Undergraduate study in Mechanical Engineering

Our mission is to educate new generations of mechanical engineers that are able to meet and overcome the challenges of industry and society by applying science to engineering. Professor Hongming Xu Think. Rethink

School of Mechanical Engineering

School of Mechanical Engineering

Contents

About Mechanical Engineering About UBRacing Degrees in the School of Mechanical Engineering Programme organisation Years 1 and 2 Years 3 and 4 Options Table of modules Final year projects Assessment Teaching Accreditation Support and feedback

4 5

8 8 8 9 9 10 10 10 10

Admissions and Requirements Admissions 11 Deferred entry and sponsorship 11 Scholarships 11 What we want 11 Industrial experience, chartered engineer status and graduate progression routes Industrial experience 12 Year out placements 12 Vacation work 12 Chartered engineer status 12 Graduate progression routes 12 Graduate employment 12 Postgraduate study 12 University of Birmingham City of Birmingham Contact information 13 14 15

School of Mechanical Engineering

Foreword

I am pleased that you are showing an interest in mechanical engineering, it is one of the oldest and most broad based of the engineering disciplines and is of immense importance to society.

This brochure seeks to help you to understand (if you are not already aware of it) that mechanical engineering is a professional discipline as important as medicine for which it supplies many solutions in terms of life saving equipment, life enhancing artificial limbs, etc, and to help you to discover how you can become a part of this profession of which I feel personally proud to be a member. As you read through the brochure you will learn about the choice of courses we can offer you and what we expect from you in terms of entry qualifications; be informed about our industrial partnerships and how they can be of benefit to you; discover a little about how you can progress after graduation into research and with whom you should be discussing this possible progression route and learn how to achieve chartered status.

Meanwhile here are a few items about our School which may be of interest and help you to form your own conclusions about whether you would like to come and join us. About us The School of Mechanical Engineering typically has 350 students taking a range of degree programmes, a further 40 students taking postgraduate degrees and 80 research students working towards a doctorate (PhD). Our academic staff are supported by a full complement of dedicated technical, administrative and secretarial staff. Mechanical Engineering at Birmingham combines teaching from lecturers who are internationally renowned and respected experts in their field, together with leading edge teaching facilities and laboratories which will enhance your learning experience. These facilities include the vehicle dynamics laboratory, the Micro Engineering and Nanotechnology Research Centre, the Future Engines and Fuels Laboratory and the Machining Research Laboratory. You could also find yourself involved in work in our Automotive Laboratory with the UBRacing Team, www.ubracing.co.uk which was amongst the first UK groups to design, build and race a car against established teams in the USA and Europe. All of our undergraduates are eligible to join the racing team. Please see page 5 for more information. As a student here you will have access to 120 networked computer workstations, a dedicated library, a design office, a production facility and a wide variety of teaching spaces and study rooms. Industrial training The School has extremely strong links with key employers, such as BP, British Aerospace, Jaguar Land Rover, Rolls-Royce and Shell, who provide projects and work placements for our students and regularly recruit our graduates. You will be actively encouraged to assert yourself in the wider world, if you so wish, by becoming engaged in schemes which offer 12 month

industrial placements, summer placements and programmes that offer with industrial year options. These will help build your confidence and prepare you for graduate employment. To help build your practical experience, we have a Director of Industrial Liaison who works with our industrial partners to provide sponsorships and gap year placements. We have extensive industrial contact through our research and industrial placement schemes. Please refer to page 12 for more information about our links with industry and how this can be of benefit to you. Chartered status Our MEng programmes were specifically designed to satisfy the new standards for fully accredited engineering degree programmes, as outlined in the SARTOR 3* documents published by the Engineering Council. These four-year Masters degree programmes provide the breadth and depth of knowledge required by those who aim to qualify as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) after graduation. The development of professional and personal skills is an integral feature of these programmes. This has been recognised by full accreditation by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Three year BEng programmes are also accredited. Read more about chartered status on page 12. Please do not hesitate to make contact with us if you have questions. Contact details appear at the back of the brochure and our friendly Admissions Office is always willing to help and inform. I wish you every success in your future examinations and look forward to welcoming you to our School. Professor Duc Pham Head of School

*SARTOR 3 Standards and Routes to Registration, 3rd ed., Parts 1 and 2, the Engineering Council, 10 Maltravers Street, London WC2R 3ER.

School of Mechanical Engineering

About Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineers make things move. Mechanical Engineers design and develop all machines with moving parts anything from vehicles like satellites, cars, trains and aircraft to plant for generating clean power, medical equipment like pacemakers and micro-scale pumps, and machines, such as robots, that make other products.

