BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering (with Foundation Year)

What you will study

YEAR 1 (FOUNDATION YEAR)

The foundation year will provide a grounding for students in all aspects of Engineering and Design in order to prepare them for further years of study.

MODULES

• Analytical Methods for Engineering
• Design and Technology
• Mechanical Science
• Electrical and Electronic Science
• The Skills You Need
• Contextual Studies

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

• Mechanical Science
• Electrical Science
• Laboratory Methods and Materials
• Engineering Mathematics
• Introduction to Engineering Design & Practice

Plus an optional module from the following:

• Performance Car Systems
• Mechanical Systems

• Electrical & Mechanical Science *
• CAD, Production Science * 
• Professional Development *
• Materials, Environment, Mathematics
• 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

• Business & Research Development
• Internal Combustion Engine: Theory and Technology
• Automotive Design
• Further Engineering Mathematics
• Engineering and Mechanism Dynamics & Engineering Design
• Structures, Failure Analysis & FEA

• Research, Ethics, and Sustainability*
• Mechanics, Structures & FEA*
• Computer Aided Manufacturing*
• Automotive Design*
• Powertrains & Fluids *
• Analytical Techniques *

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

• Performance Car Chassis, Engines & Powertrain
• Vibration Analysis & Structures
• Aerodynamics & CFD
• Employability & Entrepreneurship
• Final Year Project (individual dissertation)

• Engineering Modelling and Simulation*
• Automotive Dynamics*
• Modern Automotive Powertrains*
• Project*

Optional 

• Professional Engineering*
• Motorsport Practice *

*from September 2024

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.

Entry requirements & applying

UCAS Code: H331

Our general requirement for the foundation year is 48-72 UCAS tariff points but all applications are considered individually and we consider work experience, vocational training/qualifications, as well as motivation and potential to succeed.

Teaching & Assessment

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.

Career prospects

Our Careers and Employability service is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

The exciting range of career options open to you when you graduate includes working with car manufacturers and their supply network, in automotive research and development, in consultancy, engineering management, automotive design and in motorsport industry.

There’s a national shortage of fully-qualified engineers in the automotive industry; with a degree in automotive technology, you’ll stand out from the crowd when it comes to finding employment.

Opportunities include (but are not limited to):

• Race car dynamics
• Motorsport electronics
• Chassis engineering
• Performance car structures
• Electronic technologies
• Performance engines

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our undergraduate fees.

Programme specification

View the full program specification here

Accommodation

If you’re looking for a place to stay while you study then take a look at our accommodation pages to get more information on your options, including our on-campus halls of residence Wrexham Village.

Subject to re-validation

As part of its continuous quality assurance and enhancement, the University reviews its courses on a regular basis to ensure that they reflect the needs of students and employers. Periodic review of the existing programmes is required every five years and major changes may be made to the programmes during the re-validation process. As soon as the programmes are re-validated the details of the course will be confirmed. The majority of courses that are still ‘subject to re-validation’ are approved by the validation process; however, this is not guaranteed and should the course not go ahead as planned, or be significantly amended, you will be informed by the university and assistance will be provided to those who have been offered a place to find a suitable alternative course either at Wrexham University or at another provider.

International

If you are applying as an European / International Student, and live outside of the UK, you should make your application through our online application system, Centurus.

For information about the university’s entry requirements for EU/international students, please visit our international section.