Automotive Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
HNC/HND courses
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If you have a passion for cars and enthusiasm for engineering and design, together with excellent maths and IT skills, then this course could help you make a real difference in this vital industry.  

Year of entry

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

BEng:
3 years full-time
4 years sandwich
MEng:
4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

Course code

H343 / H345

Start date

September 2023
January 2024

How to apply
Book an Open Day
Download a prospectus
Register for updates

Course overview

Successful graduates of Automotive Engineering should be able to apply their comprehensive understanding of vehicle engineering in a wide variety of roles in the automotive industry and beyond.  

  • Focusing on how engineering is used in automotive applications, this course provides you with the opportunity to qualify either at bachelor’s level or if you choose to follow the MEng pathway, at master’s degree level. The MEng route could be ideal for those seeking leadership positions in the development of new technologies and the design of future vehicles. 
  • This MEng/BEng in Automotive Engineering aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of automotive engineering and develop knowledge, skills and expertise that can be applied to the engineering sector.
  • The educational experience of the MEng route also aims to develop your intellectual and personal skills and to give you the capability to undertake a practical research study and the opportunity to publish results. 
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Global Ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

  • Opportunity to participate in field trips2.
  • On and off-site access to commercial engineering software, such as 3D CAD, Finite Element Analysis, Computational Fluid Dynamics and Multibody Systems for design and simulation, as well as the opportunity for training in industry-standard software4.
  • You will be taught by current academics with wide-ranging experience in the automotive fields. Our current academics are actively involved in commercial and academic research, whose expertise could further enrich your learning and enhance your understanding of the challenges facing engineers today. (Please note that staff subject to change)
  • You will benefit from access to modern facilities4 and our current strong links with local industry, which aim to help ensure our course reflects current thinking, the latest technologies, design systems and testing processes.  
  • With current extensive links to well-known automotive companies like Jaguar Land Rover and Lotus, Coventry University has a long and prestigious automotive, transport and engineering heritage.   

Accreditation

These degrees are accredited by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) up to and including the 2025 intakes under licence from the UK regulator, the Engineering Council. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). An accredited degree will provide you with some or all of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng). Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords. 

Institution of Mechanical Engineers

Students completing an IMechE accredited degree are deemed to have met part or all of the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered or Incorporated Engineer, and are in a strong position to move on to achieve professional engineering status after a period of initial professional development in industry.

The accredited BEng (Hons) will meet, in part, the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer and students will need to complete an approved format of further learning pursuant to the requirements of UK-SPEC.

The accredited BEng (Hons) will also automatically meet in full, the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements for registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng).

The accredited MEng fully meets the exemplifying academic benchmark requirements, for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

IMechE Membership Partner

We are a Membership Partner with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

Working in collaboration with the IMechE we aim to ensure our engineers and technical teams meet industry-recognised standards of engineering excellence.

We are committed to the professional development of everyone within our organisation, and recognise that professional registration and recognition are crucial in helping our employees and business grow and excel.

What you'll study

This course has a common first year

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field. 

We want your degree to fit around you, so upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).  

Common first year courses

  • Automotive Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons)
  • Mechanical Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons)
  • Motorsport Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons) 

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field. 

Modules

  • This module aims to provide the essential and fundamental knowledge of mechanical science needed by all engineering students, whilst laying the necessary foundation for more advanced mechanical engineering studies. 

    Compulsory

  • This module is designed to provide an integrated introduction to engineering materials and manufacturing processes. Common processes will be analysed which are used to convert materials into all types of engineering products from a variety of industrial sectors such as aerospace, automotive and electronics. It covers the four main classes of engineering materials: polymers, metals, ceramics and composites. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to present a structured approach to the design process, design management, and creative problem solving, leading to the output of a feasible and well-engineered solution with use of industry-standard modelling techniques, processes and software. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop a practical understanding of engineering products, components and systems, and of the processes of bringing them into being, including design, analysis, materials and manufacture and awareness of industry and society. It will involve experimental methods and the application of information technology. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to further develop your competence in mathematical methods relevant to engineering whilst at the same time emphasising fundamental concepts which the engineer needs to understand in order to produce a mathematical formulation of a problem. You will learn to analyse problems using appropriate mathematical techniques carrying out the manipulation yourself using modern mathematical software. 

    Compulsory

  • The module introduces the basic concepts and principles used in electrical and electronic engineering. Learning is enhanced using computer circuit simulation and basic programming. The module will cover fundamental DC and AC circuit analysis, energy storage components, magnetic circuits and their applications, basic digital logic and power generation methodologies. 

