Mechanical Engineering with a Foundation Year

Mechanical engineering is the discipline concerned with the analysis, design, manufacture and maintenance of physical systems, machines and processes. It applies physics, mathematics and materials science to a vast range of engineering challenges, from precision instruments and automotive components to large-scale energy systems and manufacturing plant. It is one of the broadest engineering disciplines, and mechanical engineers work across virtually every sector of the economy, contributing to solutions in energy, transport, healthcare, manufacturing, aerospace and the built environment.

At Loughborough University, this four-year full-time programme is designed for students who have not studied the prerequisite subjects required for direct first-year entry to mechanical engineering, or who have not met the standard entry requirements due to challenging personal circumstances, prior commitments to elite sport, or who are mature students returning to education or care leavers. The foundation year provides a thorough and supportive introduction to the mathematics, physics and engineering principles that the degree requires, ensuring you have the grounding to succeed in the main programme that follows. Loughborough has a strong reputation in engineering and close links with industry, and the programme benefits from that environment.

You will develop your mathematical and analytical skills alongside practical engineering competences, working on design projects and laboratory work that connect theory to real engineering problems. The programme covers thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, materials science, dynamics and control systems, with design integrated throughout to give you regular opportunities to apply your knowledge.

Graduates from Loughborough's mechanical engineering programme move into careers in aerospace, automotive, energy, manufacturing, defence, consultancy, the public sector and research. Many pursue Chartered Engineer status through professional bodies, and the rigorous training in engineering fundamentals that Loughborough provides gives graduates a strong foundation for a long and varied engineering career.