Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year
MSc Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Placement
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | MSc Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Placement | Programme code | PTS2ENSENS01 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Academic year | 2025/6 | |
| Campus(es) | Streatham (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 7 (Masters) |
2. Description of the Programme
This specialist engineering programme will equip you with the skills required to be a modern mechanical engineer. It focuses on the latest techniques and technologies used in mechanical engineering, teaching you how to apply these to complex contemporary problems.
You will gain a range of computational skills which will enable you to analyse systems using numerical methods, simulation and optimisation techniques. Sustainability is also emphasised throughout the programme and you will be encouraged to consider responsible solutions to modern day challenges.
The programme is supported by internationally leading research projects in areas such as nano-scale materials engineering, biomedical engineering, 3D analysis from CT scans for prosthetic bone replacement surgery, additive layer manufacturing for high specification applications with aerospace metals, and application and recycling of polymers and composites.
The programme has been designed for mechanical engineers who want to progress their careers, and will be submitted for accreditation to be assessed as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng (Hons) undergraduate first degree. This will enable graduates to apply for CEng registration through membership of an appropriate Professional Engineering Institution, for example the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), following an assessment of their subsequent professional development and experience.
During the placement, you will be able to apply the knowledge and skills you have developed during Stage 1 of the programme and gain vital experience to help you become a professional engineer after graduation. The strong industry connections together with the highly relevant curriculum ensure that the graduates will have a significant advantage in the competitive market place.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
The MSc degree programme is designed to deliver all of the required learning outcomes as set out in UK-SPEC for a Masters (Further Learning) degree, and hence aims to contribute towards graduates becoming professionally qualified engineers in the UK, with international recognition. This programme is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng (Hons) undergraduate first degree. Graduates may apply for CEng registration through membership of an appropriate Professional Institution following an assessment of their subsequent professional development and experience.
To provide you with knowledge/skills in the field of modern mechanical engineering and current developments and future directions in fields such as smart structures or devices and novel materials for application into mechanical engineering. This fits with modern practice in industry where knowledge and skills from multiple disciplines is required. The programme offers a mixture of theoretical and practical topics at the advanced level.
To generate in you an enthusiasm for the application of mechanical engineering into real world situations, an understanding of how modern mechanical engineering can be enhanced by knowledge and skills from materials engineering and to involve you in an intellectually stimulating and satisfying experience of learning and scholarship.
To develop research skills, personal skills and core academic skills which will prepare you for a wider range of employment opportunities. To put these skills into practice and thus further develop them during your industrial placement.
To prepare for further research in the area of Mechanical Engineering.
4. Programme Structure
Your MSc Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Placement programme is a 2 year programme of study at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 7 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). This programme is divided into 2 ‘Stages’. The programme is also divided into units of study called ‘modules’ which are assigned a number of ‘credits’. The credit rating of a module is proportional to the total workload, with 1 credit being nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work.
Stage 1 consists of 8 modules taught over Term 1 and Term 2.
Stage 2 consists of a 9-12 month industrial placement, followed by completion and submission of the dissertation.
The programme stages are to be weighted 2:1.
Exit Awards
If you do not complete the programme you may be able to exit with a lower qualification.
Postgraduate Diploma: At least 120 credits of which 90 or more must be at NQF level 7.
Postgraduate Certificate: At least 60 credits of which 45 or more must be at NQF level 7.
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
Full-Time MSc students will take all modules.
For the Diploma (120 credits) you take all modules except ECMM164.
For the Certificate (60 credits) you must complete 60 credits.
