Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering MEng

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Why choose Brighton? 

• Exciting project work including rocket cars, robots and the international Engineering Without Borders challenge.
• Learn with expert researchers who are part of our Advanced Engineering Centre.
• Specialist facilities include robotics and mechatronics lab, VR labs, CISCO cybersecurity and communications lab, flight and car simulators, wind tunnel, prototyping labs and workshops, and CNC machines.
• Professional engineers visit to share their experiences in guest lectures.
• Gain a year of work experience on placement. 

Second year students put learning into practice with the Robot Wars project.

Year 1

You will explore topics including embedded systems, digital electronics, engineering mathematics, and artificial intelligence.

Design projects integrate practical and theoretical work, and help to reinforce your learning.

Modules

• Engineering Mathematics

  In this module you will learn to apply mathematical concepts and software tools to solve engineering problems.

  On completion you will be able to use analytical techniques and software tools to solve simple algebraic problems, develop mathematical models of engineering systems, and apply an appropriate analytical method, or software tool to solve a mathematical model.

• Engineering Practice

  On this module you will develop your engineering skills using projects as the focus of your learning.

  You will work on group projects, applying engineering skills such as reflection, organisation, planning, design, communication and planning. Concepts across a range of engineering specialisms will be introduced as part of a problem-based approach.

• Introduction to Electrical Engineering

  This module will provide you with context and practical experience of electrical engineering. You will be introduced to fundamental characteristics of power system components, electrical power generation and distribution systems.

• Introduction to AI

  This module introduces artificial intelligence (AI), giving you the skills needed for specialist study later in your degree. You'll cover the principles and techniques of AI and gain and understanding of how to apply the techniques to real-world problems and situations.

• Embedded Systems 1

  This module enables you to build a base of knowledge and skills in programming using the C language (a very common language used in embedded systems).

  You'll use the open-source electronic prototyping platform Arduino with its mix of sensors and actuators, motivating you to set programme challenges for yourself.

• Analogue and Digital Electronics

  This module introduces the essential components and signals found in analogue and digital electronic systems. You'll explore analysis tools that enable you to extract reliable and useable data and signals from circuits, and learn how to use the tools to measure and improve electronic systems.

Making sure that what you learn with us is relevant, up to date and what employers are looking for is our priority, so courses are reviewed and enhanced on an ongoing basis. When you have applied to us, you’ll be told about any new developments through Student View.

Year 2

You'll develop technical skills across mechanical, electrical, and design engineering disciplines. As well as spending time in our specialist labs compiling, simulating and implementing your designs.

Modules

• Intelligent Systems

  This module builds upon AI techniques and helps you to develop the knowledge and skills to develop and implement AI/machine learning algorithms to solve real-world complex problems. You'll enhance your understanding of supervised, unsupervised learning and concepts of neural and heuristic networks and gain a deeper understanding of how to effectively evaluate and solve complex engineering problems using AI techniques 

• Dynamics and Control

  This module introduces concepts to describe the dynamic behaviour of practical engineering systems. You'll learn to build mathematical models for engineering systems that can be used to analyse and predict the dynamic behaviour of mechanical systems. You'll also explore design and simulation methodologies for systems to control the dynamic behaviour of engineering systems. 

• Electrical Engineering 2

  Electrical Engineering 2 is an exploration of fundamental concepts used in the electrical power industry. You'll be introduced to the design and analysis of single and three phase electrical power systems, and to the design and operation of electrical power and conversion devices.

• Sensors and Actuators

  On this module you'll explore the main components of any robotics and mechatronics systems – sensors, actuators and control systems – developing your knowledge of their operation and practical uses.

• Engineering Design

  On this module you'll develop the knowledge and skills needed to undertake and apply engineering theory to design practice. You'll work in multidisciplinary groups on the design and manufacture of an engineering project, and ending with a competitive test of the product's functionality.

• Embedded Systems 2

  Building on Embedded Systems 1 from your first year, this module enhances your understanding of microcontroller operation by relating software instructions to the hardware architecture using assembly code. You'll extend your C programming skills to be able to use the full functionality of microcontroller technology in an embedded real-time application.

Placement year

A placement year offers you a great opportunity to:

• build knowledge of real-world businesses and organisations
• develop existing skills and discover new ones
• make contacts in industry and commerce
• increase your confidence
• improve your time management.

Our students have been on placement with companies including Rolls-Royce, General Electric and National Rail.

Year 3

You will undertake an individual project from business plan through to project completion.

Modules

• Advanced Control Systems

  On this module, you'll develop your skills and knowledge in the design and analysis of control and simulation systems for robotics and mechatronics engineering applications. You'll explore classical and modern control theory, control system design and compensator methods to improve system performance, alongside examining the application of hardware in the field. You'll consider the digital simulation software to build models for evaluation and analysis of dynamics and control applications in mechatronics engineering.

