Course content
Engineering remains at the heart of the UK economy and the demand for skilled and qualified engineers has never been higher.
The modules in this programme aim to enable you to:
- Become a flexible engineering graduate, equipped to work effectively within engineering design and management.
- Practice specialist skills to demonstrate an awareness of the context within which you work and take responsibility for your own personal and professional development.
- Gain awareness of the environmental, economic, social and sustainability issues that are an integral part of the professional engineer’s role. This includes topics related to electro-mechanical systems, with a focus on control systems, automation, electronics, and mechanical integration.
- Work well in multi-disciplinary groups, with experience of communication, organisation, planning and logistics.
- Years one and two provide core fundamental knowledge of engineering principles, as well as applying mathematics to engineering problems.
- Your three and four are spent applying your knowledge to engineering problems.
You will complete a Technical Report and Presentation in the final year: an opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to devise an engineering solution at a professional level in an area of engineering study that interests you.
The modules below provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
75 credits of compulsory and non-condonable modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Mathematics for Engineers | 15 | |
| Fundamental and Applied Materials | 30 | |
| Fundamentals of Electronics | 15 | |
| Project Management | 15 | |
ENG1201DA: Mathematics for Engineers
Learning to think and express yourself in mathematical terms is an essential part of your becoming an engineer who is able to describe engineering processes and systems to solve problems. This module will help you develop the mathematical skills necessary to complete your engineering degree programme. In particular, there will be a strong emphasis on the direct application of mathematics to industrial engineering problems. Furthermore, you will learn to use programming (Python) as a means to model mathematical problems and implement computational solutions.
This module will cover topics which are fundamental to engineers in their professional careers, focussing on the direct application of mathematics to industrial engineering problems. You will develop a knowledge and understanding of mathematical principles necessary to underpin your education in a number of engineering disciplines, and to enable you to apply mathematical methods, tools and notations proficiently in the analysis and solution of engineering problems. Furthermore, this module will improve your understanding of engineering principles and the ability to apply them to analyse key engineering processes. It will also enhance your ability to identify, classify, and describe the performance of systems and components through the use of analytical methods and modelling techniques. Finally, it will increase your understanding and ability to apply a systems approach to engineering problems.
ENS1001DA: Fundamental and Applied Materials
You will learn how to relate basic theory to current technology such as state-of-the-art materials and rapid manufacture techniques. Furthermore, the module will introduce you to the fundamental material solids that engineers use, such as metals, polymers, composites, glasses and ceramics. You will also have the chance to explore why materials behave the way they do, how they differ and what we can do to manipulate them to create products. Moreover, you will take part in lab work to make and test different kinds of materials, and study common manufacturing techniques by practically trying and testing them.
This module is designed to help you develop an awareness of principal engineering materials, their fabrication and technical/economic/environmental considerations. By the end of it, you will be able to explain how to manufacture any single component, the cheapest and best method of making it, what the properties of that material are, how they behave and how they arise. The knowledge you acquire in this module will stand you in good stead in future study.
The following Engineering Council AHEP4 Learning Outcomes are taught and assessed on this module:
C.4 Select and evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to address complex problems.
C.12. Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate complex problems
ENS1005DA: Fundamentals of Electronics
This module introduces the key building blocks of modern electronic systems, focusing on both analogue and digital electronics. You will learn how components like diodes and transistors help control and amplify signals, and how operational amplifiers are used in everyday devices. On the digital side, you’ll explore how computers and digital systems make decisions using logic, learning about the basic rules (Boolean algebra) and building blocks (logic gates, flip-flops, and counters) that underpin digital technology. The module blends theory with hands-on activities to help you understand how electronic circuits work and how they are used in real-world applications.
