You’re interested in studying engineering at the University of Sunderland, but maybe you’re still a little unsure about what you’ll be learning when you get here. Read on to find out what to expect from your first year as an engineering student at Sunderland.
Common first year
Did you know that all three of our three-year undergraduate courses share a common first year curriculum? You'll cover the fundamentals of engineering alongside students studying other engineering disciplines, which is advantageous, as it could enable you to change your course at the end of your first year, should a different route appeal to you.
It also means you'll get a flavour of each engineering course we offer, which will help you upon graduation when working in the industry with other experts from different engineering disciplines.
Design and Build Challenge
An exciting part of your first year is the Design and Build Challenge, where you'll be able to combine theory with practical experience. Working in interdisciplinary groups (i.e. from Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Electronic and Electrical Engineering), you'll design, produce, and test an electromechanical artefact.
In doing so, you'll utilise the latest Computer Aided Design software, laser cutting machine, and rapid prototyping machine. The module allows you to understand the full circle of project management, design, prototyping and manufacture. From concept to detailed design and from prototype to full manufacture, the module allows you to apply academic theory and put those theories into practice. The module offers a problem-based learning experience, which is vital in understanding the given engineering principles.
Learning materials and facilities
You'll be exposed to and will use industry standard CAD software and your tutorial sessions are supported with extensive online learning (including lecture materials published on Canvas, our Virtual Learning Environment), videos, and live demos. A recent lab update has made the latest advanced manufacturing technologies available, which you'll be using from the earliest stages of your course.
These updates have had a transformative effect on the quality of what our current students produce, and we have no doubt you'll benefit from them too. Finally, you'll be assigned a personal tutor, so you're always fully supported throughout your studies, from the first year and beyond.
IMechE challenge
You'll also get the opportunity to use what you've learned in your first year to compete with other universities in the region.
The IMechE challenge is a national competition ran by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers which will see you design and build an artefact and compete in regional heats. If you successfully win the regional heat, you'll then be invited to the prestigious IMechE headquarters on Birdcage Walk in London to go head to head with other universities, nationally.
Check out the IMechE website for further information.
Get inspired
Engineers are revolutionising the way we live. From leading the war against pollution and making cleaner, faster cars, to saving lives by developing the latest medical equipment, and bringing the latest ships and aircraft to life. Embark on your journey at the University of Sunderland and learn more about this fascinating discipline.
Find out more by visiting our Engineering subject area.
Published: 9 April 2019