
Mechanical Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year BEng
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Explore this course:
You are viewing this course for 2024-25 entry. 2023-24 entry is also available.
Key details
- A Levels AAA
Other entry requirements - UCAS code H305
- 4 years / Full-time
- September start
- Accredited
- Find out the course fee
- Industry placement
Course description
This degree follows the same syllabus as the BEng Mechanical Engineering. Your learning is complemented with a year working in a mechanical engineering company, which will put your academic studies into context and improve your skills and employability.
The course gives you a solid grounding in mechanical engineering. It covers all the essentials, with an emphasis on modelling and design. You'll be introduced to the business and management context of engineering, and you'll also complete an individual project in an area that interests you.
In your first two years, you'll follow a core syllabus in the fundamentals of mechanical engineering, mathematics and management. Modules cover mathematics, applied dynamics, mechanics of fluids, mechanics of solids, applied thermodynamics, mechanical behaviour of materials, and electrical and electronic engineering.
Year three is your placement in industry. A year in industry is an excellent opportunity to build a work profile, learn more about your own career interests, and start your journey towards being a professionally recognised engineer.
You'll be responsible for finding your own placement but the departmental and faculty careers and employability teams will help you find the right position and get the most out of your experience. Salaries for placement students typically range between £11,000 and £21,000.
When you return to Sheffield for your final year, you'll carry out an extended individual project and build on your interests by choosing from a wide selection of engineering modules.
This is a practical course: our students learn by doing. You'll apply what you've learnt in the lecture theatre to engineering problems and experiments. You'll have the chance to manufacture and prototype your designs. You'll also develop the transferable skills employers look for, such as communication, project management and time management skills.
Depending on your performance during the degree, you may be able to switch between our degrees. For example, you may be able to switch to the BEng Mechanical Engineering at the end of your first year, or to one of our MEng courses at the end of your second year (depending on course requirements and availability).
All our students get involved in week-long projects that develop the skills you'll need as a successful engineer. There's the Global Engineering Challenge in your first year, where you'll find creative solutions to real-world problems with engineers of different disciplines, and Engineering You're Hired! during your second year.
This course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. The BEng meets, in part, the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer status. Students will need to complete some further learning to meet them in full.
Modules
A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.
Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:
UCAS code: H305
Years: 2024
Core modules:
- Essential Mathematical Skills & Techniques
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This module aims to reinforce students' previous knowledge and to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at Levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the Level 2 mathematics courses in the appropriate engineering department. The module is delivered via online lectures, reinforced with weekly interactive problem classes.
20 credits - Fundamental Engineering Science: Part 1
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In conjunction with a similar module that runs in the Spring semester, this module will provide you with the fundamental knowledge and understanding that will underpin the rest of your mechanical engineering degree. This module focuses on statics, solid mechanics and manufacturing processes; you will learn about these topics from first principles and observe them as phenomena in the laboratory. You will then have the opportunity to apply them to a practical engineering problem in a separate, concurrent integrative project module.
20 credits - Autumn Integrative Project
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This module will introduce you to what it means to be a professional engineer by supporting you through the process of tackling a typical, practical, engineering problem. Through a series of structured, timely activities you will integrate the fundamental knowledge, taught in a separate, concurrent module, with the skills and capabilities expected of modern engineers. In conjunction with a similar integrative project in the Spring semester, you will develop a holistic view of mechanical engineering that will provide a solid foundation for the rest of your degree, and your subsequent career, giving you the ability and confidence to address open-ended, engineering problems in a proficient and effective manner.
25 credits - Fundamental Engineering Science: Part 2
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In conjunction with a similar module that runs in the Autumn semester, this module will provide you with the fundamental knowledge and understanding that will underpin the rest of your mechanical engineering degree. This module focuses on dynamics, fluids, gases and thermofluids; you will learn about these topics from first principles and observe them as phenomena in the laboratory. You will then have the opportunity to apply them to a practical engineering problem in a separate, concurrent integrative project module.
15 credits - Spring Integrative Project
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This module will provide you with further insight into what it means to be a professional engineer by supporting you through the process of tackling a typical, practical, engineering problem. Through a series of structured, timely activities you will integrate the fundamental knowledge, taught in a separate, concurrent module, with the skills and capabilities expected of modern engineers, building upon feed forward from a similar integrative project in the Autumn semester. In conjunction with the Autumn project, you will develop a holistic view of mechanical engineering that will provide a solid foundation for the rest of your degree, and your subsequent career, giving you the ability and confidence to address open-ended, engineering problems in a proficient and effective manner.
40 credits - Global Engineering Challenge Week
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The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.
*The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.
We're revising the curriculum of the second year of this course and are in the process of confirming the modules.
Core modules:
- Year in Industry
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The course enables students to spend their third year of a BEng or fourth year (normally) of an MEng working in a 'course relevant' role in industry. Students will work on either a single project or a series of projects with industrial and commercial constraints. This provides them with wide ranging experiences and opportunities that put their academic studies into context and improve their professional skills. Students will also benefit from experiencing the culture in industry, making contacts, and the placement will support them in their preparation for subsequent employment. The Year in Industry does not count towards the overall degree classification but must be passed in order to qualify for the with Year in Industry addition to their Degree Certificate.
120 credits
Core modules:
- Integrity of Materials and Components
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This module brings together knowledge gained of engineering science aspects of stress, deformation analysis, and material strength, and to apply them to engineering components. The module will broaden students' perspectives by introducing the 3D nature of stress, plastic analysis, fracture response and tribology. Practical aspects will be introduced by case studies.
10 credits - Advanced Engineering Thermodynamic Cycles
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The course will consolidate and expand upon the fundamental and general background to Thermofluids engineering developed during first and second year courses. This will be achieved through the study of more realistic systems, machines, devices as well as their application.
10 credits
To introduce students to more realistic energy conversion and power production processes. Use of irreversibility to analyse plant. Introduction of reheat and heat recovery as methods of achieving improved efficiency. To look at total energy use by means of combined gas and steam and combined heat and power cycles and understand some of the environmental issues. A variety of refrigeration cycles will also be illustrated as well as the Otto and Diesel cycles. - Manufacturing Systems
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The aim of this module is to enable students to understand the concepts and practices used by modern manufacturing organisations. The modules starts with content on current trends in manufacturing processes (in particular high-speed machining and additive manufacturing). Students are then introduced to ways of designing and evaluating a manufacturing system as well as the relevant theories, concepts and methodologies of controlling and managing a manufacturing shop floor.
10 credits - The Professional Responsibility of Engineers
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The aim of this course is to provide a graduate engineer with the means to answer the question 'Should we proceed (or continue with this engineering project?' Engineers use their skills to make a positive change to the world. The dilemma, however, is that what is good for some may not be so for others. What is a solution in one area, in one culture, in one industry could be a challenge and even a disaster in another.
10 credits
The Professional Responsibilities of the Engineer (PRE) module will guide graduate engineers to 'understand their ethical responsibilities' (ABET, 2000) as well as to 'understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context' (Kerkert 1999).
In your degree, you have been trained to be technically able, curious, creative and ambitious professionals. In this module, we prepare you to enter a complex world, where every decision, every action can and will bring about change. Will it be the right change? This module gives you the means to answer that question.
During this course you will be equipped with the frameworks and tools to help you reach the best morally justifiable decisions. In order to assist you in identifying as many of the courses of action as possible, you will be asked to identify an engineering dilemma, present reasons for and against the issue, then share your view points with the public. By sharing you will be exposed to other ideas and feedback that will inform your final decision. - Investigative Project
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Each student will undertake an individual research project, which is often industrially-focussed, under the guidance of a member of academic staff. The students select a number of potential projects from a list provided by academic staff members. The project will permit the student to demonstrate their planning and organisational skills, to show initiative and also to display the technical skills that they have developed over the preceding years of study. The technical components of a project may be experimental, theoretical, analytical or design-based and most projects will require proficiency in a number of these. Assessment of the module is based upon conduct throughout the project, submission of a thesis and the ability to present the findings of the project at a colloquium and viva.
