Mechanical and Civil Engineering Foundation Year
Option for Placement Year
Option for Study Abroad
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Option for Placement Year
Option for Study Abroad
If you are inspired by challenge, are analytical and creative in your thinking, and interested in design, technology and how these solve problems in the world around us; then our Mechanical and Civil Engineering Foundation Year may be your first step towards realising your ambitions.
Successful completion of the foundation year will allow you to progress onto any of the following degrees:
Students that perform well during their second-year level 5 of degree study, will also have the opportunity to progress onto our MEng programmes.
Undertaking the Mechanical and Civil Engineering Foundation Year will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to develop effective, sustainable solutions and products that meet the varied needs of today’s and tomorrow’s society. You will be taught and guided by a student-oriented and well-rounded team of experienced engineering practitioners, researchers, and a knowledgeable technical support team. Equipped with dedicated lab and workshop facilities, the course seeks to provide an engaging and practical learning experience to apply engineering principles to real-world problems.
Many students who undertake the foundation year are still thinking about which sub-discipline of engineering to specialise in. The course covers mechanical, civil and automotive engineering, so you will be able to explore and challenge your preferences to make an informed decision about which degree to study upon completion of the foundation year.
If you are inspired by challenge, are analytical and creative in your thinking, and interested in design, technology and how these solve problems in the world around us; then our Mechanical and Civil Engineering Foundation Year may be your first step towards realising your ambitions.
Successful completion of the foundation year will allow you to progress onto any of the following degrees:
Students that perform well during their second-year level 5 of degree study, will also have the opportunity to progress onto our MEng programmes.
Undertaking the Mechanical and Civil Engineering Foundation Year will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to develop effective, sustainable solutions and products that meet the varied needs of today’s and tomorrow’s society. You will be taught and guided by a student-oriented and well-rounded team of experienced engineering practitioners, researchers, and a knowledgeable technical support team. Equipped with dedicated lab and workshop facilities, the course seeks to provide an engaging and practical learning experience to apply engineering principles to real-world problems.
Many students who undertake the foundation year are still thinking about which sub-discipline of engineering to specialise in. The course covers mechanical, civil and automotive engineering, so you will be able to explore and challenge your preferences to make an informed decision about which degree to study upon completion of the foundation year.
UCAS Code
H3M5
Level of Study
Undergraduate
Mode of Study
1 year Full Time followed by a further 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department
Mechanical and Construction Engineering, Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering
Location
City Campus, Northumbria University
City
Newcastle
Start
September 2024 or September 2025
Fees
Fee Information
Modules
Module Information
Find out more about our department, facilities and what other students are taking part in.
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The Mechanical and Civil Engineering Foundation Year at Northumbria promotes an inclusive learning environment that focuses on engagement and the development of the necessary skills to succeed in an exciting career. You will develop your problem-solving strategies and an understanding of the fundamental design and technological concepts that allow you to propose solutions to real-world problems.
You will learn by applying the knowledge and skills gained from active learning sessions, enhanced by seminars, labs and workshops, and independent learning applied to contemporary engineering issues. Within the active learning sessions there is a strong emphasis on problem-analysis and solution seeking through the application of your new knowledge.
Our assessment methods are designed to give you feedback as well as to monitor your level of achievement. Some assignments incorporate self-reflection and self appraisal of your performance against clearly defined criteria, in order to help you identify areas for improvement. Assessment is mainly through challenge tasks and coursework which may include teamwork.
You will be taught by practitioners, research-active staff and tutors who have an experienced understanding of the various aspects of engineering industries. Their experience, combined with their on-going active research, will provide an excellent foundation for your learning.
Our reputation for quality is reflected by the range and depth of our collaborations with industry partners. We’ve built up numerous industrial links during the 50+ years that we’ve been offering engineering courses. These links help ensure high quality placements and collaborative projects.
Northumbria has the advantage of being located in the North East of England, which is a centre of manufacturing and technical innovation. As well as Nissan, a leading regional employer, there is a strong concentration of automotive, engineering, energy, construction and manufacturing companies seeking skilled engineers.
At the start of the programme you will be assigned a personal tutor, who will provide you with advice and support in relation to your academic, personal and professional development throughout the foundation year. The University has an excellent student support and welfare service which can be accessed 24/7, where you can receive independent and confidential advice and counselling.
We are an enthusiastic, committed, knowledgeable and likeable staff team, who are here to motivate you and propel you through your degree and beyond.
Northumbria University has invested heavily in modern laboratory and workshop facilities to support your activity. We have specialist laboratories for manufacturing smart materials and composites, building and construction, control and instrumentation, fluids and thermodynamics and engine testing.
Our rapid prototyping room will make it easy for you to bring your design projects to life, and our modelling workshop offers tools and specialist equipment for modelling your designs. All our facilities are backed up by specialist technicians who will give support and advise when you need it.
To facilitate group projects, there is a working space in the engineering building that’s well equipped for meetings and working with IT. The Zone is another area that’s popular with students undertaking group work or individual study.
The Department of Engineering has modern laboratory and computing resources for learning, teaching, research, innovation and business engagement.
Facilities
The practical part is the best thing on my course. Northumbria has top end lab equipment for those that like practical work more than theory.
Sandean Fernandes
Student
Come and explore our outstanding facilities in this interactive virtual tour.
At the heart of each Northumbria campus, our libraries provide a range of study space and technology to suit every learning style.
With our research-informed curriculum and problem-solving approach to learning you’ll acquire a wide range of analytical skills as you progress through the foundation year.
Your assignments will encourage you to become a more independent learner and thinker. You’ll explore academic literature and professional publications to help determine appropriate solutions to various engineering scenarios.
The department of Mechanical and Construction Engineering is ranked 25th for research power in the UK out of 89 submissions (REF, 2021)
Find out more about what our students and staff are getting involved in.
Find out more about the research taking place in this department.
The Mechanical and Civil Engineering Foundation Year provides the fundamental knowledge and skills, use of tools, techniques and methods which are immediately useful to employers, both in the UK and oversees. Upon successful completion of the foundation year, you will be able to transition smoothly to an undergraduate engineering degree course.
You will develop the knowledge and skills required to meet the needs and practical demands of real-world scenarios. Engineering is a growth industry sector and currently there is a shortage of suitably skilled and qualified engineers. By being able to access, and in due course complete, an engineering degree you’ll gain the credibility that’s needed to take up a well-rewarded and fulfilling career.
Your future employability will be further boosted by your acquisition of the characteristics of a Northumbria graduate. These include critical reflection and self-learning, collaboration and curiosity, and the ability to apply your knowledge to solve problems in ways that are sustainable and ethical.
The primary purpose of the foundation year is to prepare you for further study at undergraduate level. At the same time there will be a wealth of opportunities to develop skills and knowledge that will be immediately useful to employers, both in the UK and in other countries. Your employability will be enhanced through the development of transferable skills like problem-solving, group working, independent learning, effective communication and IT skills.
Throughout your time at Northumbria University our Careers and Employment Service will offer resources and support to help you find roles matching your interests and skills. You’ll be able to access a range of workshops, one-to-one advice, and career networking.
You can boost your CV and develop your experience whilst studying at Northumbria
From first year through to final year and beyond graduation, we are here to help.
We have a fantastic service for students' to use to gain advice and tips on furthering careers and enhancing their employability.
Careers and Employment Services
Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Engineering. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
80 UCAS Tariff points
From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo
Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course.
GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.
Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course.
International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.
If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry
English Language Requirements:
International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 5.5 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).
*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications
80 UCAS Tariff points
From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo
Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course.
GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.
Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course.
International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.
If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry
English Language Requirements:
International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 5.5 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).
*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications
UK Fee in Year 1: £9,250
* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.
EU Fee in Year 1: £18,250
International Fee in Year 1:
ADDITIONAL COSTS
There are no Additional Costs
UK Fee in Year 1*: TBC
* Government has yet to announce 25/26 tuition fee levels. As a guide, 24/25 fees were £9,250 per year.
EU Fee in Year 1: **TBC
International Fee in Year 1:
TBC
ADDITIONAL COSTS
TBC
* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here
Please use the Apply Now button at the top of this page to submit your application.
Certain applications may need to be submitted via an external application system, such as UCAS, Lawcabs or DfE Apply.
