BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
Design and analyse mechanical systems with IMechE accreditation, covering thermodynamics, materials, and manufacturing.
Course overview
Mechanical Engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines, and our BEng programme provides comprehensive training in design, analysis, and manufacture of mechanical systems. The degree is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) towards Chartered Engineer status.
You will study engineering mathematics, mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and control systems. Computer-aided design using SolidWorks and finite element analysis using ANSYS are integrated throughout the curriculum.
Laboratory work includes materials testing, vibration analysis, and heat transfer experiments. A team design project in Year 2 challenges you to develop a functional prototype addressing a real engineering brief.
Luma's location in the West Midlands provides access to placement and employment opportunities with automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing companies including Jaguar Land Rover, Aston Martin, and countless supply chain firms.
The final year individual project allows specialisation in areas such as renewable energy systems, robotics, or automotive engineering, often conducted in collaboration with industry partners.
Entry requirements
- A-levels
- ABB including Mathematics and Physics or Engineering.
- International Baccalaureate
- 28–34 points including relevant higher level subjects at grade 5 or above.
- BTEC
- DDM–DMM in a relevant Extended Diploma, depending on the programme.
- GCSEs
- English Language and Mathematics at grade 4/C or equivalent.
- Other routes
- Further Mathematics advantageous.
Modules
Year 1
Engineering Mathematics
20 credits
Calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations for engineers.
Engineering Mechanics
20 credits
Statics, dynamics, and strength of materials.
Year 2
Thermodynamics
20 credits
Laws of thermodynamics, heat engines, and refrigeration cycles.
Manufacturing Processes
20 credits
Machining, casting, forming, and additive manufacturing.
Year 3
Machine Design
20 credits
Mechanical component design, failure analysis, and standards.
Individual Engineering Project
40 credits
Supervised research and design project with dissertation.
Career opportunities
Mechanical engineering graduates enter automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing sectors. Typical roles include design engineer, project engineer, and graduate engineer on IMechE-accredited training schemes.
The West Midlands remains the UK's automotive heartland, and our employer engagement team reports consistent demand for Luma mechanical engineering graduates.
Placements
Sandwich placements with Jaguar Land Rover, BMW, and Ricardo Engineering are popular destinations. Placements provide experience of product development cycles, from concept through to production.
IMechE membership and structured placement reporting support progression towards Incorporated Engineer status during the placement year.
Facilities
The Engineering Workshop includes CNC machines, lathes, milling machines, and 3D printers for prototype manufacture. Materials testing equipment covers tensile, hardness, and impact testing.
The Thermofluids Laboratory supports experiments in heat transfer, fluid flow, and combustion.
Frequently asked questions
- What A-level subjects do I need for Mechanical Engineering?
- Entry requirements vary by programme, but most undergraduate courses expect relevant subjects at grade B or above. We also welcome applicants with BTEC Extended Diplomas, T Levels, Access to HE Diplomas, and equivalent international qualifications. If your combination differs from the published requirements, contact our admissions team — contextual offers may be available for students from widening participation backgrounds.
- Can I study part-time?
- Many of our postgraduate programmes offer part-time study over two to four years, allowing you to balance work and family commitments. Part-time undergraduate study is available on selected courses; contact admissions@luma.ac.uk for current options. Part-time students have the same access to library resources, careers support, and student services as full-time students.
- Are there scholarships available?
- Luma University offers a range of scholarships including academic excellence awards, sports scholarships, and bursaries for students from low-income households. International students may apply for the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship worth up to £3,000 per year. Visit our fees and funding pages or speak to our Student Finance team for personalised advice.
- What support is available for disabled students?
- Our Disability and Inclusion Service provides confidential support including exam adjustments, assistive technology loans, note-taking support, and specialist mentoring. We encourage you to disclose any disability or health condition early so we can arrange reasonable adjustments before you arrive. The campus is largely accessible, with step-free routes and accessible accommodation available.
- Can I transfer from another university?
- Transfer applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. You will need to provide transcripts and module descriptions so we can assess credit for prior learning. Transfers are typically considered for entry into Year 2, subject to space and matching module content. Contact admissions@luma.ac.uk with your current programme details.
- Is this degree accredited?
- Yes. The BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) under licence from the Engineering Council. It partially satisfies the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.