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Mechatronics and Robotic Systems with a Year Abroad BEng (Hons)

UCAS code: HH68 | Full-time | 4 years

Entry requirements

View entry requirements

UK/Ireland fees:

£9,250 per year

International fees:

£27,200 per year

Starts on:

Not a UK or Republic of Ireland student?

Clearing 2024: find your place at Liverpool

We may have limited places for entry in 2024 for high achieving applicants.

Clearing is open for applications from international students, as well as UK and Republic of Ireland students who have their results. Limited places are available for high-achieving students.

About this course

Immerse yourself in technologies in the areas of mechanical, control and electrical engineering, electronics, and computing. Mechatronics and Robotic Systems covers everything from driverless cars and automated robots at manufacturing assembly lines, to remotely operated vehicles on Mars.

Introduction

You’ll receive a thorough grounding in a range of electrical and computer control systems, and technologies in mechanical engineering, electronics, electrical engineering, control engineering and computing.

Whilst many products are essentially mechanical in nature, most could not function without electrical and computer control systems. There are also numerous automotive applications; modern high-performance cars have more than 100 computers hidden in the engine management system, anti-lock brakes, active suspension control and elsewhere. Engineers with experience in mechatronics and robotic systems are therefore in high demand.

We work closely with industry leaders to develop all of our programmes. Building on the core principles of electrical/electronic engineering, you will develop advanced skills in and experience with industry standard tools, technologies and working methods.

What you'll learn

  • Working as part of a team to undertake major projects
  • The numerous real-world applications of mechatronics and robotic systems
  • Advanced skills in design and implementation
  • Be prepared for the global workplace
  • Different systems, technologies and cultures within the global industry

Accreditation

Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Entry requirements

If you've received your results, you can apply now. You’ll usually need to have achieved BBC or above at A level or meet our requirements for other accepted qualifications. Higher entry criteria may apply for a small number of courses.

If you live in a postcode area where you’re less likely to go to university, or if you’ve spent any time in social care, we’ll take this into account when considering your application. We may be able to make you a reduced offer for the course you want to study.

International entry requirements

International Baccalaureate

26 points overall including 5 in HL Maths, 5 in HL second science plus 5 in SL English or 4 in HL English

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education

443 from 2 electives (including Extended Maths and science subject) plus one core subject (excluding Citizenship and Social Development) and a minimum grade 3 in core Mathematics. Grade 4 (with no component less than 4) in HKDSE English Language

India Standard XII

Overall average of 70% from four core subjects including 75% in Maths and second science, a minimum of 75% in English dependent on exam board (not including Hindi, Regional Language, Environmental Education and PE)

English language requirements

If you’re an international applicant, you’ll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

Please see the full course information for details of the language tests and qualifications we'll accept as evidence of your English language ability for this course.

View the English language requirements for this course

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

Compulsory modules

Digital & Integrated Electronics Design (ELEC143)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module comprises of two parts Digital Electronics and Integrated Electronics. For the Digital part, students are provided with the knowledge of number systems, laws of Boolean algebra and introduced to the basic methods for designing combinational and sequential logic circuits. For the Integrated part, students are introduced to various silicon electronic devices and provided with the opportunity to understand the basic principles of silicon microelectronics designs processes including designing layouts for simple circuit.

Electrical Circuits & Systems (ELEC142)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

Fundamental course on circuit analysis techniques.

Electronic Circuits (ELEC104)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module aims to introduce students to fundamental electronic devices (diodes and transistors), and how these devices are used in amplifier and switching circuits. The module is assessed via two laboratory sessions (20%) and two coursework online assignments (80%).

Experimental Skills (ELEC172)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

Introductory module that teaches practical skills for electrical engineering students, focusing on basic laboratory skills. The practical skills are linked with theory presented in other Year 1 modules including those on analogue and digital electronics. The module also includes an introduction to a technical programming language (MATLAB) and an introduction to some of the ethical and sustainability issues that face modern engineers. 

Introduction to Mechatronics (ELEC123)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

This module covers electromechanics, including the principles and construction of DC and AC machines, transformers and linear actuators.

Introduction to Programming in C (ELEC129)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module is an introductory course to the C computer programming language. The module provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of C programming (variables, data types, operators, pointers, arrays, strings, structures, functions, input/output operations and flow control) and the software development method (specification, analysis, design, implementation/coding and testing).

SOLIDS AND STRUCTURES 1 (ENGG110)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module aims to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and theory of how engineering structures work to sustain loads. It will also show how stress analysis leads to the design of safer structures. It will also provide students with the means to analyse and design basic structural elements as used in modern engineering structures.

Mathematics A for Electrical Engineers (ELEC191)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Mathematics for students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, to support their technical modules.

