Automotive and Motorsport Engineering with Foundation Year BEng(Hons)

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Start Dates

21 September 2026

Duration

4 years full-time 5 years inc. placement year

UCAS Tariff

64

About this course

Overview

Why choose Huddersfield for this course?

  • Ground yourself in the foundation year to bring yourself up to speed before progressing onto the main programme if you pass.
  • Gain practical experience by working on real-world projects and scenarios in preparation for a role in the automotive industry.
  • In year five, you’ll complete an individual research/design project and have the option to link it to Team HARE, our Formula Student team.

This programme is not available to international students. Instead, international students should apply for our international foundation programmes delivered by our International Study Centre on campus. For more information please visit International Study Centre.

Do you have a passion for the automotive industry or the motorsport sector? Interested in the future of vehicle technologies, including hybrid and electric technologies? Studying Automotive and Motorsport Engineering could boost your career opportunities, for example, there are many ways in which you could play your part in a cleaner, safer, more sustainable future for us all, which will open doors to careers with substantial earning potential, enabling you to shape the life you want in the future.

Our Automotive and Motorsport graduates have realised their dreams of working in Formula 1, the domestic car market and a huge range of suppliers to those industries. Our course also provides opportunities for you to apply the knowledge learnt in the classroom into design projects that lead to real products, so you’ll be ready to play a key role in the future of the industry. This experience will help you secure your dream job which could have substantial earning potential, enabling you to shape the life you want in the future. The top five job titles advertised in the UK for graduate roles associated with Automotive and Motorsport courses are Mechanical Design Engineers, Design Engineers, Electrical Design Engineers, Mechanical Engineers and Electrical Engineers*.

Our Automotive lab has industry standard kit which gives you exposure to a laboratory where you can experience dynamic analysis of vehicles, engine mapping and analysis which gives you the opportunity to build your practical skills directly related to your sector.

From fuel cells to the challenges of vehicle autonomy, you’ll study the fundamental principles of mechanics, dynamics, heat transfer and fluid flow with manufacturing technologies. These are then related directly to your automotive specialism through the investigation of propulsion systems, power transfer and chassis dynamics. Project work on real world scenarios will then complete your preparation for a career in the automotive sector.

Our integrated foundation degrees are for those of you who possess the capability to pursue a degree but do not have the pre-requisite qualifications to directly apply to your desired course, it leads onto our accredited BEng(Hons). The duration of the foundation element is one year and if you successfully pass, you will automatically progress on to the degree.

This BEng(Hons) course will not only equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of mechanics, dynamics, heat transfer and fluid flow with manufacturing technologies, but also provide opportunities for you to apply the knowledge learnt in the classroom into design projects that lead to real products, so you’ll be ready to play a key role in the future of the industry. Our Common First Year (which is year two of the integrated foundation year course) lets you explore key areas of Electronic and Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineering, giving you the chance to “taste” different specialisms before you decide. You will work in multi-disciplinary teams and build a solid foundation aligned with industry needs, whichever path you choose next.
During your second and third year, you will be part of our programme: EnABLE (Engineering in an Activity Based Learning Environment). This will see you work on projects to develop your technical knowledge and skills. EnABLE aims to boost your confidence, helping you when undertaking an optional placement in your fourth year, or when securing your first graduate role post-university.

*Lightcast data extracted from Graduate Career Explorer – job postings from Dec 2023 to Nov 2024 showing jobs advertised associated with a selection of relevant graduate.

Career opportunities after the course *

Mechanical Design Engineers

Design Engineers

Electrical Design Engineers

Electronics Engineers

Project Engineers

*Lightcast

Who can apply?

Entry Requirements

CC at A Level.
64 UCAS tariff points from a combination of Level 3 qualifications.
MPP in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma.
Pass at T Level, D or E grade on core.
Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits at Merit or above.
64 UCAS tariff points from International Baccalaureate qualifications.

In addition, you must have GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above, or grade C, or above in the previous grading scheme.

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum of IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in writing and no element lower than 5.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our International Entry Requirements page. If you have alternative qualifications or do not meet the IELTS requirement we also offer a range of Pre-Sessional English Programmes.

Other suitable skills or experience will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

What will you learn?

Course Details

In this module you will explore the importance of communication in computing and engineering. With the opportunity to practice this in both written and verbal forms and gain confidence in presenting to a group. You will also explore how to source relevant and well documented information to support your reporting needs. These research and communication skills will form the basis for your ongoing needs as a professional engineer.

This may be your first introduction to some basic engineering skills. You will gain an appreciation of basic electronics and measurement and have the opportunity to build your skills in practical application of engineering skills through guided investigation and discovery learning. Aspects of computer aided design, civil, mechanical and electrical and electronic engineering are introduced, including digital electronics, computer interfacing, control, design, constructions, manufacture and mechanical testing.

In this module you explore and practice using the necessary mathematical tools and principles required for your first-year studies. You will begin with some basics in arithmetic, algebra, and trigonometry these will be followed rapidly by the more advanced areas of sets, matrices, vectors and calculus.

In this module you will begin to understand the physical principles that govern the operation of our world that will underpin your future studies of mechanical, civil and electrical engineering. You will also gain the necessary experimental and analytical skills you will need to progress into your choice of Engineering degree.

The module provides a comprehensive foundation in Engineering Mathematics, equipping you with the essential mathematical tools and techniques required to tackle complex engineering problems. It covers key topics such as functions, linear mathematics, calculus, and numerical methods, with a strong emphasis on applying these concepts to real-world engineering scenarios. You will develop your analytical skills and learn to model engineering problems using MATLAB, a powerful tool for solving and visualizing mathematical models. The integration of theory with practical applications ensures that you are well-prepared for the more advanced analytical modules in the subsequent years of your course as well as for your future careers in engineering. This module lays the groundwork for successful problem-solving and mathematical modelling, essential skills in the field of engineering.

This module provides you with an appreciation of the broad role of the engineer and technologist in society, including responsibilities, ethical behaviour, and contribution to the business team. It will introduce you to the personal and professional skills required to succeed as both students and professional engineers. You will acquire skills related to study techniques, research and analysis, project management, academic writing and communication and you will be introduced to Continuous Professional Development (CPD). In addition, this module aims to give you a foundation in computer programming. You’ll be introduced to coding, testing and documenting software appropriate for engineering systems. You’ll be supported in developing your knowledge and understanding of the underlying syntax and logic structures specified by the programming language by solving practical problems in dedicated lab sessions. You’ll be expected to design and implement a software solution to a given problem specification.

In this module, you will explore the science of flow in engineering systems, focusing on three core areas: mechanical, fluid, and electrical systems. First, you will study the dynamics of mechanical systems, understanding the forces, energy, and motion that govern their behaviour. Topics such as forces and equilibrium, linear and angular motion, and work-energy principles will help you grasp the fundamental concepts driving mechanical systems. Next, you will investigate the flow of fluids, learning how pressure, viscosity, and flow dynamics affect fluid movement in pipes, open channels, and thermofluid devices. The principles of thermodynamics, steady and unsteady flow, and the application of Bernoulli’s theorem will give you insights into how energy is transferred and conserved within fluid systems. Finally, you will delve into the behaviour of electric currents and electromagnetic fields. You will examine the fundamentals of electrostatics, current flow, and the principles of inductors and capacitors, applying these concepts to analyse circuits using network theorems and complex impedances. You will also explore the behaviours of electrical systems, developing an understanding of their dynamic response. Through theoretical learning and practical applications, you will build a comprehensive understanding of how motion and flow operate in engineering systems.

In this module, you will explore the foundational concepts of analogue and digital electronics. It begins with electric circuit theory, and circuit analysis techniques, before exploring how these concepts are applied to produce systems. The module then introduces the operation and characteristics of systems along with a how these systems may interconnect. You will explore these through practical labs and guided tutorials. You will gain an overview of an sensors, actuators, interfacing System-on-Chip (SoC), and intelligent systems.

Explore how engineering ideas evolve from concept to prototype through a blend of digital design and hands-on problem solving. This module introduces you to the fundamentals of interdisciplinary engineering practice, combining creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Through a series of structured, project-based activities, you will engage in real-world challenges that develop your understanding of the engineering design process. You will also build foundational skills in interpreting and producing technical drawings, as well as prototyping and testing basic electrical circuits. Working individually and in teams, you’ll develop confidence in applying design principles, communicating technical ideas, and progressing from initial concepts to working solutions. By the end of the module, you will have gained practical insight into the thinking, processes, and teamwork that underpin effective engineering design in professional contexts.

Discover how materials shape the world around us and how forces keep structures standing. In this module, you will explore the fascinating science behind different materials and learn how they behave under various conditions. You will dive into the properties of metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, understanding their properties from the atomic level to real-world applications in mechanical, civil, and electrical systems. On the mechanics side, you will investigate how forces, moments, and stresses act on structures, leading to insights into equilibrium, bending, shear, and torsion. You will develop practical problem-solving skills by analysing beams, trusses, and other structural components. Through a mix of assessments, practical experiments and interactive simulations, you will apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. You will also explore materials testing techniques and learn how to evaluate the strength and behaviour of different materials under load. By the end of the module, you will have a solid understanding of how materials and mechanics influence the design and performance of engineering systems, giving you the confidence to approach complex engineering challenges.

Year 3 modules

The module provides a comprehensive foundation in Engineering Mathematics, equipping you with the essential mathematical tools and techniques required to tackle complex engineering problems. It covers key topics such as functions, linear mathematics, calculus, and numerical methods, with a strong emphasis on applying these concepts to real-world engineering scenarios. You will develop your analytical skills and learn to model engineering problems using MATLAB, a powerful tool for solving and visualizing mathematical models. The integration of theory with practical applications ensures that you are well-prepared for the more advanced analytical modules in the subsequent years of your course as well as for your future careers in engineering. This module lays the groundwork for successful problem-solving and mathematical modelling, essential skills in the field of engineering.

This module provides you with an appreciation of the broad role of the engineer and technologist in society, including responsibilities, ethical behaviour, and contribution to the business team. It will introduce you to the personal and professional skills required to succeed as both students and professional engineers. You will acquire skills related to study techniques, research and analysis, project management, academic writing and communication and you will be introduced to Continuous Professional Development (CPD). In addition, this module aims to give you a foundation in computer programming. You’ll be introduced to coding, testing and documenting software appropriate for engineering systems. You’ll be supported in developing your knowledge and understanding of the underlying syntax and logic structures specified by the programming language by solving practical problems in dedicated lab sessions. You’ll be expected to design and implement a software solution to a given problem specification.

In this module, you will explore the science of flow in engineering systems, focusing on three core areas: mechanical, fluid, and electrical systems. First, you will study the dynamics of mechanical systems, understanding the forces, energy, and motion that govern their behaviour. Topics such as forces and equilibrium, linear and angular motion, and work-energy principles will help you grasp the fundamental concepts driving mechanical systems. Next, you will investigate the flow of fluids, learning how pressure, viscosity, and flow dynamics affect fluid movement in pipes, open channels, and thermofluid devices. The principles of thermodynamics, steady and unsteady flow, and the application of Bernoulli’s theorem will give you insights into how energy is transferred and conserved within fluid systems. Finally, you will delve into the behaviour of electric currents and electromagnetic fields. You will examine the fundamentals of electrostatics, current flow, and the principles of inductors and capacitors, applying these concepts to analyse circuits using network theorems and complex impedances. You will also explore the behaviours of electrical systems, developing an understanding of their dynamic response. Through theoretical learning and practical applications, you will build a comprehensive understanding of how motion and flow operate in engineering systems.

In this module, you will explore the foundational concepts of analogue and digital electronics. It begins with electric circuit theory, and circuit analysis techniques, before exploring how these concepts are applied to produce systems. The module then introduces the operation and characteristics of systems along with a how these systems may interconnect. You will explore these through practical labs and guided tutorials. You will gain an overview of an sensors, actuators, interfacing System-on-Chip (SoC), and intelligent systems.

Explore how engineering ideas evolve from concept to prototype through a blend of digital design and hands-on problem solving. This module introduces you to the fundamentals of interdisciplinary engineering practice, combining creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Through a series of structured, project-based activities, you will engage in real-world challenges that develop your understanding of the engineering design process. You will also build foundational skills in interpreting and producing technical drawings, as well as prototyping and testing basic electrical circuits. Working individually and in teams, you’ll develop confidence in applying design principles, communicating technical ideas, and progressing from initial concepts to working solutions. By the end of the module, you will have gained practical insight into the thinking, processes, and teamwork that underpin effective engineering design in professional contexts.

Discover how materials shape the world around us and how forces keep structures standing. In this module, you will explore the fascinating science behind different materials and learn how they behave under various conditions. You will dive into the properties of metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, understanding their properties from the atomic level to real-world applications in mechanical, civil, and electrical systems. On the mechanics side, you will investigate how forces, moments, and stresses act on structures, leading to insights into equilibrium, bending, shear, and torsion. You will develop practical problem-solving skills by analysing beams, trusses, and other structural components. Through a mix of assessments, practical experiments and interactive simulations, you will apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. You will also explore materials testing techniques and learn how to evaluate the strength and behaviour of different materials under load. By the end of the module, you will have a solid understanding of how materials and mechanics influence the design and performance of engineering systems, giving you the confidence to approach complex engineering challenges.

Year 4 optional placement year

This course offers an optional one-year work placement after Year 2.

