BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering with Motorsport

Key information

Typical offer:
Entry requirements
Fees: See below
Full details
UCAS code: H335
Institute code: H36
Study abroad option
Work placement option
Find out more

UCAS Points	A Level	BTEC	Access Course Tariff
112-120	BBC-BBB - maths and either physics or technology or engineering based subjects, excluding general studies/critical thinking	DMM-DDM - Extended diploma in engineering (DMM ) to include distinction in further maths	Engineering diploma with 30 Level 3 credits at distinction to include maths or science or principles units. the remaining 15 L3 credits must be at merit.

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/C in Mathematics.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

Clearing entry requirements

We’re committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. Over Clearing, we’ll be taking a flexible approach so if you don’t have the advertised grades, you can submit a clearing application and we’ll review and consider your application on an individual basis.

UCAS Points	A Level	BTEC	Accepted T Levels	Access Course Tariff	IB requirement
112–120	BBC–BBB Mandatory subjects: Mathematics and either Physics or Technology or engineering-based subjects, excluding General Studies/Critical Thinking	DMM–DDM Mandatory subjects: Extended Diploma in Engineering, to include distinction in Further Mathematics	None	Engineering diploma with 30 Level 3 credits at distinction, to include Mathematics or Science or Principles units. The remaining 15 L3 credits must be at merit	112–120 UCAS points from a minimum of two HL subjects at grade 4 or above to include HL Mathematics and Physics

UCAS Points

A Level

BTEC

Accepted T Levels

Access Course Tariff

IB requirement

112–120

BBC–BBB

Mandatory subjects: Mathematics and either Physics or Technology or engineering-based subjects, excluding General Studies/Critical Thinking

DMM–DDM

Mandatory subjects: Extended Diploma in Engineering, to include distinction in Further Mathematics

None

Engineering diploma with 30 Level 3 credits at distinction, to include Mathematics or Science or Principles units. The remaining 15 L3 credits must be at merit

112–120 UCAS points from a minimum of two HL subjects at grade 4 or above to include HL Mathematics and Physics

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/C in Mathematics.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

UCAS Points	A Level	BTEC	Accepted T Levels	Access Course Tariff	IB requirement
120–128	BBB–ABB Mandatory subjects: Mathematics and either Physics or Technology or engineering-based subjects, excluding General Studies/Critical Thinking	DMM–DDM Mandatory subjects: Extended Diploma in Engineering, to include distinction in Further Mathematics	None	Engineering diploma with 30 Level 3 credits at distinction, to include Mathematics or Science or Principles units. The remaining 15 L3 credits must be at merit	112–120 UCAS points from a minimum of two HL subjects at grade 4 or above to include HL Mathematics and Physics

UCAS Points

A Level

BTEC

Accepted T Levels

Access Course Tariff

IB requirement

120–128

BBB–ABB

Mandatory subjects: Mathematics and either Physics or Technology or engineering-based subjects, excluding General Studies/Critical Thinking

DMM–DDM

Mandatory subjects: Extended Diploma in Engineering, to include distinction in Further Mathematics

None

Engineering diploma with 30 Level 3 credits at distinction, to include Mathematics or Science or Principles units. The remaining 15 L3 credits must be at merit

112–120 UCAS points from a minimum of two HL subjects at grade 4 or above to include HL Mathematics and Physics

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/C in Mathematics.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

Professional accreditations

The BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering course is accredited by IMechE as meeting the academic requirement, in part, for Chartered Engineer registration for the 2023 cohort intake, up to, and including, the 2025 cohort intake.

Why choose this course?

