Fire Engineering - BEng (Hons) *
- UCAS Code: N/A
- Level: Undergraduate
- Starting: September 2021
- Study mode: Full Time (3 years)
- Location: City Centre
Studying with us in 2021/22
It is possible that the 2021/22 academic year may be affected by the ongoing disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Any arrangements put in place by the University for the 2021/22 academic year will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, pandemic-related/health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
Following the disaster of the Grenfell Tower in June 2017 there is a growing interest and demand for fire engineers. The course will help bring together expertise from the local area in teaching, practice and research to build a team of experts that can provide teaching and learning to the next generation of Fire Engineers. Our vision is to develop real-world engineers, proudly made in Birmingham, who will change the world, each in their own way.
What's covered in the course?
The level of education provided by the courses is appropriate to those students who will eventually hold senior management positions within the fire-related professions or would like to become fire engineers.
Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on self-motivation, critical thinking and analytical depth. The course is concerned with the study of fire development and prevention and the means by which its consequence may be reduced to a minimum in human, environmental and financial terms. The course emphasises Fire Engineering in the context of buildings and infrastructure. As a result you will find that the course is now characterised by parallel themes of management, engineering and project work.
The management theme will develop your capabilities as a project manager in the field of fire engineering, whilst the project modules will provide scope for integrative studies on practical engineering and design situations. In addition, students will also cover the behaviour of construction materials under elevated temperature and how to design structures to resist fire.
The course also covers a wide range of skills that the students will develop for e.g. application of management skills, team working, leadership, and resolving engineering design projects and problems.
Why Choose Us?
-
Accredited course - The BEng (Hons) Fire Engineering course will be developed with a view of fulfilling the requirements for professional accreditation with the Institute of Fire Engineering. As such, both the content and the assessments will be driven by a practice-led, knowledge-applied focus.
-
Practise-led modules - All modules are designed to be based on real life scenarios that will be introduced during lectures/seminars and also included in assessments. Practice-led teaching and learning is a main theme that is also embedded in all modules.
-
State-of-the-art facilities - You will be based at our Millennium Point campus in City Centre, where our facilities have undergone a £6.5 million investment with a new maker area, engineering labs/equipment and IT equipment to provide you with the very best learning experience.
-
Learn from industry professionals - Guest lectures will be organised with practitioners and researchers with a background across the Fire Engineering and Construction Industry to enhance the student learning experience.
-
Develop transferable skills – Work in groups and undertake project-based challenges to enhance your employability opportunities and skill set.
-
Visit the locations - Trips to relevant Fire Engineering locations will be organised to develop the students' overall awareness of the issues, regulation, testing, inspection and investigation of Fire Engineering.
Open Days
Our Open Day for this course will take place in March 2021. Register now and we will contact you when the booking form goes live.
Register your interest
This course is open to International students
Subject to approval
This course is in the final stages of approval to ensure it meets the very highest standards of quality, creativity and applied learning.
Entry Requirements
We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
Essential Requirements
|
112 UCAS tariff points from A Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels |
||
|
In addition you must attain at least a grade C in A Level Mathematics or equivalent. Please see below for specific information about this requirement. |
||
| Typical Offers (UK students) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
At the point of application, you must have or be working towards GCSE at Grade 4 (C) or above in English Language and Mathematics. Equivalent qualifications can be considered in lieu of GCSE subjects as long as the required subject are covered. Plus, you must have achieved or be completing one of the following: |
||
| UK Qualification | ||
| GCE A Level/ AS Level | BBC at A Level or 112 UCAS tariff points from A Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels and including A Level Maths at grade C or above. | |
| Access to Higher Education Diploma | 60 credits overall. Minimum of 45 credits at level 3. Including 12 credits at Merit or Distinction with 9 in Mathematics and 3 in Science. Must already hold GCSE Mathematics and English Language Grade 4 or higher or the equivalent at application point or currently taking. | |
| BTEC National Diploma (12-units not including early years)/ Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma | D*D* or combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 112 UCAS points. A Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians unit or a Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians unit. | |
| BTEC Extended Diploma (18-units not including early years)/ Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma | DMM - 112 UCAS points. A Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians unit or a Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians unit. | |
| BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/ Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate | Combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 112 UCAS points. In addition, you will require a grade C in A Level Mathematics or equivalent such as a Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians unit or Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians unit. | |
