Mechanical Engineering
Virtually all man-made products have mechanical features that are designed and developed by mechanical engineers
Mechanical Engineering is most often associated with large machines such as motorcycles, Formula 1 cars or aircraft, but virtually all man-made products have mechanical features that are designed and developed by mechanical engineers.
It is the broadest of the engineering professions as it is not linked to a specific industry, and its graduates have some of the most challenging, rewarding and diverse career opportunities of any discipline. These range from designing the latest road vehicles and developing new sustainable forms of materials, through to the search for alternative energy sources and the exploitation of nanotechnology.

I choose to study mechanical engineering because it gives an insight into a broad range of engineering applications. Studying mechanical engineering has opened up a wide range of opportunities. Rachel Hoy
MEng Mechanical Engineering
The subjects studied at each stage of our mechanical engineering programmes include;
Stage 1 |
Students are introduced to core mechanical engineering principles and mathematics, and they undertake a team-based project, designed to introduce them to the concept of professional engineering practice. This is supported through modules in engineering design, electrical engineering and a dedicated laboratory programme. BEng students who perform well during Stage 1 may be invited to transfer to the MEng in Stage 2. |
Stage 2 |
Stage 2 builds on the knowledge already gained with a series of more advanced engineering science subjects including dynamics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and strength of materials.
Mathematics and computing focus more on their application to engineering than basic theory, while modules in manufacturing technology and engineering design provide hands-on practical experience of manufacturing processes and computer-aided design. Students are also introduced to the legal aspects of engineering practice in the professional studies module, and are given the skills required for future work placements and careers in the employability module. |
Stage 3 |
Optional themes in energy, materials, manufacturing and computer-aided engineering in Stage 3 give students the opportunity to tailor courses and projects to their particular interests.
BEng students take core modules in engineering science and professional studies along with chosen theme modules, and also complete a major individual project, which puts their engineering skills into practice in solving a technological problem. MEng students expand their engineering knowledge through a range of core modules in engineering science and professional studies along with chosen theme modules. They also undertake a major group design project, working within teams to conceive, design, build and test an engineering product, enhancing mechanical design and engineering skills and developing professional presentational and team-working skills. |
Stage 4 |
MEng students extend their knowledge of engineering applications through further modules in their chosen themes, and in advanced core skills and professional studies. The other major focus is the individual project, where students also apply their engineering skills to an area of cutting-edge technology. These projects are closely associated with industry and with the School’s current research interests. |

My decision to study engineering was influenced by my interest in problem solving and working with numbers. It was my opportunity to develop skills and technical expertise in the design and creation of products and systems that impact modern day living. Niall Hollywood
BEng Mechanical Engineering

All of our degree pathways come with the option of a sandwich year in industry. Students spend up to 12 months getting hands on experience of a real engineering environment with a relevant aerospace company.
Find out more
A sample of our state-of-the-art educational facilities
Learning EnvironmentCLICK THE LINKS BELOW FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND APPLICATIONS.
We offer both Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) and Master of Engineering (MEng) degree pathways:
BEng in Mechanical Engineering
The 3 year (4 with placement) BEng degree provides a solid foundation in all the basic engineering technologies.
MEng in Mechanical Engineering
The 4 year (5 with placement) MEng degree extends study to in-depth specialist topics, with the aim of producing future engineering leaders.
Entrance Requirements
Email: admissions@qub.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 3838
Course Information
The Director of Education
School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Email: mech.aero@qub.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 4117