
Manufacturing Engineering - BEng (Hons) / MEng
Currently viewing course to start in 2023/24 Entry.
Manufacturing engineering is an essential feature in the vast arena that is manufacturing – an area that makes large contributions to the wealth of many countries throughout Europe and the rest of the world. It is a fast-changing scene where the competition between industrial organisations is keen and lean: only those companies prepared to apply modern philosophies and technologies will survive....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Location City Centre
- Award BEng (Hons) / MEng
- Start date September 2023
- Fees View course fees
- School School of Engineering and the Built Environment
- Faculty Faculty of Computing, Engineering and The Built Environment
Overview
Manufacturing engineering is an essential feature in the vast arena that is manufacturing – an area that makes large contributions to the wealth of many countries throughout Europe and the rest of the world.
It is a fast-changing scene where the competition between industrial organisations is keen and lean: only those companies prepared to apply modern philosophies and technologies will survive. BEng (Hons) / MEng Manufacturing Engineering has been developed to provide you with a good knowledge of a range of manufacturing principles.
This programme offers an exciting course of study that will prepare you for the rapidly developing field of manufacturing engineering and its supporting operational systems. Upon your graduation you will have the intellectual, creative and personal qualities necessary for undertaking a leadership role and a depth of knowledge that will enable the application of new and emerging technologies to the solution of manufacturing problems.
This degree aims to develop engineers who can apply the principles of systems management, engineering and information technology to the solution of operational problems in industry and commerce. Manufacturing engineers are employed in a wide range of engineering, educational and commercial organisations. Graduates from the course are equipped to progress into positions of responsibility in relevant industry, or further programmes of specialised study or research.
There are many challenges facing manufacturing industry. Companies now strive for competitive advantage and have to evaluate their performance more effectively in order to make best possible use of all resources: Talented, innovative, ambitious engineers are needed to give manufacturing organisations a competitive edge.
Professional Placement Year
This course offers a professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, between the second and third years of your degree, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.
The University will draw on its extensive network of local, regional and national employers to support you in finding a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. If you do not find a suitable placement, you will be automatically transferred back to the standard, non-placement version of the course.
Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year (£1,850 for UK students).
Why Choose Us?
- 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.
- £1.1 million investment in new facilities from the IoT – The Institute of Technology (IoT) has invested in brand-new equipment and facilities, including an Electric Vehicle (EV) Test Rig, an Additive Manufacturing Machine (3D printer) and a material testing-split zone furnace - all industry grade technology that will advance your skills, making you more employable.
- Conceive Design Implement Operate (CDIO) Initiative – Work in groups and undertake project-based challenges to enhance your employability opportunities and skill set.
- Engineering Leaders Scholarship (ELS) all second year Engineering students can apply for this scholarship from the Royal Academy of Engineers to receive an accelerated personal development programme of support including £5,000 to use on career development activities, access to alumni for advice and support and attend annual networking event
- Industry sponsored events - Get involved with opportunities to showcase your work at our industry sponsored events such as InnovationFest.
- Travel scholarships - Opportunities to secure funding to gain experience overseas. Read about our travel scholarships.
Similar Courses
Studying with us during the Covid-19 pandemic
The University has put in place measures in response to Covid-19 to allow us to safely deliver our courses. Should the impact of the pandemic continue in future years, any additional or alternative arrangements put in place by the University will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
Open Days
Join us for an on-campus Open Day this spring. It’s your chance to learn about our courses, chat to students and explore our campus and accommodation. Before the event we’ll post you an event programme to help plan your day and find your way.
Next Open Day: Saturday 25 March 2023
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2023/24.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BEng (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £9,250 in 2023/24
- Apply via UCAS
- Full Time
- 4 Years with Professional Placement
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- Study Year (2023/24) £9,250
Professional Placement Fees
The tuition fee for your first year of study at the university is shown here. Full-time courses with a Professional Placement also incur a fee during the placement year. The fee for your placement year will be £1,850, which is equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee.