| International Baccalaureate Diploma |
Obtain a minimum of 28 points overall with a minimum of Grade 5 in Mathematics (Higher Level) and pass one of the following subjects from Group 4 at Higher Level (Computer Science, Chemistry, Design Technology, Physics). Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates and alongside other acceptable level 3 qualifications to meet 112 UCAS Tariff Points. Obtain a total of 14 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above Grade 5 or above in Mathematics at Standard Level will be accepted in lieu of this from the IB Diploma. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in English Language at Grade C/4 or above Standard Level English Language (not literature) Group A English Group A - Grade 4 or above, OR English Group B Grade 5 from the IB will be accepted. Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates. A combination of GCSEs, A-levels and IB certificates will be considered on a case by case basis. |
|
| Irish Leaving Certificate | Pass the Irish Leaving Certificate with a minimum of 112 tariff points, achieved in four Higher level subjects. Maths must be at Higher Level. Must include English Language taken at either Ordinary level (minimum grade O1-O4 (or A-C/A1-C3)) or Higher level (minimum grade H5/D1). | |
| Scottish Higher/ Advanced Higher |
Achieve a minimum of 112 tariff points achieved in either three Advanced Highers or from a combination of two Advanced Highers plus two Highers. Where three Advanced Highers have been taken achieve a minimum of grades CCD. Where a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers have been taken you must achieve (grades of CD in two Advanced Highers plus grades of CC in two Highers). 2 advanced highers with Mathematics at advanced highers or equivalent grade BBC. |
|
| Welsh Baccalaureate (core plus options) | Combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 112 UCAS points. Plus an A level Maths at grade C or above (or equivalent)
or Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians or Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians. . |
|
| Other qualifications | ||
| If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. |
||
Additional information for EU/International students
|
Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept. In additional to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table. |
||
| EU/Non-EU (International) Qualifications | ||
| IELTS |
6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information. |
|
| International Baccalaureate Diploma (or equivalent, including internationally accredited Foundation courses). |
Obtain a minimum of 28 points overall with a minimum of Grade 5 in Mathematics (Higher Level) and pass one of the following subjects from Group 4 at Higher Level (Computer Science, Chemistry, Design Technology, Physics). Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates and alongside other acceptable level 3 qualifications to meet 112 UCAS Tariff Points. Obtain a total of 14 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above Grade 5 or above in Mathematics at Standard Level will be accepted in lieu of this from the IB Diploma. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in English Language at Grade C/4 or above Standard Level English Language (not literature) Group A English Group A - Grade 4 or above, OR English Group B Grade 5 from the IB will be accepted. Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates. A combination of GCSEs, A-levels and IB certificates will be considered on a case by case basis. |
|
International students who cannot meet the direct entry requirements can begin their degree studies at Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC).
Additional Information
This course is also available as a four-year degree with foundation entry.
Don’t meet our entry requirements?
You could apply for a foundation course or a course at our International College. These routes have lower entry requirements and act as the bridge to a full degree. To find out more, please select your status:
- UK students
- International students
Award: BEng (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £9,250 per year
- Apply via UCAS
Award: BEng (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £13,200 per year
- Register interest
The University reserves the right to increase fees in line with inflation based on the Retail Prices Index or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament up to a maximum of five per cent.
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
Register with UCAS
Login to UCAS
Complete your details
Select your course
Write a personal statement
Get a reference
Pay your application fee
Send UCAS your application
International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
Course choice
Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
Career plans
If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
Work experience
Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
School or college experience
Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
Non-accredited skills or achievement
eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Get more information on writing personal statements.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Additional costs
There are no compulsory additional costs or charges associated with studying on this course. While you may choose to purchase personal copies of text books, all our key text books are available from our library or online (subject to normal library loan and online access arrangements). If your course includes a residential study session, the accommodation costs for this are already included in your course fee.
Based on the past experience of our students, you might find it helpful to set aside about £50 for each year of your studies for stationery and study materials. All our students are provided with 100 free pages of printing each year to a maximum total value of £15.
Accommodation and living costs
The cost of accommodation and other living costs are not included within your course fees. More information on the cost of accommodation can be found in our accommodation pages.
Worried about personal statements?
If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.
Financial Support
We offer further information on possible undergraduate financial support. This includes the type of loans, grants and scholarships available both from the government and from Birmingham City University.
Year One
In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
Year Two
Year Three
We will shape and enhance your knowledge through formal lectures, tutor-led seminars and practical activities, as well as a range of independent learning activities. The latter includes an element of peer review, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the learning.
Technology-enhanced learning is also used, through online resources, discussion forums and other activities, and a range of case studies and problem-based learning scenarios are implemented to sharpen your skills.
A range of assessment methods are employed with associated assessment criteria. You’ll be assessed through formal and summative methods, including coursework, examinations, presentations, practical assignments, vivas, online tests and project work. All modules are designed to be based on real life scenarios that will be introduced during lectures/seminars and also included in assessments. Practice-led teaching and learning is the main theme that is also embedded in all modules.
In your third year, you will conduct an individual project, where you will hone and enhance your organisational, research and time management skills.
Attendance requirements
For more information on attendance requirements, course contact time and suggested self-study hours, download the course specification.
Further Study
You can go on to study an MEng or MSc in related subjects and opt for a research (MPhil and PhD) postgraduate programme. Details can be found on the postgraduate section of the website.
Enhancing your employability skills
We will provide you with the attributes you need to be successful in employment. Upon graduating, you’ll be able to demonstrate professionalism at all levels, as well as being a creative problem solver with innovative ideas, a global outlook and an open-minded, diverse personality.
Birmingham City University also has the Graduate+ scheme and you could also gain work experience with OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus.
OpportUNIty
OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
BCU Graduate+
Through our courses we give you the skills and experience needed to get a head start when applying for jobs. But we offer something extra too – Graduate+.
Our unique programme gives you the chance to develop valuable skills outside of the more formal classroom learning. We award points for Graduate+ activities (including firewalking!) and these can be put towards a final Graduate+ award.
More about Graduate+
Career progression
Engineering courses are one of the top 12 degree subjects for getting a job according to The Telegraph, with around 85.4 per cent of graduates nationwide finding work or going into further education within six months of finishing their degree.
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Explore some of the good reasons why you should study here.
- Find out how to improve your language skills before starting your studies.
- Find all the information relevant to applicants from your country.
- Learn where to find financial support for your studies.
The UK remains one of the world's leading study destinations
The UK remains one of the world's leading study destinations for international students.
The first-class experience offered by universities are reflected in the world’s largest survey of international students. International students are more likely to recommend the UK than any other leading English-language study destination.
Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC)
International students who have a serious interest in studying with us but who perhaps cannot meet the direct entry requirements, academic or English, or who have been out of education for some time, can enter Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC) and begin their degree studies.
BCUIC is part of the global Navitas Group, an internationally recognised education provider, and the partnership allows students to access the University’s facilities and services and move seamlessly through to achieving a Bachelor’s degree from Birmingham City University.
Our Facilities
You will be based at our cutting-edge Millennium Point building, located at our flagship City Centre Campus. We have dedicated labs for electronics, microprocessor, electronic computer-aided design (ECAD), communications, networking, programming and project work. There are suites of open-access PCs for general use by all students. We have rapid prototyping, laser-cutting, and CNC machining capabilities for project work. We have site-wide wi-fi for laptops, smartphones, and tablet PC connectivity.
Test Cell Facilities
The key features of our test cell include:
- 340 kW fully transient dynamometer
- Full exhaust gas analysis both pre and post after treatment system
- Ammonia slip analyser, EGR CO2, THC and non-methane HC
Exhaust Analysis
The key features of our exhaust analysis facilities include:
- Signal Group Analysers in 3 racks with heated sample systems
- Sierra BG-3 particulate mini-tunnel
- AVL 415S smoke meter
Environmental Lab
The environmental lab is part of the Centre for Low Carbon Research (CLCR) and is home of the bioenergy and bioprocessing research group at the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment.
The suite is divided into three main areas a wet lab/pilot facility a fully equipped analytical suite and a microbiological lab. This newly refurbished facility offers state of the art analysis and testing of environmental samples as well as scientific evaluation of lab scale and pilot scale technologies and processes.
Learning from industry experts
Discover more about the industry experts you can meet on our Engineering degree courses.
Laura Leyland is one of our lecturers, watch this video to find out more.