TV this course
Gain the skills to design intelligent machines, from electric vehicles to large-scale industrial robots. You’ll learn how to design systems that rely on mechanical elements, electrical power, sensing and control. The growing complexity of electro-mechanical systems has led to a need for engineers with this skill set, so you’ll have excellent job prospects when you graduate.
You’ll develop your engineering skills and gain specialist knowledge in an area of mechatronics that interests you. This includes the latest research developments in fields such as energy harvesting, sensors and mechatronics in healthcare. You’ll work in fully equipped electronics labs and a high-spec computer lab.
The projects typically involve experimental work or the development of a prototype system. The wide range of topics on offer reflect our academics’ research interests, so you’ll be supervised by an expert in your chosen field. Past projects include:
- the development of an energy-harvesting carpet
- use of a capaciflector (a sensor that enables robots to avoid collisions) to build a heart monitor
You’ll undertake practical work throughout the degree, including lab work and projects that involve designing and building mechatronics components and systems.
This mechatronic engineering degree is accredited by the on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of:
- fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer
- partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Accreditations
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the TV.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202526
A-levels
AAA including mathematics and either physics, electronics or further mathematics
A-levels additional information
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including mathematics (minimum grade A) and either physics, electronics or further mathematics (minimum grade A), plus grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 points required at Higher Level including 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) or 7 at Higher Level in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation), and 6 at Higher Level in Physics
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Applicants who have not studied the required subjects at Higher Level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the TV International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grade A in A-level mathematics and grade A in either physics, electronics or further mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC National Diploma if studied alongside A-levels in mathematics and either physics, electronics or further mathematics
We will consider the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Engineering if studied alongside A-level mathematics.
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grade A in A-level mathematics and grade A in either physics, electronics or further mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC Diploma if studied alongside A-levels in mathematics and either physics, electronics or further mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma in Engineering if studied alongside A-level mathematics.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics, applied mathematics and physics
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A1 A2 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics, applied mathematics and physics
Irish certificate additional information
Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, D3 in three Principal subjects including mathematics and either physics or further mathematics.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D2 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A* or grade D3 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A. Applicants who have not studied the required Principal subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAA including mathematics and either physics, electronics or further mathematics or AA from two A-levels including mathematics and either physics, electronics or further mathematics, and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate.
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
T-Level
A Distinction overall, with A* in Core and Distinction in the Occupational Specialism, and grade A in A-level Mathematics
The following T levels are accepted:
- Building Services Engineering for Construction
- Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing
- Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing
The following Occupational Specialisms are required:
- For the T level in Building Services Engineering for Construction: either "Electrical and electronic equipment engineering” or “Electrotechnical engineering”.
- For the T level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing: either "Electrical and electronic engineering” or "Control and instrumentation engineering".
- For the T level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing: either "Maintenance engineering technologies: Electrical and Electronic" or "Maintenance engineering technologies: Mechatronic" or "Maintenance engineering technologies: Control and Instrumentation" or "Light and Electric Vehicles".
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Foundation year for engineering, physics, maths and geophysics
A foundation year will give you the skills and knowledge to progress to this course if you don't have the right qualifications for direct entry.
It could be the right option if you:
- have A levels, or equivalent international qualifications, in subjects other than the ones needed for direct entry
- have international qualifications in relevant subjects but not at A level equivalent
- have a BTEC Extended Diploma in a relevant subject
- are studying an Access course in a relevant subject
- are a mature student with relevant experience or study
You'll also need to show that you have strong maths skills.
Find full details on our Engineering, Maths, Physics, Geophysics Foundation Year page.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
Year 1 and 2 modules are similar across our electronic and electrical engineering degree courses and provide a grounding in essential topics.
In your third year, you’ll have the freedom to shape your mechatronics degree to suit your interests.
Year 1 overview
Year 1 modules will introduce you to the fundamentals of mechanics, electronics, programming and electrical engineering, laying the foundation for your specialist studies.
You'll also develop your practical skills. You’ll build processing boards in the labs and write programs for a microcontroller.
Year 2 overview
As the course progresses, you’ll cover mechatronics essentials, such as control and communications, electrical machines, mechanical power transmission, and power systems technology. You’ll work in a group to design, build and evaluate an autonomous robot.
You’ll also be able to choose optional modules, enabling you to deepen your knowledge of key aspects of mechatronics. Alternatively, you could apply your learning to fields such as space systems engineering or bionanotechnology.
Year 3 overview
In your final year, you’ll develop your practical skills and gain specialist knowledge in an area of mechatronics that interests you. Projects typically involve experimental work or the development of a prototype system.
The wide range of topics on offer reflects our academics’ research interests, so you’ll be supervised by an expert in your chosen field. Past students have worked on projects like:
- the development of an energy-harvesting carpet
- the use of a capaciflector (a sensor that enables robots to avoid collisions) to build a heart monitor
You’ll also choose from a wide range of optional modules to take alongside the project. These include robotic systems and operational research.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Circuits
To explain the mathematical techniques needed to analyse linear and simple non-linear electrical and electronic circuits.
Digital Systems
To introduce digital system design, the principles of programmable logic devices, the implementation of combinational and sequential circuits, and the principles of hardware design using industry standard hardware design tools.
ELEC Part One Laboratory Programme
This module is the lab programme for all first-year students enrolled on an ELEC degree programme. It aims to give students the opportunity to apply the theory that they learn in their other modules, and to provide them with transferrable, subject-based a...
Electronic Systems and Devices
To introduce the physical and electronic properties of materials that underpin semiconductors and semiconductor devices that underpin modern electronic technology. To develop and understanding of electronic devices in circuits, to provide a range of cir...
Engineering Mathematics
This course explores the use of mathematics as a toolbox for engineers need in order to calculate, model, visualise and design systems. The focus is on solving physical problems via equations, both analytically and numerically using computation, along wit...
Fields, Forces and Materials
This module introduces fundamental concepts in electric fields, electromagnetism and mechanics, as a foundation for more advanced topics in electromagnetic theory and mechanics. It also equips students with basic techniques of engineering electromagneti...
Introduction to Signals, Control and Communications
This module is focused on developing the basics of Signals, Control and Communications: • To introduce the underpinning elements of signal processing. • To develop an approach to the modelling of dynamic electromechanical and electronic systems • To i...
Mathematics
This course is designed to develop fundamental mathematical skills which engineers need in order to tackle a wide variety of engineering and design problems. There is a particular focus on developing an understanding of mathematics as a toolbox through pr...
Programming
To introduce the student to the concepts of programming using the C programming language, with an emphasis on programming for embedded systems.
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Applied Electromagnetism
This module introduces and develops the knowledge in fundamental electromagnetism for second year Electrical and Electronic Engineering students. The course presents the basic concepts of electromagnetic theory from a physical and application points of vi...
Communications
To develop knowledge of the analysis of communications systems. To introduce the basic analysis and design tools for communications engineering. To provide a comprehensive foundation for Level 6 and 7 communications courses.
Control and Systems Engineering
This module guides students through the development of knowledge and understanding of linear continuous-time systems. It then introduces the basic analysis and design tools for electronic system control and provides opportunities to develop practical desi...
Design
Conventional laboratory experiments are useful mainly to assist understanding or analysis. Because they are of necessity stereotyped, they are of limited usefulness when a circuit or system must be designed to meet a given specification. The majority of e...
Electrical Machines and Drives
The module aims to provide a detailed understanding of all aspects of the selection, sizing and operation of modern electrical machines and drive systems. Through the module, students will be able to learn to design electromechanical devices, identify dif...
Electrical and Mechanical Materials
This module equips students with a comprehensive understanding of how mechanical systems move and deform when subjected to external forces. We then progress to advanced topics including buckling and deformation of mechanical structures such as beams and c...
Programming and Modelling Mechatronic Systems
This module introduces advanced programming, simulation and design modelling frameworks and tools. Teaching activities are a combination of taught sessions, expanded self-study supported by the Professional Skills Hub and practical hands-on sessions in co...
Signal Processing
To develop knowledge of the fundamentals of Signals and Systems. To introduce the concepts of signal transforms, system convolution and linear operations. To introduce the concepts of randomness in signals and systems. To provide a comprehensive found...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
Fluids and Mechanical Materials
Mechanical Power Transmission and Vibration
The module provides an overview of relevant topics in mechanical power transmission and methodology of vibration analysis for such mechanical assemblies. The main objective of the module is to learn methods of analysis and design of machines and their ...
Part III Individual Project Phase 1
The Part Three Individual Project gives students the opportunity to gain both detailed knowledge and practical experience in a more focussed area than generally possible elsewhere in their degree programme. Most projects are in the nature of a challenging...
Part III Individual Project Phase 2
The Part III Individual Project gives students the opportunity to gain both detailed knowledge and practical experience in a more focussed area than generally possible elsewhere in their degree programme. Most projects are in the nature of a challenging e...
Power Systems Technology
- To introduce the students to fundamental concepts relating to the design and management of modern electrical power systems. - To develop amongst the students an awareness of technical problems associated with operation of such systems. - To teach the ...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Advanced Partial Differential Equations
Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) occur frequently in many areas of mathematics. This module extends earlier work on PDEs by presenting a variety of more advanced solution techniques together with some of the underlying theory.
Automotive Chassis and Powertrain
This module will first be offered in 2021/22. This module introduces students to the design of safe and eco-friendly vehicles for road transportation in the twenty-first century. Different aspects of design and operation of modern automobile systems wi...
Control System Design
Manufacturing and Materials
This module manufacturing and materials is intended to develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between design, manufacturing processing and materials properties. This module discusses various manufacturing methods including casting, forming, we...
Power Electronics
Robotic Systems
Robots are becoming more widely used in society, with applications ranging from agriculture through to manufacturing, with increasing interest in autonomous systems. This module will introduce students to the fundamentals of robotic systems including k...
Space Systems Engineering
This module is intended for anyone interested in pursuing in more detail the space part of aerospace engineering. It looks at each of the key subsystems of a spacecraft in detail. It also introduces the overall theme of space systems engineering by emphas...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
TV time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
TV time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Year 3
TV time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Careers and employability
This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business. The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include: The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress. Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:
Information and Communication, Manufacturing, Education, Finance and Insurance, Public Administration and Defence, Scientific and Technical. *Example graduate job titles and job prospect statistics taken from The Graduate Outcomes Survey, which gathers information about the activities and perspectives of graduates 15 months after finishing their course. Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton. We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes: We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, , is open to every student. Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University. Fees for a year's study: Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams. Find out how to: Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams. Explore: If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a TV bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton. If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary. Get in touch for advice about student money matters. You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies. We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds. The Student Hub offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course. Find out about funding you could get as an international student. We will assess your application on the strength of your: We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time. We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement. Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course. Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Mechatronic Engineering (BEng) is a course in the
Electrical and electronic engineering
subject area.
Here are some other courses within
this subject area:
Careers and employability
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Career pathways
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Job prospects for BEng Mechatronic Engineering graduates
Work experience opportunities
Careers services and support
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
What your fees pay for
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
Scholarships and grants
Support during your course
Funding for EU and international students
How to apply
What happens after you apply?
Equality and diversity
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