Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering with Foundation Year

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information

Course summary

• Become a professional mechatronics and robotics engineer from day one.

• Use mechatronics and robotics knowledge to solve real-world scenarios.

• Apply artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technology to robots and mechatronics.

• Learn to solve problems experimentally, analytically, numerically and digitally.

• Explore multidisciplinary engineering perspectives to enhance your versatility.

• Prepare for the full degree with an extra foundation year at the start.

The course will develop and build your professional engineering skills to help you progress towards recognition as an accredited engineer with the relevant professional engineering institution. You’ll learn how to design advanced mechatronic systems and integrate mechanical, electrical and software components – contributing to the development of cutting-edge robotic systems across various industries.

This foundation year course is for those who don't meet the entry requirements for our BEng Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering course, or would like extra preparation before starting degree-level study.

How you learn

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

This course is designed for you to gain experience as a professional engineer from day one, developing your experience and skills from the very start. You’ll also critically reflect on your academic, technical and key skills, informing action plans to develop your skills through authentic work experience.

As well as technical skills, the course focuses on developing and building your graduate employability skills – providing opportunities for you to work in small and large teams. You’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills to progress towards recognition as an accredited engineer with the relevant professional engineering institution.

Course topics

This course will develop your skills in the fundamentals of engineering and relevant mathematics, as well as practical and project skills. Building on those fundamentals, you’ll study, design and analyse various aspects of robotics and mechatronic systems.

The topics you’ll explore range from analogue and digital electronics to mechanical concepts engineering and the applications of mechatronics systems. You’ll also study advanced robotics, automation, machine vision and sensor fusion – plus AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), control and automation. You’ll then undertake an individual research project, developing the ability to project manage and solve real-world problems.

Assessment will use a balanced mixture of coursework and examinations, to support an inclusive approach to teaching and learning. This may be achieved through laboratory reports, short tests, virtual learning environment discussions, presentations and report writing.

Applied learning

Work placements

You’ll have the opportunity to undertake a year-long work placement between your second and third years. It's your chance to work as an engineer, applying what you've learned in a commercial environment. You’ll also have the opportunity to graduate with an Applied Professional Diploma to add to your CV.

To complement this, you’ll have access to various support activities, resources, employer events and opportunities from your Careers & Employability Team – helping you make the most of your work experience opportunities during your degree.

Live projects

You’ll have the opportunity to work on live client-based projects and or national/international design challenges.

Previous students have worked on live client-based projects, such as data acquisition from the Formula Student car, using analytics to enhance vehicle performance.