Study at one of the largest engineering schools in the UK
Design, build and compete with a Formula Student car
Benefit from automotive workshops, modelling, simulation and research labs

This BEng Honours in Automotive Engineering with Motorsport will give you the opportunity for hands-on motorsport from your first year onwards by getting involved, if you wish in the design, build and competing of a Formula Student car, learning all the essential aspects of vehicle design such as performance, consumer demand and sustainability. ;
Your studies will reflect the latest thinking in the industry as the School is supported by a Motor Industry Advisory Panel which includes representatives from many well-known automotive companies;
Our students have previously completed work placement years at companies including: McLaren Automotive, Mercedes-Benz Grand Priz Limited and Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains;
Your MEng studies involve an extra year and will provide you with a broader and deeper understanding of the subject
Recent graduates have gone on to work at organisations including: Williams Grand Prix Engineering, McLaren Racing Limited, and Renault Sport.
We are members of the CDIO Initiative (Conceive Design Implement Operate), a worldwide network of academic professionals, industry representatives and engineering leaders who have a passion for engineering education and engineering leadership. The CDIO framework has been embedded into our undergraduate degree programme, ensuring you’ll put into practice what you learn through “Design and Build” projects during your studies.

What's the course about?

Motorsport’s not just exciting entertainment, but also an important part of automotive development. It challenges engineers to be innovative in using the latest technologies to design high-performance vehicles. You’ll find most modules on this course are common with those on our general automotive engineering degree. However, you’ll also learn about aerodynamics of high- speed vehicles and high-performance engine design, testing and mapping. One of the big highlights is to get involved in designing, building and racing a Student Formula car. This course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and is the first step towards chartered engineer status.

Your main campus is College Lane 

This is where the creative arts, science and health-related subjects are based. This means you’ll share the campus with future nurses, scientists, artists and more. You can use the common rooms to relax with friends, work out in the 24-hour gym or have a drink in our on-campus pub or cafes. We also have restaurants for you to eat in or grab something on the go. Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.   

New School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building opening in 2024

Learn in our brand-new building, where you’ll experience a range of experiential learning zones. You will have access to modelling, simulation and research labs, our Merlin Flight Simulator and automotive workshop (complete with electric vehicle facility), wind tunnel, welding bay and controls testing suite.

You will also benefit from a Success and Skills Support Unit, which is aimed at helping you build your employability and academic skills. Plus, have access to industry mentors who will provide you with pastoral support, vocational guidance, and career progression opportunities.

The new building will also provide space to collaborate, with plenty of workshops, social and meeting spaces available. Even better, the building has been designed with the University’s net zero carbon target in mind, and forms part of our plan to replace or upgrade older sites that are energy inefficient.

What will I study?

The School has a reputation for innovation in teaching and learning with most modules delivered through a combination of traditional face to face teaching and distance learning through the university's StudyNet web based facility. StudyNet allows students to access electronic learning resources, electronic discussion with staff and other students, and, for some modules, submit coursework 24/7 from anywhere in the world!

With a heavy emphasis on Computer Aided Engineering, the school has a policy of using industrial standard software wherever possible. The school also operate an open access laboratory policy of when possible students doing experiments in their own time.

What you will learn

You will learn about the aerodynamics of high-speed vehicles, high-performance engine design testing and mapping, engine mapping, suspension, tyres and road holding. There is also the opportunity to be involved with the Class 200 Formula Student car, where you will work on developing the previous year's Formula Student entry. In the following year of your course you will develop the specialist skills and knowledge of a motorsport engineer and you may choose to represent the University as a member of the Formula Student team.

First Year

You will study motorsport and automotive technology, engineering mathematics, engineering applications of mathematics, materials and electrical science, mechanical science, introduction to manufacturing technology, introduction to design, and fluid mechanics and thermodynamics.

Second Year

You will study dynamics, thermofluid mechanics, further engineering mathematics, computer-aided engineering (CAE), structural mechanics, automotive electronics and control systems, motorsport design and project management, and product development.

Third Year

You have the option of taking an integrated one-year professional placement.

Final Year (3rd or 4th)

You will study vehicle engineering design, vibration, noise and vehicle dynamics, vehicle structural analysis and manufacture, motorsport engineering, mechanics and properties of materials, aerodynamics and engine design for motorsport, and an individual major project.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Engineering Mathematics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to enable students to explore mathematical techniques commonly used in engineering. Topics covered include functions frequently occurring in engineering applications, their manipulation and application, complex numbers, integration techniques, differentiation of functions of one or more variables, ordinary differential equations, determinants, matrices and vectors. A range of applications will support the mathematical content of the module.
Statics and Dynamics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module encompasses: 1. Statics (fundamental concept of units, forces, free body diagrams, moments, normal stresses, shear stresses, shear force-bending moment relationships). 2. Dynamics (dynamics concepts, velocity and acceleration, linear & angular motion, moment of inertia, application of free-body diagrams, work and energy principles, impulse-momentum principles). 3. Vibration (simple harmonic motion, vibrational motion in a single degree of freedom system)
Automotive Engineering Fundamentals	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce students to the fundamental terminology, science and technologies commonly used in the automotive industry. The module will provide practical opportunities for students to become familiar with the basic elements and practices associated with automotive engineering. Students will become familiar with the parts of a vehicle and gain an appreciation for how they are integrated together. Students will be able to explore some of the parameters used to assess vehicle performance and through laboratory work learn how to use standard equipment to measure the performance of a vehicle. The module will also introduce those methods that motorsport industry uses to enhance vehicles performance.
Applied Design	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module introduces students to the engineering design process, from brief through to manufacture, to devise a solution to a posed engineering problem. Design activities are accomplished in small teams, thereby developing skills in teamwork, communication and leadership. Project management techniques are addressed and employed with the purpose of effective time management. Students are exposed to the workshop environment, with the aim of constructing their solution. Students will test and operate their build to evaluate its performance compared to the specified design brief.
Electrical Science	15 Credits	Compulsory
Many mechanical systems rely on electrical circuits for power, sensing and actuation. This module introduces the principles of electrical circuits and introduces the fundamental concepts of electrical units and relationships, basic AC and DC circuit theory, digital systems, A/D and D/A conversion, and electro-mechanical principles and devices. You will gain a secure foundation in the fundamental concepts of circuits, devices and systems that underpin all branches of engineering. This will include study of the mathematical operations of AC quantities, including phasors, vectors and complex numbers, some key semiconductor devices and circuits involving diodes and transistors and a fundamental knowledge of the principles and construction of DC and AC machines, transformers and linear actuators.
Programming for Engineers	15 Credits	Compulsory
This course will enable the student to understand and appreciate the role of basic programming within engineering disciplines. This will be accomplished through applications of programming language with practical demonstrations to allow students gain insights into the application of their work. Topics for the lectures are given below, and will be accompanied by practical classes where students will write scripts and execute them to control a programmable circuit board. Introduction Computers, Software, Hardware and microcontrollers including UART Communications Problem solving, structure and pseudocode Variables Operators Conditionals Functions Loops Strings Files Debugging Future Research and Developments
Engineering Professionalism	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will be introduced to their individual responsibilities and development to becoming professional engineers. Through relevant application of professionalism as students, they will develop skills and knowledge that will be transferable to industry practice or continued study. Using relevant academic research and industry examples students will learn about codes of conduct, relevant legislation, compliance and ethics as well as working in teams, leadership and management. The learning and assessment will be in conjunction with aligned and concurrent modules to allow this module to support and develop their skills for use in present application. The aim is to develop personal responsibility for their learning and professional development. Through industrial speakers and real case study examples students will be faced with real professional discussions and dilemmas.
Introduction to Mechatronic Systems (Automotive)	15 Credits	Compulsory