As an engineering professional you might be responsible for product design, testing, planning for profitable and high quality production, or the management of the business. Engineering is key to many of the issues affecting our quality of life today. Mechanical Engineers are engaged in designing mechanisms to improve vehicle performance, reduce car emissions and improve fuel consumption; they are working on solutions to reduce journey distances and traffic speed with GPS technology, as well as speeding up railways and improving their reliability and comfort. The newest developments in the field centre on the manufacture of microscopic machines. If you join us, you will benefit from a researchled culture which informs our teaching. There are three research centres in the School: Biomedical and Micro Engineering; Manufacturing Processes, Technology and Modelling; and Vehicle Technology. As a student here you could be working with staff in the Vehicle Technology Research Centre on the use of hydrogen as a clean fuel, the mechanics of injury in crashes, and on the use of new materials to reduce weight. Exciting developments in the field of nanotechnology at Birmingham have resulted in the design of micro engines which carry 300 times more energy than batteries, but are a fraction of the size. You can pursue projects to make micron-scale sensors and engines using silicon chip technology in our laboratories.

I have always had a massive interest in car design and engineering. The combination of form and function is something Ive always wanted to experience in my career, so Mechanical Engineering forms a great basis to gain knowledge on the underlying principles behind designing a car. Birmingham was my first choice university for many reasons. Firstly, the department is exceptional and has fantastic links with industry that I knew would be incredibly useful for establishing contacts and work after my degree. I love the setting, the leafy campus and the friendliness of the staff and students. The course is very relevant to my interests and the Formula Student team provides a great incentive to get involved. Tom Dawes, First Year, Mechanical Engineering (Automotive)

I have always been interested in things that move and together with my wish to be a part of developing the world this was what led me to Mechanical Engineering. As well as providing an excellent education one of my priorities as an international (EU) student was to study at a University that promoted international exchanges. When I visited the University, I fell in love with the campus and its atmosphere and I knew that Birmingham was the right place for me. Jenny Freij, First Year, Mechanical Engineering

School of Mechanical Engineering

About UBRacing

The core challenge of Formula Student is to build a singleseater racing car in order to compete in a series of tests, against other universities, which showcases the vehicles performance in different scenarios.

The competition combines the need for innovative engineering, careful project management and organised teamwork in order to see the production of a working prototype. UBRacing, the University of Birmingham team, started competing in 1998. They have built a car every year since, travelling all over the world competing in the various different series of Formula Student. In recent years, the team has focused on the UK competition, supported by the IMechE and held at Silverstone and the German competition, held at Hockenheim. Unlike other universities, the project is purely an extra-curricular activity and solely managed by the students themselves. The benefits of undertaking such a challenging task are endless.

As Team Leader of UBRacing, Im challenging myself every day. On a Formula Student project like this you get the opportunity to put what you learn in the classroom into practice. The skills you learn from being part of this dynamic team make students well-rounded engineers with a greater understanding of what goes into developing a product and managing a project. Its not just about building a racecar; students have to manage all aspects of the project themselves including working with companies to gain sponsorship. It gives the students a great insight into the industry they will soon be a part of. Amy Collin 3rd Year MEng Mechanical Engineering

When applying to the University of Birmingham for my degree the opportunity of being part of the Formula Student team was a big deciding factor. Considering the universitys previous success, the longstanding history and most importantly, the fact they allowed students to join from early on in their university lives made it stand out above other universities. I joined the team during Freshers Week and during my first year I learnt all the necessary skills to become a useful member of the team in building the Formula Student car. Having not done much practical work since before GCSEs, that first year was great to get me up to speed and develop my practical skills. The highlight of the year was going to my first competitions at the end of the year at Silverstone and Hockenheim. For my 2nd and 3rd years I have taken on larger roles in the team that have seen me design parts for the car, lead other students in the team, take an active role in the administration of the team and work with

many sponsors from around the country. Being part of UBRacing has given me a taste of what working in industry is like; working to budgets, schedules, design restrictions, teamwork and also long hours. In my final year, I hope to do my Final Year Project on an area of the car, the reward of seeing the work that I do for my degree come to fruition and compete against students from around the world is a unique thrill that only Formula Student can offer. Above all being part of the Formula Student team brings you into a group of friends who will stay with you for many years, friends not just from the University of Birmingham but from teams all around the world. Whilst every team wants to do their best, the camaraderie between the competitors is outstanding, with everyone willing to help those in trouble with their cars during the competition. Formula Student is simply the most thrilling, exhilarating, rewarding and interesting experience you can get as an Engineering student at the University of Birmingham. Andrew Mather, 3rd Year MEng Mechanical Engineering with Automotive

I have been the UBRacing Faculty Advisor for over 3 years and truly believe that being part of the team gives students an invaluable opportunity to make industry contacts and have a literal hands-on approach to engineering. It encourages

the students to take on tasks outside their main discipline, such as business plans, design and public relations. It also teaches good time management skills as students need to fit in the running and management of UBR alongside studying towards their degrees. Dr Karl Dearn Lecturer and Director of Industrial Liaison

School of Mechanical Engineering

Degrees in the School of Mechanical Engineering

MEng Mechanical Engineering (H301) BEng Mechanical Engineering (H300) MEng Mechanical Engineering (Automotive)(H330) BEng Mechanical Engineering (Automotive)(H302) MEng Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Year (H303)

Style of programmes All our programmes are accredited and reflect the strength and longevity of our industrial partnerships, we take a practical approach and produce graduates who are attuned to the professional environment and are highly proficient in engineering design and development. Our programmes are founded on a firm basis of engineering science, but we do not adopt an intensely theoretical attitude. For example, the majority of our lecture courses are linked with design projects or laboratory experiments so that you can experience the application of theory to real-life situations. You can also choose to follow one year of your studies at an overseas university, either in Europe or Japan if you have the necessary language skills, or in the USA, Canada or Australia with our partner institutions. Aims and Objectives The formal aim of these programmes is to provide professionally accredited courses that are of comparable standard to those being offered by other leading European universities. The Mechanical Engineering course is designed to suit the needs of a high-quality student intake and to produce graduates with the requisite skills and knowledge to create products that can compete successfully in global markets.

The Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) course provides a thorough background in Mechanical Engineering together with a specialisation in automotive engineering. It, also, is designed to suit the needs of a high-quality student intake and to produce graduates with the requisite skills and knowledge to develop and implement new automotive technologies. In addition, both courses aim to produce graduates who can communicate effectively, who possess the skills and competencies needed for industrial management, and who have the ability to further their professional development by personal research or study. Within this framework, the programmes are designed to meet well-defined, industrially relevant objectives so that by the end of your studies you will: p Have a sound understanding of the mathematics and physical sciences relevant to Mechanical Engineering and be adept in their application

Understand the total design process; from initial interaction with the client, through product specification, design, analysis and development Understand the theoretical and practical aspects of specifying and designing tests and be able to interpret results in relation to component or system design Understand the technical and organisational characteristics of the manufacturing process, and appreciate the relationship between manufacturing and mechanical design Be able to adapt, if you become one of our Mechanical Engineering students, to technical and organisational change by having the ability to expand your skills and knowledge Have the communication skills to promote ideas effectively in a professional environment

As a Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) student you will have a strong theoretical and practical understanding of automotive technology, including the design of body shells and powertrains.

School of Mechanical Engineering

You will attend lectures and tutorials that are balanced by a wide variety of case studies; this diversity of delivery is designed to stimulate your interests and motivation. All programmes have engineering science and design as core elements. In engineering science you will learn how to adapt and apply ideas from mathematics and physics to optimise the performance of any type of machine. You will also acquire techniques for analysing the motion of mechanisms so that you can specify the correct force and power characteristics. You will learn methods for determining the flow of energy in fluids and how this information can be used in engineering applications. All engineers are designers and that is the main reason companies employ them and so courses in design are key to all our programmes.

Starting from a short course in design theory, skills are developed mainly through individual and group project work. The final component of your course depends on the programme of study. There is the opportunity in your final year to select four modules of study from eight that are offered, allowing you to follow your specific engineering interests.

School of Mechanical Engineering

Programme organisation

Our degree programmes are organised in a two-tier manner. Years 1 and 2 All Mechanical Engineering programmes share the first two years, which are designed to help students orientate themselves towards professional engineering and focus on developing fundamental knowledge which is delivered in coherent modules in an integrated manner. This brings out the relationships between concepts and provides a framework that facilitates deep understanding and competence. Links are formed across modules, often by means of projects, to emphasise the holistic nature of engineering. A wide range of lectures, laboratories and projects consolidate relevant areas of A Level mathematics and physics in relation to mechanical design. The breadth of this background will permit you to change engineering specialism at the end of the second year, should you wish to do so. In the first year your studies are linked together through your design classes where you will devise machines such as a small engine or a vehicle. In your academic studies, you will be introduced to the skills and knowledge that all engineers require. We ensure that your skills and abilities build progressively to allow you to develop all the skills needed to become a Professional Engineer. You will work on: p Analytical Methods where you will continue to improve your mathematical, statistical and computing techniques and learn how to model real systems p Mechanical Power where you will study heat, power and fluid flows and investigate how heat can be used to generate mechanical power and how liquids and gasses can be used in machines

Applied Mechanics where you will learn about mechanisms and control and how to determine how strong a component is and how it might break, and how mechanisms operate p Manufacturing Technology where you study how things are made and how production is managed p Design where you carry out projects with other students to plan and design new products Also in your first year you will undertake workshop training which is sponsored by BP. Our course design aims to avoid the fragmentation of knowledge, which is a drawback of the modular approach. Each major topic is taught as an integrated flow of learning that will provide you with a framework into which you can place new concepts or techniques. The goal is to ensure a smooth, well-organised accumulation of knowledge as each module proceeds. Mechanical Power provides a good example of this approach. Starting from concepts established at A level, lectures are used to present the fundamental laws governing the flow of fluids and energy. These are illustrated by engineering applications that often link up with laboratory experiments. For example, in the early weeks of study, you will acquire the theoretical tools to make a first, rough estimate of engine performance. Then go on to test real engines in the laboratory, so that you can compare and contrast results. Building on such fundamental concepts, you will progressively expand your knowledge to encompass more advanced topics, such as heat transfer, combustion and fluid flow. Thus, by the end of the second year, you will have

acquired a firm understanding of the theory, design and operation of a wide range of equipment that involves the generation, use or transmission of power. Links are formed between modules so as to emphasise the holistic nature of engineering. In this respect, the Design related modules occupy a central role by providing projects that draw upon the full range of theoretical and practical knowledge. A range of group and individual projects is offered, many involving problems suggested by our industrial collaborators, eg, the deconstruction of a modern sports car (eg, Aston Martin) to learn about the materials and design. Years 3 and 4 Depending on which degree you are taking, in later years you will get to select a programme which suits your interests either as a Mechanical Engineering student, or builds upon your personal interests in Automotive Engineering if you take Mechanical Engineering (Automotive). This will provide you with the opportunity to follow your personal interests, within the context of a broadly based programme of study. Strong links are formed with our research programmes through the range of modules available to ensure that our undergraduates benefit from developments at the leading edge of their chosen field. All students also carry out a major group design project to develop a new product, looking at all parts of the product development including the legal and business aspects. The top four projects are put forward to a BP design competition in which the winning team are hosted for a day by BP at one of their UK facilities. Previous winners have attended BPs Wytch Farm oil refinery, the largest on-shore oil field in Europe and the BP Technology Centre in Pangbourne. We ensure that your skills and abilities build progressively to allow you to develop all the skills needed to become a professional Engineer. You work on improving your mathematical, statistical and computing techniques; studying heat, power and fluid flows; learning about mechanisms and control; studying Manufacturing Technology and how production is managed; and carrying out mechanical design projects with other students.

School of Mechanical Engineering

Stage 1 Year 1 Certificate Level Semester 1 Semester 2 Mechanics 1 Thermodynamics, Fluids and Heat Transfer Mechanical Design and Professional Skills Engineering Mathematics 1

Stage 2 Year 2 Intermediate Level Semester 1 Semester 2 Mechanics 2 Themodynamics and Fluids

Stage 3 Year 3 Higher Level Semester 1 Semester 2 Mechanical Design B Powertrain and Vehicle Engineering

Mechanical Design A

Design and Professional Skills 3

Engineering Mathematics 2

Control Engineering Sustainable Energy and the Environment

CFD and FEA

Electrical. Electronic and Computer Systems Experiments and Statistics 1 Computing for Engineers

Properties and Applications of Materials

Industrial Skills Experiments and Statistics Manufacturing Systems Engineering Mechatronics

*MEng: TurboMachinery and Compressible Flows *MEng: Engineering Maths A+B BEng: Individual Engineering Project (30 credits)

Stage 4 Year 4 Masters Level Semester 1 Semester 2 Computational Advanced Geometry** Mechanics** Biofuels and Advanced Combustion** Thermal Systems** Advanced R&D in Vehicle Manufacturing Engineering** Processes** Process Micro Electro Modelling** mechanical Systems** Synoptic Mechanical Engineering

Individual Engineering Project (60 credits)

*BEng two modules dropped to enable students to take a 30 credit project. **optional modules (shaded modules are compulsory for the automotive programme)

As well as the engineering topics you will also learn the professional and business skills required by modern industry. These professional skills, such as time management, oral and written presentation, effective team working and proficiency in IT are fostered through individual and group projects that are embedded in all programmes. Industrial lectures from BP and Atkins are provided to support this activity. In the third year the fundamentals of engineering are used to explore the subject areas with a more problem solving based focus. For example you continue with Mechanical Design where you undertake project work to design a gearbox that might be used for an aero-engine. In addition talks from companies such as Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover and Aston Martin provide an insight into industrial design projects. MEng students continue with the more advanced development of their engineering mathematics, whereas BEng students will undertake an individual engineering project. In addition, we help students become more active in managing their own professional development. Team building is an important aspect and all students have the opportunity to attend a three-day team-building course held at the Universitys facilities in the heart of the Lake District. Whilst hard work, all students who attend the course find it invaluable both for

completing their chosen course and in their later working lives. Options As a Masters level (MEng) student, in your final year you will be given options to study topics reflecting the Schools research interests and also emerging engineering topics. These options are designed to allow you to focus on your chosen area of specialism. If you are studying Mechanical Engineering, in your final year of study you will be given the opportunity to choose from options including Advanced Mechanics, Computational Geometry and R&D in Manufacturing Processes; amongst others. If you join Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) as an MEng student, in your final year the Biofuels and Combustion, and Advanced Vehicle Engineering modules are compulsory. You will also have the opportunity to choose a range of other Automotive and Mechanical Engineering options, including Advanced Thermal Systems, and Advanced Mechanics, amongst others. Final Year Projects Your final year project forms a significant part of your final year. The projects range in type from purely experimental laboratory based projects to ones that solely make use of our extensive simulation and modelling software.

They vary in topic from designing new artificial joints to the thermodynamic modelling of engines. Many projects are defined by industry and Formula student team members can also undertake projects based on the racing car. The project gives you the chance to use your own initiative and apply the skills and knowledge learnt during your degree programme. To summarise, we have adopted an approach that is designed to provide continuity and coherency that will help you to acquire a deep understanding of each new topic by placing it in its wider context. We believe this strategy will challenge and motivate you, improve your overall learning experience and enhance your attractiveness to employers.

Mechanical testing of hip resurfacing implant Sam Aghayan, Final Year Mechanical Engineering Student

10

School of Mechanical Engineering

Programme organisation
Continued

A final year project allows students to immerse themselves completely into a years worth of research of their own particular interest where they can express their depth of engineering knowledge. I learnt a great deal from my design project ranging from the design process for biomedical products to the current issues with the removal of bladder cancer and possible ways of improving the instruments and method for surgery. I also witnessed the current method of surgery first hand at QEH Birmingham. Spencer Barnes Final Year Mechanical Engineering Student

Changes in the business and working environment have also influenced our teaching style. It has become clear that graduates cannot rely on formal education to provide all the skills and knowledge needed to carry them through their careers. Instead, they must acquire information on an on-going basis if they are to maintain the flexibility and timeliness required by an increasingly fluid labour market. Thus, learning how to learn has become an integral part of our programmes. Time, resources and support are allocated so that students can develop their learning abilities to the point where they can formulate their own private research or study needs. Our teaching benefits from strong links with our research programmes. Research has long been recognised as the engine of change that keeps degree programmes alive with new ideas and expertise. In recent years, research has also become a major source of leadingedge laboratory and computing equipment, which are quickly fed into our teaching programmes. The breadth of our activities brings benefits in terms of the financial and physical resources that we have at our disposal. For example, we are able to finance a rolling cycle of computer equipment upgrades and regular refurbishments to our laboratories. Support and feedback A number of mechanisms have been developed for providing you with academic and personal support. Equally, feedback channels have been established so that you can comment on the organisation, content and quality of your programmes. Several types of personal support are provided. Approximately one-third of the lecture courses are reserved for tutorial sessions in which you will be encouraged to assess your progress by

reference to a graduated set of exercises. The course lecturer and other academic staff are on hand to deal with problems on an individual basis. In addition, a dedicated support team is available during specified hours to give support to the key subject of mathematics. You will be assigned a personal tutor whose role is to provide advice and guidance via regular, informal meetings. The tutor-tutee relationship is maintained over the duration of the programme to ensure continuity of support. Each year group has a member of staff who acts as the programme director. Their role is to liaise between students and staff to resolve any academic issues that affect the group rather than individuals. A Staff-Student Liaison Committee, which you might like to get involved with, meets every four to six weeks to discuss issues relating to teaching and general organisation. It operates on a formal basis: two representatives are elected to serve on the committee from each year of students. Two student representatives are also elected onto the Teaching committee, which oversees the development of syllabi and makes formal recommendations about course changes, staffing and other resource issues. Finally, the student body elects representatives to serve on the School Staff-Student Committee.

Design of a surgical instrument for the removal of bladder tumours. Assessment Our assessment procedures provide a useful reflection of our teaching style. We award credit under three headings: p Examinations for lecture courses p Continuous assessment for various kinds of project work p Laboratories for hardware and computerbased courses Early years are dominated by examination as you concentrate on the underpinning engineering principles. As you move into later years the increased emphasis on project work shifts the balance towards continuous assessment. Teaching The breadth of topics is matched by a diversity of teaching methods. For example, all the engineering science courses rest on a foundation of three teaching methods: lectures to deliver the main concepts and techniques; laboratories that link with lectures to foster practical skills and demonstrate standard equipment and procedures; and computer labs to illustrate the way in which computer-based methods are used to facilitate design, analysis and manufacture and to develop the corresponding skills.

Accreditation The Mechanical Engineering programme is fully accredited to both MEng and BEng level by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Note that, under the IMechEs revised regulations, those reading for a three-year BEng must take an additional year of education (a so-called Matching Section) before qualifying for CEng status. Following its accreditation inspection, the IMechE review panel commented on: the programmes high academic standards; the clear links with research; the high quality of the student body; the investment in support facilities (especially in IT); the approach to teaching professional skills; the provision of small-group tutorials; and various aspects of the personal support given to students.

