Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering is one of the broadest and most fundamental engineering disciplines, concerned with the design, construction, and operation of machines and mechanical systems. It encompasses thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, dynamics, manufacturing processes, and control engineering, providing graduates with the analytical and practical skills needed to work on everything from power generation and industrial machinery to precision instruments and sustainable energy systems. Mechanical engineers are found in virtually every sector of the economy where physical systems need to be designed, built, or maintained.

At the University of Northumbria at Newcastle, this four-year, full-time Extended Degree includes a sandwich year and a year abroad, as well as work placement opportunities. The extended degree is designed to build your confidence and skills base from a solid foundation, developing both the technical knowledge and the broader contextual understanding needed to practise engineering effectively. You will develop an awareness of engineering in its wider social, ethical, sustainable, and economic contexts, ensuring that your technical training is embedded in the professional and societal responsibilities that engineers carry.

The sandwich year and year abroad give you substantial professional and international experience, while placements connect your academic learning to real engineering practice.

Graduates of Mechanical Engineering from Northumbria work across manufacturing, energy, aerospace, automotive, marine, and defence, as well as in consultancy, project management, and public sector engineering roles. Chartered engineering status through the Institution of Mechanical Engineers is a recognised professional development pathway, and the programme's educational foundation supports progression to engineering management roles. Postgraduate study in specialist areas of mechanical engineering is also an option for those seeking deeper technical expertise.