University of Leicester

What you'll study

This programme builds fundamental engineering knowledge and practical skills across mechanics, thermodynamics, materials, dynamics and control, together with engineering design and professional practice. Early years emphasise mathematics and core scientific principles, progressing to modules on machine elements, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, solid mechanics and materials engineering. Design and project work run throughout the course and culminate in an individual project where you apply analytical, computational and experimental techniques to a real engineering problem.

• Core topics typically include: engineering mathematics, statics and dynamics, materials and manufacturing processes, thermofluids and heat transfer, solid mechanics and structural analysis, mechanics of machines, control systems and instrumentation.
• Design and professional skills: CAD and computer-aided engineering, engineering design methodology, group design projects, laboratory experimentation and report writing, health and safety and ethics in engineering.
• Computing and analysis: numerical methods, finite element basics, programming for engineers and data analysis for experimental and simulation work.
• Project work: a substantial individual or group project in which you plan and execute an investigation or design task, demonstrating integration of theory and practice.

The programme is delivered through lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, workshops and supervised project work. There are opportunities to use specialist facilities such as materials testing rigs, thermofluids laboratories, CAD suites and machining workshops. Students may also have the option to undertake an industrial placement or a year abroad as part of their degree pathway, subject to availability and programme structure.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold strong secondary school qualifications with a solid grounding in mathematics; physics or another relevant science is also highly desirable. Typical offers expect successful performance in subjects that develop numeracy and problem-solving skills.

• Essential: A-level Mathematics (or recognised equivalent) or a strong alternative qualification demonstrating equivalent mathematical ability.
• Preferable: A-level Physics or Engineering Science, or appropriate modules within vocational qualifications such as BTEC Engineering where content matches required fundamentals.
• International and vocational qualifications: considered on an equivalent basis; applicants with Access to HE diplomas, relevant apprenticeships, or international qualifications should provide full subject details.
• Mature applicants and those with industrial experience are welcome; supporting statements and references should demonstrate aptitude for degree-level engineering study.

All applicants must meet the University's general entry requirements, including English language proficiency where applicable. Specific offer conditions and acceptable equivalencies are published by the University and discussed during the admissions process.

Career prospects

Graduates of mechanical engineering follow diverse technical and managerial career paths across sectors such as automotive and aerospace, energy and utilities, manufacturing, biomedical devices, defence, construction and consultancy. Job roles commonly include design engineer, manufacturing engineer, product development engineer, test engineer, maintenance and reliability engineer, and systems or controls engineer.

The degree provides a foundation for further professional development; many graduates pursue chartered engineer status via employer-based training and further study (for example an MEng or specialised MSc), or enter multidisciplinary roles in project management, research and development, or technical sales.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers an engineering education with a strong emphasis on research-informed teaching and hands-on learning. Students benefit from well-equipped laboratories, workshops and computing resources, and teaching staff who combine academic research with industry experience. Small-group tutorials and project supervision provide personalised support while group design exercises mirror professional engineering practice.

Leicester's central location and industry links provide opportunities for placements, employer projects and local collaboration across advanced manufacturing, automotive supply chains and technology SMEs. The University's careers and employability services help students prepare for graduate recruitment through CV support, interview practice and connections with regional and national employers.

The programme is structured to develop both technical competence and professional skills — communication, teamwork, project management and ethical awareness — preparing graduates to contribute effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams or to continue to higher-level professional qualifications.