30 credits - Control Engineering for Mechanical Engineers
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This module aims to introduce the student to the key components which are used to implement feedback control of a physical process: sensors, actuators and controllers. The student is introduced to these elements through the language of classical control systems modelling. Emphasis will be placed on electrical, mechanical and electro-mechanical systems but reference will be made to the much wider applicability of the techniques. An introduction to dynamic system modelling will also be included. Analysis methods (based upon the characteristic equation and the Bode diagram) will be used to demonstrate how performance can be defined, analysed, predicted, and designed.
10 credits - Integrated Design Skills
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The module aims to integrate the design and mechanical elements of the students' engineering learning of the previous two years by studying the integration of these components to design an automated solution to an engineering problem.
10 credits
Optional modules:
- Robotic Systems
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Robotics is having an increasing impact on society and the way we live. From advanced manufacturing to unmanned aerial systems and driverless cars this exciting area is presenting increasing technological challenges. This unit provides students with the advanced knowledge and understanding to apply control and systems engineering concepts to the field of robotics. The unit covers the theoretical foundations of manipulators and mobile robots, and reviews robotic systems with reference to their applications.
10 credits - Mathematics (Computational Methods)
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This module introduces some important numerical methods for solving partial differential equations such as the heat conduction equation which arise in engineering and develops methods for optimisation problems. It also gives an introduction to splines as a tool in design for curve fitting and surface approximation. Optimization techniques including numerical techniques, dynamic programming and integer programming are studied. This module is designed for mechanical engineers.
10 credits - Advanced Mechanics of Solids
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The module provides an introduction of advanced analytical techniques used for study of deformable solids, a general knowledge of the techniques employed and skills to perform analysis for selected solid components and structures. It aims to provide students with the following: the skills and confidence to perform advanced analysis of solid components and structures; the knowledge of selected advanced analysis techniques employed on the more common components and structures; and an understanding of the behaviour of solids under two or three dimensional stress fields, and the limitations imposed by assumptions and boundary conditions.
10 credits - Finite Element Techniques
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The module aims to give students a thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles of the Finite Element Method. The approach will be based on energy methods (Principle of Minimum Total Potential Energy). Formulation of statics problems using 1D elements (bar elements, shaft elements, beam elements and beam-column elements), and truss elements will be taken up. Finally, a simple 2D element for plane stress/plane strain case will be formulated. Throughout the module, assembly, application of boundary conditions, and solution procedures will be discussed with examples. The students will be expected to apply this knowledge given a problem. The use of a commercial finite element code will be provided via laboratory sessions, where various modelling strategies, appreciation of the scope of application, check validity, and the ability to interpret results will be covered.
10 credits
The fundamentals of the method and the ability to apply it to various situations will be tested via a written exam. The practical use of the commercial finite element software will be assessed via a mini-report. Feedback during the term will be provided via an online quiz. - Renewable Energy
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The module provides an introduction to some alternative energy technologies with emphasis on solar and wind energy. It aims to provide students with a fundamental appreciation of the potential and usable energy obtainable from the sun and wind; a general knowledge of wind turbine aerodynamics, wind turbine systems, photovoltaics and domestic photovoltaic systems.
10 credits - Computational Fluid Dynamics
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The module introduces fundamental concepts of Computational Fluid Dynamics from the governing physical principles to their mathematical definition, approximation and numerical solution, with an emphasis on the importance of experimental and theoretical validation. The course explains the typical steps for a robust use of CFD analysis to predict the behaviour of complex fluid flows encountered in typical engineering applications, including turbulent flows. Students will consolidate their understanding by performing and critically assessing the results of a CFD analysis of a typical and industrially relevant fluid problem.
10 credits - Structural Vibration
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In this module we will explore how structures vibrate and how we can model them in order to understand and optimise their behaviour. We will look at how to model systems/structures mathematically as multi-degree of freedom systems and as continuous systems. The module will link theoretical models with experimental modal analysis, where knowledge of the system is derived from measurements (such as accelerations). You will explore the world of dynamics through lectures and dedicated reading. The theoretical learning will be supported by two laboratory experiments to be carried out in groups. Your understanding of experimental modal analysis will be cemented by coding your own analysis tool and applying it to data gathered in the lab.
10 credits - Aero Propulsion
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This module provides students with an understanding of principles of operation of gas turbines, pulse-jets, RAM-jets and solid and liquid fuelled rocket engines as applied to aero propulsion. The understanding is built upon fundamental thermodynamic and fluid mechanic analyses of components and systems for each propulsion method. Methods for improving efficiencies and increasing specific work output of components are also introduced as well as an introduction to combustion, losses and efficiencies.
10 credits
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption. We are no longer offering unrestricted module choice. If your course included unrestricted modules, your department will provide a list of modules from their own and other subject areas that you can choose from.
Learning and assessment
Learning
The following are the main learning and teaching methods implemented within the programme:
- lectures
- tutorials (and example classes)
- practical activities
- design classes
- coursework assignments (including oral, video and poster presentations)
- individual investigative project (final year)
- integrative projects
- online resources
At Sheffield, we firmly believe that our research expertise should translate into research-led teaching that inspires future generations of mechanical engineers. Our learning and teaching vision is to recruit high calibre students and inspire each one to become a self-motivated and adaptable learner.
To achieve this, we provide our students with a challenging curriculum, preparing our graduates to contribute to the diversity of challenges present in global engineering and technology.
Assessment
You will be assessed by a combination of exams and tests, coursework and practical work.
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAA
including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology
A Levels + additional qualifications AAB, including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
International Baccalaureate 36, with 6 in Higher Level Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology
BTEC Extended Diploma DDD in Engineering or Applied Science + A in A Level Maths
BTEC Diploma DD in Engineering or Applied Science + A in A Level Maths
Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers AAAAB + AA in Maths and either Physics, Chemistry or Biology
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels A + AA in Maths and either Physics, Chemistry or Biology
Access to HE Diploma Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction (to include Maths and Physics units), and 6 at Merit + Grade A in A Level Maths
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAB
including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology
A Levels + additional qualifications AAB, including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
International Baccalaureate 34, with 6,5 (in any order) in Higher Level Maths and at least one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology
BTEC Extended Diploma DDD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
BTEC Diploma DD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers AAABB + AB in Maths and either Physics, Chemistry or Biology
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels B + AA in Maths and either Physics, Chemistry or Biology
Access to HE Diploma Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include Maths and Physics units), and 9 at Merit + Grade A in A Level Maths
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.
Department of Mechanical Engineering

At Sheffield our students learn by doing – connecting engineering theory to practice. This means our courses will not only challenge and engage you but they’ll also help you to develop the skills, knowledge and experience that employers look for. You'll have the chance to manufacture prototypes of your designs, and you’ll be introduced to business and management within an engineering context.
You'll be taught by academics who are experts in their fields, with a wealth of experience and links with industry and research. You'll also have the opportunity to work on real-life projects with our industrial partners – companies like Rolls-Royce, Siemens and Network Rail – giving you experience that will support your employability. And you’ll have an academic personal tutor who will support and guide your progress throughout.
Alongside different engineering project weeks and development programmes, our students are involved in a huge range of extra-curricular activities, from building single-seat racing cars and human powered aircraft, to designing and manufacturing a sustainable wind turbine, energy-efficient vehicles, rockets, and more.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering is situated in the Grade II listed Sir Frederick Mappin Building and the 1885 Central Wing. We also have teaching space and labs in the new state-of-the-art Engineering Heartspace. The majority of mechanical engineering undergraduate lectures and labs take place in the Diamond.
Facilities
The Diamond is home to specialist facilities such as our engineering applications workshop, structures and dynamics laboratory, and thermodynamics and mechanics laboratory. This means you'll directly apply what you’ve learnt in lectures to lab sessions, which will help you to put theory into practice. Alongside teaching and study spaces, the Diamond is also home to iForge – the UK's first student-led makerspace.
Department of Mechanical EngineeringWhy choose Sheffield?
The University of Sheffield
A top 100 university
QS World University Rankings 2023
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022
No 1 Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
A top 10 university targeted by employers
The Graduate Market in 2022, High Fliers report
Department of Mechanical Engineering
National Student Survey 2022
Graduate careers
Department of Mechanical Engineering
As a Sheffield graduate, you could enter a number of different industries and sectors including manufacturing, transport, power, research, design, consultancy and more.
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Additional funding
Visit us
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
Contact us
Telephone: +44 114 222 7801
Email: admit.mech@sheffield.ac.uk
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.