    Compulsory

In year two, you will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with design and sustainability, thermofluid mechanics, and analytical modelling, amongst others. 

Modules

  • The aim of this module is to familiarise you with the details of vehicle technology and to introduce a range of physical and virtual experimental methods as used in Automotive or Motorsport applications. You will study a range of vehicle technologies and typical experimental methods, develop your own development project proposal and conduct a relevant basic experiment. 

    Compulsory

  • The module aims to develop several key capabilities required in the mechanical/automotive product innovation process. Specifically, these include creativity, management, experimental methods, analysis and synthesis, and the application of information technology tools. The aim will be met by tackling product innovation projects, the scale of which will increase through the year. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to build upon the basic principles covered in mechanical science and to broaden your knowledge and understanding of rigid body mechanics, dynamics and stress analysis. It should teach you to correctly apply solid mechanics and dynamics theory to design problems by means of practical examples. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to understand specific thermodynamic and fluid mechanics principles that are required within Engineering. The module will allow you to explore the first and second laws of thermodynamics that are applied to analyse closed and open systems. 

    Compulsory

  • This module provides you with a range of analytical tools that are essential for solving modern engineering problems. You will be introduced to techniques in order to formulate and analyse practical problems and apply these skills to real-world applications. 

    Compulsory

  • The module aims to develop your holistic knowledge and understanding of engineering management. It will enable you to apply theory, exercise judgement, utilise relevant analytical tools and techniques and work in project teams to solve a range of engineering management problems. 

    Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future. 

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3 of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time, you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.  

Modules

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes. 

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes. 

    Optional

Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from previous years. You will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with automotive product innovation, electrical vehicles, and material analysis, amongst others. 

Modules

  • Professional Development and Project Planning – 20 credits 
    This module aims to equip you with the generic skills and knowledge to contribute effectively in your professional career. You should gain an understanding of project- based planning and delivery, sustainability and the environment, ethical practice and professionalism, as well as an appreciation of how your chosen specialism might fit into the overall context of engineering and the wider social, legal and physical environments.

    Individual Project – 20 credits
    The individual final year project is an important part of any engineering course. The general aims of the project are:

    1. To give you a realistic exercise in the practice of engineering at a professional level.
    2. To be a vehicle for integrating the knowledge gained in several subject areas of the degree course.
    3. To allow you to develop personal qualities such as initiative, imagination, creativity, communication, organisation, employ IT effectively and solve non-routine problems.

    Automotive Product Innovation – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to develop and demonstrate your capability in undertaking a complete automotive product innovation process, working as a member of a team. This will progress from a clear definition of need to concept generation that will include a review of available technologies and a selection of the most appropriate. Issues of detailed embodiment design and of implementation in the marketplace will be covered, as will commercial viability.

    Automotive Powertrain – 20 credits 
    The aim of the module is to give a thorough understanding of powertrain systems in the automotive domain. The topics will focus on the different propulsion and drivetrain systems in use, the energy management and control strategy theories. You will study the four-stroke engine covering the essential areas and combustion models (Wiebe Models). Drivetrain and control systems will also be introduced.

    Automotive Vehicle Dynamics and Aerodynamics – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to cover the underlying principles governing the flow behaviour associated with ground vehicles aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics. 

    Compulsory

  • Choose one from the following five:

    Finite Element Analysis and Vehicle Structures – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to introduce you to the concept of vehicle safety, including its place within the vehicle design process and occupant injury processing. You will be exposed to the latest rules and legislations, as well as an introduction to impact modelling.

    Vehicle Refinement, Durability and Reliability – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to evaluate the vehicle structure to assess its static and dynamic properties in relation to vehicle refinement, durability and reliability. Making sure the vehicle and its systems are fit for purpose is critical in the design process to ensure the vehicle will be successful in the market. This includes customer expectations and requirements for how they feel in the car, how it operates and how long for.

    Computational Thermofluids – 20 credits 
    In this module, you will apply reasonable assumptions and boundary conditions to simplify the differential equations governing the heat transfer and fluid flow phenomena to develop analytical solutions to thermofluid problems. The concept and use of computational thermofluid mechanics as numerical and validation techniques to solve more complex thermofluid problems are introduced.

    Materials Analysis and Advanced Manufacturing – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to further develop an understanding of materials and manufacturing technology and its application in the design and analysis of products for the automotive and aerospace industrial sectors. Particular emphasis is placed on advanced techniques in the manufacture of engineering components and supporting material properties that facilitate bespoke fabrication.

