Among the branches of engineering as a varied subject, mechanical engineering combines maths, science, technology, and material science. It is about the design and manufacturing process of all types of mechanical system along with its maintenance. The course is a mixture of theory and practical where students gain a lot more understanding through the placements they undertake.

You will be encouraged to use logical and practical problem-solving exercises to address challenges from responding to ethical framework to managing your project effectively. Along with these principles, this subject uses tools like computer-aided engineering and product lifecycle management to design and analyze manufacturing plants, industrial machinery and other mechanical devices.

Some of the courses that reflect the content of the programme are:

·         energy and environmental engineering;

·         internal combustion engines and their fuels;

·         structures and materials;

·         fluid mechanics

·         All about the design and production of the machines, systems and structures that are part of our daily.

Skills gained?

Undertaking a Mechanical engineering degree will help you gain various skills that are applicable to many fields of work. It helps you to be creative and innovative, to acquire high numerate and analytical skills as maths and physics are core to the subject. It also helps you identify the customer requirements and work towards achieving the bespoke specification for different clients and situations.

The general working/learning environment involves a lot of team working. It therefore, improves your communication skills and the ability to argue your ideas, analyse those of others and make your idea a reality. Undertaking projects will also help you learn the fine art of ‘working within a budget’ and how to manage your team and clients expectations.

Job prospects?

The job prospects after the graduation in mechanical engineering are very diverse. This is because this course helps develop a lot of skills that could be transferable to many work areas. Typically, graduates undertake jobs in the engineering, manufacturing, energy and utilities sector. This includes car/aircraft industry, oil and gas, renewable industries, IT and Finance, music and technology, medical engineering and many more. Overall, the opportunities are endless.

Further study?

Initially, students enrol onto MEng four-year Masters Course as their first degree. Some of them then continue with their full time Msc or PhD courses whereas some of them study part time whilst working full time, it really depends on the structure of the programme in different institutions. Possible courses are in specialised areas such as space and aeronautics, nuclear or offshore engineering.

For those students wanting to progress to leading roles in industry, you can undertake an EngD, the industry-based PhD. This PhD combines Doctoral-level research with training in practical skills and is also suitable for those who are already employed and wishes to carry out a research for their company.

Where to go?

Brunel University offer a great selection of courses on Mechanical Engineering. The university also boasts of extensive, modern and well-equipped laboratory facilities and great connections within the industry.

Here you have some of the courses the university offers:

Mechanical Engineering (thick sandwich) BEng (Hons)

Advanced Mechanical Engineering MSc

Mechanical Engineering PhD with Integrated Study

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Find out more about Studying in the UK.