Mathematics B for Electrical Engineers (ELEC192)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

Basic mathematics for students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, concentrating on those groups of students who have, on the average, weaker preparation for University level Maths such as entrants with the BTEC qualification (but not limited to that group). Exam practice is another important component of this module. This module follows on from ELEC191

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year two

Compulsory modules

Digital Electronics & Microprocessor Systems (ELEC211)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

​This module covers two areas.  In digital electronics, it covers topics which build on the basic knowledge gained in the first year digital electronics programme and learning some hardware description language (HDL) programming. In microprocessor systems, it introduces the topic from the basics describing how a microprocessor works and learning some assembly language programming.

DYNAMIC SYSTEMS (MECH215)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

Dynamic systems are encountered in most engineering disciplines such as mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering. These systems require specific techniques to be analysed for design or monitoring purpose.

In this module, students will learn the main methods for analysing dynamic systems in time and frequency domains. They will learn how to solve dynamical problems, how to evaluate and control the stability, the accuracy and the rapidity of a dynamical system.

This module will be mainly delivered through class lectures and assessed through a final exam. Additionally, students will be taught some experimental techniques related to second-order dynamical systems through an assessed  laboratory work.​

Electrical Circuits & Power Systems (ELEC209)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module is aimed at equipping students with tools to analyse inter-related electrical circuits and systems and to provide students with an introduction to the components and composition of an electric power system. It also covers the different primary energy sources and the way in which power is delivered to the customers. Teaching and learning are provided through variety of means like formal lectures, problem sheets, supplementary question sheets, worked example sheets along with formative and summative online tests (through CANVAS, the electronic VLE system). Assessment is carried out by means of coursework and final (written) exam.

Electronic Circuits and Systems (ELEC271)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module concerns the understanding of how electronic amplifier circuits work and some basic ideas on how to design them. This requires an appreciation of linear small-signal equivalent circuits based on device physics and how to use them to assist the design process. Students will also learn how to break down complex circuits into simpler building blocks and how these blocks in turn, represented by linear equivalent circuits, can be combined to achieve the desired functionality. How negative feedback can be applied to produce high performance, stable circuits with high tolerance. The current state of the art is emphasised together with a historical perspective, noting some of the pioneers in the field.

FIELD THEORY AND PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS (MATH283)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

(This module is for those EEE students who have not studied at XJTLU).

Maxwell’s equations elegantly describe the physical laws governing such things as electrodynamics. Related problems may be posed in terms of vector calculus, or in terms of differential equations. In this module, we revise vector calculus and field theory in three dimensions, using Stokes’ theorem and Gauss’ theorem to solve explicit physical problems; we evaluate path, surface and volume integrals, and derive general electrodynamic laws. We also consider both the ordinary and partial differential equations arising from real world problems related to Maxwell’s equations, and solve them using Fourier series methods.

Instrumentation & Control (ELEC207)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module covers the design and operation of instrumentation devices as well as the design of continuous time control systems.

Project, Problem Solving & Industrial Awareness (ELEC222)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 3

The aim of this module is to provide students with practical work which underpins, confirms and gives application focus for academic study, while testing a wide range of skills.

Signals and Systems (ELEC270)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Introduces continuous and discrete signal operations and analysis, the frequency domain and spectral analysis, including Fourier Series and Fourier, Laplace and z Transforms. Introduces system quantification and analysis, including pole-zero plots, feedback, basic stability criteria and block diagrams.

Robotic Systems (ELEC230)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module aims to give students an understanding of the basic knowledge required to develop a mobile robot system. Initially they will be taught the features of Linux and how to program using the Object-Oriented approach with C++, along with aspects of sensors and actuators for mobile robots. Subsequently students will be taught the key features of ROS for simulation and then use ROS to explore aspects of development of a mobile robot system.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year abroad (Year three)

You are required to spend the year abroad on an approved placement at a European or overseas partner institution.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year four

You will study both compulsory mechatronics and robotic systems modules, plus optional modules chosen from a wide-ranging list of advanced topics. You will also undertake an extended individual project.

Compulsory modules

Drives (ELEC331)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module introduces students to a range of electrical machines (AC & DC) using the concepts of rotating magnetic fields and co-energy. This allow students to model their behaviour and select the most appropriate electrical machine for their application.

Low Power Computer Architecture (ELEC370)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

In this module students gain an understanding of the architecture and operation of embedded computer systems and their components. Furthermore, they gain an understanding of how computer performance is dependent upon the design of computer architectures and sub-circuits.

BEng Project (ELEC340)

Credits: 30 / Semester: semester 3

​Students undertake an extended individual project.  Projects are specified by academic staff and cover the whole range of Electrical and Electronic Engineering including hardware (both analogue and digital), software and simulation or a mixture of these.  Students can also suggest their own projects which need to be approved by an academic supervisor.  Students work closely with their academic supervisor to realize their project aims and assessment is split between a preliminary report, an oral presentation, the bench inspection and the final report.

Robotic Systems II (ELEC330)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to robotics applications, cover basics of modelling, design, planning anc control of robot systems.
Topics include forward and inverse kinematics, velocity kinematics, dynamics, actuators and drive systems, robot mechnisms, trajectory planning, sensing and machine vision.

