Course overview
It is a natural progression route for holders of a QCF Level 5 Higher National Diploma or equivalent qualification in the general area of mechanical engineering.
The degree builds on your knowledge and skills gained from your previous studies and helps gain knowledge and skills needed to analyse and find solutions to complex mechanical engineering problems.
Modules include computer-aided analysis, mechanics of materials, product quality and reliability, sustainability and industry 4.0. Your degree can be decided following discussion between you and your online project supervisor, enabling you to focus on an area of particular interest to you.
You study via distance learning using Teesside University’s online learning platform which means you can easily fit your studies around work and other personal commitments.
Course details
Course structure
Core modules
Today engineers use computers and software in the engineering design and simulation of most of the products, processes and systems that make up our lifestyles. In this module your knowledge of advanced techniques is developed for the computer-based analysis of designs and to use commercial software to solve more complex engineering problems. You gain a thorough understanding of computer methods for the analysis of detailed design and are introduced to the finite element analysis (FEA) nodes, elements and meshing techniques. Types of boundary conditions such as loads and constraints are explained including how to apply them. You learn how to solve FEA problems and analyse the results. Advanced techniques utilising adaptive and optimisation methods for solving complex engineering problems is also covered.
This module will develop the advanced theory and the principles of mechanics of materials and apply them to the analysis of realistic engineering problems. Specific areas of study include: stress concentrations, inelastic deformation and residual stress under axial loading, torsion, and bending as well as transverse shear. Further studies will include introduction to failure theory, design of beams and shafts, deflection of beams and shafts, design of column; thick-walled cylinder and interference fits.
Lectures will introduce each major topic on the module emphasising both the conceptual and theoretical development as well as their applications to realistic engineering problems. Worked examples will be used in the study. Seminars will be utilised primarily for students to practice and to provide feedback.
Product Quality and Reliability
This module equips you with appropriate industrial concepts of quality systems and reliability methods relevant to industrial applications. You consider statistical methods relating to quality control and reliability problems, together with product quality and the use of quality tools.
This module advances the development of your independent learning skills by allowing you to investigate an area of engineering for an extended period. You are given training in writing technical reports for knowledgeable readers and you produce a report or dissertation of the work covered. You also give an oral presentation, a poster presentation or both. The topic can be in the form of a research project or a design project. You develop key skills in research, knowledge application and creation through keynote lectures where appropriate and self-managed independent study. You are supported through regular tutorial sessions and project supervision meetings.
Sustainable Systems and Industry 4.0
The emergence of Industry 4.0, often referred to as the fourth industrial revolution, has been attributed to advancing automation, decentralisation and system integration and cloud computing. In the cyber-physical environment, machines can communicate, collect information, and make informed decisions through artificial intelligence (AI), big data and industrial internet of things (IIoT). The evolution of Industry 4.0 has great potential to improve the energy, equipment, and human behaviour. At the same time, in the era of the so-called circular economy, industry across all sectors is under huge pressure to make their manufacturing operations ethical and sustainable. Therefore, we must learn to adopt or implement the latest Industry 4.0 technologies.
The term sustainability has a multi-disciplinary use and meaning. As future engineers you will learn sustainability is represented as the synergy between environment, economics, and society. In this module students specialising in Sustainable Systems and Industry 4.0 will focus their studies and deepen their knowledge in a range of sustainability themes such as energy management and power systems, sustainable water and wastewater systems, sustainable transportation technologies, transitions to sustainable food systems and mechanical manufacturing systems.
The subjects will be taught through a combination of lectures and seminars. Lectures will develop key concepts and knowledge. Seminars will allow more focused examinations of important issues and approaches
Modules offered may vary.
How you learn
You learn through pre-recorded and online seminars. If you are unable to attend online, a recording will be available for you. This gives you flexibility to manage study time around your personal and work commitments.
Your self-directed learning time is used to review lecture notes, prepare course work assignments, work on projects and revise for examinations.
Lectures prepare you with the relevant theory and concepts for independent learning. Online seminars provide a context for interactive learning. Online practical sessions allow you to explore industry-standard software packages for digital design, modelling and simulation of engineering systems.
How you are assessed
Assessment methods include examination and in-course assessment with some utilising other approaches such as project-work or verbal and poster presentations.
Our Disability Services team provide an inclusive and empowering learning environment and have specialist staff to support disabled students access any additional tailored resources needed. If you have a specific learning difficulty, mental health condition, autism, sensory impairment, chronic health condition or any other disability please contact a Disability Services as early as possible.
Find out more about our disability services
Find out more about financial support
Find out more about our course related costs
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
Edexcel or BTEC Higher National Diplomas (HND) or equivalent in a closely related discipline.
If you do not already hold an eligible HND you might wish to consider our online HNC and HND courses.
International students must also provide evidence of English language skills equivalent to IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in each component. International students should also read the information on our international pages.
For general information please see our overview of entry requirements
You can gain considerable knowledge from work, volunteering and life. Under recognition of prior learning (RPL) you may be awarded credit for this which can be credited towards the course you want to study.
Find out more about RPL
Employability
Career opportunities
Graduate engineers can seek employment in almost every sector of industry, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, marine, medical, rail, power, processing, chemical, oil and gas, and food production.
Learning platform
Our virtual learning environment (VLE) is the platform you use to access your online course
Teesside University online learning courses are delivered through the Brightspace Learning Environment.
Here are some of the benefits.
- You can use it on your smartphone, tablet and computer.
- And you can use it anytime, so that you can plan your learning to fit your own schedule.
- It's easy to use and navigate.
- Modules are set out by topics and themes. You can use the progress bar to understand where you are in your modules, and appreciate your achievements.
- We support you to become familiar with your VLE, helping you to start learning quickly.
- You get feedback, help and guidance from tutors throughout your course through the VLE, and you can ask questions at any time.
- Our tutors use a live activity feed to keep you updated about your course.
- You can create a student profile, collaborate with other students and take part in online discussion forums.
