Mechanical Engineering

Why Mechanical Engineering at ARU?

• Develop the knowledge and skills you need to resolve practical, real-world challenges, and practice the ‘art of precision guesswork’ and problem solving.
• Utilise our state-of-the-art facilities including 3D printing, CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Manufacturing) laboratories, and CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) machining.
• Explore modules in areas including materials, design and modelling, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, as well as project-based learning.
• A diverse breadth of expert staff with a wide range of industrial and academic backgrounds make learning more real, hands-on and relevant.

As a Mechanical Engineering student at ARU, you’ll study in our dedicated engineering labs in Chelmsford.

Our top-of-the range workshop and laboratory facilities include CAD/CAM and engineering computer modelling centres, industrial-scale CNC milling and lathe machines, metal and plastic rapid prototyping machines, welding equipment, electronic testing and measuring equipment, and much more.

You’ll set the direction for your future career by using manufacturing, 3D printing, thermodynamics, dynamics and structural analysis to analyse, calculate, model and experience your proposed concepts. You’ll also develop valuable commercial skills in areas such as marketing, Intellectual Property, and engineering project management.

As an MEng Mechanical Engineering graduate, you’ll have an exciting career ahead of you. Qualified mechanical engineers can work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, renewable energies, 3D printing and much more. They’re in high demand nationally and internationally, commanding an impressive average salary. You could increase your earning power by progressing to senior design or project management. Your high-level numerical and problem-solving skills will also appeal to employers outside of the engineering sector, for example in IT, finance, business and education.

From the very start of your degree, you’ll meet established engineers from across the industry, learn what it’s like to work in engineering, and be encouraged to join professional bodies, building valuable contacts and knowledge to help you gain employment in your preferred area. You’ll build your CV not only by learning manufacturing and testing methods and using industry-standard equipment, but by working individually and as part of a team, solving problems and carrying out research.

You could also choose to start a research career by progressing on to our Engineering and the Built Environment PhD. 

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.