MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering

Studying automotive engineering at Hertfordshire will equip you with practical skills in vehicle design, development and testing, preparing you for a dynamic industry. With cutting-edge facilities the course offers you great hands-on experience.

Typical offer: 128 – 136
Entry requirements
Fees: £9,535 per year (UK)
Full details
UCAS code: H341
Course length: Various
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Location:
University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield
Institute code: H36
Work placement option
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Study abroad option
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To ensure this course continues to be cutting-edge and enables you to be ready for the modern workplace, it is due to be reviewed by July 2025.

Our website will typically be updated within a month of the review confirming any enhancements, including:

module titles (and whether they are core or optional)
expected contact hours
assessment methods
staff teaching on the course

10th in the UK for production and manufacturing engineering (Daily Mail University Guide, 2025)

Benefit from automotive workshops, modelling, simulation and research labs

93% of Herts graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes, 2021/22)

Automotive Engineering

Course overview

As a graduate of automotive engineering, you will benefit from University of Hertfordshire’s strong 30-year track record of producing skilled engineers who go on to excel in all branches of the automotive industry, making it an excellent choice for those looking to work in this innovative and rapidly evolving sector. The MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering course provides an in-depth understanding of vehicle design, addressing key factors such as performance, consumer demand, safety, and sustainability. Building on the foundation of the BEng pathway, this course offers an additional year that allows you to gain further expertise and a deeper understanding of the automotive industry.

This course enhances your technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and prepares you for more complex engineering roles. Furthermore, this course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), ensuring it meets the highest industry standards and giving you a competitive edge in your career. The MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering degree is focused on vehicle design, although it shares many similarities with the Mechanical Engineering course. Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, it offers the first step toward achieving Chartered Engineer status. The course is also recognized by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Why choose this course?

The MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering degree at Herts will give you the knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in a career within the automotive industry.

Industry recognised equipment: You will have access to our Automotive Centre with advanced powertrain test cells and testing facilities. Your practical education will be supported by specialist laboratories, including an aerodynamics lab with five wind tunnels of varying speeds.

Placement year option: you’ll have the opportunity to undertake placement years at industry leading companies. Previously Herts students have completed work placements at companies such as 3M UK Plc, Bentley Motors, and Millbrook Proving Ground. Recent graduates have gone on to work at organisations including: JCB, Nissan, Ford Motor Company, Nissan Technical Centre Europe, Jaguar Land Rover and McLaren Automotive.

Design and build framework: We are a member 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 is embedded in our undergraduate course, ensuring you apply your learning through "Design and Build" projects during your studies.

Strong employment prospects: 93% of Herts graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes, 2021/22).

Professional accreditations

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

Our MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering course meets the academic requirement to be IMechE accredited, an independent professional association representing the engineering profession.

Chartered Engineers (CEng) 

Opportunities to register to CEng, an industry recognised title in the UK with many engineers and technicians achieving professional registration.

Your future career

An impressive 93% of Herts graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes, 2021/22).

Typical areas of work for automotive engineer graduates include:

vehicle manufacturing
design and test laboratories
motorsport
teaching or lecturing – with a postgraduate degree, you can teach automotive engineering.

Our graduates’ employment prospects are excellent. You can expect to be employed in design, manufacturing or testing in one of the major automotive companies in the UK or internationally. In fact, most Formula One teams have one of our graduates in their design team. Other graduates decide to stay with us and extend their automotive education at postgraduate level.

See what recent graduates are up to

What you'll study

You will study vehicle structures, engine performance, aerodynamics using wind tunnel testing, materials and manufacturing strategies applicable to mass car production and specialist vehicle development. You will gain skills in commercial engineering software used in the industry, such as CATIA (a computer-aided design package), as well as finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics packages. 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 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, as well as fluid mechanics and thermodynamics.

In your second year, you will study dynamics, thermofluid mechanics, advanced engineering mathematics, computer-aided engineering (CAE), structural mechanics, automotive electronics and control systems, integrated engineering systems design, as well as project management and product development.

In your third year, you have the option of completing an integrated one-year professional placement, or you can choose to study part of your degree abroad through student exchange programs with universities in the EU, USA, or Canada. In your third year of study, you will have a deep dive into vehicle engineering design, vibration, noise and vehicle dynamics, vehicle structural analysis and manufacturing, manufacturing strategies, the mechanics and properties of materials, thermofluid mechanics and heat transfer, as well as an individual major project. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in the development of the university’s entry for the Formula Student competition.

In your final year of study (4^th or 5^th year), you will study human resources management, a team project, successful project delivery, advanced engine and power systems, finite element analysis (FEA) and applications, as well as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques. The multidisciplinary team project involves applying your skills to solve a challenging problem, for example, the design and development of an electric-powered car.

