Advanced Mechanical Engineering (MSc)

How will I be taught?

Modules are delivered through a series of lectures, tutorials, practical’s, workshops as well as problems and research-led activities. These methods vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on subject matter and the method of assessment. Supplementary resources are also provided to both aid student learning and provide stretching activities.

Individual modules provide further information on how to study and guidance on learning resources and further support.

As well as having individual activities, learning together is an important aspect of this programme, especially when collaborating across multi-disciplinary groups. Directed support is provided concerning effective team participation, developing group dynamics and reviewing peer contribution.

Experts from industry will also contribute by contextualising taught content with real-world problems, exploring latest engineering innovations and presenting case studies.

How will I be assessed?

Summative assessments are designed to best reflect practical relevance and to be authentic, while evidencing achievement of the learning outcomes. Formative assessments which carry no marks are used to assist students in preparing for summative assessments.

This gives a measure of performance to inform you, us as staff, and potential employers about your progress and achievement. It can also help the learning process by highlighting areas of success and areas needing more attention.

Assessment involves a blend of methods that are selected to suit the outcomes of each module and the course as a whole including:

• Written assignments such as reports, essays and posters
• Planning, conduct and reporting of project work
• Problem-based exercises based on real-world challenges
• Presentations – oral live and recorded
• Peer review
• Reflective practices

How will I be supported?

You will be allocated a personal tutor to assist with both your academic progress and pastoral support in an informal and confidential manner. We take pride in providing a warm and welcoming environment for all.

Your personal tutor will see you regularly during the programme. For the dissertation stage, you’ll be allocated a supervisor and if appropriate, an industrial mentor in your specialist field, whom you’ll be expected to meet with regularly.

In addition to the broad range of support services provided centrally by Cardiff University, our Senior Personal Tutor will be available to help and advise on any personal matters.

You’ll have access to a comprehensive handbook appropriate to your programme, containing details of the School’s procedures and policies. We make extensive use of the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Learning Central) to share information, teaching materials and support your learning.

Feedback is an essential element of your learning experience and will be provided during the duration of your studies. Each module will have feedback mechanisms to aid in your learning and development. Formative assessments which have no marks will have feedback that assists you in developing your knowledge, understanding and skills. Feedback following summative assessments will outline the evidence used to mark your submission against set criteria and provide constructive comments towards developing your knowledge, understanding and skills for the future.

Dedicated School Careers Advisers and staff from Student Futures will also support you to achieve your future career goals and develop your skills to be successful in the Graduate recruitment process.

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you. 

The Programme Outcomes have been specified in accordance with the AHEP UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence of the Engineering Council, and also by the requirements of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Details of specific learning outcomes for modules on this programme are listed on the relevant module descriptions

On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:

Knowledge and Understanding

• Apply advanced knowledge of mathematics, mechanical engineering science and engineering principles to complex mechanical systems. 
• Evaluate advanced mechanical technologies, materials and manufacturing processes used in modern mechanical engineering practice. 
• Evaluate environmental and societal impacts of mechanical engineering solutions across their lifecycle.
• Plan and critically evaluate an independent research project in mechanical engineering using appropriate methodologies and analytical techniques, culminating in a coherent and scholarly dissertation.

Intellectual Skills

• Formulate and analyse complex mechanical engineering problems using engineering principles and judgement, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. 
• Select and apply analytical and computational techniques to model mechanical systems and processes, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. 
• Select and critically evaluate technical literature, research and standards relevant to advanced mechanical engineering. 

Professional Practical Skills

• Design solutions for complex mechanical engineering problems that meet functional, industrial and societal requirements. 
• Apply a systems approach to the design and integration of mechanical engineering systems. 
• Apply project management and regulatory considerations related to the development and delivery of advanced mechanical engineering systems and technologies. 

Transferable/Key Skills

• Communicate complex mechanical engineering information effectively to technical and non-technical audiences. 
• Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team. Evaluate effectiveness of own and team performance. 
• Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion.