FdEng/HNC Engineering - Mechanical Design

During the first year you will use CAD software to produce both 2D production drawing and 3D models, undertake design simulations and run stress analysis. You will be introduced to the capabilities of 3D printing to produce physical models and use a CAM package to develop and simulate a milled product. There will be an introduction to business processes and theory within engineering companies and different project management techniques. This is tied together with the underpinning of mathematical theory, engineering science and materials science, including metal and polymer experiments.

During the second year you will be introduced to different design principles and how to undertake a design project. The importance of considering manufacturing methods is emphasised, as is engineering calculations and the behaviour of materials when developing your design. You will undertake a group design project and an individual, company relevant, project that will also demonstrate your ability to project manage. The business processes and theories from the first year will be applied through the production of a business plan. Your understanding of mathematical theory and engineering science will continue to be developed throughout the second year. If successful, you graduate at this point with an HNC and if you achieve the necessary grades you have the option to progress to the Foundation Degree.

In this third year of study you will develop your design techniques and analysis further with the work directly linked to marketing and business requirements within engineering. A more detailed company relevant major project is undertaken to demonstrate you can apply what you have learned over the last three years. You will also undertake writing your first academic paper for possible publication. To link in with the requirements for the IED and IMechE you will also undertake Continual Professional Development and a work based log throughout the year.

These courses have been specifically designed, in consultation with Industry and Professional Institutions, to enable those predominately working in engineering to study alongside their work. Our HNCs and Foundation Degrees in engineering are ideally suited to those who are looking to gain the essential skills to advance their career in a variety of engineering roles.

Progression to the BEng/MEng (Hons) Engineering is an option for appropriate students.

Four GCSEs at grade C/4 minimum, to include English and mathematics or an equivalent qualification, plus
One A Level at grade C in a relevant subject or equivalent AVCE or National Diploma / Certificate (or equivalent UK or overseas qualifications), or
A BTEC National Certificate or National Diploma in Manufacturing or Engineering (Mechanical Design). Students should normally have a Merit in Mathematics and/or Mechanical Principles,

Bournemouth University