• Human-robotic Interaction

  On this module you'll examine how to provide a direct interaction between the human and machines aiming to augment human capabilities, particularly in neuro-robotics. You'll be introduced to the human brain functional organisation, and investigate different brain signals that can be recorded for a brain-computer interface along with the interaction paradigms where they can be decoded and exploited. 

• Product Design

  This module enables you to further develop the knowledge and skills needed to design engineering products and components. Through a project-based approach, you'll develop your ability to apply design techniques that underpin the generation of new products, alongside examining the management and professional techniques used when releasing new products into the marketplace.

• Advanced Robotic Communications

  On this module, you'll evaluate and use the skills and knowledge you have gained to design advanced robotic communication systems. You'll demonstrate your understanding of the underpinning concepts and principles, and further develop your knowledge of the different types of communication systems used in robotics. You'll explore wireless and wired technologies, and explore sensor networks and data fusion methods, alongside the concepts of localisation and mapping.

• Individual Project

  In this module you'll be both technical expert and project manager of your major individual project which investigates a technical problem in significant depth. You'll work independently, with a member of academic staff acting as project adviser, building your confidence and competence in project management. The project enables you to bring together skills that you've learned during your degree, such as research, analysis and engineering application.

Final year

At this higher level you will undertake a business-focused topic and a major, industry-related team project with peers from across the engineering disciplines. 

Modules

• Engineering Management

  In this module, you'll develop the skills needed to assess and use management and professional techniques, taking a hands-on and practical approach. These skills are crucial for the effective introduction and management of innovative or complex engineering products and components.

• Cyber Security

  This module will help you to gain an advanced understanding of computer security, software vulnerabilities, web security and security controls. Practical exercises will give you hands-on experience of techniques used to evaluate security – and you'll approach topics from a security engineer's perspective and from the perspective of someone who aims to bypass security protections. 

• Professional Development

  On this module you'll develop as an independent learner in the engineering profession. You'll work on a project or design subject on an engineering-related topic outside of the normal syllabus, exploring your personal professional development needs.

• Communication Systems

  Develop a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of communication technologies theory and applications. You'll explore topics including data communication standards and internet protocols, and practical uses including communications systems in different environments like the office, the internet, the Internet of Things and the automotive industries. Practical activities including investigating the use of CAN in a simulated network and an activity network simulation software help you to put the theory into action.

• Major Team Project

  Working in a small team, you'll investigate a real-world engineering problem, come up with possible solutions and choose the most appropriate in terms of technical and business viability. The major team project is an opportunity to use and develop your leadership, management, team skills, project management and technical knowledge.

Staff profile

Dr Zuhaib Khan, course leader

In my role as a course leader I make a conscious effort to bring real-world examples and experiences into the classroom, bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications. Engaging with current industry trends, challenges, and innovations allows me to provide students with valuable insights that extend beyond the textbook. Additionally, I maintain an active presence in professional networks, fostering collaborations and partnerships that can enhance the learning experience for my students.

Our students engage extremely well in practical, hands-on learning from industry visits and guest lectures to design and build projects and participating in competitions. Students also have opportunities to get involved in diverse and impactful research projects, applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. Recent examples of student involvement include students contributing to the optimisation of a communication protocol for a low-power, long range wireless sensor network, and a research initiative focused on developing a real-time algorithm for the early detection of anomalies in ECG signals.

One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching undergraduates lies in witnessing the transformative journey as students navigate through their academic pursuits. The joy stems from facilitating the acquisition of knowledge and skills, fostering critical thinking, and observing students evolve into capable, enthusiastic professionals. The vibrant interactions with students, their diverse perspectives, and the collaborative learning environment create a dynamic and enriching atmosphere that adds a sense of purpose and excitement to the teaching experience.

Course fees

If you choose to take the professional placement (sandwich) year offered on this course you will pay a reduced fee during this year. Our fee for the professional placement year is £1,500 for UK students and £1,850 for international students. This fee may be subject to small increases, in line with inflation.

The fees listed here are for the first year of full-time study if you start your course in the academic year 2025–26.

You will pay fees for each year of your course. Some fees may increase each year.

UK undergraduate and some postgraduate fees are regulated by the UK government and increases will not be more than the maximum amount allowed. Course fees that are not regulated may increase each year by up to 5% or RPI (whichever is higher).

If you are studying part-time your fee will usually be calculated based on the number of modules that you take.

Find out more

• Brighton Boost – cost of living help for our new undergrad students. Find out about how we can help with your study, accommodation or travel costs and more...
• Fees, bursaries, scholarships and government funding info for UK and international undergraduate students
• Student finance and budgeting while studying
• Read our student contract and tuition fee policy (pdf) for more on University of Brighton tuition fees.

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