Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the design, analysis, and manufacture of systems and machines that involve mechanical motion, force, and energy. It is one of the oldest and broadest engineering disciplines, and its reach extends from precision instruments and consumer goods to complex systems such as aircraft engines, power generation plant, and automotive drivetrains. Mechanical engineers need a rigorous grounding in mathematics, physics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and structural analysis, combined with the practical and project management skills to translate that knowledge into real systems.
At Sussex this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, which gives you a preparatory stage to build your mathematical and scientific foundations before you enter the engineering curriculum proper. Once in the main degree, you will develop skills in the core areas of mechanical engineering, including mechanics and dynamics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials, manufacturing processes, and engineering design. The degree is oriented towards complex systems and leadership, equipping you to work across multidisciplinary teams on challenges that include sustainable power generation, automotive powertrains, and aircraft propulsion systems.
A placement year is available within the degree, giving you the opportunity to spend time in an engineering organisation before you complete your studies. This experience is supported by Sussex throughout, allowing you to develop professional skills and build industry connections while maintaining the academic relationship with your programme.
Graduates work in aerospace, automotive, energy, manufacturing, defence, consultancy, and infrastructure sectors. Roles include design engineer, structural engineer, project engineer, research engineer, and systems engineer. Many graduates go on to professional accreditation, working towards incorporated or chartered engineer status, while others continue to postgraduate study in mechanical engineering or a related specialist field.