- Part Time
- 5 years
- Show fees
- £1542 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
- Year 2 - 60 credits
- Year 3 - 80 credits
- Year 4 - 80 credits
- Year 5 - 80 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: MEng
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 years
- £9,250 in 2023/24
- Apply via UCAS
- Full Time
- 5 years with Professional Placement
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- Study Year (2023/24) £9,250
Professional Placement Fees
The tuition fee for your first year of study at the university is shown here. Full-time courses with a Professional Placement also incur a fee during the placement year. The fee for your placement year will be £1,850, which is equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee.
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BEng (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £13,980 in 2023/24
- Part Time
- 5 Years
- Show fees
- Year 1 - 60 credits
- Year 2 - 60 credits
- Year 3 - 80 credits
- Year 4 - 80 credits
- Year 5 - 80 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: MEng
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 years
- £13,980 in 2023/24
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead.
Guidance for 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.
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.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Course in Depth
Year One
In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
The module aims to provide the underpinning knowledge and problem solving skills in engineering science to enable you to progress to the next module in the theme, Engineering Principles II, and then on to the second year of a range of engineering degrees.
As the practical aspects of engineering science are delivered in another theme of the common first year, the Engineering Principles modules concentrate on the theoretical aspects. The subject material will be delivered in two coherent streams one of which contains predominantly mechanical science and the other contains predominantly electrical science.
Mathematics plays a key role in establishing and grounding the skills of an engineer, and the ability to communicate the ideas of engineering that are expected of an engineering graduates.
The primary aim of this module is to provide the fundamental mathematical knowledge and techniques needed in order to enable you to use and apply such mathematical techniques for the evaluation, analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems. Application of these data sets has to include their interpretation both to and from the mathematical language. In addition, this module will introduce students to mathematical modelling software package. This will be used to plot, annotate basic signals and write simple programs to compute mathematical problems.
This module will develop your ability to both work on and communicate engineering realities to a wider audience, at a professional standard.
The module aims to provide the professional skills needed to enable you to progress to the next stage of the practical theme, onto your next module: Integrated Engineering Project, and then into the second year of an engineering degree.
The subject material will be delivered in two core streams: a PC-based stream, which will include the use of software to support project planning, communication and analysis, and a project-space stream, where you have the opportunity to integrate learning from across all elements of the semester.
You will develop practical professional engineering skills; including skills required for conceiving, designing, implementing and operating (CDIO) engineering solutions.
This module will interact with modules in the other two themes in the first year, relying on the knowledge of mathematical techniques, and the theoretical underpinning of the engineering principles, design and professional skills.
The module aims to provide the underpinning knowledge and problem solving skills in engineering science to enable you to progress to the second year of a wide range of engineering degrees.
As the practical aspects of engineering science are delivered in another theme of the common first year, the Engineering Principles modules concentrate on the theoretical aspects. The subject material will be delivered in two coherent streams one of which contains predominantly mechanical science and the other contains predominantly electrical science. Each stream will be delivered as a 1 hour lecture followed by a 1 hour small group tutorial giving 4 hours contact.
This module will interact with modules in the other two themes in the common first year in that it will rely on knowledge of mathematical techniques developed in the maths/professional skills theme and will provide theoretical underpinning for the experimental activities in the practical theme.
This module will focus on introducing and building on well-established techniques for mathematically modelling dynamic systems (systems of interest for engineering) for contextualised engineering applications. The module will include an introduction to sophisticated signal analysis technique, Fourier series which is used to transform time-domain signals into their frequency spectra. The module is structured to include a mixture of lectures, tutorials and PC-based laboratories. The lectures will formally introduce material, in tutorials students will work through questions with tutor. The PC laboratories will involve using mathematical modelling software packages to implement mathematical operations.
The module aims to provide the practical and professional skills to enable you to progress on to the second year of an engineering degree. As the theoretical aspects of physical science and maths are delivered in other themes of the first year, the Practical Skills modules concentrate on the practical aspects.
The subject material will be delivered in three coherent streams one of which contains predominantly mechanical and electrical laboratory exercises, a second PC-based stream will include use of software to support project planning, design, communication and analysis and the third, a project space where you have the opportunity to integrate learning from across all elements of the semester
Year Two
In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
This module provides you with an understanding of the analysis, design and planning of manufacturing and other operating systems, and also an opportunity to investigate and select alternative strategies for the planning, scheduling and control of manufacturing and other operating systems.