Stage 1
90 credits of compulsory modules, 30 credits of optional modules.
a Select 15 credits from ECMM410 and ENGM023.
b Select 15 credits from BEMM118 and BEMM068.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECMM103 | Computer Aided Engineering Design | 15 | No |
| ECMM148 | Advanced CFD | 15 | No |
| ECMM163 | Sustainable Engineering | 15 | No |
| ENGM001 | Additive Manufacturing | 15 | No |
| ENGM003 | Advanced Finite Element Analysis | 15 | No |
| ENGM010 | Data-Centric Engineering | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECMM410 | Research Methodology [See note a above] | 15 | No |
| ENGM023 | Sustainable Manufacturing [See note a above] | 15 | No |
| BEMM068 | Managing Competitive Strategy [See note b above] | 15 | No |
| BEMM118 | Strategic Innovation Management [See note b above] | 15 | No |
Stage 2
120 credits of compulsory modules.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECMM164 | MSc Dissertation | 60 | Yes |
| ENGM028 | MSc Industrial Placement | 60 | Yes |
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. 1. Understanding of mechanical engineering and its application into leading modern practice. | The modules will be delivered by a mixture of formal lectures, tutorial classes, practical classes, computer practical sessions and mini-projects. Example sheets and other assignments will be set and marked by the module leader. Students will be expected to read the assigned texts and to find appropriate information from wider source such as academic and commercial web pages and from research journals. Assistance will be given during tutorials and practicals for this and office hours will be available for individual students to bring along specific technical or other difficulties. The Engineering MSc Project module ECMM164 will be directed by a named Academic and will involve an initial kick-off meeting plus subsequent weekly individual progress meetings. | Modules will be assessed through an appropriate blend of coursework and examination as specified in the individual module descriptors. The MSc Project ECMM164 will be assessed by both the supervisor and a second independent marker. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
5. Identify, formulate, analyse and solve problems | The ability to formulate problems, apply suitable theoretical and or experimental approaches, manage this process, summarise and analyse data will be developed in all compulsory and the optional modules, via the mixture of approaches described in (A). Techniques required to solve problems, develop models and produce publication/presentation quality output will be developed in ECMM103, ENGM001, ENGM010, ECMM148, ECMM410 and ECMM164 Project. | These skills will be assessed in examinations and coursework associated with the modules. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
13. Improve necessary skills for independent learning | 13 and 14 required for the dissertation. 15 will be developed in Modules ECMM103, ENGM010 and ENGM003. 16 will be addressed in the Modules ECMM164, ECMM148. 16 and 17 will be developed throughout the programme. We will encourage you to interact as this will accelerate the learning process, you will have personal tutorial advice to achieve 16 and 17. | Assessed through the project dissertation and the coursework of the modules. |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
In accordance with University policy a system of personal tutors is in place for all students on this programme. A University-wide statement on such provision is included in the University's TQA Manual. As a student enrolled on this programme you will receive the personal and academic support of the Programme Coordinator and will have regular scheduled meetings with your Personal Tutor; you may request additional meetings as and when required. The role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.
Information Technology (IT) Services provide a wide range of services throughout the Exeter campuses including open access computer rooms, some of which are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Help may be obtained through the Helpdesk, and most study bedrooms in halls and flats are linked to the University's campus network.
Additionally, the College has its own dedicated IT support staff, helpdesk and computer facilities which are linked to the wider network, but which also provide access to some specialised software packages. Email is an important channel of communication between staff and students in the College and an extensive range of web-based information (see https://intranet.exeter.ac.uk/emps/) is maintained for the use of students, including a comprehensive and annually revised student handbook.
The Harrison Learning Resource Centre is generally open during building open hours. The Centre is available for quiet study, with four separate rooms that can be booked for meetings and group work. Amongst its facilities, the Learning Resource Centre has a number of desks, four meeting rooms with large LCD screens, and free use of a photocopier. Also available are core set texts from your module reading lists, and undergraduate and MSc projects from the past two years.
Online Module study resources provide materials for modules that you are registered for, in addition to some useful subject and IT resources. Generic study support resources, library and research skills, past exam papers, and the Academic Honesty and Plagiarism module are also available through the student portal (http://vle.exeter.ac.uk).
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
ICAS (Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland)
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE)
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
Not applicable to this programme.
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
Not applicable to this programme.
18. Final Award
MSc Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Placement
19. UCAS Code
Not applicable to this programme.
20. NQF Level of Final Award
7 (Masters)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 240 |
ECTS credits | 120 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
Level 1
23. Dates
| Origin Date | 22/10/2024 |
Date of last revision | 17/07/2025 |
|---|