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Engineering at UEA
Find out more about studying Engineering at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Engineering
- UCAS Course Code
- H11A
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Start Dates
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Course Overview
Why BEng Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad at UEA?
Turn your passion for engineering into real-world impact. Develop strong mechanical engineering skills through hands-on projects, practical design work, and industry-focused teaching.
Why choose UEA
- International experience: Study abroad, gaining global insight into mechanical engineering
- Project-based learning: Immerse yourself in Productivity East, exploring real-world challenges
- Career focused: Secure internships, placements, and career opportunities through UEA’s Select Partnership Scheme
What is BEng Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad?
BEng Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad prepares you to solve real-world challenges. This course combines a core mechanical engineering degree with an exciting year of international study.
You’ll develop analytical, design, and problem-solving skills built on core principles of mathematics and physics.
You’ll study key areas including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, dynamics, and materials science. The course combines theory with hands-on laboratory work and CAD-based design.
You’ll gain practical experience using industry-standard tools and engineering methods used by professional engineers.
In your third year, you’ll study at an approved overseas partner university. You’ll then return to UEA for a final year of advanced modules and an individual major project.
Graduates leave with strong mechanical engineering knowledge and a global professional outlook.
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Year Abroad
You’ll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our global partner universities, where your subject is taught in English. During this time, you’ll build valuable lifelong skills such as independence, confidence and adaptability. You’ll also gain international academic experience, broadening your engineering perspective. This experience strengthens your employability and prepares you for careers in multinational and internationally focused engineering industries.
Accreditations
Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer.
Careers
Career Pathways
As a UEA Mechanical Engineering graduate, you’ll enjoy excellent career prospects across a wide range of engineering industries. Our graduates go on to secure impactful roles designing, developing and improving the systems and technologies that power our modern world, such as:
- Graduate Mechanical Engineer: Support the design, analysis and testing of mechanical systems and components within multidisciplinary engineering teams
- Design Engineer: Develop mechanical designs using CAD and simulation tools to meet performance, safety and manufacturing requirements
- Manufacturing Engineer: Improve production processes, quality and efficiency within industrial manufacturing environments
- Energy Engineer: Work on mechanical systems supporting energy generation, efficiency and sustainability initiatives
- Engineering Technician or Technologist: Apply practical mechanical engineering skills in testing, maintenance and system implementation roles
Career Support
Throughout your studies, you’ll connect with industry partners who are invested in your success, supporting your personal development and helping you build the confidence to achieve your career ambitions. You’ll take part in our annual SELECT scheme, giving you the opportunity to network with industry professionals, showcase your abilities and strengthen your interview skills. Our partners understand the talent and potential UEA students bring and are committed to supporting your development.
You’ll also benefit from expert guidance through Career Central, UEA’s dedicated careers service, offering personalised advice, skills development and career support to help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
After the Course
Graduates go on to exciting careers across the mechanical engineering sector, working in industries such as manufacturing, energy, technology and infrastructure. Many begin their journey towards Incorporated Engineer status, with opportunities to progress to Chartered Engineer through further study and professional experience. Others continue into postgraduate study, research roles or specialist technical careers, building expertise in high-demand areas of engineering.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll learn about core engineering principles including fluids, thermodynamics, materials, electrical and electronics. You’ll collaborate in group activities with students in other engineering disciplines like energy, electrical and electronics. These activities will be delivered through active learning involving experimentation, laboratory work and regular group design exercises. In these design exercises, you’ll apply your problem-solving skills and engineering knowledge to real-world challenges and issues. You may have the opportunity to participate in an inter-university competition with Engineers Without Borders, where our students regularly excel.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
Building on your progress from the first year, you’ll deepen your study of mechanical engineering with advanced concepts like solid mechanics, fluid dynamics, vibration and heat transfer.
Your second-year engineering design project will allow you to flex your mechanical engineering skills in solving complex multidisciplinary problems. For example, you may take on the Design Challenge to design and build a movable device, with the ambition of participating in Design Challenge, a national championship run by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). You’ll also have the flexibility to choose additional modules on renewable energy, electrical power engineering and programming, depending on your interests.
