Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering BEng (Hons)
Understand the elements of successful engineering science, manufacturing and design to build smarter, faster, more efficient and more sustainable products.
Key information
UCAS code:
HH37
Accreditation:
This course is Accredited
Typical offer:
104-112 UCAS points from 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, to include a relevant subject
Showing content for section Overview
Overview
Create new products, or improve existing ones, that could change people's lives and transform the way businesses operate. Be at the forefront of designing and building products that are smarter, faster, more efficient and more sustainable for industries including healthcare, defence, transport and even aerospace.
On this BEng (Hons) Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering degree , you’ll learn the underlying elements of successful engineering science, manufacturing and design. You'll study solid mechanics and dynamics, and electrical and electronic principles, and specialise in more advanced subjects such as engineering programming and sustainable development.
You'll put everything you learn to practice using our industry-standard facilities, making sure you graduate with the skills you need to succeed in your career.
Course highlights
- Specialise in advanced subjects such as computer-aided design (CAD) engineering, sustainable product development and design for quality
- Put your skills to the test by building your own products in our manufacturing workshops
- Have to option to expand your learning and meet potential employers by completing your final-year project in industry
94%
of graduates in work or further study 15 months after this course
(HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22)
Top 30
for student satisfaction
(Times Higher Education, 2024)
Accreditation
This course is awarded the EUR-ACE (European Accredited Engineer) label. It is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and it meets in part the academic requirement for registration as Chartered Engineer (CEng).
I'm now a Chartered Engineer and FEANI European Engineer working internationally, potentially considering a further degree in Astronautic Engineering.
Contact information
Contact AdmissionsClearing is open
This course is available through Clearing.
How to apply for accommodation
We have a variety of accommodation options, including studios, en-suites, catered, self-catered and private rental options. See how our housing team can help you find a place to call home.
Clearing FAQs
To work out your UCAS points, use our UCAS Calculator to work out how many UCAS points you have.
The tariff calculator will allow you to see what grades you need to get into your preferred course at Portsmouth.
You can apply through Clearing if:
- You don't meet the conditions of your offer for your firm (first) or insurance (second) choice courses
- Your exam results are better than you expected and you want to change your course or university
- You don't hold any offers
- You've accepted an offer but changed your mind about the course you want to do
- You're applying for the first time after 30 June 2024
After we make you an offer we'll send you a confirmation email. This email will let you know what you need to do next and it will tell you what you need to provide us. In some instances we may ask you to send us copies of certificates or you may need to send us a portfolio.
If you've previously applied through UCAS you'll need to use your UCAS Hub to accept our offer by adding us as your Clearing choice.
If you're having issues, please contact us on +44 (0)23 9284 8090 or admissions@port.ac.uk
Once you've accepted your Clearing course offer, we'll be in touch with details of available accommodation in the area. This will include our latest hall availability and support to find local rented accommodation via portsmouthstudentpad.co.uk
See our accommodation page for more information.
No, it's not too late and you should make your application for student finance as soon as possible. You don't have to wait for your results. You can make your application now and just amend it when you know where you're going to be.
If you've already applied for your student loan, you'll need to log into your account and update details about your new course/university. If you haven't applied for your student loan yet, don't panic. Apply today – it only takes 30 minutes.
Find out more in our Student finance for Clearing guide.
If you're an EU or international student and you need a visa to study here, you need to start the process quickly as visas can take some time to come through. Get in touch with our visa support team if you have a question or problem.
See more on visa advice.
If you would like further information or guidance, please contact our international office or call our International Clearing Hotline on +44(0)23 9284 8785.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
Typical offers
- UCAS points - 104-112 points from 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, to include a relevant subject. (calculate your UCAS points)
- A levels - BBC-BCC, to include a relevant subject.
Relevant subjects: Further Mathematics; Mathematics; Statistics; Physics. - T-levels - Merit
Acceptable T Level Subjects: T Level in Construction: Design, Surveying and Planning, T Level in Building Services Engineering, T Level in Engineering and Manufacturing Design and Development, T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing, T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control - BTECs (Extended Diplomas) - DMM
- International Baccalaureate - 28-29
You may need to have studied specific subjects or GCSEs - see full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept.
English language requirements
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.
See alternative English language qualifications.
We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
We look at more than just your grades
While we consider your grades when making an offer, we also carefully look at your circumstances and other factors to assess your potential. These include whether you live and work in the region and your personal and family circumstances which we assess using established data.
If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to join this course after you successfully complete a foundation year.
Facilities
Manufacturing equipment
Use our computer aided design (CAD) and rapid prototyping suite, including various 3D printing systems for the creation of models for aesthetic, ergonomic and functional testing, including the assembly and integration of working prototypes.
Energy Systems Laboratory
Our energy systems lab includes heat pumps, two wind tunnels, solar thermal collector and several engines, student project test rigs and our Formula Student design and development area.
Metrology Laboratory
Put the science of measurement into practice with manual metrology equipment and a suite of Mitutoyo measuring machines including coordinate measuring machines, a contour and surface roughness measuring machine and 3D laser scanners.
Electron microscopy and microanalysis unit
Develop your practice in high-magnification imaging and analysis of natural and manufactured materials with microscopy, diffraction, laser-ablation and mass spectrometry equipment.
Harrison chose Portsmouth after experiencing the atmosphere and facilities at open days
"My favourite part of the course is design engineering, designing and making things, such as the plane launcher in the first year."
– Harrison Richmond, BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering and Manufacturing
Careers and opportunities
With experience, you can expect to get a salary from £25,000 to £35,000 as a mechanical engineer and up to £40,000 as a manufacturing engineer. But you could also apply your skills to any number of roles in industries such as aerospace, oil refinery, machinery manufacture and plastics. All engineering roles are listed in the UK Government’s 'skills shortage list' – which means engineers are currently in high demand.
Graduating with a degree in mechanical and manufacturing engineering gives you all the skills to work in areas such as:
- product design
- manufacturing and installation
- project management
- research development
Graduate destinations
Our graduates have worked for companies such as:
- McLaren Formula One
- Royal Navy
- Cobra Engineering
What jobs can you do with a mechanical and manufacturing degree?
Roles you could go onto include:
- engineering officer
- automotive mechanical engineer
- design engineering
Other graduates have continued their studies at postgraduate level or set up successful businesses with help and support from the University.
Ongoing career support – up to 5 years after you graduate
Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.
Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy to help you find your perfect role.
Placement year (optional)
Taking an optional placement year gives you the experience you need to increase your chances of landing your perfect role after graduation. You could work in a paid role in a professional organisation (our students earn an average salary of £19,000 during their placements) or set up your own business, giving you the chance to grow your professional network and enhance your CV.
We'll give you all the support you need to find a placement that prepares you for your career, and we'll continue to mentor you throughout your placement.
You could also choose to set up your own business, or take a voluntary placement.
Potential roles
Previous students have been successful in roles such as:
- research development intern
- product engineering intern
- plastic injection moulding intern
Potential destinations
They've worked at exciting companies, including:
- Dyson
- Caterpillar
- Moog
Design and build a single-seater racing car to be judged and raced at Silverstone
If you're keen to put your studies into practice, you can apply to be involved in the international Formula Student competition. You'll compete with over 100 teams worldwide to design, build and race a single seater race car and be judged by leading industry experts from motorsports.
Modules
Each module on this course is worth a certain number of credits.
In each year, you need to study modules worth a total of 120 credits. For example, four modules worth 20 credits and one module worth 40 credits.
What you'll study
You'll model and analyse simple circuits, explain device operation and electromagnetism, and apply basic logic elements. When you complete the module, you'll have crucial interdisciplinary knowledge at the intersection of key engineering fields.
You will develop British Standards compliant skills in hand drafting and computer aided design (CAD) in this module. Through your design practice, you'll produce sketches and assembly drawings that communicate technical information clearly and accurately, and demonstrate the professional use of design tools to plan, build, and test a model or prototype.
You'll learn about material classification, properties, testing and selection for different applications. You'll also cover the capabilities, limitations and uses of manufacturing technologies. When you complete the module, you'll be able to show essential skills in materials science and manufacturing careers.
You'll formulate equations and models for engineering problems, and apply them to solve practical problems in stress, load balancing, and more.
You'll approach practical engineering scenarios, using concepts and calculations from thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. On completion, you'll be set for further study in the modelling and optimisation of pumps, turbines, engines, and other key equipment.
In this module, you'll learn mathematical techniques that you can use for intricate engineering problems.
Over a full year, you'll work through topics including algebra, calculus, matrices and complex numbers, learning to recognise when an engineering problem calls for a given method.
You'll also learn efficient strategies for breaking down and solving multifaceted problems, applicable in both mathematical and engineering activity.
Core modules
In this module, you'll build your confidence in using computers for engineering activity, learning about their capabilities and limitations by producing components. You'll create and evaluate designs, demonstrate injection moulding processes, and use cross-disciplinary knowledge of economics, mathematics and science to inform your analysis of engineering solutions.
In this module, you'll define open-ended problems with product design specifications, then apply problem-solving techniques and knowledge of standard components to create and present a design solution. You'll learn about sources of design information, the effective use of engineering components, and how to size features for creative engineering solutions.
You'll expand on your understanding of the second law of thermodynamics in this module, and learn to apply analytical and semi-empirical methods to practical thermofluid processes. Then you'll flex your problem-solving skills as you appraise issues in combustion, fluid flow, heat transfer and energy conversion.
Through stress analysis, kinematics, vibration theory and more, you'll evaluate complex structures and mechanisms in an engineering context. You'll pair this with study of problem-solving, numeracy and communication skills, building your readiness for mechanical engineering careers.
Optional modules
In this module, you'll use MATLAB to model physical processes and apply mathematical techniques. You'll also learn to formulate algorithms, and to recognise, define and apply functions. On completion of the module, you'll be ready to demonstrate the crucial analytical and computational skills for solving complex engineering problems.
You can learn programming from scratch on this module, picking up programming techniques and ways of using algorithms, data structures and graphical interfaces. You'll work with Visual Basic and embedded systems languages, using them to analyse and solve problems with code. Completing this module means you'll have the core skills for programming in engineering careers.
In this module, you'll evaluate metals, polymers, ceramics and composites, and how to use them in mechanical manufacturing applications. Looking at the composition and properties of these materials, you'll identify their capabilities and limitations, and make recommendations of optimal materials for processing techniques. You'll also apply scientific, technological and engineering principles to address problems in next-generation fabrication designs.
You will gain an understanding and demonstrate building theory and higher-level automated system concepts. You will bring technologies together into practical projects and evaluate solutions across functionality, impacts, sustainability, legislation and ethics.
You’ll apply robotics theory, understand and apply automation concepts, demonstrate integrated technologies, and evaluate developed solutions.
Core modules
Working independently, with guidance from your supervisor, you'll hone your project management abilities while analysing problems, producing solutions, and reflecting on your work through reports and presentations. On completion, you'll be able to demonstrate your professional capabilities in handling complex problems and technical uncertainty.
In this module, you'll explore the vital role Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) plays in modern engineering design and product realization. You'll apply modelling and simulation for manufacture in an integrated CAD/CAM environment, and analyse the use of integrated CAD/CAM/CAE software in engineering design and manufacture.
In this module, you'll consider national and international responses to global environmental issues, using perspectives drawn from risk management, life-cycle analysis and security frameworks. You'll appraise materials and processes, technical innovations and ethical behaviour, in preparation for careers that can drive positive change.
In this module, you'll evaluate and apply proven industry approaches for optimising manufacturability, conforming to standards, and reducing defects. You'll see how engineers can influence quality at the design stage, meet external codes and standards, and manage tools for quality control. On completion, you'll have developed your understanding of how to engineer high-quality products at scale.
In this module, you'll compare technologies, propose designs and improvements for existing systems, and learn to apply these for economic and ecological benefit. You'll tackle topics like quantitative analysis, reliability optimisation and structured design, developing your expertise in using traditional techniques and emerging developments to meet real-world manufacturing challenges.
After your second or third year, you can do an optional work placement year to get valuable longer-term work experience in the industry.
Previous students have been on placements to companies such as:
- Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
- Renishaw
- Eaton
In your placement year, you can also set up a business on your own or in a group.
We’ll help you secure a work placement that fits your aspirations. You’ll get mentoring and support throughout the year.
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Fluid dynamics in a kingfisher's beak
See Alex de Castro explain the morphology of the kingfisher's beak in a final year project
To start off, there's a little thing called biomimicry.
It's the idea that we can look at nature to better inspire engineering and anything else.