ENS1015DA: Project Management
Successful management of lengthy and complex projects is one of the main responsibilities of an engineer. In the simplest terms, successful project management requires project delivery on time, within budget and to the specified quality standard. In order to accomplish this, engineers must have a sound grasp of modern project management tools and techniques. In this module you will develop your skills and knowledge in the area of project management. You will learn about contracts and the regulatory frameworks within the industry. You will apply common project management techniques and come to understand how sustainability considerations influence your decision making as an engineer.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
75 credits of compulsory and non-condonable modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Advanced Mathematics for Engineers | 15 | |
| Fundamental and Applied Mechanics | 30 | |
| Manufacturing Systems | 15 | |
| Advanced Electronics | 15 | |
ENG1205DA: Advanced Mathematics for Engineers
Learning to think and express yourself in mathematical terms is an essential part of your becoming an engineer who is able to describe engineering processes and systems to solve problems. This module will help you enhance your learning from ECM1201 Foundation Mathematics for Engineers and further develop the mathematical skills necessary to complete your engineering degree programme.
In particular, there will be a strong emphasis on the direct application of mathematics to engineering problems.
This module will cover topics which are fundamental to engineers in their professional careers, focussing on the direct application of mathematics to engineering problems. You will continue to develop your knowledge and understanding of mathematical principles necessary to underpin your education in a number of engineering disciplines, and to enable you to apply mathematical methods, tools and notations proficiently in the analysis and solution of engineering problems.
ENS1003DA: Fundamental and Applied Mechanics
Without the careful measurement of static and hydrostatic forces, structures like the Hoover Dam or the Tamar bridge could not have been built. This examination of the static behaviour of solids and fluids, which underpins much of civil engineering and mechanical engineering design, is just one of the key areas you will explore on this module.
You will encounter fluid and solid static equations and principles, including tension and compression. You will learn how to determine the forces, pressures and deformations in fluid scenarios and solid structures. In a hands-on laboratory session, you will measure the force generated by a water jet, hitting different surfaces, and then illustrate your results in diagrams.
On completing this module, you will be familiar with the basics of fluid and solid principles. The knowledge and skills learnt will be applied to practical problems, such as determining the loading capacity of bridges, power-transmission shafts in cars, and turbines, a floating pontoon, planning for bridges, buildings, mixing fluids in chemical plants, designing transportation systems of fluids, and detecting the flaws or failures in fluid systems. You will have an excellent foundation in critical measurement techniques and be proficient in using a hydraulic bench, in this case, equipped with a pump and simple system to measure flow rate.
ENS2012DA: Manufacturing Systems
Manufacturing systems are a means of organising the efficient production of industrial goods. The purpose of this module is to give you an insight into modern manufacturing systems and their design and management and to enable you to apply various tools and techniques to solve practical problems. By the end of the module, you will have a good understanding of different types of manufacturing systems and their management including process planning, materials requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, manufacturing resources planning (MRP II), production scheduling, and production control. You will also have obtained a good understanding of basic approaches to systems design and analysis, including layout planning, cell formation, line balancing, and systems modelling.
ENS2037DA: Advanced Electronics
Communications and networking technologies are rapidly evolving, and have revolutionised the ways in which we socialise, and network in business. This module gives you the chance to gain in-depth knowledge of these technologies, and the ways in which they are used. You will learn all about protocols - the set of rules and instructions that computers and other devices follow when they communicate with each other across a network. Furthermore, you will gain invaluable practical experience, using the Internet as a tool to assist on your own project, in which you will conduct a risk analysis, and gain a deeper understanding of the impact that viruses can have on computer networks. You will also get the chance to see computer applications and protocols in action, when lecturers give demonstrations, using real life examples.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
75 credits of compulsory modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Modelling of Engineering Systems | 15 | |
| Control Engineering | 15 | |
| Structural Stability | 15 | |
| Structures | 15 | |
| Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer | 15 | |
ENS2013DA: Modelling of Engineering Systems
This module is designed to introduce second year undergraduates to mathematical modelling techniques for engineering systems, and their implementation using scientific computing (e.g. python). The model builds on quantitative skills developed in the first year module “Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing”, and puts them into practice by analysing, simulating and solving real engineering challenges in engineering systems such as mechanical systems, material science, civil structures, fluid dynamics and electronic systems.The module uses problem based learning and uses case studies, so material will be introduced as needed in the context of engineering challenges
ENS2017DA: Control Engineering
The advancement of technology during the 20th century put control engineering on the map - and it still plays a critical role in everything from simple household washing machines to high performance fighter aircraft. This module will give you a fundamental understanding of control engineering for single input single output systems. In particular, you will analyse the fundamental concept of feedback and its impact on system dynamics. You will study the performance of closed loop systems from a time domain and frequency domain perspective. Classical approaches to studying closed loop systems will be introduced including root-locus, Nyquist and Bode diagram methods. The module will also describe a method for parameterizing all stabilizing controllers for a given plant model, and how this result can be used from a design perspective. The module will also introduce the fundamentals of proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control, which you will use to analyse and design control systems. The module will describe the concepts of gain and phase margins and the H-infinity norm, for assessing the robustness of closed loop systems to modelling uncertainty. The lectures are supported by computer laboratories for modelling and simulation of systems using the Control Engineering toolbox in Matlab.
ENS2021DA: Structural Stability
Much of modern engineering involves structures that move dynamically or have parts which move dynamically, e.g. automotive/aerospace structures, gas turbines used to propel aircraft or rotating components in machine tools. Even seemingly static structures such as buildings, bridges and grandstands are subjected to dynamic forces such as earthquakes, wind and human-induced dynamic loads such as walking or jumping. This module will provide you with basic knowledge and understanding how engineering structures respond to dynamic loading and how they can be designed to avoid adverse effects on them relevant to their dynamic behaviour. Particular emphasis will be given to theoretical concepts of single- (SDOF) and multiple-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) systems which form foundations of general structural dynamics in broad areas of mechanical and civil engineering. The module will then make use of these theoretical concepts to analyse specific but common problems in mechanical and civil engineering to illustrate the general approach.
ENS2022DA: Structures
A good knowledge of the philosophies and techniques of structural design and analysis are essential elements of the training of civil engineers. In this module you will learn about these philosophies and techniques, and their application to the design of steel and reinforced concrete structures. In hands-on laboratory sessions, you will learn about factors such as elasticity, cracking, tensile strength, shear and flexure, through observation and analysis. You will get the opportunity to hone your skills in methods of structural analyses, technical report writing and presentation. In addition, the module emphasises the role of the Engineering Council's Code of Practice, the application of engineering judgment, and the execution of appropriate structural analyses in the context of design problems.
ENS2023DA: Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
This module covers engineering thermodynamics and heat transfer, including refrigeration, heat exchangers and compressors, as well as various aspects of power generation such as gas turbines, internal combustion engines and modern systems such as hybrid power trains and fuel cells. Processes of heat and energy transfer are fundamental to mechanical engineering, particularly when it comes to power and energy generation. This module introduces the theory and practice of engineering thermodynamics and heat transfer. You will be introduced to the fundamentals of thermodynamics and heat transfer and explore their application in analysing steam operated power plants and design of heat exchangers. You will develop cycle analysis for the design of refrigerators, compressors, gas turbines, compression and spark ignition engines. Furthermore, you will study the properties of fuels, their combustion, exhaust composition, atmospheric pollution, exhaust emissions and reduction. The module also introduces you to the scientific and engineering aspects of other powertrains such as hybrid systems and fuel cells, which are becoming increasingly important in vehicle engineering.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
105 credits of compulsory modules and 30 credit of optional
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Economics and Company Finance | 15 | |
| Electromagnetics | 15 | |
| Electric Machines and Drives | 15 | |
| Non-Integrated Student Project | 45 | |
| Fluid Dynamics | 15 | |
ENS2036DA: Economics and Company Finance
This module will provide you with essential knowledge for all engineers, which will benefit you in your future career. You will gain basic training in standard financial documents: balance sheets, income statements, cash flow forecasts, and profit and loss statements. You will also learn how to do simple manufacturing and project costing. Financial management is explored, primarily in a project context.