At this point in your course, you may be eligible to transfer to our MEng Mechanical Engineering course, subject to your academic performance. This is an ideal route for anyone seeking Chartered Engineer status.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year at one of our partner universities abroad. You’ll choose modules that match your academic interests and goals, with at least two thirds in engineering and the remainder from subjects beyond engineering.
Your year abroad will give you the chance to connect with experts, academics and students from around the world while exploring the dynamic field of engineering. You’ll apply the knowledge and skills you’ve developed in a new cultural setting, gaining valuable international experience and lifelong skills.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll study advanced concepts of stress analysis, control systems, manufacturing technologies and Industry 4.0 principles. The pinnacle of your studies will be your individual project based on your specific interests and skills. This is a significant piece of research and could involve experimentation, computational/numerical modelling, practical prototyping and construction or circuit assembly. There may be opportunities to link your individual project to a real engineering challenge experienced in industry. For example, recent students have carried out projects on the applications of robotics in agriculture and health care, designing and developing vertical farms, geothermal energy systems optimisation and electric vehicle battery pack thermal management.
We emphasise employability across the years, embedding project management, teamworking, communication and other soft skills throughout our modules. This combination of soft skills, teaching excellence and commercial awareness means you’ll leave UEA ready to launch your career as a graduate mechanical engineer.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
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Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Teaching follows a progressive learning approach that builds your mechanical engineering knowledge, practical skills and professional capability.
You’ll learn through a mix of lectures, tutorials, laboratories and project-based activities that connect theory with real-world mechanical engineering applications. Along the way, you’ll develop strong analytical, design and problem-solving skills, as well as teamwork and communication.
Research-informed teaching and modern facilities support hands-on learning aligned with current engineering industry practice.
In year one, you’ll build a broad engineering foundation in mathematics, mechanics, materials and thermodynamics, supporting transition to university-level study.
In year two, you’ll deepen your mechanical engineering knowledge through design projects, laboratory work and applied modules in dynamics, structures and energy.
In year three, you’ll study mechanical engineering at an approved overseas partner university, gaining international experience.
In your final year, you’ll apply advanced mechanical engineering knowledge through specialist modules and complete an individual major engineering project.
Assessment
Assessment on this course is varied and linked to the programme’s learning outcomes. It measures your technical knowledge, practical skills and professional abilities.
You’ll complete a mix of exams, coursework, laboratory reports, design projects and presentations. Both ongoing and final assessments help you build your skills and show your progress.
Regular feedback helps you improve your work, develop independent learning skills and grow as a future engineer.
In year one, assessment helps you build confidence through coursework, laboratory reports and exams that test your understanding of core mechanical engineering principles.
In year two, assessment focuses more on applying your knowledge through problem-solving tasks, design projects and technical coursework that develop your analytical and practical skills.
In your third year, you’ll be assessed on a pass or fail basis in line with your host university’s requirements. Your results won’t contribute to your final degree classification, but if you do not pass, you may be transferred to the equivalent BEng programme without a year abroad.
In your final year, assessment centres on specialist coursework and your individual major project, where you’ll show your ability to work independently and apply professional mechanical engineering skills.
Overall, assessment is designed to help you progress from building core knowledge to demonstrating creativity, critical thinking and innovative problem-solving.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade 4 or grade C and Mathematics at minimum grade 5 or grade B.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Mathematics
Contextual offer: BBC including Mathematics
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM.
Contextual: DMM
Modules to include either Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Mathematics OR Maths for Engineering Technicians and Further Maths for Engineering Technicians. A Distinction will be required in both modules or A level Mathematics at Grade B. Contextual requirement grade C.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Mathematics
Contextual Offer: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits including 30 at Merit and Pass in 15 including 12 credits in Mathematics
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit. Accepted subjects: Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BEng Engineering with a Foundation Year
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches).
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2 and 3 subjects at H3 including Mathematics.
Scottish Highers
AAABB. Only accepted in combination with Scottish Advanced Higher Grade B in Mathematics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade 4 or grade C and Mathematics at minimum grade 5 or grade B.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Mathematics
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches)
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £29,300
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: