Program Overview

University Foundation in Engineering and Technology Stage1 at Hertfordshire International College (HIC) is designed to prepare you for entry to university-level program. During Stage 1 you will complete a range of modules relevant to your chosen degree, as well as modules concentrating on the skills that are vital for University level education such as Critical Thinking.

A Foundation pathway is available for students who:

• Don’t meet the entry requirements to enter university level study directly (but hold GCSE level qualifications)
• Feel that additional support at the start of university studies will help them stand a better chance of success
• Have been away from studies for a period of time
• Come from a different academic environment to that of the UK
• Require additional English language training

If you fall into any of the above categories, choosing an undergraduate pathway at Hertfordshire International College (HIC) is the right decision. Depending on your academic needs here at Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

Progressing from Foundation

Stage 1 will be the first stage in the 4 stage process. Meaning that on successful completion of stage 1 you will seamlessly progress to stage 2, which is the first year of a bachelor’s degree. There is no need to reapply, you will simply just progress between each stage until you reach the final stage and graduate with a degree from Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

• The BEng Honours degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire has been highly successful and over the years produced thousands of successful graduates working in all fields of engineering;
• You will learn mechanical engineering subjects in core modules that balance laboratory activities with the relevant, supportive theoretical knowledge;
• You will operate state-of-the-art laboratory equipment during every year of your academic career as part of your learning experience in the core modules;
• You will learn how to apply computer-aided engineering and industrial-standard software;
• You may take part in the IMechE challenge in your first year of study, and be able to compete with engineering students from other British universities on exciting mechanical engineering-related projects;
• You may decide to spend the third year of your mechanical engineering degree on a year-long work placement;
• Students from the School of Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire have previously completed work placement years at companies including Amazon, Bosch, Network Rail, Transport for London, Tesla Motors (UK), Aston Martin, BMW (UK), Mercedes-Benz (UK), Virgin Atlantic, MBDA;
• You may join the automotive students and help design, build and race single-seater race car in the UK Formula Student Competition;
• You may join aerospace students on projects involving Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs);
• Recent Mechanical Engineering graduates have gone on to work at organisations including London Energy Ltd, Progressive Technology, Halfords, Fords, Barclays.

What's the course about?

• Learn the fundamental skills and knowledge of a modern engineer. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to engineering, giving you the flexibility to work in a broad range of industries. Among the general topics, you’ll study engineering mathematics, materials and electrical science, mechanical science, manufacturing technology, computer-aided engineering and thermodynamics. You’ll also have the unique opportunity to collaborate with other engineering students on some incredible projects, such as designing a hovercraft, a Formula Student racing car and an unmanned aircraft. This course is the first step towards chartered engineer status.

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 Canvas web-based facility. Canvas 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 study the fundamental skills and knowledge required by a modern engineer including principles of flight and an introduction to aircraft systems. In particular, you will be introduced to computer packages commonly used in the aerospace industry. You will learn about the design process and will have the opportunity to work on the Class 200 Formula Student car.
• First Year
  • You will study 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 thermofluid mechanics, further engineering mathematics, computer-aided engineering (CAE), structural mechanics, dynamics, data acquisition and control systems, integrated engineering system design and project management and product development.
• Third Year
  • You have the option of taking an integrated one-year professional placement.
• Final Year (3rd)
  • You will study mechanical engineering design, micro-engineering and micro-technology or manufacturing strategy, mechanics and properties of materials, control systems, thermofluid mechanics and heat transfer, vibration, noise and vehicle dynamics, and an individual major project.