BEng ENGINEERING WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR

MTHB3001A  (20 Credits)

Taught by lectures and seminars to bring students from Maths GCSE towards A-level standard, this module covers several algebraic topics including functions, polynomials and quadratic equations. Trigonometry is approached both geometrically up to Sine and Cosine Rule and as a collection of waves and other functions. The main new topic is Differential Calculus including the Product and Chain Rules. We will also introduce Integral Calculus and apply it to areas. Students should have a strong understanding of GCSE Mathematics.

MTHB3002B  (20 Credits)

Following MTHB3001A (Basic Mathematics I), this module brings students up to the standard needed to begin year one of a range of degree courses. The first half covers Integral Calculus including Integration by Parts and Substitution. Trigonometric identities, polynomial expressions, partial fractions and exponential functions are explored, all with the object of integrating a wider range of functions. The second half of the module is split into two: Complex Numbers and Vectors. We will meet and use the imaginary number i (the square root of negative one), represent it on a diagram, solve equations using it and link it to trigonometry and exponential functions. Strange but true: imaginary numbers are useful in the real world. The last section is practical rather than abstract too; we will be looking at three dimensional position and movement and solving geometric problems through vector techniques.

PHY-3011A  (20 Credits)

In this module you will begin your physics journey with units, accuracy and measurement. You will then progress through the topics of waves, light and sound, forces and dynamics, energy, materials and finish by studying aspects of electricity. The module has a piece of coursework which is based around PV cell technology.

ENG-3001Y  (20 Credits)

This module will support the students’ skill transition into the first year of the full Engineering degree. This will involve considerations of numerical engineering problems and teamworking skills to develop and secure resilience in the delivery of engineering projects.

CMP-3006B  (20 Credits)

This module follows on from Foundations of Computing 1. You will learn about a further range of topics that are fundamental to computing science. You will study areas such as database design, accessing databases via dynamic websites, an introduction to machine code, machine learning and an introduction to higher level languages.

MTHB3003B  (20 Credits)

This module extends material beyond Basic Mathematics I and Basic Mathematics II, and takes the most useful topics from the equivalent of the Further Maths A-level syllabus: - Simple common sets. - Notions of mathematical rigour and proof by induction. - Ideas of function such as f(x)=(ax+b)/(cx+d) for curve sketching, including identifying asymptotes. - Trigonometric functions and corresponding identities, including graph sketching aided by the derivative as the slope of a curve. - The hyperbolic functions sinhx, coshx and tanhx. - The Maclaurin Series Expansions. - Matrices and determinants (2x2 and 3x3) and their link with vector-cross-product. Examples of matrix-transformations of the plane and of space. - Separable variable first-order differential equations for modelling the motion of objects (once Integration has been covered in Basic Mathematics II). E.g. a car decelerating within a specified breaking distance; a body falling with air-resistance. All this has proved to set up students well for what follows in the degree course.

PHY-3010B  (20 Credits)

This module follows on from Introductory Physics and continues to introduce you to the fundamental principles of physics and uses them to explain a variety of physical phenomena. You will study gravitational, electric and magnetic fields, radioactivity and energy levels. There is some coursework based around the discharge of capacitors. The module finishes with you studying some aspects of thermal physics, conservation of momentum and simple harmonic motion.

This Foundation Year Programme develops your knowledge of physics and mathematics before you commence our full degree. This will enable you to feel sure of your academic foundations and prepare you to pursue the higher level learning you need to fulfil your future aspirations. 

During your Foundation Year, you’ll study mandatory modules in physics and mathematics, and optional modules in computing, chemistry or further physics. You’ll be assigned an engineering adviser from the School of Engineering, who will guide you in your course choices and ensure that you are progressing towards your degree course of choice. Where possible, this adviser will remain with you throughout your 

You’ll gain credits for each of your Foundation Year modules, based on a mixture of coursework and examination results. Obtain sufficient credits and you’ll be able to join our general engineering programme, or you may wish to apply to one of our more specialist pathways in energy, mechanical, or electronic and electrical engineering. 

Throughout your degree, our modules will help you develop transferable skills in the areas of communication, team working and problem solving. Such skills are vital to engineers and demanded by employers. 

For the years of study after the Foundation Year, please see the full BEng Engineering course. 

Your Engineering degree course will combine lectures, workshops and tutorials. You’ll be asked to apply the knowledge gained to a research problem or a series of questions, or to solve a design problem. This application of knowledge will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the material and help you to retain what you have learnt. 

Throughout your studies, you’ll develop skill sets in line with the guidance provided by the Engineering Council. That means you’ll graduate with the capabilities you need to get your career off to a flying start, including being an effective communicator, digitally literate, and capable of dealing with problems where you have insufficient data. 

You’ll develop your communication skills through written reports, oral presentations and workshop discussions. And workshops will also give you time to develop digital skillsets in computer analysis and design. 

What’s more, we’ll provide you with multiple opportunities to connect with industry. You’ll also be encouraged to develop your networking abilities and to optimise your exposure to our industrial contacts. 

By combining excellence in teaching with industrial connections, we aim to secure your success as you progress through your programme and beyond. 

Independent study 

Independent study will be guided by the requirements of your research projects, design work and problem-solving exercises. You can expect to explore your module content widely, through which you will develop the independent learning skills so highly valued by employers. 

Your initial foundation year assessment focuses on the acquisition of mathematical skills to support your entry into the first year of the degree. Regular testing will enable you to track your progress through the year.