Mechanical Engineering

Spacecraft and satellites. Reactors and robots. Mechanical engineering is at the core of most systems that move. But how is technology improving their performance? To build the future, you need to keep up with it. And this degree will show you how.

Whether you study for the BEng or the MEng, your Mechanical Engineering degree will emphasise how mechanical engineering has been transformed by the use of powerful computer-aided design, prototyping and manufacturing tools and by the use of modern materials such as composites.

Engineers are innovators who bring about change through their ingenuity, experience and curiosity to improve the quality of life for people throughout the world. Their work is central to thriving economies and competitive industries. It is equally important in developing countries where engineers provide appropriate technologies during difficult times of change.

Professional engineers have a high degree of specialist knowledge but increasingly they use a broad approach to problem-solving across a range of engineering disciplines. This is coupled with an awareness of environmental, social, legal, economic and regulatory aspects of the problem at hand.

Mechanical systems are at the core of the manufacturing, process and service industries including:

Advanced engines, traction and braking systems for vehicles
Aircraft, satellites and deep space probes
Biomedical technologies such as imagers, ventilators and prosthetics
Air and water pollution control equipment
Transportation and mass transit systems
Industrial plant for the processing of raw materials and for power generation

Building on a broad foundation of engineering studies in Year 1, you will develop specific expertise and skills in mechanisms and vibrations, structures, mechanical materials, fluid dynamics and thermodynamics.

Successful engineers must be able to analyse and solve complex problems in the industrial context, communicate ideas to others and work effectively in teams and exercise leadership skills. This is why all our Engineering degrees include a selection of management content or specialised modules throughout. Topics covered include business finance, project planning and management, intellectual property, health and safety, motivation theory, marketing, total quality management, ethics and professionalism.

What's the difference?
Each of our Engineering subjects is available in six forms:

BEng (3 years), BEng with Industry (4 years), BEng with Year Abroad (4 years)
MEng (4 years), MEng with Industry (5 years), MEng with Year Abroad (5 years)
The MEng places greater emphasis on industrially-related project work, advanced technical content and leadership, and automatically meets the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status. The MEng shares its first three years with the corresponding BEng.

Leicester isn't just a top 25 UK university (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025) and Daily Mail's University of the Year 2025. It's cutting-edge research, world-class facilities, an incredible network of expert teaching staff, a warm campus community, and a place to call home.

What's more, all Clearing applicants are guaranteed a place in Leicester's accommodation! Expect modern furnishings, speedy Wi-Fi and cosy lounge areas - all at a range of costs and sizes. To secure a spot, make sure you've completed your application before 1st September.

With a student body made up of Midlanders, Brits, and people from across the world, you're bound to make friends for life at Leicester. Whatever you're passionate about, there are plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded people, with societies including Film, Debating, Art, Bollywood, Archery & Tennis. Leicester is also one of the most student-friendly cities in the UK. You've got music venues, bars, pubs & clubs all on your doorstep!