FdSc Agricultural Machinery Engineering (FT)

FdSc Agricultural Machinery Engineering

• Key Information
• Course Content
• Additional Information
• How to Apply

Course Description:

The United Kingdom is one of the main users of agricultural and horticultural machinery. Imported machinery is developed, adapted and modified in the UK to support the high crop yields and temperate climate, which make the UK different to the rest of Europe and North America. The aim of the Foundation Degree Agricultural Machinery Engineering, awarded by the University of Central Lancashire, is to provide the skills that make an organisation successful, and provide an in depth understanding of the industry.

Agricultural machinery engineering is a multidisciplinary subject which involves the design, construction and preparation of agricultural vehicles. It also includes the planning of teamwork and project management. This course provides the grounding and understanding of the fundamentals of the machinery business whilst also having the opportunity to specialise in the technology and working practices employed by the industry. You will gain an understanding of the current industry practices and standards.

COURSE CONTENT:

Year 1

Machinery Principles and Technology (double module) - This module aims to discuss the principles of agricultural machinery systems and to allow investigation of the strength and suitability of materials in relation to different roles within machinery. Safety systems within machinery will also be considered. The student will also develop skills in the acquisition and analysis of primary and secondary data.

Drive Train Systems for Agricultural Vehicles

The systems used to enable movement within modern agricultural and construction machinery are complex. This module will involve learning about the engine, transmission and hydraulic systems. These have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years. The student will examine the materials used, type of construction and design methodology behind these systems.

Information Technology and CAD

Employers are demanding higher levels of IT skills and competency. This module takes a practical approach and will enhance and consolidate existing IT skills such as Excel. An introduction to and the use of Computer Aided Design is provided.

Electronic Control Systems

Modern machinery has a large dependence on a wide variety of electronic control systems from ECUs to more sophisticated diagnostic and control systems. This module will demonstrate the basic principles of how these systems work and the effect they have on the wider vehicle.

Work Skills Development

This module provides students with first-hand experience where students will use their industry environment to develop practical and technical skills. Students will record and reflect on their own personal development during the module.

Year 2

Contemporary Industry Developments

The mechanisation industry is one which is linked to both the wider agricultural and construction industries. This module will demonstrate the effects of these industries on the student’s future career as well as the technological developments which are influenced by trends. Contemporary issues in these supporting industries will have an effect on the mechanisation industry, the student will learn how to spot trends and guide their organisations through them.

Manufacturing and Fabrication (double module)

Evaluate appropriate materials, develop problem solving and technical skills and organise and analyse team operations in a vehicles/machinery context. This module combines theory and practical experience working with materials used within the industry.

Technical Systems for Agricultural Machinery Engineering

This module deals with data capture from vehicle/machinery systems. The subsequent analysis of the available information will enable students to make diagnostic recommendations with respect to ‘User’ and ‘component’ performance. Students will also investigate the range and type of sensors used in such data logging systems.

Machinery Management

Students will concentrate on developing knowledge of the compatibility of power units with implements/equipment, the effect on business finance/management: how operational systems are controlled by equipment available; analysis and evaluation of data produced from equipment operation and its use in decision-making.

Work Project

This module applies the practical, technical and personal skills developed in the Work Skills Development module. It will utilise a structured work environment for students to identify a suitable project, develop and manage the project and report on the outcomes. Students will be encouraged to use the work project to develop professional working relationships and identify their chosen career options.

Course Documents:

Student Handbook (2015 Entry)

Programme Specification and Handbook (2016 Entry)

Myerscough College Policies and Procedures

Assessment:

Students will face a variety of assessments including formative and summative assessment, technical reports, group and individual presentations, individual study projects and case studies.

Links with Professional Body:

The College works closely with the Institution of Agricultural Engineers and the Agricultural Engineering Association.

Students are also encouraged to form links with local and national organisations such as Lancashire Farm Machinery Club, NFU, and Young Farmers Associations.

Extra Costs:

Additional costs that are essential for the course include:

Flame Proof Overalls and Safety Footwear - £85

Additional costs for opportunities and items that are optional for the course include:

Accommodation and Subsistence on Field Trips and Visits - £40 per day

Team Polo Shirts - £24

Learning Environment:

Learning activities on the course are diverse, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops and presentations, both singularly and in groups. Students are expected to undertake extensive independent study to support lectures, seminars and assessments. Students will also have access to Myerscough's virtual learning environment.

Additional Information:

Students may have the opportunity to join the Ohio State University Scheme where they will travel to the USA and work as drivers or look after the harvesting machinery. The initial cost is £2,000 but students will receive a salary and accommodation is provided by the employer.

Work Experience:

The Work Skills Development and Work Project modules will use a relevant working environment to provide the opportunity for students to develop real practical and technical skills that are required by the industry and will help prepare students for employment in their chosen subject area. Students will undertake reflection and analysis of their learning in order to create 'reflective log' of achievement within these modules. There is no formal industy placement on this course.

What are our graduates doing now?

Self-employed contractors

Service engineers

Service managers

Machinery operators

What international opportunities are available?

Students are fully supported and encouraged to undertake work experience abroad in the summer between years one and two or on completion of their BSc degree. Graduates will have the opportunity to apply for travel scholarships as well as access to employers and agricultural agencies in Canada, USA and New Zealand.

Progression:

Upon successful completion, students may apply to top-up to a full Honours Degree in one year, for example BSc (Hons) Agricultural Machinery Engineering (Top-up)

What careers can you follow:

Students successfully gaining the Foundation Degree may seek employment in the Agricultural Engineering industry and opportunities exist in all sections. Positions may include such as a technician or mechanic in any field agricultural engineering, sub-contracting, dairy engineering or farming.

Applications for all full-time undergraduate courses are made via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). To apply, visit their website www.ucas.com/apply. The first UCAS deadline for receipt of applications is 15 January, for the following September.

Applications received after the first UCAS deadline will be considered by us for most courses. If you are applying after the 15 January, or if your pre-entry qualifications are different to those stated, you are advised to contact Course Enquiries on 01995 642211 for further advice. Myerscough College - general contact details Address: Myerscough College, St Michael's Road, Bilsborrow, Preston
Lancashire PR3 0RY
Telephone:01995 642222 Email: enquiries@myerscough.ac.uk Individual Learning Requirements Prospective students who have a learning difficulty or disability that may affect their studies should inform the College as soon as possible so that reasonable adjustments can be initiated, as appropriate. Where necessary students will be asked for evidence to help identify appropriate adjustments. If students wish to apply for a Disabled Student Allowance they need to seek advice from Student Finance England (or equivalent) which funds this provision for Higher Education Students. Please note that DSA funding is not available on all courses.

Please note that the information provided in this fact sheet was accurate at the date of publication. However, courses are continually being modified and information is therefore subject to change.