The module also covers the quality systems, tools and techniques available to an organisation.
This module aims to provide you with an understanding of the tools and techniques used in quality systems. Topics include Process Improvement, Process Capability, Improvement Techniques, Quality by Design, Mapping Techniques, Quality Costs, TQM and Standards (ISO 9000 etc).
The module provides you with the opportunity to learn about design, sustainable development, teamwork and communication whilst contributing towards real international development projects.
You will also gain the ability to communicate design ideas and practical details, to evaluate and apply both tangible and subjective feedback, and to conceive, design, implement and operate practical solutions to design opportunities.
It is anticipated that the project vehicle for this module will be the Engineers without Borders Design for People Challenge.
An interdisciplinary module, you will work with students from all fields of engineering to develop skills in engineering leadership and experience creating a purposeful vision and delivering on that vision. This will set the professional skills for business in context by combining your technical course-specific knowledge with professional skills. It is proposed that the vehicle to deliver this will be the biomimicry global design challenge.
This module develops your research skills, idea generation techniques, and ability to create CAD models and manufactured components.
You will also gain the ability to communicate design ideas and practical details, to evaluate and apply both tangible and subjective feedback, and to conceive, design, implement and operate practical solutions to design opportunities.
This module aims to provide you with an understanding of and practical experience in the techniques used in controlling manufacturing applications. Topics include inspection, machine tool control, flexible and dedicated automation, and work holding systems, supply of power and services and health and safety issues.
Professional Placement Year (Optional)
In order to qualify for the award of Bachelor of Engineering with Honours Manufacturing Engineering with Professional Placement Year or Integrated Masters of Engineering Manufacturing Engineering with Professional Placement Year a student must successfully complete the following module.
This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to undertake a credit bearing, 40- week Professional Placement as an integral part of your Undergraduate Degree.
The purpose of the Professional Placement is to improve your employability skills which will, through the placement experience, allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Furthermore, by completing the Professional Placement, you will be able to develop and enhance your understanding of the professional work environment, relevant to your chosen field of study, and reflect critically on your own professional skills development within the workplace.
Year Three
In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
If you are intending to work in a manufacturing environment you will need to develop an understanding of the techniques used in Computer Aided Manufacture of components and products. You will also require a working knowledge of the application of CAM and simulation technologies to form complete integrated systems for product manufacture. Topics include CAD, CAM and CNC data forms, simulation of machining operations, manufacturing cells, calibration, measurement and testing, 3-D System simulation; assembly systems; post processor configuration and application; advanced process simulation and product development.
This module provides an opportunity for you to investigate the world of new materials and their industrial application through a combination of taught content and both practical and theoretical research project work. It is anticipated that guest lectures will provide industrial focus to this wide-ranging subject. It is proposed that a mini-conference will be held at the end of the module, offering opportunities for you to present your findings to academics, your peers, and industrial contacts.
The module provides you with an understanding of the factors which control and constrain the performance of manufacturing and other operational systems including topics such as Risk Analysis and Decision Making Process, Material Flow Analysis, Maintenance and Replacement, Development of a Manufacturing Strategy.
Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) considers products and associated systems from concept to reuse, including design, manufacturing processes and routes, and production management, and places them in a global context which includes sustainability and climate change. This form of systems engineering is focused on meeting all requirements, primarily meeting customer needs, and coordinating the systems design process by involving all relevant disciplines. The core of PLM is in the creation and central management of all product data and the technology used to access this information and knowledge, and this module will help you become proficient in the philosophies, tools and techniques you will need to achieve this coherence. PLM as a discipline emerged from tools such as CAD, CAM and PDM, but can be viewed as the integration of these tools with methods, people and the processes through all stages of a product’s life. It is not just about equipment, material processing and software technology but is also a business strategy. This module has a strong emphasis on the environment and on sustainability of business.
The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, you will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.
At this level, you will be expected to work independently but you will receive additional one-to-one support from your supervisor, who will be familiar with your chosen topic area. As you progress on the module, extra support will be available and this may take the form of group seminars, workshops and online materials that will help to develop your project.
Year Four
In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed group project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, your group will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your group’s topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.