ENS3027DA: Electromagnetics
A fundamental knowledge of electromagnetics is critical when pursuing a career in electronic engineering, providing you with understanding of how signals travel in conductors and in space for applications in communications and antenna systems and foundation for designing such systems. Beginning with the physical exploration of electromagnetics, you will study the origins of electric and magnetic ?elds, looking at the historical impact and application of electromagnetism. Furthermore, you will investigate electrostatics and the electric ?eld as well as magnetic forces and magnetostatics, applying this knowledge to real world engineering problems; exploring theories, such as Maxwell's equations, you will develop essential problem-solving tools. Meanwhile, studying communication systems, you will consider elements such as the transmission of mobile phone signals and how radio works, incorporating Hertz's ?rst measurement of radio waves. Assignments will cover practical exercises and open-ended problems to design your microwave waveguides or antenna systems with numerical models.
ENS3028DA: Electric Machines and Drives
Electric machines play an important role in industry, manufacturing, transportation and every aspect of our life. This module provides fundamental understanding of the main types of electric machines used in industry including DC machines, induction and synchronous machines. You will learn their principles of operation, equivalent circuits, control schemes and applications. This module will also cover semiconductor power electronics as important control devices and circuits in modern electric machine systems. The theory will be supported by a series of hands-on practical experiments to understand the operation and design of electric machines and power electronic circuits for real-world applications.
ENS3029DA: Non-Integrated Student Project
This final module allows you to draw together the knowledge and skills you have gained over the previous years at university and in your place of work. Working alongside an academic supervisor you will be able to select an area of engineering study that interests you, and research and investigate that topic in some depth. This might involve experimental work in our laboratories, or development of computer simulations, for instance. You would then write this up as a dissertation to communicate your deep understanding of this subject. And finally, you would have the opportunity to present your work to our academic team.
ENS3040DA: Fluid Dynamics
Almost all engineered objects are immersed either in air or water (or both) or make use of some working fluid in their operation. This is particularly true of machines for energy generation and conversion, such as engines, turbines, and renewable energy devices like wind turbines or wave-energy converters. The ability to understand and predict the behaviour of such devices is therefore of key importance for engineers. In this module, you will learn about the fundamentals of fluid systems: pressure, flow, and viscosity, and how they can be analysed experimentally and mathematically. Engineering applications covered include pumps, turbines, and internal flows in pipe networks.
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| UDN4ENSENS01 BEng (Hons) Electro-Mechanical Engineering (Higher Apprenticeship) - Stage 4 - Optional | ||
| Machine Learning and AI | 15 | |
| Industry Specialism | 15 | |
| Mechatronics | 15 | |
ENS3026DA: Machine Learning and AI
Machine learning has emerged mainly from computer science and artificial intelligence, and draws on methods from a variety of related subjects including statistics, applied mathematics and more specialized fields, such as pattern recognition and neural computation. Applications are, for example, image and speech analysis, medical imaging, bioinformatics and exploratory data analysis in natural science and engineering. This module will provide you with a thorough grounding in the theory and application of machine learning, pattern recognition, classification, categorisation, and concept acquisition.
ENS3038DA: Industry Specialism
Industry 4.0 or the “fourth industrial revolution” is the trend towards automation and data exchange in new manufacturing technologies - to deliver so called smart manufacturing. In this module you will be introduced to smart manufacturing, the mathematical tools behind it and how it can be applied to real world manufacturing problems. The teaching style in this module emphasises hands on learning. For example, you will learn how to manipulate a desktop robot to perform automated tasks. The module will build on mathematical and programming skills developed in the first year and modelling of engineering systems in the second year. Assessment in this module is 100% coursework and is based around 2 practical build activities built around real-world engineering problems.
