BEng Mechanical Engineering (Advance Manufacture)

Program Overview

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers a specialized BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering (Advanced Manufacture) program, meticulously crafted to meet the demands of modern, high-tech manufacturing industries. This distinctive degree integrates core mechanical engineering principles with a deep focus on cutting-edge manufacturing processes, automation, and smart factory concepts. The program is underpinned by the pioneering CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate) international engineering education model, a practical and hands-on approach developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which prepares students to develop creative, evaluated solutions to industry-related engineering challenges. This emphasis ensures graduates are well-equipped to work at the forefront of the evolving manufacturing sector, ready to contribute to industry's shift towards advanced practices and Industry 4.0/5.0.

Curriculum: The BEng Mechanical Engineering (Advanced Manufacture) curriculum at CCCU is designed to provide a comprehensive and forward-looking education in mechanical engineering with a significant specialization in advanced manufacturing. Students delve into foundational mechanical engineering subjects such as engineering design, dynamics of solid mechanics and materials, and professional practical engineering. What distinguishes this program are modules specifically focused on advanced manufacturing technologies. These include topics like "Advanced Manufacturing Systems," "Advanced Materials and Manufacturing" (exploring additive layer manufacturing and AI applications), "Advanced Instrumentation and Control" (covering integration and control of automated systems), and "Operations Management." Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities within the Verena Holmes building, including an engineering workshop, mechatronics lab, makerspace, and mechanical physics lab, all equipped with industry-standard machinery and advanced manufacturing tools like metal 3D printers and carbon fibre manufacturing facilities.

Research Focus: The BEng Mechanical Engineering (Advanced Manufacture) program at Canterbury Christ Church University benefits from a highly qualified academic team actively engaged in research within the School of Engineering, Technology, and Design. The faculty's research interests are closely aligned with contemporary challenges and innovations in advanced manufacturing. This includes areas such as additive and advanced manufacturing, automation, digital transformation, material characterization, and sustainable manufacturing practices. The university's commitment to research ensures that teaching is informed by the latest developments, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge topics like Industry 4.0/5.0, leveraging computational engineering, and exploring new materials. Students are often involved in practical projects that are typically sourced from industry, providing them with direct exposure to impactful research and development efforts within the advanced manufacturing domain.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a central pillar of the BEng Mechanical Engineering (Advanced Manufacture) program at CCCU, crucial for ensuring graduates are highly employable. The curriculum is developed in close collaboration with industry partners, ensuring its relevance to the needs of employers in the advanced manufacturing sector. The university's Kent and Medway Engineering, Design, Growth, and Enterprise (EDGE) Hub serves as a vital bridge between academia and industry, fostering innovation through collaborations. Students have numerous opportunities to work on live projects proposed by real companies, gaining invaluable practical experience. The program actively encourages work placements with prominent companies, helping students to apply their academic learning in professional settings and build critical networks. This strong industry connection prepares students to become incorporated engineers with a deep understanding of industry demands.

Global Perspective: The BEng Mechanical Engineering (Advanced Manufacture) program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently integrates a global perspective through its adoption of the CDIO international engineering education model, preparing students for a globally recognized approach to engineering. The advanced manufacturing sector operates on a global scale, characterized by international supply chains, global competition, and the need for engineers to understand diverse manufacturing practices and standards worldwide. The curriculum's focus on Industry 4.0/5.0 and sustainable manufacturing addresses global challenges and trends in production. The university also offers opportunities for students to engage with diverse perspectives, potentially including international study visits or collaboration with global partners, further enriching their understanding of global manufacturing landscapes and preparing them for careers in multinational companies or international roles.