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.
"Recognise your skill set, no matter what course you are doing, work out how you are translating that course to real life business." - Sachin Patel
"My passion for robotics and sustainable technology really came to life during my PhD at Brunel, where I focused on the intersection of advancing 3D printing and sustainable construction materials." - Dr Abdulrahman Albar
"It provided a sound technical background but more importantly the Sandwich Degree gave me more relevant industrial experience on graduation than many of my peers." - David Fowles
"Brunel provided the opportunity for me to go on an industrial placement during my course, which gave me a wealth of experience and aided in my continued employment with the company." - Matt Price
"Recognise your skill set, no matter what course you are doing, work out how you are translating that course to real life business." - Sachin Patel
"My passion for robotics and sustainable technology really came to life during my PhD at Brunel, where I focused on the intersection of advancing 3D printing and sustainable construction materials." - Dr Abdulrahman Albar
You can explore our campus and facilities for yourself by taking our virtual tour.
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 mathematics; to 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 and 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 and to establish the 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 MachinesThis 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 CADThis 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 MechanicsThis 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 FEAThis 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 TransferThis 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 PerformanceThis 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 ProjectThis 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 EngineeringThis 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 PracticeThis 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 TransportThis 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 AerodynamicsThis 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 FEAThis 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 PropulsionThis 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
2026/7 entry
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.
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.
Standard Offer: GCE A-level ABB 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, Mathematical Studies, Critical Thinking and General Studies not accepted).
Contextual Offer: GCE A-level 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, Mathematical Studies, Critical Thinking and General Studies not accepted).
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: DDD in Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering with Distinctions in Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.
Contextual Offer: DDM in Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering with Distinctions in Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: DD in Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering with Distinction in Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and A level grade B in Maths or a Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics). OR
DD in Applied Science with Distinctions in Principles and Applications of Science I & Principles and Applications of Science II and A level grade B in Maths or a Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics).
Contextual Offer: DM in Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering with Distinction in Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and A level grade B in Maths or a Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics). OR
DM in Applied Science with Distinctions in Principles and Applications of Science I & Principles and Applications of Science II and A level grade B in Maths or a Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics).
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: Distinction in any subject with A-Levels grades BB to include grade B in Maths and grade B in one of the following subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Electronics, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, Design and Technology
Contextual Offer: Merit in any subject with A-Levels grades BB to include grade B in Maths and grade B in one of the following subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Electronics, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, Design and Technology
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: International Baccalaureate Diploma 31 points, including 5 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 5 in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Geography or Design Technology.
Contextual Offer: International Baccalaureate Diploma 30 points, including 5 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 5 in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Geography or Design Technology.
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
Standard Offer: Obtain a minimum of 128 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma Engineering or Engineering Science and Maths with 45 credits at Level 3. All Maths and Science units must be Distinctions at level 3.
Contextual Offer: Obtain a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma Engineering or Engineering Science and Maths with 45 credits at Level 3. All Maths and Science units must be Distinctions at level 3.
We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who meet one or more of our contextual markers – please see our contextual admissions page for more information.
For subjects accepted and grade requirements please contact the admissions office. Please note, A-level Maths will be needed alongside T levels in order to be considered for entry.
If your qualification isn't listed above, please contact the Admissions Office by emailing admissions@brunel.ac.uk or call +44 (0)1895 265265 to check whether it's accepted and to find out what a typical offer might be.
Brunel's committed to raising the aspirations of our applicants and students. We'll 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
If you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you must prove knowledge of the English language so that we can issue you a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). To do this, you will need an IELTS for UKVI or Trinity SELT test pass gained from a test centre approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and on the Secure English Language Testing (SELT) list. This must have been taken and passed within two years from the date the CAS is made.
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
2026/27 entry
UK
£9,790 full-time
£1,385 placement year
International
£21,795 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 £9,535 per year; any changes will be subject to changes in government policy.
For the 2026/27 academic year, tuition fees for home students will be £9,790, subject to Parliamentary approval.
In England and Wales, tuition fees for home undergraduate students are subject to the Government fee cap. The Government has confirmed that this will be £9,790 for 2026/27 and £10,050 for 2027/28 (subject to Parliamentary approval).
From 2028 onwards, the fee cap is expected to rise annually in line with inflation. This means your tuition fees in future years may increase to reflect these changes.
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.
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.
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.
Read our guide on how to avoid plagiarism in your assessments at Brunel.