    Electric Vehicle and Future Transport – 20 credits 
    This module aims to introduce an understanding of the safety, design and operation principles of the powertrain technology of electric vehicles, with the overall purpose of enabling an understanding of the necessity for cross-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary working practices to successfully and sustainably design and engineer electric vehicles of the future. 

    Optional

  • Engineering Strategy and Professional Practice – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to prepare you for the essential skills and knowledge required for professional registration and practice. The module will introduce you to key competencies required for your professional career.

    Individual Project Proposal – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to equip you with the core research skills needed to effectively plan an engineering project. You learn and put into practice the skills involved to undertake a major research project. Working within an intellectual and ethical engineering framework, you will seek to learn how to identify a chosen specialism and research area, how to define a novel problem and how to identify the steps to solve this using suitable Engineering tools.

    Individual Project Dissertation – 20 credits 
    The individual final-year project is an important part of any engineering course. The general aims of the project are:

    1. To give you a realistic exercise in the practice of engineering at a professional level.
    2. To be a vehicle for integrating the knowledge gained in several subject areas of the degree course and critically evaluate the impact on your investigations.
    3. To allow you to develop your personal qualities such as initiative, imagination, creativity, communication and organisation.

    Further Automotive Powertrain – 20 credits 
    This module aims to give a thorough understanding of powertrain systems in the Automotive domain. Different propulsion and drivetrain systems in use, the energy management and control strategy theories will be covered in the module. You will study the four-stroke engine covering the essential areas and combustion models (Wiebe Models). Drivetrain will be introduced and control systems will be expanded upon. They will use a selection of industry-standard software systems (GTPower and MATLAB Simulink) to enhance your understanding of the further performance criteria.

    Automotive Vehicle Dynamics and Aerodynamics – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to cover the underlying principles governing the flow behaviour associated with ground vehicles aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics. 

    Compulsory

  • Choose one from the following five modules

    Finite Element Analysis and Vehicle Structures – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to introduce you to the concept of vehicle safety, including its place within the vehicle design process and occupant injury processing. You will be exposed to the latest rules and legislations, as well as an introduction to impact modelling.

    Vehicle Refinement, Durability and Reliability – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to evaluate the vehicle structure to assess its static and dynamic properties in relation to vehicle refinement, durability and reliability. Making sure the vehicle and its systems are fit for purpose is critical in the design process to ensure the vehicle will be successful in the market. This includes customer expectations and requirements for how they feel in the car, how it operates and how long for.

    Computational Thermofluids – 20 credits 
    In this module, you will apply reasonable assumptions and boundary conditions to simplify the differential equations governing the heat transfer and fluid flow phenomena to develop analytical solutions to thermofluid problems. The concept and use of computational thermofluid mechanics as numerical and validation techniques to solve more complex thermofluid problems are introduced.

    Materials Analysis and Advanced Manufacturing – 20 credits 
    The aim of this module is to further develop an understanding of materials and manufacturing technology and its application in the design and analysis of products for the automotive and aerospace industrial sectors. Particular emphasis is placed on advanced techniques in the manufacture of engineering components and supporting material properties that facilitate bespoke fabrication.

    Electric Vehicle and Future Transport – 20 credits 
    This module aims to introduce an understanding of the safety, design and operation principles of the powertrain technology of electric vehicles, with the overall purpose of enabling an understanding of the necessity for cross-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary working practices to successfully and sustainably design and engineer electric vehicles of the future. 

    Optional

The fourth year allows you to build on your knowledge and experience and study subjects in more depth.

Modules

  • The aim of this module is for you, working in a group, to formulate a project proposal based on the research and/or development of an innovative design for a product, system, component or process that will fulfil new needs. In doing so, you will need to assess current industry practice, review background literature, formulate an appropriate approach, evaluate and mitigate risk, and establish the proposed work scope and deliverables. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is for you to work in a group, and in conjunction with industry, to demonstrate an ability to conduct research and/or development of an innovative design for a product, system, component or process that will fulfil new needs. 

    Compulsory

  • This module is designed to provide you with the ability to develop and implement business innovation practices within the appropriate frameworks to comply with current and future requirements for sustainability. You will be introduced to and develop a firm understanding of the theory, practices and importance of innovation in business organisations. 

