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Electro-Mechanical Engineering BEng

BEng (Hons)

UCAS code: H360

Start dates: September 2024 / September 2025

Full time: 3 years or 4 years Sandwich option

Part time: 6 years

Location: Headington

Department(s): School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

Overview
Course details
Careers
Entry requirements
How to apply
Tuition fees

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Overview

There are some challenges only an engineer can solve. And then there are some challenges that demand an engineer with a very specialist set of skills. Like expertise in electric power systems. An understanding of digital control technology. Knowledge of sensors and data.

Study Electro-Mechanical Engineering at Oxford Brookes and you’ll develop practical engineering skills and an advanced knowledge of electronic systems that will open up many career opportunities. You don’t need any previous knowledge, we’ll help you become an expert as you progress through the course.

Aircraft, drones, robots, medical equipment, even toys depend on electronic systems to function. Few people understand how those systems work – even fewer understand how they interact with the mechanics of the product. We’ve designed this course to give you the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to solve real industry problems and start a career working on exciting projects at the cutting-edge of technology.

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Electro-Mechanical Engineering, BEng Hons degree course students in a workshop at Oxford Brookes University

Why Oxford Brookes University?

  • Study in an engineering hotspot

    Oxford has many high-tech companies, from medical device manufacturers to autonomous vehicle testers. Take advantage of our links to gain work experience or network.

  • Learn by doing

    You’ll get practical experience using our workshop and lab equipment, designing systems and solutions throughout the course.

  • Brand new facilities

    All Engineering and Motorsport courses are moving from the Wheatley Campus to brand new, custom designed buildings at our main Headington site. These buildings are expected to open in September 2024, but as with any large-scale building project those timescales could change. You'll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and equipment including a VR cave and material science labs, composite lab, autodynamics workshop and wind tunnel, as well as social learning spaces, teaching rooms and cafe space.

  • Help when you need it

    Our teaching staff have drop-in sessions for anyone who needs support. And our academic advisers will help you with your studies too.

  • Work experience

    A year in industry gives you valuable experience of the technical skills you’ve practised in the labs. And it looks great on your CV too.

  • Free language courses

    Free language courses are available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.

  • Study abroad

    The opportunity to study abroad is not compulsory. It is the student’s responsibility to organise this if they wish, however it may not be possible to offer credit as part of the course.

  • Accreditation(s)

    Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer.

    • Engineering Council
    • Institution of Engineering and Technology

Course details

Course structure

The course shares some modules with our other engineering degrees, but includes specialist modules where you’ll learn about electro-mechanical systems. This means you’ll gain expertise in areas like stress analysis while developing a specialism in electronic and control systems. During Year 1, you’ll familiarise yourself with our labs and build up your knowledge in vital areas like engineering simulation and modelling.

By Year 2, you’ll start to design your own systems and learn about more advanced analytics tools and techniques. You’ll also develop computer simulations of electro-mechanical systems.

After Year 2, we recommend you take a placement year. This means you’ll gain practical experience in an industry related to your degree – it will look good on your CV and help you understand how your university work applies in a working environment.

For your final year, you’ll continue advancing your knowledge in specialist areas. And you’ll also complete your own engineering project where you can explore an area you’re interested in.

Electro-Mechanical Engineering, BEng Hons degree course students looking at a screen at Oxford Brookes University

Learning and teaching

You will learn through a variety of methods, depending on what you study.

Our teaching methods include:

  • tutorials
  • set reading
  • lectures
  • seminars
  • laboratory sessions
  • group work
  • experience
  • independent study
  • internet-based research
  • reviews of scientific papers
  • class discussions
  • interactive feedback
  • peer assessments
  • student presentations
  • one-to-one dissertation meetings.

Assessment

In Year 1 we assess your practical work through coursework write-ups:

  • for modules like Maths and Modelling, you will submit your mathematical modules
  • for Design, we assess your simulations and design reports.

If you partake in one of our Engineering School’s design challenges, such as Formula Student, we will assess your input into the working car.

Study modules

Year 1

Compulsory modules

  • Engineering Design and Practice I (30 credits)

    This module offers a comprehensive blend of practical and theoretical engineering skills with broad applicability across industries. Centred around the analysis of a specific engineering product, like a basic robot, the module spans technical drawing, Computer Aided Design/Engineering (CAD/CAE), modelling, management, and machining.

    Through this module, you'll develop strong mathematical problem-solving abilities, enabling you to tackle various engineering challenges. You'll dive into the design and comprehension of electrical and electronic circuits within the context of robotics and mechatronics engineering. You'll also be able to critically assess circuitry and system architectures pertinent to these fields. Real-world experience will be integral as you engage in laboratory testing and experimentation, translating this hands-on practice into concise and effective reports.
     

  • IEng Mathematics and Modelling (30 credits)

    A solid foundation in mathematics is essential for budding engineers. This module sets the stage by providing the necessary mathematical tools to support the analytical aspects of year one engineering courses. You will delve into fundamental algebraic and trigonometric principles, explore the applications of differential and integral calculus, and develop skills in using related functions. Additionally, you will gain hands-on experience with mathematical models, applying them to real engineering problems using specialized software.

    By the end of this module, you'll gain the ability to tackle defined engineering problems systematically, choose appropriate problem-solving approaches, and apply differential and integral calculus to diverse engineering scenarios. Additionally, you'll become proficient in matrix algebra, essential for solving complex systems of equations, and learn the practical use of trigonometry in solving triangles. 
     

  • Basic Dynamics (15 credits)

    This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the foundational principles essential for assessing mechanical engineering designs concerning equilibrium and motion. These principles are applicable across a spectrum of primary mechanical and automotive parts, devices, and systems.

    On successful completion of this module, you will be competent in recognizing the different forces at play on typical engineering parts and devices under the influence of uncomplicated static loads. Additionally, you will cultivate the skill to craft and utilise free-body diagrams, along with shear force and bending moment diagrams, for an array of straightforward engineering devices, parts, and systems.
     

  • Basic Electrical Engineering (15 credits)

    This module offers a foundational introduction to key electrical concepts and principles relevant to engineering students. You'll harness your mathematical abilities to solve fundamental problems in electrical and electronic engineering, setting a strong analytical foundation. By comprehending and predicting the operations and behaviours of electrical and electronic circuits, you'll gain insights into their functionality.

    With this knowledge in hand, you'll be able to design basic electrical and electronic circuits, applying your understanding to practical applications. You'll also develop research skills, including the ability to conduct literature reviews and gather valuable insights for your projects.
     

  • Basic Stress Analysis (15 credits)

    In this module, you will be introduced to the principles used in the analysis and design of mechanical engineering systems. This module will cover the fundamentals of engineering materials and their properties, which are crucial in the design phase. You will learn how to assess the influence of material structure on the mechanical behaviour of components, enabling you to make informed decisions regarding material selection for engineering applications.

    By the end of this module, you will be able to accurately calculate stresses and strains in simple components subjected to various loading conditions. Through diagrammatic analysis, you will evaluate loading and stresses effectively. Additionally, you will understand the importance of employing factors of safety to ensure structural integrity. 

  • Basic Thermodynamics (15 credits)

    In this module, you’ll explore the foundations of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Discover how these principles apply to real-world engineering scenarios, determining system characteristics and performance. You’ll also gain knowledge of flow measurement techniques and characteristics of internal and external flows. Understand the importance of energy efficiency and conservation through the evaluation of engineering systems.

    By the end of this module, you will demonstrate your understanding of thermo-fluid concepts by applying relevant theories to analyse engineering systems numerically. This module equips you with essential knowledge and skills in basic thermodynamics, enabling you to critically analyse and optimise engineering systems for improved performance and efficiency.
     

