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Automotive Engineering BEng

Key Information

Course code

HH30

HHN1 with placement

Start date

September

Placement available

Mode of study

3 years full-time

4 years full-time with placement

Fees

2024/25

UK £9,250

International £23,615

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Entry requirements

2024/5

AAB - BBB (A-level)

DDD (BTEC)

30 (IB)

Scroll to #entryRequirements

Overview

The Brunel Automotive Engineering BEng gives students with a passion for motor vehicles the specialised expertise they need to become professional engineers in the fast-moving automotive industry.

Along with a solid grounding in the fundamentals of mechanical engineering, including maths, engineering science and design, you’ll gain an in-depth knowledge of the technical workings of current and future automotive systems.  You’ll study all aspects of automotive development and manufacture from vehicle design and performance to engine and transmission systems to materials, structures and safety. You’ll also get hands-on practice troubleshooting engineering problems that inevitably arise during the construction and testing processes.

Your education will profit, too, by your access to the work done at our Centre for Advanced Powertrain and Fuels (CAPF). One of the largest and most active engine research groups in the UK, CAPF focuses on minimising pollutant emissions and improving fuel efficiency while maintaining performance levels.

Throughout your studies you’ll have use of our modern, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, which comprise our motorsport workshop, and 24-hour access to industry standard specialist software for engineering design at dedicated computer clusters.

At the end of each academic year, engineering and maths students are invited to showcase their project work at Brunel Engineers +, an event that both celebrates their achievements and gives them the chance to network with industry figures and employers. This video shows some of the projects exhibited at the 2024 Brunel Engineers + event, with explanations by the students themselves.

Our automotive engineering BEng course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). (NB: we are seeking accreditation for the with-placement route). We offer two study options. You can choose three years full-time or four years full-time with a one-year professional placement that will allow to put what you’ve learned to use in real-world situations.

In the rapidly evolving automotive industry, demand for engineers with the technical and managerial skills to excel is on the rise. Your Brunel BEng will give you these and equip you to play leading roles in industry and public service.

Course content

The course aims to give you a thorough understanding of mechanical engineering as well as the specialist knowledge and skills needed to work as an automotive engineer.

Work for your automotive engineering degree consists of compulsory modules and a major independent project.

Compulsory

  • Engineering Mathematics and Programming I

    Aims: To develop students’ ability to understand and apply fundamental methods of engineering mathematics; to introduce the use of programming in engineering, and develop students’ ability to represent and solve problems algorithmically.

  • Engineering Mathematics and Programming II

    Aims:  To develop students’ ability to understand and apply fundamental methods of engineering  tmathematics;o introduce the use of programming in engineering, and develop students’ ability to represent and solve problems algorithmically.

  • Engineering Practice

    Aims: To develop the skills required by students studying in all engineering disciplines, thereby supporting their journey through Higher Education and into their professional life with the intention of maximising their employability. Skills development in the following areas will be addressed: problem solving; personal development; professional development; career planning; basic engineering design; introductory project management; communication; working in inclusive teams; health and safety; security.

  • Engineering Systems and Energy 1

    Aims: To provide a grounding in concepts of measurement and uncertainty; to provide knowledge about applied physics relations that govern engineering systems within their boundaries and via their variables of interaction; to establish ability to define system boundaries and apply relevant simple models.

  • Engineering Systems and Energy 2

    Aims: To provide a grounding in concepts of measurement and uncertainty; to provide knowledge about applied physics relations that govern engineering systems within their boundaries and via their variables of interaction; to establish ability to define system boundaries and apply relevant simple models.

  • Engineering Mechanics - Statics

    Aims: To provide a grounding in the fundamental principles of engineering mechanics; to provide knowledge and understanding of Newton’s laws and their application for the solution of static problems; to provide experience and confidence in problem-solving.

  • Engineering Mechanics and Materials (Mechanical and Aerospace)

    Aims: To provide a grounding in the fundamental principles of engineering mechanics – dynamics of rigid bodies; to provide knowledge and understanding of the common and important material properties for various engineering applications; to provide experience and confidence in problem-solving.

  • Mechanical Engineering Science

    Aims: To present principles governing the mechanics of solid bodies under static condition; to present interpret and apply concepts and theories of classical engineering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer to engineering systems; to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in modelling and analysing engineering problems; to achieve an appreciation of laboratory instrumentation and data analysis.

