Course summary
The Foundation Degree in Mechatronic Engineering is validated by Ulster University Why study this course? Studying Mechatronics at Level 5 offers a broad and versatile foundation in engineering principles, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enter the engineering field or advance their careers. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of various engineering disciplines, with a slant towards manufacturing automation. It equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that are highly valued by employers, enhancing employability and opening up diverse career opportunities. Additionally, it serves as a stepping stone for further education, such as progressing to a Level 6 Bachelor’s Degree in engineering. About the course The course provides opportunities to study a diverse range of subjects which will introduce core skills required by the engineers of the future, whilst achieving a Level 5 nationally recognised, vocationally specific qualification. This Foundation Degree programme aims to equip students with a broad range of engineering skills, providing a solid foundation in general engineering principles and enabling them to explore a range of subject areas relating to mechatronic engineering. How will it make me more employable? Ulster University and South Eastern Regional College are committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need. The course will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to: Technical Skills • CAD skills (likely Solidworks) • Practical skills (Digital circuits, PLCs, Mechatronics) • Design Tools and Techniques • Project Management Skills • Business Improvement Techniques Employability Skills • Critical Thinking • Emotional Intelligence • Entrepreneurship • Leadership • Reflective Practice • Decision Making • Team Working Where will it take me? Successful completion of this course will enable you to apply for jobs in the engineering industry or alternatively, you would be eligible to apply to related degree programmes where you will normally be able to start at second year of entry. Related Degree Programme- Students that successfully complete the Foundation Degree programme traditionally progress to one of the following areas: • Direct Entry to Year 2 of a Level 6 Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronic Engineering programme in Ulster University (students must have achieved at least 50% in Level 4 Engineering Mathematics and in all Level 5 modules). • Other Degree Programmes Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 6 qualification, at other universities. Entry requirements and year of entry are subject to the University. Employment -This Foundation Degree programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to thrive in the changing world of work and can open doors to various career opportunities, including roles such as: • Engineering Engineer: Working on the design, development, and maintenance of engineering systems • Quality Engineer: Ensuring products meet quality standards and managing quality control processes • Maintenance Engineer: Overseeing maintenance operations and ensuring machinery and equipment are in optimal working condition • Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement Engineer: Involved in the production process, ensuring efficient and effective manufacturing operations These roles leverage the technical skills and knowledge gained from the programme, providing a solid foundation for a successful engineering career.
Modules
Year 1 (Level 4): Engineering Mathematics: Use fundamental algebra, trigonometry, calculus, probability, and statistics in the solution of realistic engineering problems. Computer Aided Design: Take a problem and apply a structured design process to develop a solution by applying the principles of manual design techniques through traditional drawing and 3D modelling methods. Engineering Science: Introduction to electrical and mechanical engineering science principles as a basis for further studies in more specialist areas of engineering. Electronic Principles: Gain an understanding of the principles of operation of electronic devices and circuits. Automation Principles: develop an understanding of modern automation systems and the operation and application of fluid power systems and PLCs within these systems. Professional Studies: Become aware of relevant local and global business challenges associated with being a professional engineer and gain an insight into continued professional development. Year 2 (Level 5): Programming & Embedded Systems: Gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to design, implement, and test embedded systems. Mechatronics & Robotics: Develop practical skills and personal confidence to design, build, and test automation systems. Computer Aided Manufacturing: Understand the operational characteristics of a CAM software system and its interface with CNC machines to manufacture components. Business Improvement Techniques: Recognize which Six Sigma and Lean tools to use to address specific process issues. Work-Based Learning: Gain authentic and innovative work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of your planned programme of study. In addition to the units outlined, you will also work towards a professional/personal development qualification and will be involved in a range of activities designed to improve employability within the Engineering sector. Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Assessment method
Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations. Each unit is graded individually with an overall single final percentage. Students are assessed using a range of methods. These may include: Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report. Presentations: Students will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate. Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities. This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
How to apply
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- 0021
- Institution code:
- R01
- Campus name:
- SERC Lisburn
- Campus code:
- L
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
We offer a diverse range of world class courses and study options, and we’re delighted to offer our international students a warm welcome to study at SERC. For more information visit: https://www.serc.ac.uk/international/students
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - Not accepted
A level - CC
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MPP
Access to HE Diploma
Scottish Higher
Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE admissions process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
Additional entry requirements
Other
All applicants must hold GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification AND GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification AND passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.
English language requirements
Test | Grade | Additional details |
---|---|---|
IELTS (Academic) | 6 | Minimum of 5.5 in all skills |
PTE Academic | 51 | Minimum of 46 in each part |
All applicants must hold a GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills-Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification. Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test For further information please contact our International Department at [email protected]
Click here to find out more about becoming an international student at SERC.
Student Outcomes
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
EU | £2940 | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £2940 | Year 1 |
Republic of Ireland | £2940 | Year 1 |
England | £2940 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £2940 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £2940 | Year 1 |
Wales | £2940 | Year 1 |
International | £7500 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
There are a number of sources of financial support available to students. These vary depending upon your course of study. Apply as soon as possible as closing dates vary between funds. The main types of student finance are tuition fee and maintenance loans, which have to be paid back, and grants and bursaries, which do not have to be paid back. For more information visit: https://www.serc.ac.uk/support/student-finance/full-time
Provider information
South Eastern Regional College
Castle Park Road
Bangor
County Down
BT20 4TD