MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BEng Mechatronics Engineering
Park, Cheltenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
For aspiring engineers keen on the intersection of mechanical, electronic, and computing disciplines, the University of Gloucestershire's BEng (Hons) Mechatronics Engineering program offers a comprehensive and practically-oriented degree. This program is designed to equip students with the specialist skills necessary to drive mechanical innovations in modern industry, particularly in the context of the 'Internet of Things' (IoT) era and the advancements of Industry 4.0. The curriculum emphasizes designing intelligent systems where machines can adapt to changing data inputs and demands, preparing graduates for a future in automation, robotics, and smart technologies. The standard BEng (Hons) is a three-year full-time program, with an optional sandwich year available for a work placement, extending the duration to four years.
Curriculum: The BEng (Hons) Mechatronics Engineering curriculum at the University of Gloucestershire provides a solid foundation in core engineering principles while progressively introducing specialized mechatronic topics. Early in the program, students typically study fundamental modules such as Engineering Mathematics, Introductory Software Development (often using Python, emphasizing platform-independent approaches), Analogue and Digital Electronics, Mechanical Systems Engineering, and Sensors and Actuators. As the course progresses, the curriculum delves into more advanced areas, including Robotics, Automation Technology, Engineering Design and Management, and the application of these principles to 'smart factories' and connected devices. The program incorporates a significant amount of practical, hands-on learning through laboratory investigations and project work. The final year usually culminates in a major individual project, allowing students to apply their accumulated knowledge to a specific mechatronic engineering challenge.
Research Focus: The BEng (Hons) Mechatronics Engineering program at the University of Gloucestershire emphasizes a practically-focused approach, heavily informed by industrial applications. While it provides a strong academic foundation, the primary "research focus" within the undergraduate BEng is more geared towards applied research and problem-solving within the context of mechatronic systems rather than purely theoretical academic research. Students are encouraged to apply their learning to real-world issues, often through projects that may be inspired by industry challenges. The program’s design, with its close ties to industry, suggests that the "research" undertaken by students will likely involve the investigation and implementation of existing and emerging mechatronic technologies to solve practical engineering problems. For students interested in a more in-depth research-oriented path, the University also offers an MEng Mechatronic Engineering, and opportunities for postgraduate research (MSc by Research or PhD) in engineering technologies, allowing them to delve deeper into specific research areas.
Industry Engagement: A key strength of the University of Gloucestershire's BEng (Hons) Mechatronics Engineering program is its strong emphasis on industry engagement. The curriculum has been developed in collaboration with industry employers to ensure its relevance to the needs of modern industry. The program is designed to be accredited by the Engineering Council through professional bodies such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), 1 and/or the Energy Institute, 2 which signifies its adherence to professional standards and enhances graduate employability. The University has established links with various local and national engineering firms, potentially offering students opportunities to gain practical experience. The optional placement year (for the BEng Hons with Placement) provides a structured opportunity for students to work within an engineering company, gaining invaluable real-world experience. Even within the standard BEng program, the emphasis on hands-on learning with state-of-the-art technology relevant to 'Industry 4.0' and the 'Industrial Internet of Things' in specialist labs provides an "industry-like experience." Furthermore, the University's involvement with a government-backed Institute of Technology (IoT) further underscores its commitment to providing higher-level technical education that addresses skills gaps in the STEM sector and fosters strong industry partnerships.
Global Perspective: The University of Gloucestershire's BEng (Hons) Mechatronics Engineering program inherently incorporates a global perspective through the very nature of the field. Mechatronics is a rapidly evolving and globally relevant discipline, driving innovation across various industries worldwide. The program's focus on the 'Internet of Things' and 'Industry 4.0' reflects global trends in industrial development and automation. While the primary mode of study is in the UK, the curriculum equips graduates with skills and knowledge that are transferable and in demand internationally. The potential for an optional placement year, which could be undertaken either in the UK or internationally, would offer a direct opportunity for students to gain global work experience. Furthermore, the core principles of engineering, including mechatronics, are universally applicable, preparing graduates for potential careers with multinational corporations or in international settings within the engineering sector.
Location
Park, Cheltenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 64.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Gloucestershire offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at making education more accessible and affordable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the UK without financial stress. The university provides several merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships to help ease the cost of tuition fees for international students.
International Scholarships: The University of Gloucestershire offers International Scholarships for students coming from various countries across the globe. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 per year, based on academic achievement and the chosen course of study. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students upon acceptance of their offer to study at the university. These awards are designed to make studying in the UK more affordable and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Excellence Scholarships: For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, the University of Gloucestershire offers Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. The Excellence Scholarship can be worth up to £3,000 and is designed to recognize and support high-achieving students who show great potential in their chosen field of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, the University of Gloucestershire offers country-specific scholarships to students from certain regions. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific countries, helping to promote international diversity at the university. The scholarships vary in amount, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
Graduates of the University of Gloucestershire's BEng (Hons) Mechatronics Engineering program possess a unique blend of mechanical, electrical, and computing skills, opening doors to a diverse range of specialized and in-demand engineering careers. Their expertise in designing and implementing intelligent systems is highly valued across numerous industries.
Mechatronics Engineer: This is the most direct career path, where graduates design, develop, and maintain automated systems, robots, and other electromechanical equipment. Their interdisciplinary knowledge gained from the program is directly applied to integrating mechanical components with electronic controls and computer systems in various industrial settings.
Robotics Engineer: Specializing in the design, construction, operation, and application of robots, Robotics Engineers utilize their mechatronics background to develop automated solutions for manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and more. The program's focus on robotics and control systems provides the necessary foundation for this exciting field.
Control Systems Engineer: These engineers focus on the design, development, and implementation of control systems for a wide range of applications, from industrial machinery to building management systems. Graduates' understanding of feedback systems, automation, and electronics from the Mechatronics Engineering program is crucial for this role.
Automation Engineer: Automation Engineers are responsible for designing and implementing technologies that optimize and control production processes in industries like manufacturing. Their mechatronics skills in areas like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), sensor integration, and automated systems design are highly relevant here.
Embedded Systems Engineer: Many modern devices rely on embedded systems – dedicated computer systems within a larger mechanical or electrical system. Embedded Systems Engineers with a mechatronics background are well-suited to design and program the electronic brains of these systems, as the program often includes significant software development and electronics.
Design Engineer (Mechatronic Products): Focusing on the creation of new products that integrate mechanical and electronic components, Design Engineers in this specialization use their comprehensive understanding of mechatronic principles to innovate and improve product functionality and efficiency.
Aerospace Engineer (Automation and Control): Within the aerospace industry, mechatronics engineers can specialize in the design and maintenance of aircraft control systems, autopilot systems, and robotic applications for manufacturing or maintenance. The program's rigorous engineering foundation and control systems knowledge would be beneficial.
Automotive Engineer (ADAS/Electric Vehicles): The automotive sector offers significant opportunities in the development of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), electric vehicle technology, and automated manufacturing processes. Mechatronics graduates are well-prepared for roles in these rapidly advancing areas due to their expertise in sensors, control systems, and embedded electronics.
Maintenance Engineer (Automated Systems): Ensuring the reliable operation of complex automated machinery is the responsibility of a Maintenance Engineer. Mechatronics graduates' ability to diagnose and troubleshoot issues across mechanical, electrical, and control systems makes them ideal for maintaining sophisticated industrial equipment.
Research and Development Engineer (Mechatronics): For those with a passion for innovation, a role in research and development allows mechatronics engineers to work on cutting-edge technologies, developing new mechatronic systems and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in automation and intelligent machines. The program's exposure to advanced concepts and problem-solving skills would be highly advantageous.