Engineering Management & Entrepreneurial Skills (ELEC352)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

​This module covers project management for year 3 students registered in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics.  Entrepreneurial skills are also be covered.

Digital Control and Optimisation (ELEC303)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

A broad range of topics are covered. Case studies and example tutorials emphasise the practical aspects of digital control design and optimisation.​

INDUSTRIAL ROBOTICS & AUTOMATED ASSEMBLY (MNFG309)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

​ This module investigates how industrial robots and other equipment are used and integrated into more complex automated systems.  The module emphasis is upon the application and use of these systems, with less emphasis on the underlying theoretical mechanisms.  The module is based in the concept of learning through doing, the underlying content being presented as videos, while the contact time is used in practical sessions using industrial robots and in the development of robotic systems using industrial simulation software.  The assessments are designed to help reinforce understanding rather than short term memory.

Optional modules

Application Development with C++ (ELEC362)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This course will help student to understand the object-oriented design concept and to gain knowledge and practical skills of C++ as an advanced programming language.

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to understand/design/develop C++ applications (both console and GUI-based) with a specific emphasis on developing GUI-based applications.

Digital System Design (ELEC373)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 3

This module introduces students to the digital design techniques used in industry and research. The methods for describing digital systems using the Verilog Hardware Description Language (HDL) are introduced. Student will examine the operation of the MIPS Processor and will also be introduced to Altera’s NIOS-II Processor. The module is assessed via 4 assignments and two class tests. Altera’s Quartus package is used for synthesising the digital systems.

Electronics for Instrumentation & Communications (ELEC317)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module introduces basic concepts of the electronic circuits required for instrumentation and communication. It deals with a wide range of amplifiers and the problems that might be encountered in a actual application. It also deals with circuitry needed in communication for example oscillators and phase-locked-loops.

Image Processing (ELEC319)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module covers the fundamentals of how images are generated, represented, compressed and processed to extract features of interest.

Neural Networks (ELEC320)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2

Introduction to neural network theory, applications and artificial intelligence.

Signal Processing and Digital Filtering (ELEC309)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is aimed at developing the basic framework for signal processing and to demonstrate its applications. Also, the module provides students with a good understanding of the types, behaviours and design of FIR and IIR digital filters.

Teaching and learning are provided through a variety of means like formal lectures, problem sheets, supplementary questions, along with formative and summative online tests (through CANVAS, the electronic VLE system).

Assessment is carried out by means of two assignments and final (written) exam.

Power Systems and Power Electronics (ELEC301)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

A core module of electrical engineering for delivering fundamental principles of power systems: including electricity generation, transmission and distribution, and power electronics for conversion of electricity with different frequency and magnitude.

Photonics and Optical Information Systems (ELEC313)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

​The aims of this module are: To introduce students to the fundamental principles of opto/electronic systems for the transfer of information. To introduce the duality of light as both wave and ray.  To show intensity and phase related optical principles. ​To demonstrate optical information transfer through a number of applications.​

Plasma System Engineering (ELEC391)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

The module introduces to the students the basic concepts of electrical plasmas and how they are used in industry. It concentrates on the engineering principles behind plasma technology rather than the physics of the discharge, however some mathematical approaches are explored so that quantification of the action of plasmas upon material surfaces can be made. The module explains how a gas can turn into a plasma and how high energy ions in the plasma can be generated to process a substrate, such as silicon wafer in micro-electronics fabrication. The module is taught by a mixture of power points notes and chalk and talk. There are a number of question sheets given out to help the students understand the basis plasma-material processes. On completion, students will understand how plasmas are used in industry, they will have an appreciation of some aspects of simple design and how plasmas can be configured for the next generation of fusion power stations.

ADVANCED MODERN MANAGEMENT (MNGT352)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

The Aims of this module are as follows:

To introduce the student to various aspects of advanced modern management.

To develop a knowledge and understanding of modern management tools.

To stimulate an appreciation of management and its importance in organisational success.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching and assessment

How you'll learn

All programmes are taught over two semesters with examinations at the end of each semester. Modules vary from those which are assessed by examination only to others which are continuous assessment only. All programmes incorporate a substantial practical component, with an increasing emphasis on project work as you progress through to the final year. You can select your final year individual project in consultation with members of staff.

How you're assessed

Assessment is carried out through a mixture of exams, coursework and projects.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, how to pay, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £27,200
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £13,600
Fees are correct for the academic year 2024/25. Please note that the Year Abroad fee also applies to the Year in China.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment, and operating University facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. All safety equipment, other than boots, is provided free of charge by the department.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. All safety equipment, other than boots, is provided free of charge by the department.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to provide tuition fee discounts and help with living expenses while at university.

Check out our Liverpool Bursary, worth up to £2,000 per year for eligible UK students. Or for international students, our Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship offers a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for eligible international students starting an undergraduate degree from September 2024.

Discover our full range of undergraduate scholarships and bursaries

Contact us

Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.

Last updated 27 June 2024 / Programme terms and conditions