The Apply Now button will redirect you to the relevant website if this is the case.
You can find further application advice, such as what to include in your application and what happens after you apply, on our Admissions Hub Admissions | Northumbria University
Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.
KB3016 -
Engineering Numerical Skills (Core,20 Credits)
You will learn to use a range of mathematical tools and techniques that you can apply to a wide variety of engineering activities. These skills and practices also underpin more advanced engineering design and analysis tools, so gaining a good understanding of the basic principles now will help as your progress through this programme and enter the world of engineering. You will become familiar in working with formulae so that you can apply these skills within the engineering disciplines, for example, when investigating changes in processes and systems and when representing mechanical quantities. You will learn techniques in algebra and trigonometry, such as those used by engineers to determine the shape, size, slope, mass, etc., of objects and spaces as well as when and how objects will move or interact. These techniques are important to determine the unknown components in systems such as mechanical, fluid and thermal transfer and flow systems. These techniques are also applied to the solution of design problems such as those involving force, motion and electrical power.
More informationKB3017 -
Engineering Principles (Core,20 Credits)
You will learn to apply a range of basic principles and methodologies involving models of physical systems, matter, energy and waves, and forces and fields. You will be assisted in developing your understanding of measurement and error to test predictions against evidence using a range of experimental methods and practical exercises. Appropriate computational and analytical techniques will be applied to enable you to solve well-defined problems involving physical systems using standardised engineering approaches.
More informationKB3018 -
Foundational Engineering Approaches 1 (Core,20 Credits)
In this module you will be presented with authentic engineering problems derived and adapted to give you opportunities to explore ways in which you would resolve such problems to produce appropriate engineering solutions. This module will, within the supportive environment offered by staff and your peers, allow you to develop your approach to resolving engineering problems that may involve research, experimentation, creativity and the acquisition and utilisation of new engineering skills. Well bounded and defined problems within well understood constraints will allow you to develop confidence in resolving problems where there may be several factors to consider. It is expected that there will be a limited range of solutions that might be considered appropriate based upon engineering judgement and perception associated with the topic. Problems will span a range of engineering subjects to help you in making decisions towards your future degree programme.
More informationKB3019 -
Analytical Skills in Problem Solving (Core,20 Credits)
You will build upon your knowledge and understanding of a range of mathematical tools and techniques that you can apply to a wide variety of engineering activities. You will learn to apply and manipulate formulae so that you can apply these skills within the engineering disciplines. You will enhance your appreciation of techniques in algebra and trigonometry, such as those used by engineers to determine the shape, size, slope, mass, etc., of objects and spaces as well as when and how objects will move or interact. You will apply these techniques to determine the unknown components in systems such as mechanical, fluid and thermal transfer and flow systems, which are also applied to the solution of design problems such as those involving force, motion and electrical power. You will further develop foundations in the skills required to apply these techniques using software tools as you progress towards complex engineering activities and prepare for entering an engineering degree programme.
More informationKB3020 -
Engineering Systems (Core,20 Credits)
You will learn to use a range of engineering systems and approaches to develop a holistic approach to tackling different engineering challenges and how these can be utilised in different engineering environments. You will build upon and apply a range of basic principles and methodologies involving models of physical systems, matter, energy and waves, and forces and fields. You will learn to implement and interpret a range of experimental methods and practical exercises to validate predictions obtained through analytical and computational tools.
More informationKB3021 -
Foundational Engineering Approaches 2 (Core,20 Credits)
The inclusion of this application focussed module in your studies will build on Foundational Engineering Approaches I by allowing you to expand the areas of investigation and further develop your problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills. Again, you will be presented with authentic engineering problems derived and adapted to give you opportunities to explore ways in which you would resolve such problems to produce appropriate engineering solutions and further develop professional knowledge. This module will, within the supportive environment offered by staff and your peers, allow you to develop your approach to resolving engineering problems that may involve research, experimentation, creativity and the acquisition and utilisation of new engineering skills. The incorporation of a limited degree of uncertainty in the problem definition will allow you to develop confidence in resolving problems where there may be incomplete information and several answers that might be considered appropriate based upon engineering judgement and perception associated with the problem. Problems will span a range of engineering subjects to help you in making decisions towards your future degree programme.
More informationModule information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.
KB3016 -
Engineering Numerical Skills (Core,20 Credits)
You will learn to use a range of mathematical tools and techniques that you can apply to a wide variety of engineering activities. These skills and practices also underpin more advanced engineering design and analysis tools, so gaining a good understanding of the basic principles now will help as your progress through this programme and enter the world of engineering. You will become familiar in working with formulae so that you can apply these skills within the engineering disciplines, for example, when investigating changes in processes and systems and when representing mechanical quantities. You will learn techniques in algebra and trigonometry, such as those used by engineers to determine the shape, size, slope, mass, etc., of objects and spaces as well as when and how objects will move or interact. These techniques are important to determine the unknown components in systems such as mechanical, fluid and thermal transfer and flow systems. These techniques are also applied to the solution of design problems such as those involving force, motion and electrical power.
More informationKB3017 -
Engineering Principles (Core,20 Credits)
You will learn to apply a range of basic principles and methodologies involving models of physical systems, matter, energy and waves, and forces and fields. You will be assisted in developing your understanding of measurement and error to test predictions against evidence using a range of experimental methods and practical exercises. Appropriate computational and analytical techniques will be applied to enable you to solve well-defined problems involving physical systems using standardised engineering approaches.
More informationKB3018 -
Foundational Engineering Approaches 1 (Core,20 Credits)
In this module you will be presented with authentic engineering problems derived and adapted to give you opportunities to explore ways in which you would resolve such problems to produce appropriate engineering solutions. This module will, within the supportive environment offered by staff and your peers, allow you to develop your approach to resolving engineering problems that may involve research, experimentation, creativity and the acquisition and utilisation of new engineering skills. Well bounded and defined problems within well understood constraints will allow you to develop confidence in resolving problems where there may be several factors to consider. It is expected that there will be a limited range of solutions that might be considered appropriate based upon engineering judgement and perception associated with the topic. Problems will span a range of engineering subjects to help you in making decisions towards your future degree programme.
More informationKB3019 -
Analytical Skills in Problem Solving (Core,20 Credits)
You will build upon your knowledge and understanding of a range of mathematical tools and techniques that you can apply to a wide variety of engineering activities. You will learn to apply and manipulate formulae so that you can apply these skills within the engineering disciplines. You will enhance your appreciation of techniques in algebra and trigonometry, such as those used by engineers to determine the shape, size, slope, mass, etc., of objects and spaces as well as when and how objects will move or interact. You will apply these techniques to determine the unknown components in systems such as mechanical, fluid and thermal transfer and flow systems, which are also applied to the solution of design problems such as those involving force, motion and electrical power. You will further develop foundations in the skills required to apply these techniques using software tools as you progress towards complex engineering activities and prepare for entering an engineering degree programme.
More informationKB3020 -
Engineering Systems (Core,20 Credits)
You will learn to use a range of engineering systems and approaches to develop a holistic approach to tackling different engineering challenges and how these can be utilised in different engineering environments. You will build upon and apply a range of basic principles and methodologies involving models of physical systems, matter, energy and waves, and forces and fields. You will learn to implement and interpret a range of experimental methods and practical exercises to validate predictions obtained through analytical and computational tools.
More informationKB3021 -
Foundational Engineering Approaches 2 (Core,20 Credits)
The inclusion of this application focussed module in your studies will build on Foundational Engineering Approaches I by allowing you to expand the areas of investigation and further develop your problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills. Again, you will be presented with authentic engineering problems derived and adapted to give you opportunities to explore ways in which you would resolve such problems to produce appropriate engineering solutions and further develop professional knowledge. This module will, within the supportive environment offered by staff and your peers, allow you to develop your approach to resolving engineering problems that may involve research, experimentation, creativity and the acquisition and utilisation of new engineering skills. The incorporation of a limited degree of uncertainty in the problem definition will allow you to develop confidence in resolving problems where there may be incomplete information and several answers that might be considered appropriate based upon engineering judgement and perception associated with the problem. Problems will span a range of engineering subjects to help you in making decisions towards your future degree programme.
More informationTo start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.
Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS
International applicants please apply using the links below
Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.
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