Compulsory

  • Dynamics of Machines
    This module helps to establish a foundation for vibration analysis and machine dynamics. It will introduce analytical and graphical methods for mechanism analysis and synthesis.
  • Design Process for Machine Elements, Manufacturing Processes, Materials and CAD
    This module introduces relevant mechanical components, assemblies in an engineering design context and Computer Aided Design (CAD). Students learn to consolidate the disciplines of materials science, materials engineering and modern manufacturing processes.
  • Engineering Business (Core)
    This module helps to develop and demonstrate an understanding of project management by working as part of a team to research and plan a project and enhances student preparedness for work placement and employment.
  • Fluid Mechanics
    This module aims to deepen the understanding of fundamental fluid mechanics and introduce the basics of aerodynamics; compressible fluids. Students will learn basics of Computational Fluid Mechanics - CFD.
  • Solid Mechanics and Intro to FEA
    This module helps to establish a solid foundation for the analysis of solids and structures based on the fundamental principles of continuum mechanics. Students learn to link models and engineering applications with a range of real-life examples, experimental testing and comparative analysis of experimental measurements and theoretical results.
  • Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
    This module introduces new fundamental concepts of thermodynamics and apply to relevant thermal power and heating/cooling systems. Students learn basic concepts of heat transfer.
  • Vehicle Design and Performance
    This module aims to enable students to critically analyse and design key road vehicle components and systems suitable for the target manufacturing volume. Students will characterise basic road vehicle performance.
  • Engineering Mathematics and Programming

    The aim of this module is to enhance knowledge about application of mathematical modelling to engineering problems and to provide knowledge and understanding about various mathematical techniques that are used to solve mathematical problems relevant to engineering. Programming techniques will also be introduced for solving mathematical models

Compulsory

  • Major Individual Project
    This module provides experience in planning, researching and conducting a major engineering project in the specialised course of study. Students will apply engineering techniques, critically assess the findings, putting forward ideas and drawing conclusions.
  • Mechatronics and Control Engineering
    This module introduces knowledge and methods for designing and implementing mechatronic systems for control and robot systems. Students will develop an understanding of modelling dynamic systems using transfer functions and block diagrams by providing a mathematical foundation for control systems analysis, design and performance improvement.
  • Sustainable Engineering Management and Practice
    This modules helps to learn pertinent environmental, quality, health & safety issues, and their relevant related regulations, influencing engineering business. Students will develop professional and technical skills to assess and manage these impacts within the framework of industry-recognised Management Systems.
  • Technologies for Future Transport
    This module aims to provide an understanding of the components of Intelligent Transportation Systems and contextualise employment of Intelligent Transportation Systems within the framework of global challenges in transport, energy and sustainability to optimise and better manage the transportation networks of the future.
  • Vehicle Dynamics and Aerodynamics
    This module aims to provide a comprehensive background of vehicle aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics and Computational Fluid Dynamics. Students will learn practical and theoretical principles underlying Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
  • Vehicle Structures and FEA
    This module aims to introduce advanced concepts for the analysis and design of lightweight vehicle structures. Students to develop further the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for the solution of vehicle structures.
  • Vehicle Propulsion
    This module aims to provide an overview of vehicle powertrain systems and their fuels, vehicle CO2 and pollutant emission legislation. Students to learn and understand about the thermodynamic aspects and combustion processes of reciprocating IC engines.

This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.

This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.


Please note that all modules are subject to change.

Careers and your future

If you opt for a sandwich course, you’ll go on a year’s paid placement and put your theory into practice. Some of our students are offered jobs at the companies where they carried out their industrial placements.

Your automotive engineering degree from Brunel is highly regarded. Many of our graduates now work in technical and managerial positions within the automotive industry. Recent destinations include Jaguar Land Rover, Aston Martin, McLaren Automotive, Ricardo, Nissan Technical Centre Europe, Bentley Motors, Ford, BMW (Mini), Lotus Cars, Tata Motors, BP, MAHLE Powertrain, Cummins, JCB, Perkins and Delphi.

UK entry requirements

2024/25 entry

    • GCE A-level AAB-BBB including Maths and one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths and General Studies not accepted).
    • BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (QCF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with Distinctions in Further Mathematics for Technicians and Further Mechanical or Further Electronic /Electrical Principles modules.
    • BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with Distinctions in Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.
    • BTEC Level 3 Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (RQF) DD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with Distinction in Further Mechanical or Electrical Principles (QCF), Engineering Principles & Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems (RQF), AND A-Level Maths at grade B (Use of Maths not accepted).
    • BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (RQF) D in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with A-Levels grades BB to include Grade B in Maths and Grade B in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, or Design and Technology (Use of Maths and General Studies not accepted).
    • International Baccalaureate Diploma 30 points, including 5 in Higher Level Maths and Higher Level 5 in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Geography, or Design Technology.
    • Obtain a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma Engineering with 45 credits at Level 3. All Maths and Science units must be Distinctions at level 3.
    • Engineering with Integrated Foundation Year courses For Engineering with Integrated Foundation Year progression requirements, see the course page.
    • T levels : For subjects accepted and grade requirements please contact the admissions office.

    A minimum of five GCSEs are required, including GCSE Mathematics grade C or grade 4 and GCSE English Language grade C or grade 4 or GCSE English Literature grade B or grade 5.