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 and 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. The module will typically cover: Introduction to Project Management Techniques; Introduction to health and safety; CAD tools and prototyping; Introduction to design Intent and design process; Solid body modelling for design implementation (Physical models); Introduction to design for assembly and manufacture; Design validation process (Technical Performance Measure); Microcontroller programming; DC motors and control circuitry; Digital interfaces and sensors. Alongside the above-mentioned units, employability topics will be developed. Examples related to the Automotive industry will be used.

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
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: Kinematics, concerned with the description of the motion of rigid bodies without considering the forces causing such motion. Kinetics, concerned with the forces causing the motion of rigid bodies. 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.
Automotive 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
Thermofluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer	15 Credits	Compulsory
Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer - Steady state conduction heat transfer. Natural and forced convection. Heat transfer by a conduction. Overall heat transfer coefficient through multiple conductors. Thermal radiation and concepts of black and grey bodies. Stefan-Boltzmann constant and radiation heat transfer estimation. Principle of combustion. Laminar and turbulent flames. Combustion chemistry and calculations. Wet and dry analysis of combustion products. Gas power cycles. Joule-Brayton cycle. Real gas turbine cycle and its performance parameters. Reciprocating internal combustion engine cycles. Processes forming the Otto, diesel and dual cycles and performance parameters. Engines emission, major pollutants and methods of pollutants reduction. Turbo and super charging internal combustion engines. Fluid Mechanics - Isentropic compressible flow in ducts. Subsonic and supersonic flow. Normal shock, oblique shock, and expansion waves.
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.
Manufacturing Strategy	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module argues for the case of a modern systems approach to manufacturing strategy, and describes the competitive environment that faces manufacturing in Britain today e.g. Globalisation. An important aim of the module is seen as placing the manufacturing systems in its proper perspective at the centre of the companies manufacturing strategy. The module will also serve a duel purpose i.e. to broaden the perspective of the manufacturing function, and to heighten the awareness of other functional critical areas involved in the task of formulating a successful manufacturing strategy.
Vehicle Engineering Design	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. It will also address the human issues relating to automotive or motorsport design and promote the innovative element of the design process. It encompasses various individual assignments (addressing specific areas of vehicle engineering technology) and group projects (in groups of 4-6 students, including planning, monitoring and reviewing work done, management of manufacture, testing and presenting the result in written, graphical and oral forms). To an extent group members will be taking on a specialist role within group project work.
Vehicle Structural Analysis and Manufacture	15 Credits	Compulsory
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.
Mechanics and Properties of Materials	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will extend the students knowledge and understanding of structural analysis and the importance of selecting appropriate materials to meet the design requirements. Topics include: Plate theory, elasticity and plasticity, composite materials, viscoelasticity, creep and relaxation, fracture and fatigue, corrosion and non-destructive testing.
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.
Vibration, Noise & Vehicle Dynamics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to provide an understanding of: 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. 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. 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.
Connected Autonomous Vehicles	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module aims to develop a wide understanding of the challenges of these relatively new and innovative technologies; to develop the skill of interpreting a complex problem which humans beings solve instinctively into one for which a real time engineering solution can be proposed. This module sets out the fundamental knowledge for designing embedded systems in motor vehicles, with particular reference to 5G and CAN bus. The knowledge will be used to solve real life problems both by simulation and laboratory test. Each student will be asked to defend his or her solution to the problem to both staff and fellow students. There will be a least one External Visit either to the Hatfield Business Park Living Lab or Milton Keynes where trials of connected autonomous vehicles have recently been or are currently being conducted.
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. Environmental acts - Climate change - Biodiversity - Triggers and effects Photovoltaics - Angle of Incidence - Chemistry - Stability - Flaws Wind Generation - Offshore - Onshore - Urban - Induction (magnetism) Thermal - Solar reflectors - Optics - Ground surveys - geothermal Hydropower - Dams - Offshore wave generation - Bernoulli's applied Fuel cells - Hydrogen - Hydrocarbon - CO2 storage - Chemistry Nuclear - Fusion and Fission Microgeneration - Piezoelectric - Thermoelectric - Solar Applications to Automotive and mechatronics Future Research and Developments
Automotive Powertrain Technology	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. Introduction - Engine basics - Applied thermo (Diesel and Otto Cycle) Force Air induction - Technology - Turbine equations - Bernoulli's Advanced engine cycles (6 stroke - Atkinson) ECO technology - Energy recuperation methods Fuel technology - Advanced fuel technology Hybrid electric vehicle setup Hybrid electric vehicle components - Wiring design - Safety - Power electronics Full Electric vehicle - Setup design - Battery selection - Motor selection Battery technology Future Research and Developments
Vehicle Design and Body Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to: Provide experience of automotive or motorsport design and the interactive requirements of engineering products, Extend the student's experience in the detail design and validation of vehicle components, units and systems, and 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.
MEng 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.

Level 7

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Human Resource Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will gain an understanding of the strategic and operational role of HR within a variety of organisations, including those relevant within the supply chain. The module will examine the legal implications of industrial relations and health and safety. It will further analyse the trend of HRM within differing types of industries and businesses. Students will use case studies and scenarios to support lectures and guided learning.
CFD Techniques	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module develops the student's knowledge of aerodynamic applications of CFD. It comprehensively reviews the governing equations of fluid flow and their area of application. The major numerical methods of solution are introduced, together with turbulence modelling. Meshing procedures are introduced, including physical measures of adequate meshing, solution adaptive meshing, multi-block and multi-grid methods.
Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of data analytics and Artificial Intelligence, including preparing and working with raw and structured data, statistical analysis of data, processing and mining data to understand patterns and support making estimations/predictions and decision making, representation and search, problem solving.
Advanced Materials and Manufacturing	15 Credits	Compulsory
Enable students to make appropriate choices of the materials and processes; future scenarios and potential developments are considered.
Advanced FEA and Crashworthiness	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to: Construct computer simulation models for a range of mechanical engineering requirements from industrial complex models to models requiring sophisticated numerical solutions using CAD surface/solid information. Examine the effect of mesh density, domain size, boundary conditions, physical approximation technique, material properties and appropriate numerical schemes on the accuracy of results, using an FEA package. Validate and correlate the results against benchmark solutions or analytical approximations.
Advanced Powertrain Technology	15 Credits	Compulsory
The intended learning outcomes are facilitated through a combination of approaches to learning and teaching mainly based on classroom-based lectures. Students will be able to utilise available technologies to appraise the entire electrical system of an all-wheel drive electric vehicle. 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.
Engineering Management and Innovation	15 Credits	Compulsory
As part of this module, students will explore the societal and environmental impact of engineering. Students will be equipped to use professional codes of conduct and a wide range of management tools to identify and mitigate risk. Students will study the role of systems engineering in providing a structured and robust approach to project initiation, planning, delivery, control and closure and how it can foster innovation. Additionally, students will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion, as well as the role of diversity as a key driver for innovation.
MEng Team Project	45 Credits	Compulsory
This project involves the undertaking of a realistic engineering task, plus the experience of leadership and project management in a challenging team project. Wherever possible, the project is generated and operated in collaboration with a suitable industrial company or research collaborator and is typically of a multidisciplinary systems-based nature. Projects should help to develop understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied. Students apply their analytical skills gained earlier in their degree programme to produce innovative solutions to complex engineering problems. Each team undertakes formal planning and progress meetings throughout the duration of the project and offer both written and oral presentations and reflections of their work. Opportunities are available to integrate knowledge and understanding of other engineering disciplines alongside their own discipline. Including concepts from some areas outside engineering, students should be able to critique and apply these effectively in engineering projects.

What if I need support?

You’ll have a personal tutor to guide you throughout your course, all the way to graduation. If you need additional support during your time with us, rest assured that we’ve got you covered. For help with study skills, including referencing, essay writing and presentations, you’ll have access to our academic support services. You can attend workshops, 1-to-1 sessions and online tutorials. Both our LRCs run drop-in study skills sessions. And the best thing is, it’s all free.

Learn in our new state-of-the-art building called Spectra, 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 our Academic Support Hub, which is aimed at helping you build your employability and academic skills. Plus, you’ll have access to industry mentors who will provide you with pastoral support, vocational guidance, and career progression opportunities. Spectra also provides 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.

Optional sandwich year

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 year in industry, typically between your second and third years of study. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.

Research shows that over 70% of employers prefer students with work experience, which is why we believe work placements are career gold. Our Careers and Employment service are here to support you as you explore your options and make valuable contacts for your future career.

You’ll pay no tuition fee for this year and won’t need to worry about the details of your placement until your second year of study.

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:

3M UK plc
Bentley Motors
Millbrook Proving Ground
Rolls Royce Motor Cars
Triumph Motorcycles

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

Study Abroad offers the 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 options

You’ll pay no tuition fee for this year and won’t need to worry about the details of your placement until your second year of study.

Our dedicated Careers and Employment Team are here to help guide you through the process. Students have previously undertaken placements in organisations such as:

3M UK plc
Bentley Motors
Millbrook Proving Ground
Rolls Royce Motor Cars
Triumph Motorcycles

Find out more about work placements

Find out more about study abroad options

Where you'll study

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 bar. 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.

You will learn in our new state-of-the-art building called Spectra, 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 our Academic Support Hub, 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. Spectra also provides 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.

Who you'll learn from

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 operates an open-access laboratory policy, allowing students to conduct experiments in their own time whenever possible.

