Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is the broadest of the engineering disciplines, concerned with the design, analysis, manufacture and maintenance of physical systems that involve force, motion, energy and materials. From engines and turbines to robots, medical devices, manufacturing machinery and renewable energy systems, mechanical engineers apply the principles of physics, mathematics and materials science to create devices and systems that perform reliably and efficiently under real-world conditions. The discipline underpins virtually every area of industrial and technological activity.

At the University of the West of Scotland, this part-time programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad and a work placement, giving you extensive professional and international experience alongside your academic studies. You will develop expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, materials science, manufacturing processes, dynamics, control systems and engineering design, building both the theoretical foundations and the practical engineering skills that employers expect. The sandwich year and work placement give you experience in industrial or engineering environments, applying your learning and building professional understanding and networks.

The year abroad broadens your perspective on how engineering is practised in different national and cultural contexts.

Mechanical engineers are in demand across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy, defence, consumer products, marine engineering, construction machinery, medical devices and robotics. The versatility of the discipline means that mechanical engineering graduates are found in a wider range of sectors than almost any other engineering specialism. Many work towards chartered engineer status with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

Further study at master's level in mechanical engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, robotics or energy systems is available for those who want to specialise or pursue research careers.