School of Mechanical Engineering

11

Admissions, scholarships and requirements

Please use the appropriate entry below on your UCAS application form. BIRM B32 H301 MEng/ME BIRM B32 H300 BEng/ME BIRM B32 H330 MEng/MEA BIRM B32 H302 BEng/MEA BIRM B32 H303 MEng/MechEng BIRM B32 HJ53 MEng/MMEng* BIRM B32 HJ35 BEng/MME* (*We teach programmes HJ35 and HJ53 jointly with the School of Metallurgy and Materials who administer the programmes.) Admissions If you are offered the BEng programme at the point of entry, there is an opportunity to upgrade to the MEng if you meet the relevant progression requirements at the end of your second year of study. The entry on the UCAS application does not finally commit you to a specific programme within the School of Mechanical Engineering. Instead, we invite you to discuss your needs and interests with our staff to ensure that you have chosen the option that is most appropriate for you. We run a Mechanical and Materials Engineering course (HJ53 and HJ35 above), jointly, with the School of Metallurgy and Materials which allows you to study half of the Mechanical topics and half of the Materials Engineering modules. You are trained to exploit the properties of new strong materials to design products like: ultralight brake disks, carbon-fibre sports equipment and bio-compatible replacement hip joints. Application to this course is made through the Admissions Office of the School of Metallurgy and Materials and their contact details appear at the back of this brochure. Deferred entry and sponsorship We value the experiences gained by students who wish to take an industrial or gap year before entering university. Students who obtain industrial sponsorship may need to defer their entry for a year. If you wish to do this, simply continue with the standard UCAS admissions procedure but write to the Undergraduate Admissions Tutor once you are sure that deferment is required. We will contact UCAS and the university administration on your behalf and make all the necessary arrangements. A place on the following years course will be reserved for you, so you need take no further action. Scholarships The School of Mechanical Engineering is offering 10 First Class scholarships which are awarded for academic excellence. These are to reward the highest achieving students entering the School in autumn 2013. There are nine scholarships worth 2500 and a tenth scholarship for the highest achieving student worth 5000. These are one-off payments. There is no special application process for the scholarships awards will be made by the decision of a scholarship panel held in the School of Mechanical Engineering after the start of the autumn semester 2013. Full terms and conditions of the 2013 first class scholarship scheme will be available on the School website from September 2012 along with details of other scholarships. Please go to: www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/mechanicalengineering/undergraduate/scholarships/ index.aspx Students following programmes in Metallurgy and Materials are offered alternative scholarships by that School. The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences offers Excellence Scholarships worth 5000 and these are paid each year for the life of the degree as long as excellence in your work is maintained. These scholarships are competitive and to gain one you must provide A*AA grades or above and be nominated by your course tutor. The University offers other scholarships which you might be eligible to receive. Please go to www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/fees/ undergraduate/funding/index.aspx What we want Number of A levels required: 3 Typical offers: AAA (4 year MEng course 360 tariff points). AAB (3 year BEng course 340 tariff points). For Mechanical and Materials Engineering: Requirements as for the courses mentioned above. Required subjects and grades: A level Mathematics (which must include mechanics elements 1 and 2 if not, Physics must be offered) and a science (Physics preferred but Chemistry, Design and Technology or Further Mathematics are acceptable); other science A levels may be considered. General Studies: Not considered. Students who just miss the grade requirements for MEng study will be automatically considered for a place on the BEng programme International Baccalaureate Diploma: IB BEng 3536 MEng 3638 points, must include Mathematics at HL grade 6 (students with Mathematics SL grade 7 will be considered on an individual basis for BEng entry) and Physics at HL grade 6. We assess all UCAS applications individually to determine your eligibility, and so qualifications under other examination systems may also be acceptable. The possibility exists for Home/EU students who do not have the appropriate qualifications for direct entry into one of the accredited degree programmes to qualify to study on the Foundation Year, H391. However, please note that the University is making changes to the way these courses are currently organised, and applicants for 2013 onwards should contact the School for advice.

12

School of Mechanical Engineering

Industrial experience, Chartered Engineer status and graduate progression routes

Industrial experience We believe that industrial training and experience are a vital component of every students professional development. As part of our continuing commitment to providing a balanced education, we will help you to gain experience or sponsorship with an industrial company as either an industrial year or summer placement student during the course, if this is what you are looking for. We offer the services of a Director of Industrial Liaison, whose role is to help you and your fellow students to forge links with industry by providing opportunities for vacation work, year-out placements, sponsorships, etc, and to act as a match-maker to bring together final year students and recruitment staff from suitable companies. These companies include Jaguar, Cadburys, the BBC, Unilever, Rolls-Royce, JCB, Kodak, Siemens, Mercedes High Performance Engines, Delcam and Airbus. BP are also one of our key industrial links and provide sponsorship of our workshop training modules, a BP design challenge competition and also guest lecturers in industrial professional skills. We also invite companies to enrich our teaching by contributing to seminars, live projects and case studies. Opportunities for both year out and vacation placements are advertised openly on the Schools industrial liaison notice board, and are available to all qualifying students. Year out placements A number of our students opt to take a year out with an engineering company. You may take a year out either between years 2 and 3 or years 3 and 4 of your degree programme. As well as benefitting from a period of approved and paid employment, with all the usual entitlements of the job such as paid leave, networking, etc, (the exception being a pension plan) your degree programme will change to have the additional words with industrial year added to the title, in recognition of your efforts. This type of placement qualifies you towards one year of your graduate training period. Without the relevant industrial experience during your time as a student, you will be required to take the full two years training in industry on graduation in order to achieve chartered status. During the industrial year you will retain your undergraduate status with us, even though you are in employment, and will continue to benefit from being a member of this University at a reduced level of student fees. The aim of this activity is not simply to provide paid work but to ensure that its nature and quality are commensurate with your professional development. A key element is to ensure that students and companies are well matched, maximising both parties experience. Vacation work It is possible for you to work for the same employer each vacation if you prefer, and if the jobs are available there. However, vacation work has the potential to offer a variety of paid work experiences because it opens up the opportunity for you to work for more than one company over the lifespan of your degree. Previous students who have done this have found it beneficial when trying to decide which company will suit their requirements best when they enter the job market. It is not unusual for our students to be in receipt of two or more job offers on graduation and having this kind of experience can help with final career choices. Chartered Engineer status You should aim to achieve Chartered Engineer (CEng) status. This professional qualification recognises the completion of a formally recognised programme of education, a period of structured training and the tenure of a position of responsibility. Graduation from the University of Birmingham will satisfy the first of these requirements, since all our degrees are accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. We can also help you to achieve a significant part of the second requirement, by providing an appropriate year-out placement or opportunities for high-quality vacation work (see previous section on industrial experience). The final element, responsibility for a major project, can only be accomplished after graduation. Graduate progression routes Graduate employment All programmes are designed to produce graduates who are organised, numerate, good at problem solving and have a wide range of professional skills to complement their technical abilities. These qualities, plus the prestige of a degree from a leading World Class University, make our graduates attractive to companies in finance, consultancy and commerce, as well as those in the engineering sector both in the UK and abroad. The University provides an award winning employability programme, the Personal Skills Award (PSA) exclusively for undergraduate students. Endorsed by a range of employers, the award gives students the opportunity to develop and articulate extra-curricula skills to enhance their employability opportunities. Postgraduate Study As long as you achieve a 2:1 or higher class of degree, this will open up opportunities for you to gain a doctorate by joining a research group either in this University or elsewhere. If research is one of your goals, you are advised to seek out and have discussions with PhD students who are already studying the area of research of interest to you, and to discuss your interest with the academic leading the research group. If you are unsure of the research areas available to you, you should make an appointment with the Postgraduate Admissions Tutor via the Postgraduate Office.

It was only when I started my placement at Nissan that I found out how challenging and fun it could be to use what I had learned so far in my courses at University. The experience was definitely the right choice for me as it helped to shape my vision towards what, as a mechanical engineer, I want to do in future Sina Khansari 1 year placement at Nissan Technical Centre

School of Mechanical Engineering

13

The University

About the University Situated in the heart of England, the University of Birmingham grew out of the old Mason College and was founded on its present site over 100 years ago. The campus sits within 250 acres of parkland and is largely self-contained with lawns, trees and a lake in the centre of the Vale where students are accommodated in halls of residence. It has a long tradition of discovery, invention and design across all of the major academic subjects. The University has strong links with industry and is one of the top six UK universities that industry targets when seeking new recruits. The Universitys five colleges have an academic population of 18,124 undergraduates, 6,101 postgraduates (taught), 2,606 postgraduates (research), 1,500 students on short courses and 1,674 exchange students. It has over 2,000 teaching and research staff and over 3,500 academically-related staff. Almost 70% of our undergraduates receive a first or uppersecond class degree every year. The University has a turnover of approximately $685 million per year (c.434 million), making it the 8th largest local employer and provider of approximately 10,000 graduates annually. Teaching and Research Our students are offered teaching from academics who are global experts in their field, and access to excellent study facilities (including one of the UKs largest academic libraries). We invest an impressive 1 million each week on developing the campus and improving our students learning experience. Student Living The student villages offer a range of accommodation, where you can choose from single-study bedrooms, with shared facilities, or

have your own en-suite bathroom. If you prefer to cook for yourself, opt for a self-catered flat with a communal living room and kitchen. Alternatively, choose a meal-plan room, where your meals are provided. Around a ten-minute walk from the main campus, the main halls of residence site is the Vale, where the residences are located in landscaped parkland overlooking a lake. The Vale provides a safe and secure environment and a focus for student life, as well as all the amenities that you will need, including launderettes, shops, cafes and unlimited internet access in all rooms. First-year accommodation is guaranteed to those applicants who make the University of Birmingham their first choice on their UCAS application forms. The Guild of Students The hub of undergraduate student life is the Guild of Students, Birminghams students union. The Guild was one of the first students unions in the country and its mission is to enhance the student experience. More than 160 student groups and societies are supported by the Guild of Students, covering all areas of interest from Manga to Motor Racing and guaranteeing a packed calendar of social events to enhance your student life. You can also get involved in our student radio station, BURN FM, or the student newspaper Redbrick. The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences The College has nine Schools teaching Chemical Engineering; Chemistry; Civil Engineering; Computer Science; Electronic, Electrical and Computer Engineering; Mathematics; Mechanical Engineering; Metallurgy and Materials; and Physics and Astronomy.

Of its 4,698 students, 3,394 are undergraduates; 527 postgraduate (taught) and 777 postgraduate (research). The College has 772 staff comprised of 263 academic teaching staff; 108 professional and 132 support staff; and 269 research fellows/associates. Location Birmingham is at the centre of the road and rail network and the University of Birmingham is ten minutes by train from the centre of the city. There is a railway station on campus. Forty per cent of our graduates choose to stay in the region following graduation because Birmingham is a confident, modern commercial centre and home to the largest financial district outside London and it offers them great opportunities for advancement. Sport and the arts Sport is central to life at the University and our reputation for sporting excellence is reflected in our consistent top three ranking in British inter-varsity sport. University of Birmingham Sport brings together some of the best sports facilities in the country, professional coaching and imaginative programmes to offer a range of sporting opportunities to suit all tastes and ability levels. Music is also a distinctive part of Birmingham life. The University has two symphony orchestras, a Big Band, a number of choirs, a symphonic wind band and a brass ensemble. A regular programme of public performances is staged in the concert hall at the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. The School of Music is soon to have its own purpose-built home in a wing of the Aston Webb Building in Chancellors Court. The Bramall building will be completed in 2012.

Birmingham is simply the best! Birmingham is a place that enhances your learning experience by its up to date facilities, helpful lecturers and staff and above all it has a friendly environment.
Mehrnoosh Salehi Khoujin MEng Student School of Mechanical Engineering

14

School of Mechanical Engineering

The City of Birmingham

There are three key attractions to Birmingham; its culture and entertainment, the retail experience, and its location at the heart of some of the UKs most beautiful countryside.

The City Around 9 billion has been ploughed into the city centre over the past 20 years and Birmingham continues to attract significant investment. The landscape of the area has changed, and stylish apartments and offices have replaced factories and warehouses. An astounding 800 million and 8,000 jobs were brought into the City of Birminghams economy through the construction of the Bullring shopping centre alone. Entertainment, arts and culture Famous for its industrial past, Birmingham has also long been noted for its cultural heritage. The Hippodrome, Alexandra and Birmingham Repertory Theatres between them stage touring dramas and West End shows, ballets, operas, pantomimes and stand-up comedy. In addition to theatres, there is an excellent choice of cafes and restaurants providing culinary experiences from a variety of cultures, most notably in the Balti Triangle and the Chinese Quarter. There are museums, cinemas, nightclubs, pubs and wine bars in abundance. If you like live entertainment, then take your pick from comedy clubs, local music gigs and top shows at Birminghams principal theatres. The National Exhibition Centre and the National Indoor Arena regularly showcase star names from the worlds of Rock, Pop and Sport. The world famous City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) has its home in Symphony Hall.

Sport Birmingham is home to Premier League football clubs Aston Villa and Birmingham City and in recent years it has staged more sporting championships than any other UK city. The Warwickshire County Cricket ground, close to the University in Edgbaston, regularly hosts test matches and international tournaments including the Cricket World Cup. The city also boasts many golf courses, including The Belfry, which has hosted the Ryder Cup four times. In the summer of 2012 Birmingham will be the home base and training venue for the USA and Jamaican Olympic athletics teams.

Shopping Bullring shopping centre is Europes largest city retail development and includes the award-winning, iconic, Selfridges building. The Mailbox development houses a wide range of designer chains, including Harvey Nichols. Birmingham hosts four major markets, as well as all the principal chain stores. There is also a wealth of smaller shops and retail centres, where you can find everything from fresh herbs and spices for authentic international dishes, to hand-crafted jewellery made in the Jewellery Quarter. The Heart of England Located in the heart of the country, Birmingham has so much to offer visitors. With Warwickshire, the Malvern Hills and the Ironbridge Gorge all nearby, you are never more than a short drive from some of the UKs most scenic countryside. Birmingham is at the centre of the motorway, rail and canal network, with its own international airport you can get almost anywhere in the world from here.

School of Mechanical Engineering

15

Contact information

Please contact us if we have missed any points that are of particular interest to you. For enquiries concerning courses, UCAS procedures, accommodation, deferment or any related issue, please contact the Admissions Tutor. For further information about our industrial links and how to make use of them to your advantage, please contact our Director of Industrial Liaison.
Mechanical Engineering Programmes Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) Programmes Admissions The Admissions Tutor Dr Carl Anthony School of Mechanical Engineering University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT Tel: +44 (0)121 414 4230 Fax: +44 (0)121 414 3688 Email: mfg-mech-admissions@bham.ac.uk Web: www.birmingham.ac.uk/mechanical Industrial Experience Director of Industrial Liaison Dr Karl Dearn School of Mechanical Engineering Tel: +44 (0)121 414 4190 Fax: +44 (0)121 414 3688 Email: k.d.dearn@bham.ac.uk Mechanical and Materials Programmes Admissions Tutor Dr Mark Ward School of Metallurgy and Materials University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT Tel: +44(0)121 414 5235 Email: met-admissions@bham.ac.uk University of Birmingham Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3344 Fax: +44 (0)121 414 3971 Web: www.birmingham.ac.uk/materials Please note that this document is provided for information only and does not form part of any contract. We regularly update our programmes, organisation and facilities. Please contact the Admissions Tutor for up-to-date information. Follow us on Twitter @UoB_MechEng www.facebook.com/groups/ uob.mecheng.applicants/

www.birmingham.ac.uk
This brochure was written several months in advance of the start of the academic year. It is intended to provide prospective students with a general picture of the programmes and courses offered by the School. Please note that not all programmes or all courses are offered every year. Also, because our research is constantly exploring new areas and directions of study some courses may be dropped and new ones offered in their place.

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom

www.birmingham.ac.uk

6855 University of Birmingham 2012. Printed on a recycled grade paper containing 100% post-consumer waste.