The Shinkansen Bullet Train in Japan is one of the most famous cases of that.
The lead designer was birdwatching and saw a Kingfisher dive into the water and that gave him inspiration for the trains design.
I've got some 3D scans, amazingly, given by the Natural History Museum in London.
I've converted them into usable files and done some fluid dynamics simulation, hoping to find what secrets the beak may have.
The funny thing is the beak's not that special.
I've definitely learnt his inspiration was from the dive rather than the beak itself.
There's loads of challenges getting to this point.
A lot of the software I've been unfamiliar with.
So the first thing was learning multiple 3D modelling software as well as Star-CCM for the fluid dynamics itself.
My supervisor has been a great help the entire time and he was able to give me a bunch of inspiration.
Other than that, it's been a pretty seamless process, but a lot of learning, a lot of self-directed learning.
The campus has been lovely and just the general vibe, it's been very friendly, it feels very familiar and a great continuation for myself.
I enjoyed my course, particularly the project based learning, which allowed practical work to be carried out alongside the theory.
Teaching
Teaching methods on this course include:
- lectures
- seminars
- tutorials
- laboratory and project work
- Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) system activity
- independent study
Term dates
The academic year runs from September to June. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter.
How you're assessed
You’ll be assessed through:
- examinations
- written coursework
- multiple-choice tests
- presentations
- mini projects
- a major piece of supervised independent work
You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.
You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.
Supporting you
The amount of timetabled teaching you'll get on your degree might be less than what you're used to at school or college, but you'll also get support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:
Types of support
Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.
As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.
You'll have help from a team of faculty learning support tutors. They can help you improve and develop your academic skills and support you in any area of your study in one-on-one and group sessions.
They can help you:
- master the mathematics skills you need to excel on your course
- understand engineering principles and how to apply them in any engineering discipline
- solve computing problems relevant to your course
- develop your knowledge of computer programming concepts and methods relevant to your course
- understand and use assignment feedback
All our labs and practical spaces are staffed by qualified laboratory support staff. They’ll support you in scheduled lab sessions and can give you one-to-one help when you do practical research projects.
During term time, Faculty Academic Skills Tutors (AST) are available for bookable 1-to-1 sessions, small group sessions and online sessions. These sessions are tailored to your needs.
Support is available for skills including:
- University study
- Getting into the right study mindset
- Note-taking and note-making skills
- Referencing
- Presentation skills
- Time management, planning, and goal setting
- Critical thinking
- Avoiding plagiarism
If you have a disability or need extra support, the Additional Support and Disability Centre (ASDAC) will give you help, support and advice.
Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.
You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.
If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.
They'll help you to
- discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
- liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
- access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
- liaise with external services
Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.
The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.
The Maths Cafe offers advice and assistance with mathematical skills in a friendly, informal environment. You can come to our daily drop-in sessions, develop your mathematics skills at a workshop or use our online resources.
If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.
Costs and funding
Tuition fees
- UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,535 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- EU students – £9,535 a year (including Transition Scholarship - may be subject to annual increase)
- International (non-EU) students – £19,200 per year (subject to annual increase)
Funding your studies
Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.
Additional course costs
These course-related costs aren’t included in the tuition fees. So you’ll need to budget for them when you plan your spending.
Additional costs
Our accommodation section show your accommodation options and highlight how much it costs to live in Portsmouth.
You’ll study up to 6 modules a year. You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module.
You can borrow most of these from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.
We recommend that you budget £75 a year for photocopying, memory sticks, DVDs and CDs, printing charges, binding and specialist printing.
If your final year includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
There may be occasional trips for which you will be asked to contribute £25 a trip.
If you take a placement year or study abroad year, tuition fees for that year are as follows:
- UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £1,430 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
- EU students – £1,430 a year, including Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
- International students – £2,875 a year (subject to annual increase)
Apply
Ready to apply?
To start this course in 2025, apply through UCAS. You'll need:
- the UCAS course code – HH37
- our institution code – P80
If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form.
You can also sign up to an Open Day to:
- Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
- Speak with lecturers and chat with our students
- Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join
If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.
Applying from outside the UK
As an international student you'll apply using the same process as UK students, but you’ll need to consider a few extra things.
You can get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region.
Find out what additional information you need in our international students section.
If you don't meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.