Skip to Content

detail

Undergraduate Programme Specification

BEng Mechanical Engineering (with International Year One)

Academic Year 2021/22

A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.

Programme Title BEng Mechanical Engineering (with International Year One) Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)
Bachelor of Engineering
Programme Code MEE-BENG-I UCAS Code HECoS Code 100190 - Mechanical engineering - 100
ATAS Clearance Required No
Mode of Study Full Time
Type of Programme Single Honours Length of Programme Full Time - 3 Academic Year(s) Total Credits for Programme 360
Exit Awards available

Institute Information

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

Quality Code
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code

Higher Education Credit Framework for England
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

Level 6

Subject Benchmark Statements
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/docs/qaa/quality-code/qualifications-frameworks.pdf

Engineering (2019)

Accreditations (PSRB)

Regulation Information

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

None

Programme Specific Regulations

Criteria for Admissions

The programme is offered to International (OS fee status) Students only.
There are two intakes into Year One, in September and in January of an academic year.
English Language Requirements:
Candidates will normally be required to have an English Language test score at CEFR B2 Level taken within the last two years.
Academic Subject Requirements:

Internationally Recognised Examinations
Two D Grades from a UK A-Level Board or equivalent to include Mathematics and at least one from Physics (preferred), Biology, Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Technology and Design or Double Award Applied Science.
First Year pass at an overseas university with good grades.
Students with SAT: 2 Advanced Placements at Grade 3 or higher.
Completion of the International Baccalaureate with minimum of 24 points.
All students must hold an (I) GSCE grade C Mathematics or equivalent.
Entry requirements on a country-by-country basis are given in Appendix 1.
Progression from Foundation Programmes:
Students who achieve two D grades (including Mathematics and at least one from Physics (preferred), Biology, Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Technology and Design or Double Award Applied Science. in the Queen’s International Foundation Programme in Engineering and Science may progress on to the Degree programme with an International Year One.
Other similar foundation programmes may be acceptable and considered on an individual basis.

Criteria for Progression from International Year One to Stage 2

Students must attain 120 CAT points by passing all modules and meet the following criteria:

English Language and Study Skills Module (20 CATs)

minimum of 50% overall (equivalent to IELTS 6.0) minimum of 40% (equivalent to IELTS 5.5) in all components (speaking, listening, reading, writing)
Academic Modules (100 CATs)

A minimum average of 60% across 10 academic modules with passes in 10 out of 10 modules.


Module Attempts

Each opportunity a student has to complete an assessment is counted as an attempt. So, for example, a May exam and an August resit during the same academic year would be counted as two attempts. Students that elect to miss an opportunity will be recorded as Absent and will still have it counted as an attempt. If the Board of Examiners approves an application for consideration of exceptional circumstances regarding a missed assessment, this will not be counted as an attempt.

The number of times a student can attempt a module is subject to the following limits:

International Year One and Stage 2 & 3 modules: 2 attempts


Transfer to the sandwich programme

Students may transfer to the corresponding sandwich programme if they have secured an appropriate one-year placement by 31st August.

In the case students on a study visa, this can only be actioned on confirmation from ISS that a appropriate visa is in place.

Transfer to MEng programme:

Transfer between BEng and MEng can take place after Stage 2.

BEng students will normally be considered for transfer to the corresponding MEng programme when they have:

• passed all International Year 1 and Stage 2 modules;
• obtained an average mark of at least 55% in Stage 2

Average marks will be rounded to the nearest integer. Students who pass at resit will have these marks capped at 40% for the calculation of averages.

Students considered to have reached an appropriate academic standard will be invited to transfer before the start of Stage 3. Students who do not wish to transfer are under no obligation to do so.


Graduating with a BEng honours degree

In addition to the minimum 320 credit requirement (+120 credit placement year), a student must also pass a major individual project to graduate with a BEng (Hons) degree. The project module must contribute to the degree classification and failure or absence of the individual project may result in the award of an Ordinary degree.

The classification of the BEng honours degree is based on a weighted average mark:

mark = 1/3*(Stage 2) + 2/3*(Stage 3)


Placement Year

The BEng placement is normally undertaken between Stage 2 and Stage 3.

Students with protected characteristics

N/A

Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations

(Please see General Regulations)

No

Educational Aims Of Programme

To produce graduates who will:
• be pragmatic, taking a systematic approach and the logical and practical steps necessary for, often complex, concepts to become reality;
• seek to achieve sustainable solutions to problems and have strategies for being creative, innovative and overcoming difficulties by employing their skills, knowledge and understanding in a flexible manner;
• be skilled at solving problems by applying their numerical, computational, analytical and technical skills, using appropriate tools;
• be risk, cost and value-conscious, and aware of their social, cultural, environmental, health and safety, and wider professional responsibilities;
• be familiar with the nature of business and enterprise in the creation of economic and social value;
• appreciate the global dimensions of engineering, commerce and communication;
• be able to formulate and operate within appropriate codes of conduct, when faced with an ethical issue;
• be professional in their outlook, capable of team working, effective communicators, and able to exercise responsibility and sound management approaches;
• have significant experience of working in a professional engineering environment.

• be pragmatic, taking a systematic approach and the logical and practical steps necessary for, often complex, concepts to become reality;

• seek to achieve sustainable solutions to problems and have strategies for being creative, innovative and overcoming difficulties by employing their skills, knowledge and understanding in a flexible manner;

• be skilled at solving problems by applying their numerical, computational, analytical and technical skills, using appropriate tools;

• be risk, cost and value-conscious, and aware of their social, cultural, environmental, health and safety, and wider professional responsibilities;

• be familiar with the nature of business and enterprise in the creation of economic and social value;

• appreciate the global dimensions of engineering, commerce and communication;

• be able to formulate and operate within appropriate codes of conduct, when faced with an ethical issue;

• be professional in their outlook, capable of team working, effective communicators, and able to exercise responsibility and sound management approaches.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures supported by tutorials.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations

Demonstrate an ability to identify, classify and evaluate the performance of engineering systems and components using analytical methods and modelling techniques, and apply a systems approach to the solution of mechanical engineering problems.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures supported by tutorials. Practical training in computer-based analytical tools.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations. Computer-based assignments and coursework

Demonstrate creativity and innovation in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Mini-projects concentrating on applications of engineering principles, Engineering design modules at stages 1-3. Major individual project at stage 3.

Methods of Assessment

Assignments. Design coursework. Project work.

Investigate and define an engineering problem and identify associated constraints such as environmental and sustainability limitations, and health and safety.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials Mini projects in design and manufacturing at stages 1-3. Major individual project at stage 3.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations, coursework and project work.

Manage effectively the design process, appreciate customer and user needs, evaluate outcomes, assess commercial risk and manage cost drivers.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Design assignments at stages 1-3. Major individual project at stage 3.

Methods of Assessment

Design coursework. Project work.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of mechanical engineering and its underpinning science and mathematics.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures supported by tutorials.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations.

Apply and integrate knowledge and understanding of other engineering disciplines and appreciate the wider multidisciplinary engineering context.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Laboratories and mini-projects focussing on engineering applications. Stage 3 individual project.

Methods of Assessment

Laboratory reports, coursework assignments and project work.

Appreciate the social, environmental, ethical, economic and commercial considerations affecting the exercise of their engineering judgement.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and coursework in design and manufacturing modules. Professional studies modules at stages 2 & 3 focusing on wider business knowledge.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and coursework assignments.

Knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computational concepts, methods and techniques which are employed elsewhere in the programme or regarded as essential for professional engineering.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Mathematics lectures and tutorials at stages 1 & 2. Computing lectures and coursework at stage 2

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and coursework assignments.

Appreciate the full range of manufacturing processes employed in industry and have more detailed knowledge of common machining processes.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, practicals and coursework in Manufacturing Technology at stage 2. Manufacturing based modules at stage 3.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and coursework assignments.

Exhibit familiarity with the generic elements of current engineering applications and practices and have an awareness of the professional, legal and ethical responsibilities of the engineer.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and coursework focussing on engineering applications. Professional studies modules at stages 2 & 3 focusing on wider business knowledge.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and coursework assignments

Demonstrate a basic knowledge of business and management concepts, methods and techniques relevant to the practising engineer.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Professional studies lectures and tutorials at stages 2 & 3.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Analyse and solve engineering problems.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Problem solving is taught in module lectures and reinforced through tutorials.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations.

Employ basic theoretical models and scientific principles where appropriate.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Tutorial exercises reinforce the use of theoretical models and scientific principles within course modules.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations

Apply the mathematical and computational tools and techniques which provide essential support for problem solving and decision making in engineering.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Within modules practically focussed assignments demonstrate the application of mathematical/computing tools and techniques to engineering applications.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework assignments.

Design a system, component or process and recognise opportunities for improvements in a design.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Engineering drawing and design is taught through lectures and coursework in dedicated design modules in stages 1-3.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework.

Take a holistic approach to problem-solving to encompass technical, business and social factors and constraints.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Mini-projects and design coursework are used to introduce wider approaches to problem solving. At stage 3 modules provide greater focus on real world applications and their constraints. Lectures in Professional Studies at stages 2 & 3 reinforce wider business context.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and coursework assignments.

Use laboratory and workshop equipment, along with appropriate instrumentation, in order to execute a series of experiments, both effectively and safely.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Group activities in the Laboratory programme at stage 1 and Manufacturing Technology at stage 2 are used to provide training in experimental practice.

Methods of Assessment

Laboratory reports.

Use appropriate computer software for design purposes and as a means of analysing and solving engineering problems.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Where appropriate engineering analysis software is employed to assist teaching within modules. This ranges from word processing, spreadsheets and presentational software starting at stage 1 through to dedicated, specialised simulation software in stage 3 modules.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework assignments.

Produce engineering drawings, both manually and by employing Computer Aided Design facilities.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Practical training in basic drawing skills and CAD design and analysis software is integral to the teaching of design in stages 1-3.

Methods of Assessment

Design coursework.

Produce technical reports to a professional standard.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Report writing skills are developed initially through the laboratory module and mini-projects in other modules. The final project completes the development of report writing skills.

Methods of Assessment

Laboratory reports. Coursework and final project report.

Plan and deliver technical presentations.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Technical presentation skills are reinforced through mini-projects in stages 1 & 2, and planning and delivering a technical presentation is an important element in the final stage 3 project.

Methods of Assessment

Project presentation.

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Communicate effectively in writing, verbally and through graphical media.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Laboratory report writing at stages 1 & 2 and lectures and Project 3B. Presentation of other mini-project reports. Major individual project at stage 3.

Methods of Assessment

Laboratory reports. Mini-project reports. Project oral presentation and final report.

Manage time and resources, prioritise and work to deadlines.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Coursework and project resource limitations and deadlines.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework assignments and project work.

Use computers and information technology effectively.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

IT and word-processing skills development through module assignments. Practical training in computing at stage 2 and use of computer-based software tools in some stage 3 modules.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework assignments and project work.

Locate and assemble information using various sources

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Training in use of library resources and on-line databases at stage 1. Referencing in formal laboratory and project reports. Research methods module at stage 3.

Methods of Assessment

Laboratory reports. Project report.

Demonstrate generic problem-solving skills acquired during the programme.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Coursework and project work at stage 3 increasingly focus on applications of engineering knowledge and enable generic skills development.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework assignments and project work.

Work and learn independently.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

All modules require extensive self-learning to support in class learning.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations, coursework assignments and project work.

Work effectively as a member of a group or team.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Group exercises are embedded in laboratory work and in mini-projects associated with practically focussed modules in stages 1-3.

Methods of Assessment

Laboratory reports. Coursework assignments.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Have demonstrated necessary competency in the use of English at Year One

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students study the module English Language and Study Skills in International Year One 1 in order to develop their proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and listening in the English Language to the level necessary to progress to Stage 2.
Written presentations are also embedded in the International Year 1 modules and are integrated with the aims of the English Language and Study Skills module. All International Year 1 academic modules are taught in small classes with specific instruction in the vocabulary and use of English appropriate to each academic module.

Methods of Assessment

Unseen examinations in speaking, listening, reading and writing in English
Written laboratory reports and essays
Reading Logs
Group project oral presentation
Listening coursework assignments

Unseen written examinations
Written laboratory reports

Module Information

Stages and Modules

Module Title Module Code Level/ stage Credits

Availability

Duration Pre-requisite

Assessment

S1 S2 Core Option Coursework % Practical % Examination %
English Language and Study Skills NTO1001 1 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Dynamics NTO1014 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Fluid Mechanics NTO1015 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Structural and Stress Analysis NTO1016 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Thermodynamics NTO1018 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Engineering Mathematics 1 NTO1026 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Engineering Mathematics 2 NTO1027 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Drawing and Design NTO1040 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Electrical and Electronic Engineering NTO1041 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Mechanical Principles NTO1042 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Materials and Manufacture NTO1043 1 10 YES YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Professional Studies 2 MEE2005 2 10 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Mechanics of Materials 2 MEE2001 2 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 50% 0% 50%
Dynamics 2 MEE2006 2 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics 2 MEE2007 2 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Design and Manufacturing 2 MEE2012 2 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Mathematics and Computing 2 MEE2029 2 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Manufacturing Technology 2 MEE2034 2 10 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Employability 2 MEE2098 2 0 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Laboratory Programme 1 MEE1011 2 0 YES YES 2 weeks N YES 50% 50% 0%
Professional Studies 3 MEE3002 3 10 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Heat Transfer & Combustion 3 MEE3031 3 10 YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Mechanics of Materials 3 MEE3033 3 10 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Engineering Dynamics 3 MEE3038 3 10 YES 12 weeks N YES 50% 0% 50%
Project 3B MEE3030 3 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Plastics Engineering 3 MEE3065 3 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 50% 0% 50%
Computer-Aided Engineering 3 MEE3013 3 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Manufacturing 3 MEE3014 3 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 50% 0% 50%
Transportation Power and Systems 3 MEE3064 3 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%

Notes