This module will provide you with fundamental knowledge of fluid dynamics in general and aerodynamics in particular. You will gain knowledge in the fundamentals of aerodynamics ranging from bluff body aerodynamics to compressible flows. The practical elements of this module will equip you with an ability to work with experimental and numerical tools to establish aerodynamic characteristics of important industrial systems encountering fluid flows.

In this module you will be introduced to concepts, standards, techniques, software and systems for project management, quality management and production management, making reference to relevant ISO standards. You will cover case material relevant to manufacturing and service industries and gain experience of practical application. On completion you will be in a strong position to apply these key industry standard practices to projects in your role as a graduate engineer.

In this module you will discover the principles behind Finite Element Analysis (FEA). This is increasingly becoming an integral part of the design process and has recently been linked to optimisation methods within many commercial computer packages. You will develop the understanding of the theoretical foundations and limitations of these methods for their effective application in practical contexts. In addition, you will gain an invaluable experience of using state-of-the-art commercial software of this type to equip you with the skills of carrying out accurate and cost effective finite element and optimisation analyses.

This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to study and investigate a specific engineering topic in-depth. The aim of this module is give you the skills and experience to carry out an engineering project and introduce you to the process that would typically take place in a professional engineering environment. You will undertake and execute a project on a topic appropriate to your study pathway. You will be allocated a project supervisor(s) who will direct you through the process of project planning, undertaking background research and carrying out the technical aspects of the project to a satisfactory conclusion. Your project will be an in-depth study of an engineering problem and may be either academic or industry-based. You will have the opportunity to either select a project defined by a tutor, or to propose your own project idea. The project work will extend your knowledge and capabilities in the specific field associated with the project topic and allow you to demonstrate your initiative, commitment, and engineering capability to a professional standard.

You will also choose one optional module in this year. The current optional modules are:

This module will introduce you to suspension, steering and braking systems for ground vehicles. Various systems, associated components and characteristics will be discussed and analysed. The analysis is taken to the point where leading design parameters are calculated. Forces exerted on a vehicle during linear motion are analysed. Drivetrain requirements are established and the characteristics of power plant and transmissions are studied. Engine performance is examined in terms of fuel consumption and other performance related factors. Acceleration and braking performance are analysed for different vehicle configurations, performance requirements and operating conditions, enabling you to understand the performance and handling of the vehicle.

This module will let you develop knowledge and understanding of dynamic systems related vibration and its analysis and control in machine systems. The module uses selected topics to give you an understanding of the analytical tools applied to vibration in mechanical systems and the ability to synthesise and analyse complex mechanisms. The module focuses on mathematical models of physical systems which are key elements in the design and analysis of control systems through theory and practical examples. Mathematical and analysis packages are used extensively throughout the module.

For more information on when and how we update our modules please see the ‘Legal Information’ section below.

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Interested in a placement?

Placements

You’ll have the opportunity to complete an optional placement year (minimum 36 weeks, up to 48 weeks) in Year 4, either in the UK or abroad. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience, develop industry-specific skills, and enhance your career prospects. You’ll apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting while exploring potential career paths.

Your placement will be monitored, and you’ll be assessed on your achievements, helping you refine your professional skills and prepare for your final year. Our Placement Unit and academic staff have strong industry connections and will support you throughout the process, from finding a placement to making the most of your experience. Students have previously secured placements with companies such as AP Racing, Kwik Fit, Schaeffler, Nissan, Aston Martin Lagonda, Triumph, Safety Devices and Tata Steel.

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University adds to your skill set gradually during the course, but I think the placement gives you that booster so you can acquire new skills and also get the opportunity to showcase them.

- Huzaif Banday
Automotive and Motorsport Engineering BEng(Hons), Industrial Engineer, Schaeffler Group

Where could this lead you?

Your Career

Previous graduates from this course have gone on to work in a variety of roles such as supplier quality Manager, vehicle engineering manager, design engineer, lead engineer, Vehicle Dynamics Engineer and test engineer in organisations including McLaren Automotive Ltd, Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar TCS Racing and Bentley Motors Ltd.**
Additionally, you may gain skills that are transferable to other industries and may be able to pursue a career that requires a good honours degree. You could also go on to further study and the University has many options available for postgraduate study which may interest you.

**Source: LinkedIn

100%
Percentage of graduates from this subject area who are in work and/or further study within fifteen months of graduation.

* (HESA Graduate Outcomes 21/22, UK Domiciled).

My Huddersfield experience seemed to be much more personal with lecturers knowing everybody's name and always having time to talk to students about anything they may have queries with. The Uni has a friendly nature, amazing facilities and well-structured course covering all essential content.

- Jake Metson
Automotive and Motorsport Engineering BEng(Hons), Platform Systems Graduate Engineer, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL)

How much will it cost?

Fees and Finance

£9,790 per year

This information is for Home students applying to study at the University of Huddersfield in the academic year 2026/27.

Please note that tuition fees for subsequent years may rise in line with inflation (RPI-X) and/or Government policy. 

From January 2027 the UK government is launching a new student funding system for people starting university education. Read more about the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE).

For detailed information please visit https://www.hud.ac.uk/study/fees/

£17,600 per year

This information is for international students applying to study at the University of Huddersfield in the academic year 2026/27.

Please note that tuition fees for subsequent years may rise in line with inflation (RPI-X) and/or Government policy. 

For detailed information please visit https://www.hud.ac.uk/international/fees-and-funding/

Home

The tuition fee for a placement year is £1000. If you go on work experience or work placement, you will need to fund your own travel and/or accommodation costs to and from the placement.  Please be aware that if your placement is outside of the UK, you will still be responsible for your travel and living expenses and may need to consider issues like health care and insurance costs.

International

The tuition fee for a placement year is £3,300. If you go on work experience or work placement, you will need to fund your own travel and/or accommodation costs to and from the placement.  Please be aware that if your placement is outside of the UK, you will still be responsible for your travel and living expenses and may need to consider issues like health care and insurance costs.

Optional short field trips e.g. one day, are sometimes also arranged. Previous field trips have included Advanced Engineering Exhibition and Silverstone Museum. The costs of these field trips are heavily subsidised by the school but can sometimes incur a nominal cost and/or deposit of between £5 and £40 depending on the trip.
Depending on the student's choice of project, may incur costs on project materials, but many materials available from the department. (final year and masters only)

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Legal information

When you enrol as a student of the University, your study and time with us will be governed by our terms and conditions, Handbook of Regulations and associated policies. It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you will be asked to agree to them when you join us as a student. You will find a guide to the key terms here, along with the Student Protection Plan.

Although we always try and ensure we deliver our courses as described, sometimes we may have to make changes for the following reasons:

Changes to a course you have applied for but are not yet enrolled on

If we propose to make a major change to a course that you are holding an offer for, then we will tell you as soon as possible so that you can decide whether to withdraw your application prior to enrolment. We may occasionally have to withdraw a course you have applied for or combine your programme with another programme if we consider this reasonably necessary to ensure a good student experience, for example if there are not enough applicants. Where this is the case we will notify you as soon as reasonably possible and if you are unhappy with the change we will discuss with you other suitable courses we can transfer your application to. If you do not wish to transfer to another course with us, you may cancel your application and we will refund you any deposits or fees you have paid to us.

Changes to your course after you enrol as a student

Changes to option modules

Where your course allows you to choose modules from a range of options, we will review these each year and change them to reflect the expertise of our staff, current trends in research and as a result of student feedback or demand for certain modules. We will always ensure that you have an equivalent range of options to that advertised for the course. We will let you know in good time the options available for you to choose for the following year.

Major changes

We will only make major changes to non-optional modules on a course if it is necessary for us to do so and provided such changes are reasonable. A major change is a change that substantially changes the outcomes, or a significant part of your course, such as the nature of the award or a substantial change to module content, teaching days (part time provision), type of delivery or assessment of the core curriculum. For example, it may be necessary to make a major change to reflect changes in the law or the requirements of the University’s regulators or a commissioning or accrediting body. We may also make changes to improve the course in response to student, examiners’ or other course evaluators’ feedback or to ensure you are being taught current best practice. Major changes may also be necessary because of circumstances outside our reasonable control, such as a key member of staff being unable to teach due to illness, where they have a particular specialism that can’t be adequately covered by other members of staff; or due to pandemics, other disasters (such as fire, flood or war) or changes made by the government.

Major changes would usually be made with effect from the next academic year, but may happen sooner in an emergency. We will notify you as soon as possible should we need to make a major change and will consult with affected groups of students and any changes would only be made in accordance with our regulations. If you reasonably believe that the proposed change will cause you detriment or hardship we will, if appropriate, work with you to try to reduce the adverse effect on you or find an appropriate solution. Where an appropriate solution cannot be found and you let us know before the change takes effect you can cancel your registration and withdraw from the University without liability to the University for any additional tuition fees. We will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring to another university if you wish to do so and you may be eligible for an exit award depending on how far through your course you are.

In exceptional circumstances, we may, for reasons outside of our control, be forced to discontinue or suspend your course. Where this is the case, a formal exit strategy will be followed in accordance with the student protection plan.

The Office for Students (OfS) is the principal regulator for the University.

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