This module provides an opportunity for you to investigate the world of new materials and to develop an understanding of the techniques used in Computer Aided Manufacture. This will be set in the context of industrial applications and delivered through a combination of taught content and both practical and theoretical research project work.
Project management is the application of processes, methods, knowledge, skills and experience to achieve the project objectives (PMBoK, 6th Ed. (2012). Project management is key to delivering strategic value within an organisation and it involves far more than a time plan, a budget and a risk register. Projects can range from construction of a new building to the launch of new product, or outsourcing previous in-house functions, to the re-engineering of products, services and processes. This module will deal with the two main stages of any project: PLANNING and IMPLEMENTATION.
Seven techniques are identified as being applicable to one or both of these: PRINCE II, Activity networking (Work breakdown schedules), Project Financial Appraisal, Earned Value Method of Project Cost Control, Risk Identification and Assessment, Break-even analysis and Use of Computer Software for project planning and Control.
This module aims to provide you with the tools and techniques you require to assist in developing skills and expertise in the reverse engineering process. The module also provides you with an understanding of, and practical experience in, the techniques used in prototype manufacture.
This module will focus on resource management and its effective deployment and allocation to achieve sustainable competitive advantage for organisations. Two main resources will be considered: HUMAN and FINANCIAL; without which, organisational success cannot be guaranteed.
You will be introduced to theoretical concepts underpinning resource development and deployment such as, human capital development, change management, motivational theories, learning organisations, financial methods, investment appraisal, budgeting, alongside financial and management accounting.
Download course specification
Download nowHow you learn
You will develop analytical skills through coursework tasks, encouraging your creativity and problem solving using relevant systems and technologies.
You will be assessed both formatively and summatively by a number of methods, including coursework exercises, examinations, presentations and practical assignments, while assignment methods will include laboratory and design reports, presentations and in-class demonstrations. Summative assessment is by way of assignments, projects, presentations, time-controlled assignments and end examinations, where appropriate to the individual module.
Further study
The University has a range of research (PhD) postgraduate programmes. Details can be found on the postgraduate section of the website.
Employability
Employment Opportunities
We will prepare you for employment by providing you with the skills, experience and industry links you’ll need to thrive upon graduating.
The University also has its Graduate+ scheme, an extracurricular programme which is designed to augment and enhance the subject-based skills you will develop through the programme. These additional skills and attributes will further enhance your employment options and prospects once you leave the University.
The programme will help you develop your skills in CV writing, presentations, covering letters and creating winning portfolios.
Career paths include opportunities in the following areas:
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Project Engineering
- Process Engineering
- Process Planning
- Scheduling and Control
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- Jobs outside of manufacturing and engineering requiring analytical and problem-solving skills
International
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.
Facilities & Staff




Our Facilities
We are currently undertaking a £340 million investment programme in our facilities, including a major expansion of our City Centre Campus. As part of this, our facilities in Millennium Point have undergone a £6.5 million investment to include a new maker area, engineering labs and equipment.
We have invested in industry-standard facilities to support the practice-based elements of our Engineering courses and give students as much practical learning as possible, to prepare for industry placements and job opportunities after graduation. Students have access to our facilities during classes, and can book out of class sessions with our specialist technicians.
We are a partner of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIoT) and have secured £1.1 million of government funding for investment in brand-new Engineering equipment and facilities. Funding of £808,000 from the Department for Education has supported our development of an Electric Vehicle (EV) Test Rig, an Additive Manufacturing Machine (3D printer) and a material testing-split zone furnace.
The GBSIoT has enabled procurement of new technologies for material testing, electronics prototyping and production and 3D scanning to compliment computer aided design for manufacture.
Our staff
Dr Adnan Fazal
Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering
Dr Adnan Fazal is a Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Engineering. His current research interests include pre-stressed fibre reinforced polymers for improved strength, stiffness, impact protection, resistance to crack propagation and protection against abnormal loads. Potential applications of these smart fibre reinforced polymers...
More about AdnanLaura Leyland
Associate Professor and Acting Head Centre of Engineering
Laura Leyland is an Associate Professor and Acting Head of Centre and has been innovating in engineering education for over 10 years, teaching materials based modules and practical project focussed delivery with a specific interest in developing humanitarian engineering. This module delivery incorporates the Engineering for People...
More about Laura