    Brunel University London is committed to raising the aspiration of our applicants and students. We will fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.

    Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.

EU and International entry requirements

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6 (min 5.5 in all areas)
  • Pearson: 59 (59 in all sub scores)
  • BrunELT: 58% (min 55% in all areas)
  • TOEFL: 77 (min R18, L17, S20, W17) 

You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.

Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.

Fees and funding

2024/25 entry

UK

£9,250 full-time

£1,385 placement year

International

£23,615 full-time

£1,385 placement year

Fees quoted are per year and may be subject to an annual increase. Home undergraduate student fees are regulated and are currently capped at £9,250 per year; any changes will be subject to changes in government policy. International fees will increase annually, by no more than 5% or RPI (Retail Price Index), whichever is the greater.

More information on any additional course-related costs.

See our fees and funding page for full details of undergraduate scholarships available to Brunel applicants.

Please refer to the scholarships pages to view discounts available to eligible EU undergraduate applicants.

Scholarships and bursaries

Teaching and learning

Our staff have national and international reputations for their research, publications and applied work. Many carry out much of their research in collaboration with motor vehicle manufacturers and leading industrial firms. This means that your education will be at the forefront of industry knowledge.

Your course will consist of a combination of lectures, laboratory practicals, design studios and one-to-one supervision.

You’ll be introduced to the practical aspects of automotive engineering at Level 1 in the form of laboratory experiments on existing vehicle sub-systems, which then lead to more advanced laboratories at Level 2.

At Levels 2 and 3 you’ll use advance computer software in design, structural analysis and dynamics, and our laboratory facilities to run experiments you’ve designed.

Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.

First Year Students

The Engineering Year 1 is common to all disciplines during term 1 (Chemical; Civil; Electronic and Electrical; Mechanical; Automotive and Aerospace Engineering), providing a broad educational base and opportunities for cross-disciplinary study. While much of the teaching will remain common to all disciplines during term 2, there will also be some opportunity for discipline-specific teaching activities.

Lectures

Lectures will be delivered using a variety of different methods. Some will be delivered live online or in-person on-campus, while others will be pre-recorded and made available online for you to access prior to engaging in interactive in-person tutorials or seminars on campus. Some on-campus live lectures will be simultaneously livestreamed; all live lectures, whether delivered online or on-campus, will be recorded and made available for you to review after each lecture has taken place.

Tutorials

All lecture-based modules will be supported by regular (in most cases, weekly) tutorials or seminars that will all be held on campus, allowing you to work with both staff and other students on the practical application of what has been discussed during lectures.

Laboratory classes

Laboratory classes will be held on campus. Students will have the opportunity to perform experiments and carry out other hands-on practical activities in the engineering labs and workshop spaces. Small group project work will also be carried out in person on campus, supported by regular on-campus interactive discussion sessions (workshops).

You'll need to come onto campus on most days to participate in all the teaching activities that make up the Engineering Year 1.

The University’s online digital assessment platform will be used for the submission of written course work. All examinations will take place in person on campus. Other forms of assessment, such as presentations, are also expected to be run on campus.

All other undergraduate students (year 2, 3 and MEng year)

To ensure you receive the maximum support and have the greatest opportunity to reach your full potential; the expectation is that you enrolled on these programmes and attend in-person all teaching activities including examinations that are scheduled on campus. This will be the majority of all activities. However, where for pedagogical reasons alternative methods of delivery are used for activities; you'll be notified and be expected to engage with the activity at the time of delivery.

Laboratory Support

  • For modules with practical learning content, these will be delivered in-person on campus in the laboratories.

Assessment

  • Traditional examinations will be taken in-person on campus.

Access to specialist software

  • You'll have access to relevant engineering software on campus. You're also able to install software on your own personal laptops and connect to the Brunel License server through a VPN connection. This provides continued access to all services.

Contingency

If for any reason there are access restrictions imposed on staff or students, alternative arrangements will be made and due notice given.

Access to a laptop or desktop PC is required for joining online activities, completing coursework and digital exams, and a minimum specification can be found here.

We have computers available across campus for your use and laptop loan schemes to support you through your studies. You can find out more here.

Our aerospace engineering degrees are delivered by world-renowned academic staff. They are also researchers, collaborating with commercial organisations like aircraft manufacturers. This means they feed their cutting edge research back into the course. There will also be guest lectures from industry experts and aerospace engineering site visits.

There are opportunities to study abroad during your second year, either in Europe or at University of Iowa in the USA.

Study will combine lectures, tutorials and seminars, laboratory work, computer simulation, field work, self-study, research reports and project work.

Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.

Assessment and feedback

Modules are assessed by combinations of coursework, project work, laboratory reports, oral presentations and short tests. There are written examinations in May of each year. In Level 3 all students undertake a major individual project, often involving experimental work and sometimes with industrial support. This is worth a third of the overall marks for the year.