You will be taught by our team of highly qualified academics, experienced in the field of automotive engineering. Additionally, you will have access to an academic support team, a well-being team, and a personal tutor who will help you navigate university learning and living. Working together, your teaching and support team is committed to assisting you in realising and achieving your full potential.

Check out our student blogs

How we support our students

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible.

We offer a range of support services, from childcare to counselling, ensuring that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying, having fun, and have the support you need.

Find out more about support and wellbeing

Entry requirements

The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.

Typical offer (UCAS points)	(enter tariff range)
Typical A Level offer	(enter range)
Typical IB offer	(enter range)
Typical BTEC offer	(enter range)
Typical T Level offer	(enter range)
GCSE	EG: Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/D Mathematics
Access courses	EG: An overall merit profile in 45 credits at Level 3.
Additional information	Find out more about our standard and contextual Undergraduate Entry Requirements.

English language	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.
Additional information	Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

English language

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.

Additional information

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

Typical offer (UCAS points)	128–136
Typical A Level offer	ABB–AAB Mandatory subjects: Mathematics and either Physics or Technology or engineering-based subjects, excluding General Studies/Critical Thinking.
Typical IB offer	128–136 UCAS points from a minimum of three HL subjects at grade 5 or above to include HL Mathematics and Physics.
Typical BTEC offer	Not accepted
Typical T Level offer	None
GCSE	Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/C Mathematics.
Access courses	Not accepted
Additional information	Find out more about our standard and contextual Undergraduate Entry Requirements.

English language	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.
Additional information	Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

English language

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.

Additional information

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

Ready to apply?

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

Start date	Study type	Apply
September 2025	Full time	Apply via UCAS
	Full time with placement year	Apply via UCAS
	Full time with study abroad year	Apply via UCAS

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

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Apply through Clearing

Make sure you've got your UCAS number, if you've got one (you can find this on your UCAS Hub), your results (including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs or equivalent) and the course(s) you'd like to apply for.

Apply online and get an instant response

Click to call or dial 0300 303 6300

Find out more before you apply

Our Clearing hotline is open Monday – Thursday, 09:00 – 16:45, and Friday 09:00 – 15:45. To apply you will need your UCAS number, if you've got one (you can find this on your UCAS Hub), your results (including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs or equivalent) and the course(s) you'd like to apply for.

Fees and funding

At Herts, we’re dedicated to providing world-class teaching supported by industry-level facilities and incredible social spaces. We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to higher education, and we strive to keep both our standard and additional costs as low as possible.

	Study type	Fees
UK students	Full time	£9,535 for the 2025/2026 academic year
EU students	Full time	£15,965 for the 2025/2026 academic year
International students	Full time	£15,965 for the 2025/2026 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.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries	Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship, grant or bursary to support your studies.
Disabled Students' Allowance	The Disabled Students’ Allowance can cover any study-related costs you have because of a mental health problem, long term illness or any other disability.
Student loans	Find out about securing a student loan, from how much you could be eligible for to when you need to start making repayments.
Accommodation costs	We offer a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.
Additional course fees	Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet.

More about the course

Course fact sheets
MEng Engineering (Automotive Engineering)	Download PDF

Programme specifications
MEng Engineering (Automotive Engineering)	Download PDF

Additional information
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes
Course length	Full Time, 4 YearsSandwich, 5 Years

MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering

Studying automotive engineering at Hertfordshire will equip you with practical skills in vehicle design, development and testing, preparing you for a dynamic industry. With cutting-edge facilities the course offers you great hands-on experience.

What type of applicant are you?

UK 2025

UK 2026 and beyond

International

Typical offer: 128 – 136

Fees: £9,535 per year (UK)

UCAS code: H341

Course length: Various

Location: University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Institute code: H36

Work placement option

Study abroad option

This course is up for review

Course overview

Why choose this course?

Professional accreditations

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

Chartered Engineers (CEng)

Your future career

See what recent graduates are up to

Katie Dobson

Kim Everitt

Katie Dobson

Working in Formula 1

Why Herts

Formula Student

Favourite memories

The future

Kim Everitt

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

What you'll study

What if I need support?

Optional sandwich year

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Where you'll study

Who you'll learn from

Check out our student blogs

Dobromir - Week at a glance

Dobromir - Guide to the facilities

Dobromir - Things you should know

How we support our students

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible.

Student Blogs

My week at a glance

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Things you need to know before studying Engineering at Herts

Preparation

Qualifications

Reading

Assignments

Assessments

Time Management

Student Blogs

Guide to the Engineering facilities

Learning Resource Centres (LRCs)

Online Library

Support

Student Blogs

Things you need to know before studying Engineering at Herts

Preparation

Qualifications

Reading

Assignments

Assessments

Time Management

Location:
University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Chartered Engineers (CEng) 