    Compulsory

  • Choose one of the following pathways:

    Pathway 1 - Analysis

    • Engineering Simulation and Analysis – 20 credits 
      The aim of this module is to develop a mathematical and practical understanding of the analytical techniques commonly used to evaluate and optimise engineering products, components and systems. A deep understanding of the role of Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) in particular, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in the engineering design and development processes will be developed through extensive practical application.
    • Structures, Safety and Impact Analysis – 20 credits
      The aim of this module is to develop a mathematical and analytical understanding of automotive crashworthiness simulation applied to full vehicles and components. The role of Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software in the engineering design and development processes will be explained from a mathematical perspective. 

    Pathway 2 - Dynamics

    • Vehicle Development and Analysis – 20 credits 
      The aim of this module is to develop your capability in the planning, management, running and data analysis of experimental methods that are commonly used throughout the automotive and motorsport industry. You will also study the management of experimental and developmental projects including time, costs, resources and facilities.
    • Advanced Ground Vehicle Dynamics and Aerodynamics – 20 credits 
      The aim of this module is to build on previous knowledge gained in previous years. This will be achieved through advanced simulation and analysis built on data from practical tests in the labs to validate models, prove fidelity and understand where compromise in design is needed to ensure design targets are met for a range of different applications. 

    Pathway 3 - Powertrain

    • Vehicle Development and Analysis – 20 credits 
      The aim of this module is to develop your capability in the planning, management, running and data analysis of experimental methods that are commonly used throughout the automotive and motorsport industry. You will also study the management of experimental and developmental projects including time, costs, resources and facilities.
    • Advanced Powertrain – 20 credits 
      The aim of this module is to critically analyse the major aspects of different motorsport propulsion and drivetrain systems. You will extend your knowledge of control and powertrain systems into the areas of engine performance and its relation to engine sizing and transmission. 

    Optional

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Our innovative ‘Activity-Led Learning’ (ALL) approach means you will be given opportunities to work with staff on real-world problems from industry (subject to availability), commerce and research groups, as you would in professional practice.

This provides you with an opportunity to develop professional skills at the same time as learning the technical content of your degree.

Practical project work may, for example, involve manufacturing prototypes with 3D printing, reverse engineering of current and past products to produce 3d scanning to create engineering data and geometry to create design models, which can then be used through CAM software to generate CNC machining programs, ready to produce physical products4. 

Teaching contact hours

We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which includes: 

  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops 
  • Group work 
  • Self-directed learning 
  • Work placement opportunities2.

If you would like more information, you can request information about teaching hours.

Part of university life is undertaking self-directed learning. During a typical week you will have time that allows you to work independently to apply the skills and knowledge you have learnt in taught or facilitated sessions to your projects or assignment briefs.  This self-directed learning allows you to use your research skills, consolidate your knowledge or undertake collaborative group work. 

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to COVID-19, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/24 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety. 

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods include:

  • Individual coursework
  • Group coursework
  • Exams
  • Tests
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Vivas
  • Core assessments (these are pass/fail and can be attempted multiple times)

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.  

International experience opportunities

The university is committed to providing a global educational experience2. We aim to invite international guest speakers (subject to availability). 

We also provide opportunities to participate in field trips. 

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
A Level BEng (Hons): BBB including Mathematics and one from Physics, Chemistry, Design Technology, Biology, Further Mathematics, Electronics, Engineering or BTec Certificate in Engineering. Excludes General Studies 
MEng: ABB including Mathematics and one from Physics, Chemistry, Design Technology, Biology, Further Mathematics, Electronics, Engineering or BTec Certificate in Engineering. Excludes General Studies 
BTEC BEng (Hons): DDM in Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or similar, to include a Distinction in the 'Further Engineering Mathematics' unit 28 or 8 or Calculus To Solve Engineering Problems Unit 7. Does not include BTecs with maintenance or technology in the title
or DM in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Engineering plus Grade B from one A level from Mathematics and Physics
MEng: D*DD in Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or similar, to include a Distinction in the 'Further Engineering Mathematics' unit 28 or 8 or Calculus To Solve Engineering Problems Unit 7. Does not include BTecs with maintenance or technology in the title
or DM in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Engineering plus Grade B from one A level from Mathematics and Physics
IB BEng (Hons): Overall pass in IB including at least 15 points from three HL subjects one of which must be Maths with a minimum of 5 points 
MEng: Overall pass in IB including at least 16 points from three HL subjects one of which must be Maths with a minimum of 5 points 
Access to HE BEng (Hons): The Access to HE Diploma to include 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 15 Level 3 credits at Merit all to be in Mathematics or Physical Science units. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above 
MEng: Considered on an individual basis
GCSE requirement Minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 4 / C or above including English and Mathematics 

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international foundation year. Upon successful completion our International Foundation Year - Engineering will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each component area)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £9,250 per year Not available
International £19,850 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Optional international field trips: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad)

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

The engineering and computing buildings house an impressive range of industry-standard equipment. Home to flight and driving simulators, a chassis design assembly and test facility and wind tunnels, the High Performance Engineering Centre (HPEC) also houses a fleet of CNC manufacturing machines, a full-size vehicle shaker rig and a composite material laboratory4.