ENS3039DA: Mechatronics
This module takes you into an interdisciplinary field of engineering dealing with the integration of mechanical, electric and electronic components coordinated by a controller. You will have the chance to learn a broad range of mechatronic systems and components, including analogue and digital circuits, sensors, actuators, energy harvesting and system integration to gradually build your capability to design mechatronic systems. You will also have practical hands-on session to learn how to build real-world mechatronic systems, ranging from simple LED light flashing and DC motor control circuits, to complex robot arm control and ultrasonic range detection.
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This programme launches in 2026 and has been developed in close partnership with industry and in consultation with our accrediting bodies. We have already successfully gained accreditation from industry professional bodies for established programmes across the Engineering department. Due to accreditation requirements for new programmes, we cannot seek accreditation until the first cohort is in their final year of the programme. Therefore, we intend to seek backdated accreditation from professional bodies when this requirement has been met, but it may not be guaranteed. If you require any further information, please contact the University directly.
Employer information
The Electro-Mechanical Engineer Apprenticeship has been developed in response to the growing industry demand for engineers with expertise in both electrical and mechanical systems. As industries become increasingly automated and integrated, the need for professionals who can work across disciplines—particularly in areas such as robotics, automation, power systems, and advanced manufacturing—has never been greater. The Engineering Department has significant expertise in electro-mechanical engineering, particularly in automation, robotics, and intelligent systems. This programme fits within the strategic vision of Engineering 2030, which aims to develop cutting-edge programmes aligned with emerging technological advancements.
Top 10 in the UK for General Engineering
£6.5million investment in our teaching labs, workshop spaces and equipment
Apprentices earn a salary and pay zero tuition fees, meaning they’ll graduate debt-free and enhance their career
81% University apprentice achievement rate: 27% higher than the national average
HERA 2023/24 Qualification Achievement Rates (QAR)
Entry requirements
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | ABB | GCE A-Level Maths grade B and another science* subject at grade B. Candidates may offer GCE A-Level Maths, Pure Maths or Further Maths. |
| IB | 32/655 | HL5 in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and HL5 in another Science subject. Applicants achieving IB Maths SL7 plus IB HL5 in Physics will also be considered. |
| BTEC Extended Diploma | DDM |
Applicants studying one of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas will be considered: Applied Science, Aeronautical Engineering, Building Services , Engineering Construction and the Built Environment, Civil Engineering, Operations and Maintenance Engineering, Computer Engineering , Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering , Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Sustainability. |
| T-Level | Distinction |
T-level in: Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing; Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering; Manufacturing only, Surveying and Planning for Construction. |
| Contextual offers | BBC |
GCE A-Level Maths grade B and another science* subject at grade B. Candidates may offer GCE A-Level Maths, Pure Maths or Further Maths. |
| GCSE | 4 or C | All applicants require Grade 4/C in GCSE English Language and Mathematics. |
| Equivalences | View other grade equivalences | |
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
*GCE A-Level science includes: Biology/Human Biology**; Chemistry; Computing; Design and Technology; Economics; Electronics; Environmental Studies; Geography; Geology; Life and Health Sciences; Physical Education; Physics; Psychology; Science (applied); Statistics.
**If more than one of these is taken they would only count as one 'science' but could count as two A-Levels towards our general requirements.
Additional entry requirements
In certain cases, recognising applicants’ prior skills and qualifications allows us to accelerate entry to our programme. Please contact us for further information.
Application through Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL): Where an applicant can evidence a Level 3 or 4 qualifications (completed within the past five years) which can be accredited to demonstrate there is already an understanding of Electro-Mechanical principles.
Applications through Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL): Applicants must have a minimum of two years engineering industry experience. They must also be in a role that supports the gathering of evidence required for the Electro-Mechanical apprenticeship standard.
As an apprenticeship funding requirement, all apprentices aged 16-18 studying for a level 3 apprenticeship or higher are required to evidence achievement at level 2 in Mathematics and English before their gateway to endpoint assessment.
If the apprentice is aged 19+ when they begin their apprenticeship training, and they do not already hold a suitable equivalent qualification, English and / or maths is an optional part of the programme under the funding rules. However, L2 English remains a standard entry requirement for University of Exeter programmes.
Find out more about how we support Functional Skills.
Applicants must also have a valid and eligible residency status to gain entry onto the apprenticeship – please see the Department for Education website for further information.
How to apply
- Vacancies are advertised by employers and are often promoted through our current vacancies page when they become available.
- Please be aware that each company will have their own recruitment process, the stages and timelines may vary. If applicants are successful, they will be offered a position as an apprentice with the company.
- An apprenticeship place on the programme will be confirmed by University of Exeter, and we will send further information about how to enrol as a student.
Funding
Full programme cost: £27,000
This apprenticeship is entirely funded through an Employers’ Apprenticeship Levy. Your employer fully covers the cost of the apprenticeship, apprentices do not pay for any of the eligible training costs. As an apprentice you will be an employee of your organisation, gaining a University of Exeter award alongside working and earning a salary.
Employers who pay the Apprenticeship Levy will pay for the apprenticeship fees directly through that contribution. See further information about the Apprenticeship Levy funding.
Employers who do not pay the Levy will be able to claim 95 per cent of the cost of the apprenticeship from the Government. Up to 100 per cent Government contribution may be available if the employer has fewer than 50 employees and:
- Recruits an apprentice aged 16-18
- OR an apprentice aged 19-24 who has previously been in care or who has a local authority education, health and care plan
Employers must pay their apprentices a salary at least consistent with national legislation.
Funding eligibility criteria
To be eligible for funding the apprentice must meet the criteria listed in the Department for Education guidance.
The apprentice must have a valid and eligible residency status to gain entry onto the apprenticeship.
Learning
We will foster a strong early talent community across all engineering apprentices through combining cohorts across our engineering degree apprenticeship programmes in the first two years of teaching. This approach will build a South West Hub for engineering skills and give employers opportunities to engage across sectors and industries. Our strong relationships with regional FE providers will also strengthen engineering pathways for apprentices to build their careers within the businesses.
How you will learn
This apprenticeship adopts a balanced approach to supporting student learning through a combination of in-person lectures, hands on practical workshops, research/ industry led masterclasses and digital learning resources. Core topics include specialist subject knowledge supported by a strong foundation across engineering disciplines.
All students will all have access to the world class facilities at the University of Exeter, including benefitting from our recent £6.5 million investment in engineering teaching labs, workshop spaces and equipment. Additionally, students will benefit from established facilities across our Streatham Campus, including student study, wellbeing and careers support.
Assessment
Your performance at Exeter will be assessed in a variety of different ways, to equip you with the necessary skills for the workplace or further study. This includes coursework, lab and workshop-based tasks, exams, presentations and extended project-based activities.
Each module has a set of 'Intended Learning Outcomes' which specify what you should know and be able to do by the end of the module, and assessments are designed to demonstrate these.
Contact hours
Lectures and workshops are delivered through a series of two-week blocks spaced throughout your degree apprenticeship. Structuring contact hours within these blocks provides a regular dedicated period of study for you to fully focus on your learning.
Outside of contact hours, you will have access to a wide range of the Universities digital resources, including our library, databases, lecture recordings and learning materials. You will also be in contact with a wide range of subject matter expert academics to guide and support your apprenticeship.
Careers
About the apprenticeship
As an apprentice, you will be a full salaried member of an organisation, typically earning between £13,000 and £19,000. Much of your learning will take place at work, either through projects linked to academic content or time set aside for distance learning.
Apprentices will be working in a relevant job from day one of your studies, meaning when you graduate, you'll have both the professional and academic experience sought after by employers.
Employer valued skills
The apprenticeship standard defines an apprentice's capabilities as an Electro-Mechanical Engineer. You will have gained experience in areas including project management, machine learning and AI, managing engineering practices in a safe and sustainable way and communicating with clients and workers of all levels.
Find out more about our Electro-Mechanical Engineering degree apprenticeship
Employers
We can help you invest in upskilling your people and attract new talent via progression routes.
Aspiring apprentices
Discover why a Degree Apprenticeship is right for you.
Events
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