Mechatronics
Mechatronics is a fusion of mechanical, electrical, electronic and control engineering. Modern manufacturing industry depends for its success in global markets on its ability to integrate electronics, control, software and mechanical engineering into a range of innovative products and systems.
Programme structure
This degree programme will bring together aspects of all branches of engineering that contribute to mechatronics, notably mechanical, electrical, electronic and control engineering.
Year 1
In your first year you will take courses in mathematics and study engineering fundamentals including dynamics, analogue and digital electronics, manufacturing, materials, statics, thermodynamics and engineering skills. These courses are supported by individual and group project and laboratory work.
Year 2
You will continue to study mathematics and fundamental engineering courses linking the mechanical and electrical domains which form the basis for the study of mechatronics.
Year 3
In your third year you will develop knowledge and skills in electronic system design, real-time programming and control systems. This is combined with study of mechanical, instrumentation and data systems to develop the interdisciplinary skills necessary to undertake a mechatronic group design project.
Years 4 and 5
The main route to becoming a fully chartered engineer is through the MEng degree, which usually takes five years. The BEng degrees remain popular and can normally be completed in four years. To become a fully chartered engineer with a BEng degree requires further study after graduation, which can be done part-time from work. Your selection for BEng or MEng depends on your progress record in your first three years.
In years 4 and 5 you will take a range of courses in engineering including courses in control, robotics and mechatronic systems. In addition you will take courses in professional practice including activities such as developing business plans, understanding professional and legal requirements, and management.
In your final year you will undertake a major individual project which, for the MEng degree, may be undertaken in industry or on an industry-supported topic. The final year is completed with a range of in-depth technical courses.
Special features
In fourth year you will take part in a multidisciplinary integrated system design project, working in teams alongside students of other engineering disciplines.
Partner and industry links
The School of Engineering has excellent links with industry. Our major national and international joint research programmes are key providers of student projects and placements. Many engineering employers are involved in the University’s prestigious Club 21 work experience programme, which offers well-paid summer placements and, in some cases, sponsorship.
Our international links
You will be able to apply to spend one year of your academic studies abroad at an accredited partner university. MEng students will also be able to work on their final-year project at overseas institutions.
Career prospects
There is increasing demand for graduates who can work in an interdisciplinary engineering environment. Graduates from this degree programme will have the interdisciplinary approach necessary to integrate electronics, control, software and mechanical engineering. In addition, you will acquire skills that are transferable to service industries and other areas of the business community.
Accreditation
Our BEng and MEng degrees are accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.
Glasgow International College
For international students entry to this programme is supported by courses from GIC.
Academic entry requirements
for entry in 2014
MEng
Highers: AAAAA by end of S5 including Mathematics and Physics.
A-levels: A*AA including Mathematics and Physics.
IB: 36 points including Mathematics HL6 and Physics HL6.
BEng
Highers: Entry from S5 – AAAA or AAABB including Mathematics and Physics at grades A/B or B/A.
Entry from S6 – applicants who achieved a minimum of ABBB including Mathematics and Physics at grades A/B or B/A in S5, may receive an offer based on them attaining AAAAAB by the end of S6. Applicants receiving these offers will be required to study Advanced Highers in relevant subjects.
A-levels: AAB including Mathematics and Physics.
IB: 34 points including Mathematics HL5 and Physics HL5.
BEng students who perform well may transfer to the MEng programme upon completion of years 1, 2 or 3.
English language requirements
For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training):
- overall score 6.5
- no sub-test less than 6.0
- or equivalent scores in another recognised qualification (see below)
Common equivalent English language qualifications:
- ibTOEFL: 92; no sub-test less than 20
- CAE (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English): B minimum
- CPE (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English): C minimum
- PTE Academic (Person Test of English, Academic test): 60; no sub-test less than 59
Pre-sessional courses
The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the Language Centre Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:
FAQs
What do I do if...
my language qualifications are below the requirements?
The University's Language Centre offers a range of Pre-Sessional Courses to bring you up to entry level. The course is accredited by BALEAP, the UK professional association for academic English teaching; see Links.
my language qualifications are not listed here?
Please contact the Recruitment and International Office: Elaine.Shortt@glasgow.ac.uk
If you require a Tier 4 student visa, your qualification must be one of the secure English language tests accepted by UK Border Agency:
- UK Border Agency Tier 4 English Language requirements
- UKBA list of approved English language tests [pdf]
my academic qualifications are below the requirements?
Glasgow International College offers Foundation courses to upgrade your academic qualifications.
Visa requirements and proof of English language level
It is a visa requirement to provide information on your level of English based on an internationally recognised and secure English language test. All test reports must be no more than 2 years old. A list of these can be found on the UK Border Agency website. If you have never taken one of these tests before, you can get an initial idea of your level by using the Common European Framework self-assessment grid which gives you a level for each skill (e.g. listening B1/writing B2 etc.) However, please note that this is not a secure English language test and it is not sufficient evidence of your level of English for visa requirements.
For further information about English language, please contact the Language Centre.
Tuition fees
How and when you pay tuition fees depends on where you’re from: see Tuition fees for details. If you’re from outside the EU, please see International students for more information.
Scholarships
We offer a wide range of scholarships to our undergraduates, including both home/EU and international students. The University is committed to supporting students and rewarding academic excellence. That’s why we’ve invested more than £1m in additional scholarship funding over the last year.
For a full list of scholarships including eligibility criteria and how to apply, please see: