed the taught content to be put into practice. Real projects also developed manufacturing skills and an appreciation for the importance of design for manufacture, vital engineering lessons for my future career.

Matthew

MEng Mechanical Engineering (2019)