Cruden F1 simulator

Cruden F1 simulator

The simulator provides a realistic experience of working for a race team in a high pressured and realistic environment. The simulator includes the same software and calculations used by professional racing teams.

Metals Workshop

Metals Workshop

Participate in technical work in a hands-on way. The workshop includes lathes, milling machines, fabrication equipment for sheet metal work, CNC machines, work benches, welding lines and a fitting assembly area.

Wind Tunnel

Wind Tunnel

Built and tested by the Mercedes AMG PETRONAS Formula One team, our open jet single return wind tunnel has been designed to accommodate 20% scale open-wheel racing car models with a maximum air velocity of 45 m/s.

Careers and opportunities

Upon successful completion of the BEng (Hons) and MEng courses, you will be able to:

  • Apply the necessary study and research skills to support the analytical, critical and reflective requirements of written, oral and group assessments.
  • Contribute to a team with the necessary planning, reviewing, adaptability, drive and leadership to achieve the required objectives and observe work schedules.
  • Design, optimise and communicate the performance of a vehicle; though the application of vehicle systems knowledge to achieve the performance, safety, sustainability and cost requirements of the Automotive industry.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles, theories and practices found in engineering management and leadership, consultancy and entrepreneurship. 
  • Develop independent learning and problem-solving skills appropriate to current and future study and employment.
  • Apply engineering principles, science, mathematics, processes, materials, design and management to solve problems of increasing complexity.
  • Apply engineering analysis methods when solving complex problems and develop extended experience in solving problems related to a broad range of engineering systems and components.
  • Generate, and appropriately communicate, design solutions through the application and comprehensive understanding of the engineering design processes. 
  • Critically assess data and information using practical laboratory skills, experimentation and research, and establish the effect on design. 
  • Understand risk assessment and the need for professional and ethical conduct in commercial and social contexts, informed by a knowledge of sustainable development and the regulations/legislations governing engineering activities. 
  • Understand and evaluate a range of appropriate engineering materials, components and systems, identifying their limitations and likely developments. 

Additionally, upon successful completion of the MEng course, you will be able to:

  • Apply a comprehensive understanding of Automotive engineering principles together with a critical awareness of current issues at the forefront of the specialism.  
  • Apply and evaluate engineering analysis methods when solving complex problems and assess their limitations, especially when applied to new or unfamiliar technology. 
  • Generate and appraise innovative design solutions through the application and comprehensive understanding of the engineering design processes.  
  • Critically assess data and information that may be uncertain or incomplete and quantify the effect on design using practical laboratory skills and experimental research.  
  • Critically appraise management, business and ethical practice and their limitations informed by a knowledge of sustainable development, customer requirements and the regulations/legislations governing engineering activities in a commercial, social and international contexts.  
  • Critically evaluate a range of current and emerging engineering materials, components and systems, identifying their limitations and likely developments/adaptations together with commercial and industrial constraint. 

Industry-related projects completed during your studies should give you a feel of what the demands and expectations will be in the workplace, as well as supporting you to practice and apply your skills to real engineering projects.

You should also gain practical, hands-on experience in preparing, running and analysing results from experimental testing and numerical analysis. Past students have experienced projects with Honda, in new product introduction; Aston Martin, in special vehicle projects data acquisition; NP Aerospace, working on the new range of military vehicles; Eaton Trucks, in gearbox design; McLaren Automotive, in software test and evaluation; BMW, in-vehicle trim and materials; and Cummins Engines, on engine development and build.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and aim to give you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university’s Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career. 

Where our graduates work

Recent graduates have found graduate roles in companies including Jaguar Land Rover, Tata Technologies Lotus Cars, Mercedes F1, Aston Martin, BAE, Meggit, Arrrowsmith, Rolls Royce Aero, Quest, Triumph Motorbikes, Heathrow Airport, IATA Amongst others. 

Further study

You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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