Automotive Engineering (with Foundation Year)

Why choose this course?
This honours degree has been designed for the automotive industry in response to the shortfall of mechanical engineers. It is for those who have a strong interest in mechanical engineering and a clear desire to develop their knowledge and skills in automotive engineering.

The course fully explores the engineering, design, analysis and development of modern cars using various race cars as support for teaching. It also puts emphasis on learning transferable skills applicable to many other industries.

From studying the Foundation Year, learners will be able to develop with knowledge, understanding and skills of Engineering-based disciplines and their applications which help learners prepare for further years of study and success in engineering degree.

*Our Engineering subject area is ranked Top 10 in the UK for Assessment and feedback, learning resources and student voice (National Student Survey 2024)

*Our Engineering subject area is ranked Joint 3rd out of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland for overall satisfaction. (National Student Survey 2024)

Key Course Features:
You will:
have access to a specialist motorsport workshop as well as an industry-standard production workshop to gain experience in using machinery. 
have the opportunity to work on various continuously evolving projects. Current projects involve: single seater bike powered race car, Westfield SEi, Renault 5 RWD Electric, Toyota Auris hybrid amongst many others) * subject to change. Students are also currently running a Formula Student team. 
be studying at one of two education providers in the UK that are official Catia Certification centres, meaning that students are able to gain Catia Certification in addition to their degree studies. (*Students are required to pay a Certification fee of £50).

What you will study
YEAR 1 (FOUNDATION YEAR)
This year of study ensures that students from all subject backgrounds and life experiences get a foundational course of study that both prepares for subject specific and wider, university skills at an undergraduate level. You will spend time with a subject specific teaching team and a wider support network to ensure you get the support for a wide range of skills.

MODULES
Study Skills for Success (Core): Develop the essential academic, digital, and organisational skills you will need to thrive at university. From managing your time and structuring assignments to researching and referencing, you will build the confidence to study independently and successfully.
Collaborative Practice (Core): Work with students from other subject areas to explore cross-disciplinary challenges. You will develop key skills in teamwork, communication, and research while tackling relevant themes across different fields.
A Day in the Life (Core): Explore the range of career paths linked to your chosen degree. You will gain insight into professional roles in your field and start creating a portfolio to support your development as a future graduate.
Engineering Principles (Optional): Build your understanding of core topics in physics, mechanics, and electrical circuits. The module also introduces sustainable energy technologies and their role in modern engineering.
Engineering Practice (Optional): Take a practical approach to engineering by working on a design and prototyping project. You will also explore the ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities of engineers in today’s world.

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 4)
The vast majority of the engineering base knowledge is presented/reviewed and expanded at this stage. All lectures are followed by tutorials and practical/demonstrations to ensure that you are fully assimilating the information.

MODULES
Engineering Mathematics
Introduction to Electrical & Mechanical Engineering Science
CAD and Production Science
Engineering Professional Development
Materials and Environment
Automotive Systems

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 5)
At this level, you will be encouraged to work and learn more independently. We are not only preparing you to be a knowledgeable practitioner, but we are also preparing you to become a reliable and independent problem solver.

MODULES
Engineering Futures – Research, Ethics, and Sustainability
Further Engineering Mathematics
Mechanics, Structures & FEA
Computer Aided Manufacturing
Automotive Design
Automotive Powertrains & Fluids

YEAR 4 (LEVEL 6)
In this final year of the degree, the first semester is generally focused on developing specific automotive knowledge. Your individual project will allow you to specialise further in a field of your choice. At the end of this, you will be a graduate engineer ready for the industry!

MODULES
Mechanical Engineering Modelling & Simulation
Automotive Dynamics
Modern Automotive Powertrains
Project
Professional Engineering

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

A broad range of assessment methods are used; these include task-based exercises, oral and poster presentations, essays and laboratory reports, and written exams. Each module is assessed by a variety of methods, enabling students to display their full potential. A project dissertation will form one of the final parts of your assessment.

TEACHING AND LEARNING

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, student-led seminars and guided research.

Independent learning is an important aspect of all modules, as it enables students to develop both their subject specific and key skills. Independent learning is promoted through guided study or feedback given to students.

Wrexham University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.