Year 2

Compulsory modules

  • Design and Practice II (double) (30 credits)

    This module places a strong emphasis on utilising modern computer technology, including computer-aided engineering (CAE) packages, to create solid models, conduct simulation analyses, and ensure designs are fit for purpose. By actively engaging with the integrated design environment and collaborating with peers, you will acquire invaluable skills in engineering design, problem-solving, and effective communication.

    As you progress through this module, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the engineering design process and its practical application in real-world contexts. You will learn to select and utilise appropriate industrial components, making informed decisions that contribute to the overall success of your designs. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, you will gain valuable experience working with others to produce design prototypes, simulating real-world scenarios encountered in professional engineering practice. 


     

  • Engineering Dynamics (15 credits)

    This module is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of dynamic mechanical systems. The focus includes mechanical vibration, control systems, and the performance evaluation of single-degree-of-freedom systems, as well as first and second-order systems. Additionally, you'll explore the kinematics of mechanisms, gears, and epicyclic gears. The coursework is enriched with practical laboratory exercises, providing hands-on experience to complement theoretical learning. 

    By the end of this module, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively analyse the dynamic performance of mechanical systems.  
     

  • Stress Analysis (15 credits)

    In this module, you'll delve into the intricacies of static stress analysis using closed-form solutions derived from fundamental principles. You'll also explore how this understanding relates to failure criteria and the material properties of the component. Practical application of theories will be facilitated through a hands-on laboratory session, offering a real-world context to the learned concepts.

    Through this module, you'll gain a profound ability to calculate stresses, strains, and deflections in beams undergoing bending and torsion. You'll be adept at determining various stress components like principal, octahedral, hydrostatic, and deviatoric stresses in three-dimensional components. This skill set will enable you to evaluate the strength and deformation suitability of a diverse range of components under static loading conditions. 
     

  • Electronics and Control Engineering I (15 credits)

    In this module, you'll develop a comprehensive understanding of electronic and electrical systems, their control mechanisms, and their integration with existing processes. The focus is on preparing you to analyse, apply, and predict the performance of these systems, especially in the context of high-level autonomous operations. 

    Upon completing this module, you'll be able to explain the operation and limitations of major control, electrical, and electronic systems. You'll have the skills to analyse complex electronics and control problems, design appropriate tests, and accurately assess outcomes. Leveraging industry-standard modelling and simulation software, you'll be capable of explaining and analysing the behaviour of electronics and control systems. 
     

  • Materials Engineering (15 credits)

    This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of materials used in mechanical engineering, with a focus on selection, design, manufacturing optimization, and environmental impact assessment. You'll delve into the specifics of metals and polymer composite materials, gaining valuable insights into their structure, properties, and manufacturing processes.

    By the end of this module, you'll have the underpinning knowledge and comprehension necessary to make informed decisions about materials selection for engineering applications. You'll explore how the structure and properties of materials are influenced by their manufacturing processes, leading to optimized performance in real-world scenarios. Additionally, you'll gain an understanding of the factors and processes involved in material degradation, enabling you to evaluate and account for these factors in your design work.
     

  • Electric Machines and Drives (15 credits)

    In this module, you will delve into the realm of electrical machines and their drives, a critical area in the realm of Electro-Mechanical Engineering. The module focuses on designing drives for electrical machines and challenges you to create effective solutions, backed by appropriate specifications. You’ll engage in research and literature reviews, which will fine-tune your analytical skills. 

    This module will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of various electrical machines and their applications, encompassing both fundamental concepts and more intricate aspects where applicable. Through mathematical analysis, you will develop problem-solving skills in tackling intricate challenges. You will gain the ability to decipher the intricacies of electrical machines and predict their behaviour through analytical means. 
     

  • Electrical Power Systems (15 credits)

    In this module, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of power systems in the context of Electro-Mechanical Engineering, with a particular focus on power storage, modulation systems, and their applications, including electric vehicles. Through mathematical analysis, you will learn to solve complex problems associated with power systems. 

    This module will equip you with the ability to synthesise information from different sources, including secondary references, to formulate designs for electrical power systems. You'll develop research and literature review skills that are essential for producing high-quality assignments.
     

Year 3 (placement year - compulsory for sandwich year students)

Optional modules

Optional work placement year

You will be encouraged to undertake a work placement for one year between the second and final years of your course. Placements are highly valued by prospective employers, as they recognise the benefits of obtaining industrial experience. Our work placement programme has been commended by professional bodies as a model of excellence. We have an excellent record of students gaining full-time employment on graduation with their industrial placement-year company. Students will typically have to arrange their own accommodation during their placement year and will have to cover their own transport and living costs. Previous students have gained placements with companies such as: Bentley; Black and Decker; BMW; CTG; Cummins Ltd; Delphi Diesel Systems; EP Barrus; Norbar Torque Tools; Rolls-Royce; Wheelright Ltd.

Year 4 (or year 3 if no placement)

Compulsory modules

  • Engineering Project (30 credits)

    This module aims to provide you with a platform to delve deeply into a practical engineering issue, fostering a comprehensive understanding of real-world problem-solving. You will undertake a substantial project that goes beyond the scope of your previous coursework, allowing you to solidify your knowledge and hone the skills you've acquired during your studies. 

    Throughout the module, you will be required to meticulously document your project's journey, from its inception to its completion, in a comprehensive report. You'll learn to prepare effective project plans and Gantt charts, crucial tools for organising and executing the project in a systematic manner. Your ability to critically evaluate engineering practices through in-depth analysis of published literature will be nurtured. You'll also learn to apply a diverse range of both innovative and established techniques to address complex engineering problems, showcasing your problem-solving prowess.
     

  • Management, Ethics, Energy and Sustainability (30 credits)

    This module is designed to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges that intersect business, society, and sustainability. With a specific focus on the automotive, transport, and general engineering sectors, this module delves into critical topics such as project management, leadership, energy, environmental concerns, sustainable engineering, ethics, and social aspects of employment.

    By the end of this module, you'll possess a holistic perspective on business practices and their impact on the triple bottom line: economic, social, and environmental aspects. You'll learn to craft effective business plans, making compelling arguments that incorporate sustainability principles, echoing the shift towards a circular economy.
     

  • Advanced Analogue Electronics (15 credits)

    Advanced Analogue Electronics is designed to build on your previous knowledge in electronics and provide a deeper understanding of analogue electronics. You will learn to demonstrate effective time management skills in executing mini-projects and acquire experience in using online systems to obtain relevant data. Furthermore, you will be tasked with producing designs for analogue circuits, considering issues of sustainability, legislation, and safety. 

    Upon completion of this module, you will have enhanced your mathematical skills, and will be able to design and analyse advanced analogue circuits and signal processing systems, evaluate and present the results of mini-projects in various media, and perform research and literature reviews for projects. You will have gained a solid foundation in advanced analogue electronics and be well-prepared for a successful career in electronic engineering.

  • Sensors and Data Logging (15 credits)

    This module dives into the critical aspects that determine the suitability of a sensor for specific scenarios, considering factors such as data precision, calibration, and manufacturers' specifications. You will explore the operating principles of key sensors utilised in automotive applications, fostering a deep grasp of their functionality.

    This module equips you with the practical skills and theoretical insights required to manipulate sensors and data loggers effectively. You will develop the competence to make informed decisions regarding sensor selection, data acquisition, and processing for a wide range of engineering applications. This knowledge will prove invaluable in an array of scenarios, from automotive systems to other industries reliant on precise and reliable data analysis.
     

  • Advanced Engineering Materials and Applications (15 credits)

    This module extends your fundamental knowledge obtained at levels 4 and 5. You’ll be exposed to the latest advances on materials development and this will help your interest in exploring and creating innovative and advanced materials for a range of engineering applications including:

    • Automotive
    • Motorsport
    • Construction 
    • and Aerospace sectors.

    You’ll gain a firm foundation of the characterisation and processing techniques of materials and engineering components. You’ll have hands-on experience to build practical skills through carefully designed lab experiments while developing your research expertise in materials science and engineering. The focus is on metals and composite materials. 

  • Electronics and Control Engineering II (15 credits)

    This module is designed to provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in the realm of electronics and control systems. The focus is on equipping you with the expertise to create, analyse, and critically evaluate complex electronic and control systems. The module will also explore the integration of these advanced systems with existing processes and applications, unveiling their impact on the technological landscape.

    Upon completing this module, you will possess the advanced capabilities required to excel in the design, analysis, and evaluation of intricate electronic and control systems. These skills will be invaluable in applications such as Computer Integrated Manufacturing, where the fusion of electronic systems and automation plays a pivotal role.
     

Please note: As our courses are reviewed regularly as part of our quality assurance framework, the modules you can choose from may vary from those shown here. The structure of the course may also mean some modules are not available to you.

Careers

Many of today’s mechanical devices include electronics. Engineers with knowledge of those systems are in high demand.

You could look for careers in:

  • programming for electro-mechanical systems
  • robotics design and manufacture
  • automation
  • research and development
  • autonomous control
  • technical sales
  • flexible manufacturing
  • production engineering
  • systems engineering.

You’ll also have a very good understanding of traditional engineering systems. Your skills will be useful in a wide range of industries, from aerospace to manufacturing.

With your optional placement year, you can gain valuable experience of the working world. And throughout the course, we’ll introduce you to different companies and industry experts who can inspire your career choices and guide you towards a dream job.

Entry requirements

Wherever possible we make our conditional offers using the UCAS Tariff. The combination of A-level grades listed here would be just one way of achieving the UCAS Tariff points for this course.

Standard offer

UCAS Tariff Points: 112

A Level: BBC

IB Points: 30

BTEC: DMM

Contextual offer

What is a contextual offer?

UCAS Tariff Points: 88

A Level: CCD

IB Points: 27

BTEC: MMM

Further offer details

We welcome applications from candidates with equivalent alternative qualifications, and from mature students.

International qualifications and equivalences

How to apply

Application process


Full time Home (UK) applicants
Apply through UCAS


Part time Home (UK) applicants
Apply direct to the University


International applicants
Apply direct to the University

Full time international applicants can also apply through UCAS

Tuition fees

Please see the fees note
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
International full time
£16,100
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
International full time
£16,900

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

financefees@brookes.ac.uk

Tuition fees

2023 / 24
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
International full time
£16,100
2024 / 25
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
International full time
£16,900

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

+44 (0)1865 534400

financefees@brookes.ac.uk

Please note, tuition fees for Home students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Oxford Brookes University intends to maintain its fees for new and returning Home students at the maximum permitted level.

Tuition fees for International students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students. 

The following factors will be taken into account by the University when it is setting the annual fees: inflationary measures such as the retail price indices, projected increases in University costs, changes in the level of funding received from Government sources, admissions statistics and access considerations including the availability of student support. 

How and when to pay

Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.

  • For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
  • For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy page

Additional costs

Please be aware that some courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. Specific additional costs for this course are detailed below.

Funding your studies

Financial support and scholarships

Featured funding opportunities available for this course.

Oxford Brookes Bursary for home students Undergraduate maintenance loans for part-time UK students Undergraduate maintenance loans for full-time UK students Undergraduate tuition fee loans for UK students

All financial support and scholarships

View all funding opportunities for this course

Information from Discover Uni

Full-time study

Part-time study

Programme changes:
On rare occasions we may need to make changes to our course programmes after they have been published on the website. For more information, please visit our changes to programmes page.