The intended learning outcomes are facilitated through a combination of approaches to learning and teaching mainly based on active experiential learning methods. These activities will be supported by the module team and by encouraging the students to access a variety of resources including available equipment and appropriate software packages. Students will be assessed, in groups as well as individually, by their ability to conceive, design, implement and operate a low-budget autonomous electromechanical device. Content breakdown by units: 1. Introduction to safety and hazardous substance legislation; 2. Solid body modelling for design implementation (Physical models); 3. Parameter analysis as a conceptual design methodology; 4. Introduction to mathematical modelling and optimisation; 5. CAD tools and prototypes; 6. Detail design; 7. Introduction to design for assembly and manufacture; 8. Sensors and actuators: information processing; 9. Design validation process (Technical Performance Measure); 10. Introduction to the mechanical and physical properties of polymers; 11. Introduction to manufacturing process determination. Alongside the above-mentioned topics, topics relating to project management and employability will be developed. The use of examples related to Automotive is recommended.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Automotive Electronics and Control Systems	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will extend the students understanding of electronics and applications within automotive vehicles. It will also introduce students to control theory and how to apply it to automotive applications. The content will include a revision of electrical basics, electrical power generation within vehicles, components and automotive electronic systems, instrumentation, actuators and sensors, digital systems and communication, introduction to control loops, transient and steady state performance and controller design methods.
Fluid Mechanics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module introduces students to the fundamentals of fluid flow including hydrostatic thrusts on submerged surfaces, Reynolds number, pipework systems, viscous drag and aerodynamic drag and the principles of fluid machines.
Thermodynamics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module introduces students to the fundamentals of thermodynamics and provides a basis for higher-level modules in thermodynamics and heat transfer. Lectures and tutorials are accompanied by laboratory sessions in thermodynamics. Assessment is through laboratory reports, written coursework and an examination.
Materials in Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module introduces: Strengthening mechanisms and processing-microstructure-property relationships, Ferrous and non-ferrous metals and alloys. Forming and shaping methods. Ceramics. Polymers. Composite Materials Corrosion Creep Fracture and fatigue Non-destructive testing
Automotive Sustainable Design	15 Credits	Compulsory
The intended learning outcomes are facilitated through a combination of approaches to learning and teaching mainly based on active experiential learning methods. These activities will be supported by the module team and by encouraging the students to access a variety of resources including available equipment and appropriate software packages. Students will be assessed, in groups as well as individually, by their ability to design and build a structure and/or device supporting the movement of a fluid.
Dynamics & Vibrations	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module "Dynamics" consists of three parts: (1) Kinematics, concerned with the description of the motion of rigid bodies without considering the forces causing such motion. (2) Kinetics, concerned with the forces causing the motion of rigid bodies. (3) Vibration, concerned with the oscillations of a mechanical system. This module expands on the 'dynamics' part of modules at level 4 and provides practical applications relevant to industrial design and analysis.
Automotive Structures	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module includes shear force-bending moment diagrams, beam theory, combined loading conditions, direct stress/strain, shear stress/strain, torsion of shafts, bending stresses in beams with unsymmetrical sections This module will also establish competence in applying appropriate techniques for the analysis of stress and strain in vehicle structures and components.
Motorsport Design	15 Credits	Compulsory
The intended learning outcomes are facilitated through a combination of approaches to learning and teaching mainly based on active experiential learning methods. These activities will be supported by the module team and by encouraging the students to access a variety of resources including available equipment and appropriate software packages. Students will be assessed, in groups as well as individually.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Industrial Placement	0 Credits	Optional
The optional placement year is undertaken in the academic year prior to the final year of study, and must meet University standard requirements for the length of placement to be considered for the conferment of "with Sandwich" upon graduation. Students undertake the placement within an organisation that can provide an appropriate learning experience within an engineering or general STEM environment/role. To be eligible for placement, students must normally have achieved sufficient credit at Levels 4 and 5 to be able to enter the final year upon completion of the placement. While the School and University actively support the placements process ultimately it is the placement company that will select students, normally through an interview process. During the placement, a member of School staff will be assigned to the student as a tutor and will monitor the student's progress during the placement period.
Year Abroad	0 Credits	Optional
The Year Abroad will provide students with the opportunity to expand, develop and apply the knowledge and skills gained in the first two taught years of the degree within a different organisational and cultural environment in a partner academic institution. The host institution will appoint a Programme Co-ordinator who will oversee the student's programme during the Year Abroad and will liaise with the appointed UH Supervisor.
Semester Abroad	0 Credits	Optional
The Semester Abroad will provide students with the opportunity to expand, develop and apply the knowledge and skills gained in the first two taught years of the degree within a different organisational and cultural environment in a partner academic institution. The host institution will appoint a Programme Co-ordinator who will oversee the student's programme during the Semester Abroad and will liaise with the appointed UH Supervisor.
Motorsport Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to develop an understanding of tools required for motorsport, develop both a practical and theoretical understanding of a range of these tools and give the ability to apply the techniques and skills to real life examples. It encompasses data logging and analysis, safety in race cars, engine mapping and development, tyre technology, suspension system analysis, damper analysis, aerodynamics and performance modelling and 'the race'.
High Performance Engine Design	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will explain how to determine the basic geometric properties of piston engines according to a set of design requirements. The prior knowledge of thermodynamics will be expanded related to combustion engines. Then, the derivation of thermal and mechanical loads on engine parts will be taught. The material grades that are usual for engine parts and their properties will be introduced and the material selection procedure will be explained. Fundamentals of machine element design will be introduced, and then applied on a variety of engine parts (gudgeon pin, piston, bearings) in order to evaluate an individual part or assembly. Throughout the module real-life examples and research results will be presented to support theory (NASCAR, Formula 1, MotoGP and other high performance type engines).
Vibration, Noise & Vehicle Dynamics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to provide an understanding of: (i) vibration and dynamic responses of complex mechanical engineering systems and structures, this includes normal modes of vibration of both two and multi-degree of freedom systems. The forced response of these systems subject to harmonic excitations is also evaluated. The response of simple systems subject to random excitation is considered too. (ii) the nature of noise and to achieve the ability to measure, specify and analyse noise spectra. It encompasses vibration modelling of complex mechanical engineering systems and structures and their dynamic responses, and also noise control which is the analysis to limit and control the levels of noise emitted by machines/vehicles. Principles of noise absorption and techniques of noise control are examined with particular reference to internal vehicle noise/room acoustics. (iii) modelling and analysing the effects of dynamic excitation on the handling, ride, vibration and noise responses of a vehicle. Vehicle suspension dynamic characteristics are examined with reference to the ride qualities of vehicles. The lateral handling characteristics of a simple vehicle model are examined, and its steady state responses are analysed.
Renewable Energy and the Environment	15 Credits	Compulsory
This course will enable the student to understand and evaluate forms of renewable energy. This will include; solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, fuel cell, nuclear and micro energy sources. You will learn how to calculate the energy a system can generate, how it can be optimised and flaws in the technology. This will require our students to develop their creativity to enhance solutions, giving a taste for research and development job roles. 1. Environmental acts – Climate change – Biodiversity – Triggers and effects 2. Photovoltaics – Angle of Incidence – Chemistry – Stability - Flaws 3. Wind Generation – Offshore – Onshore – Urban – Induction (magnetism) 4. Thermal – Solar reflectors – Optics – Ground surveys - geothermal 5. Hydropower – Dams – Offshore wave generation – Bernoulli's applied 6. Fuel cells – Hydrogen – Hydrocarbon – CO2 storage – Chemistry 7. Nuclear – Fusion and Fission 8. Microgeneration – Piezoelectric – Thermoelectric – Solar 9. Applications to Automotive and mechatronics 10. Future Research and Developments
Vehicle Design and Body Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to: (i) provide experience of automotive or motorsport design and the interactive requirements of engineering products, (ii) extend the student's experience in the detail design and validation of vehicle components, units and systems, and (iii) encourage a professional attitude to the application of engineering knowledge and skill, with specific reference to market/customer requirements, aesthetics, performance, cost, safety, legal requirements, standards and regulations. The structural analysis section of this module will extend the students' skills learnt in previous modules, particularly FEA methods, to the analysis of vehicle bodies including the development of body-in-white modelling, crash worthiness and occupant protection. The Manufacturing section will further extend the students' understanding of joining, forming and finishing techniques particularly applied in the modern automotive industry.
Lean Manufacturing and Supply Chains	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module will equip students to apply lean manufacturing techniques (a.k.a. The Toyota Production System ) to the manufacturing and other sectors, while also incorporating a systems thinking perspective to operations and in particular through an understanding of the theory of constraints. It will approach the topics initially from a historical perspective discussing the first principles of these practices as developed by Toyota. Students will then progress to applying these philosophies to current industrial and commercial contexts and applications.
BEng Individual Project (Automotive)	30 Credits	Compulsory
The major individual project occurs in either third or fourth (sandwich awards) year of study can take several forms ranging from design-oriented work to investigative work and research projects and placing their findings in the context of the application of real world engineering. Students are highly encouraged to propose their own topics for investigation. The project title and topic are chosen and moderated to provide an intellectual challenge appropriate to an honours programme of study in a specific engineering field. The student is expected to firstly identify and elucidate the problems through a critical review of a subject area and then plan, organise, and execute a significant individual programme of work related to a chosen field of study through the analysis and synthesis of results. Students should demonstrate initiative and creativity in applying skills, knowledge and experience gained from previous work in an individual practical, problem solving project. Student will be subjected to both end-point assessments and a continuous progress assessment that will assess the learning outcomes.

Study abroad

An opportunity for an amazing experience, which will help make you stand out from the crowd. With more and more companies working internationally, experience of living in another country can make a great impression on future employers.

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a sandwich year abroad. The University has partnerships with over 150 universities around the world, including the USA, Canada, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and closer to home in Europe.

If you study abroad between your second and third year of study, you’ll pay no tuition fee to the partner university and no tuition fee to us either. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it.

Find out more about Study abroad opportunities

Please note Erasmus+ funding is only available until May 2023. For students starting their course in September 2022 and wishing to study abroad in 2023-24 or 2024-25, please refer to the Turing Scheme.
Work placement
Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd.

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a work placement sandwich year. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.

Our dedicated Careers and Employment team are here to help guide you through the process. Students have previously undertaken placements in organisations such as:
- Lola Cars Ltd
- McLaren Cars
- Midland F1 Racing
- Rolls Royce Cars
If you take up a work placement between your second and third year of study, at the University of Hertfordshire you’ll pay no tuition fee for this year. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it.

Find out more about work placements

Alumni Stories

Kim Everitt

Meet Kim Everitt, an automotive engineer who won the 2021 Flare Social Impact award. Kim is a budding entrepreneur who wants to improve the lives of families with children who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Read more stories BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering with Motorsport

Current job role	Business owner and Test and Development Engineer at Ballard Motive Solutions
Year of graduation	2018
Course of study	BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering with motorsport

The inspiration behind SENDplan

Kim's winning business, SENDplan, is a special education needs and disability support service, that helps parents with their children’s development outside of school by finding answers to their questions and offering structured support with information and resources.

The University’s Flare awards give budding students and alumni entrepreneurial support and training to bring their business ideas to life. Kim won the 2021 Flare award for social impact, which is designed to support a business that is ethical and socially impactful, with the aim of improving the world we live in.

Kim’s business inspiration grew from volunteering. She says, ‘Over the years I have worked with my mother whose long-term career has covered a variety of SEND educational opportunities and I got involved as a volunteer with playschemes and other activities. I felt inspired by the families I worked with and wanted to find a way that I could help. The pandemic taught me to make the most of every moment, and as the restrictions started to ease, I decided to go for the opportunity in setting up the idea for my business.’

Upskilling with Flare

Kim really enjoyed taking part in the Flare competition and said, ‘Completing my business model allowed me to really push myself and see the validity of my idea and how it could all come to fruition. The business advisors on hand were excellent and encouraging. The support sessions provided information that enabled me to upskill my business knowledge and offered insight into each competition stage. The opportunity to practice my pitch in advance really helped with my confidence in going into the pitching stage of the competition too.’

The day job - a sustainable engineer

Kim’s day job is an engineer with Ballard Motive Solutions. ‘I am a Test and Development Engineer, where my key duties so far have been to create test procedures and plan vehicle level testing. I am building on my knowledge of Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology as well as learning more about high voltage systems and new areas. Already I have supported testing a Hydrogen Fuel Cell RCV on track at HORIBA-MIRA, UK which was a fantastic way to get familiar with Hydrogen vehicles at the start of my career at Ballard Motive Solutions.

‘I have always been fascinated by the evolution of technology and the potential of alternative fuels. My first interaction with sustainable technology was when I attended the Formula E testing event for fans in August, 2016 at Donington Park Circuit. This was inspiring, and encouraged me to learn about vehicle networks, software and controls systems. Throughout my career I have enjoyed testing a variety of vehicle platforms, and when I saw the opportunity to utilize my existing knowledge and develop it for sustainable applications - I had to apply. Working at Ballard Motive Solutions there are opportunities to work with the latest technology, contribute to the greater community and focus on professional development’

Supported to succeed

Kim had a great student experience at Herts, she says, ‘What I learnt as a student has provided the foundations for my career and I will always be grateful for the University’s support throughout my studies. It’s because of this support that I felt confident and comfortable enough to enter the Flare competition as a graduate and challenge myself to make SENDplan a reality.’

‘My favourite memory from my time at Herts is from my final year of study during the Shell Eco-marathon projects where I was able to push myself as an engineer. This is where I started to believe in my ability and see results from my work, and my friends taught me to embrace the notion that anyone can achieve anything they want to if they work hard and believe.’

‘I enjoyed many aspects of my studies, I developed skills in mechanical engineering all throughout and have fond memories of studying engineering mathematics with Kuldeep Singh as my Lecturer. Studying Automotive Engineering at Herts provided me with the freedom to research into areas that I was interested in, whilst also developing the skill set to adapt to a variety of upcoming and existing technologies. Since I have graduated I have continued this approach by acting on ideas and seeking out opportunities to learn.’

Extended route into higher education

Kim entered Herts through an extended engineering degree with a foundation year. She says, ‘The foundation year provided me with the fundamentals and in-depth engineering knowledge, as well as new friendship groups. It was during that year that I met one of the best mechanics/physics teachers in my entire life and found inspiration through his teaching. The class collectively upskilled quickly in a short space of time where we became close friends and were competitive with our results aiming for 100%. The course overall has led me to exactly where I dreamed of being and I would highly recommend the extended route. This programme is an ideal alternative route to higher education as it prepares you for progression to an engineering-related honours degree’.

Future aspirations

Kim’s aspiration for the future is to not only set up her business SENDplan as a fully functional support service to families, but to continue to apply herself as an engineer and pursue her career in the automotive industry.

Advice for other students and graduates

Kim’s advice for other women wanting to pursue a career in engineering, ‘I would highly recommend joining the Women's Engineering Society (WES). WES is a fantastic charity that supports women engineers throughout their career and provides the opportunity to form friendships and contacts, through their events and networking. I would recommend applying for all the opportunities that you see that spark your interest, and to gain as much experience as possible during your studies.’

Alumni Stories

Lee Stretch

Meet Lee Stretch who has achieved great success in motorsport engineering since graduating in 2011. He currently works as a Vehicles Dynamic Engineer for Ferrari's Formula One team.

Read more stories MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering with Motorsport

Current job role	Vehicles Dynamic Engineer
Year of graduation	2011
Course of study	MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering with Motorsport

Facilities and experience

Lee made his decision to study at the University of Hertfordshire when he attended an open day, which included a visit to the Formula Student automotive workshop. 'The students had designed and built a single seat racing car which they raced against other universities. It blew me away!' His love of Formula Student became the catalyst for where he is today.

Lee felt the course itself was well rounded, covering all aspects of engineering, with a focus on design, which he enjoyed. Crucial moments of Lee's studies, from submitting his final year project, to designing a racing car in parallel with his full-time sandwich year job, taught him what is possible with determination, and a deadline.

This culminated in second place at Formula Student Germany - the best result ever for a UK team. 'Without these experiences, perhaps I wouldn't have had the guts to move to Italy.' He says, 'I've applied so many of the topics I studied at Herts to my career at Formula One. I regularly find myself reaching for my student notes from five years ago!'

Exciting career

After graduating, Lee worked with Mercedes GP as a Performance Simulation Engineer where he worked with some of the most sophisticated lap simulation tools in the industry. 'It was a very hard three years at Mercedes but equally rewarding, with the 2014 World Championship being the icing on the cake.'

Lee's passion and commitment was recognised by the only other team that he would have considered moving to - Ferrari. Lee moved to Italy and spent time learning Italian. After only six months in the role, he had contributed to next year's cooling system, and continues to develop the team's lap simulation tools. 'To help return Ferrari to the top of Formula One would be a dream come true!'

Despite working in a relatively specialised group of vehicle performance, Lee's role demands sound mechanical understanding, thermodynamics, practical design considerations and even pure mathematics in simulation. 'Communication is paramount, so all the report writing, presentation and team working skills necessary in the final two years of my degree have proved hugely beneficial.'

What's next for my career?

Employment prospects are excellent. As one of the top UK motorsport schools, our links with this sector are very strong, providing good placement and employment prospects. Almost every Formula One racing team has a University of Hertfordshire graduate in their design team. Graduates can expect to be employed in design, manufacture or testing in one of the major automotive companies in the UK or abroad. There are also opportunities with the consultancy companies that specialise in vehicle safety. Many other graduates decide to stay at the University and extend their automotive education at a postgraduate level.

As one of the top UK motorsport schools, our links with the sector are very strong, providing good placement and employment prospects. Almost every Formula One racing team has a University of Hertfordshire graduate in its design team. You can also expect to be employed in design, manufacturing or testing in one of the major automotive companies in the UK or internationally.
View our Alumni profiles

Kim Everitt Lee Stretch

Course fact sheets
BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering	Download
BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering	Download

Programme specifications
BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering	Download
BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	Optional
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes
Course length	Full Time, 3 Years Sandwich, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply using the links below:

2024

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
28/09/2024	20/05/2025	3	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2024	20/05/2025	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
28/09/2024	20/05/2025	2	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

2025

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	3	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	2	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

Fees and funding
Fees 2024
UK Students
Full time
- £9250 for the 2024/2025 academic year
EU Students
Full time
- £15500 for the 2024/2025 academic year
International Students
Full time
- £15500 for the 2024/2025 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Book a campus tour

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Apply through Clearing

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BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering with Motorsport

Key information

Typical offer:

Fees: See below

UCAS code: H335

Institute code: H36

Study abroad option

Work placement option

Additional requirements

Clearing entry requirements

Additional requirements

Additional requirements

Why choose this course?

What's the course about?

Your main campus is College Lane

New School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building opening in 2024

What will I study?

What you will learn

First Year

Second Year

Third Year

Final Year (3rd or 4th)

Alumni Stories

Meet Kim Everitt, an automotive engineer who won the 2021 Flare Social Impact award. Kim is a budding entrepreneur who wants to improve the lives of families with children who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The inspiration behind SENDplan

Upskilling with Flare

The day job - a sustainable engineer

Supported to succeed

Extended route into higher education

Future aspirations

Advice for other students and graduates

Alumni Stories

Meet Lee Stretch who has achieved great success in motorsport engineering since graduating in 2011. He currently works as a Vehicles Dynamic Engineer for Ferrari's Formula One team.

Facilities and experience

Exciting career

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2024

2025

Fees 2024

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation

Your main campus is College Lane 