BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering with placement year in Loughborough United Kingdom | Loughborough University

The automotive sector has undergone remarkable transformations in recent years, with electrification and connectivity shaping its future trajectory. Companies are adapting their engineering approaches to meet these changes, facing growing demands to streamline development timelines and costs through digital engineering processes. Loughborough's Automotive Engineering program equips students with specialized knowledge tailored to this evolving industry and the future of land transportation.

Our exclusive Department of Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering (one of only two such departments nationwide) boasts over five decades of experience in automotive education and industry collaboration. Unlike many UK programs, our curriculum integrates automotive applications from the very beginning when teaching core engineering principles. This industry-informed approach guarantees our teaching remains directly applicable to current automotive challenges.

The program covers emerging powertrain systems alongside specialized subjects like Battery Technology and Machine Intelligence, while maintaining strong foundations in Aerodynamics, Materials Science, Structural Engineering, and both Experimental and Computational Fluid Dynamics. This balanced approach ensures students master both the fundamental physics and cutting-edge technologies driving modern vehicle design.

While theoretical knowledge forms the backbone of automotive engineering, practical application remains equally vital. Our course emphasizes hands-on learning, including a week-long placement at HORIBA MIRA proving ground where students gather and interpret data on vehicle dynamics, noise levels, braking efficiency, and wet-weather performance. These experiential learning opportunities bridge the gap between classroom concepts and real-world implementation.

As students progress toward leadership roles, teamwork and management competencies become increasingly important. The program fosters these skills through collaborative projects, including designing next-generation vehicles. The capstone experience involves conducting independent research to address authentic engineering challenges.

Being part of the Department of Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering ensures our curriculum benefits from cutting-edge transportation research. We combine world-class facilities, exceptional instruction, and robust industry connections to fully prepare graduates for successful careers in this dynamic field.