The pathway reflects increasing use by the industry of complex analytical tools such as Adams Mechanisms, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Finite Element Analysis and Solid Modelling techniques. To develop a new generation of automotive design engineers. To enable the students to develop the skills required to design and analyse components and systems within the automotive environment. To introduce the students to the modern computer based tools used within the industry and provide the opportunity for the students to use the tools on realistic problems To enable active and autonomous learning to be developed through the use of real engineering problems and case study materials To develop engineering skills including problem-solving abilities, practical competencies, critical appraisal and communication skills. The Course responds to the demand for new generations of innovative, competent and confident implementers of new technologies applied to the Automotive Design Process.
Technology is project-based.
The emphasis of the programme is on the acquisition and development of skills by undertaking projects and case studies. Project-based study allows increased flexibility with respect to modes of attendance. Some aspects of study can take place in the workplace or at home and consequently those studying part-time do not need to attend the university for a significant proportion of the working week. The main emphasis of the assessment strategy is to highlight the need for effective communication of thoughts and ideas within a professional engineering environment. For this reason, project reports, record keeping and oral presentations are used extensively for assessment purposes, though time constrained tests and other approaches are also used where appropriate.