LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY
Programme Specification
Manufacturing Engineering and Management - M.Eng
Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of
the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be
expected to achieve and demonstrate if full advantage is taken of the learning
opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes,
content and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found
in Module Specifications and other programme documentation and online at
http://www.lboro.ac.uk/
The accuracy of the information in this document is reviewed by the University and
may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.
Awarding body/institution;
Loughborough University
Teaching institution (if different);
As above
Details of accreditation by a
professional/statutory body;
IMechE, IEE
Name of the final award;
M.Eng. or M.Eng. DIS
Programme title;
Manufacturing Engineering and Management
UCAS code;
No longer valid – phasing out (students now in
last year of study)
July 2003
Date at which the programme
specification was written or
revised.
1. Aims of the programme:
To provide a fully accredited honours degree programme, in the field of
manufacturing engineering and management, for well motivated students with high
entry qualifications. The programme seeks to produce high quality graduates who
have a strong academic background combined with outstanding integrative skills.
Graduates should have the ability to progress rapidly to positions of responsibility,
providing technical, managerial and entrepreneurial leadership
2. Relevant subject benchmark statements and other external and internal
reference points used to inform programme outcomes:
The National Qualifications Framework
QAA Benchmark statements for Engineering
SARTOR 3 Engineering Accreditation
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I.Mech.E Accreditation report from accreditation visit 7/11/2000
Loughborough University Learning and Teaching Strategy
3. Intended Learning Outcomes
On completion of the programme M.Eng graduates should have acquired technical
depth in core product design and manufacture subjects and a number of specialist
applications as well as studied sufficient breadth to understand a wide range of
technologies and related disciplines. They should have developed strong
interpersonal, communication and team working skills and become aware of modern
commercial and managerial practices appropriate to engineering industry.
More specifically:
On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to
demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
 Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical methods
and engineering science that are relevant to the design of mechanical
engineering systems;
 Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the role of information
technology in providing support for manufacturing and product design
engineers;
 Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the principles of
manufacturing, industrial and engineering design;
 Wide knowledge and understanding of manufacturing processes and
manufacturing technology and how these relate to design, materials
selection, accuracy of production, health and safety, cost and time;
 Wide knowledge and understanding of the principles of materials science
and their application in design and manufacturing;
 Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of manufacturing business
practices;
 Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of management of
manufacture through detailed approaches to planning and control of
technical, human and financial resources;
 Wide knowledge and understanding of issues relating to manufacturing for
the environment, product liability and marketing management;
The MEng graduate will also be able to use such knowledge and
understanding in a creative way and be able to:
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Interpret numerical data and apply mathematical methods to the analysis of
manufacturing related problems;
Utilise the principles of engineering science in the development of
solutions to manufacturing related design problems;
Select and apply appropriate IT tools to assist the solution of
manufacturing related problems;
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Identify key factors in manufacturing related problems that are amenable
to solution through the application of more specialised knowledge and
skills;
Show initiative, innovation and intellect in problem solving;
Integrate presentation techniques for maximum impact of the presented
information
They will be able to tackle complex problems and be able to:
 Integrate knowledge from all aspects of the programme, applying
understanding to novel and challenging situations, while being aware of the
capabilities and limitations of alternative solutions;
 Apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and
industrial constraints; Prepare engineering drawings and technical reports
and give technical presentations;
 Research and use new methods required for novel situations and adapt to
specific purposes if necessary
 Recognise the capabilities and limitations of computer based methods for
engineering problem solving
 Learn new theories, concepts, methods etc in an unfamiliar situation
outside the discipline area.
They will be able to work with the minimum of supervision, being proactive
in their approach to learning and be able to:
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Apply creative and structured approaches to problem solving;
Communicate effectively through written, graphical, interpersonal and
presentation skills;
Design and implement basic computer based information systems;
Work effectively both independently and as part of a team;
Develop, monitor and update a plan, to reflect a changing operating
environment;
Monitor and adjust a personal programme of work on an on-going basis
and learn independently;
Undertake most of the technical roles within a team and exercise
leadership.
Teaching, learning and assessment strategies to enable outcomes to be
achieved and demonstrated:
Acquisition of the above knowledge and understanding is through a
combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, co-operative projects with
industry, group and individual projects, practical laboratory work, industrial
training (DIS students only), coursework assignments and supervisory
experience.
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Assessment is through a combination of written examinations and assessed
coursework. Coursework assessment varies from module to module and
includes evaluation of laboratory reports, technical reports, problem solving
exercises, oral presentations, product designs and prototypes
4. Programme structures and requirements, levels, modules, credits and awards:
The programme is offered as full-time 4 year course leading to the award of MEng
(Hons) or a 5 year sandwich course (the third year being spent in industry), and
leading to a MEng (Hons) with a Diploma in Industrial Studies. The course is
taught in 2 x 15 week semesters per year, weeks 13-15 being assessment weeks at
the end of each semester.
The programme structure is briefly described below and, in more detail in the
Programme Regulations. Details of Module Specifications can be found at the
following Web address:- http://aisu.lboro.ac.uk:8080/owa/w1002.main
Modules are listed under the department primarily responsible for them, e.g.
modules based in the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering are
coded MM (previously MU = Manufacturing Engineering, MC = Mechanical
Engineering). The credit weighting of each module is specified, 10 credits being
equivalent to 100 hours, on average, of student effort.
Part A
No students on Part A
Part B
No students on Part B
Diploma in Industrial Studies (Optional)
Part C
No students on Part C
Part D
Compulsory Modules (60)
Project Engineering (30)
Project Management (10)
Engineering Design Management (10)
Sustainable Product Design (10)
Optional Modules
(20 from Group A)
Product Data Technology (10)
Electronic Packaging & Manufacture (10)
CAM Manufacturing Systems (10)
Reverse Engineering, Rapid Tooling & Rapid Manufacturing (10)
(40 from Group B)
Global Manufacturing Strategy (10)
Design for Assembly (10)
Rapid Prototyping (10)
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Welding and Joining Technology (10)
Finite Element Analysis (10)
Sports Engineering (10)
Metrology (10)
Polymer Processing Technology (10)
Study Abroad
Students may make arrangements to study part D at an approved overseas
institution
5. Criteria for admission to the programme:
This programme is no longer accepting applications
6. Information about assessment regulations:
The method of assessment for each module is described within the relevant module
specification (see section 4 above).
Examinations are held in each subject for which an examination is required in
the assessment period at the end of the semester in which it is taught. At the
end of each year the results from examinations and coursework assessment will
be combined, as detailed in each module specification. Percentage scores are
calculated to one decimal place and then rounded to the nearest integer.
The results for each module are compiled and considered by an examination
board, which awards credit for each satisfactorily completed module ( 40%).
Students who achieve sufficient credit to meet the assessment requirements of
their programme regulations will be allowed to proceed to the next year of
their course.
Briefly, all 120 credits are needed for progression in each year of this M.Eng
degree however, in addition, this programme demands that students achieve a
minimum standard of 50% in half of modules. To qualify for the award of
Master of Engineering, students in Part D must also obtain at least 50% in the
Project Engineering module and gain a minimum of 100 credits. Students on
this M.Eng programme are therefore expected to demonstrate both breadth of
learning and a high overall standard.. Readers are directed to the programme
regulations (attached) for full details of this and the criteria for the award of a
degree.
Candidates in parts A, B or C not meeting the criteria for progression will have the
right to be re-assessed on one further occasion. The student may choose to be reassessed in the University’s Special Assessment Period in early September or in
the next academic year. Alternatively, candidates in parts A or B may elect to
enter the BEng degree programme in Product Design and Manufacture provided
that they have achieved the criteria for progression for that programme. IMechE
accreditation will not be granted for MEng candidates who graduate 3rd Class
Honours or who are reassessed in the Individual Project module.
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7. Indicators of quality:
The course is fully accredited by the Institutions of Mechanical Engineers and
Electrical Engineers.
In Teaching Quality Assessment, the Department was awarded 23 points out of a
maximum of 24, confirming it as a leader in quality of teaching.
In the last Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) we achieved a grade 5; the School is
continually building on this achievement and is confident of improving its rating in
the future.
8. Particular support for learning:
Careers:
The Wolfson School employs a full time officer to offer advice regarding careers and
industrial placements. Also the University’s Careers Office run timetabled tutorial
sessions within the programme’s curriculum.
The Careers Service provides a continuous service for students seeking careers
guidance and help with job-search techniques, together with a library of careers
resources. Careers Service are involved with students and parents from recruitment
and induction onwards. In the UK Graduate Careers Survey, sponsored by the Times
Newspaper, Loughborough University Careers Services was rated top of the league.
Over 11000 finalists from 25 leading Universities were interviewed and the Careers
Service at Loughborough achieved the joint highest score with 79% of students rating
the service as good or excellent.
Library:
The University Library (The Pilkington Library) provides technologically advanced
support for student learning in a purpose-built building. It holds a stock of more than
half a million volumes, monographs and an extensive serials collection; numerous PC
workstations (100+); networked printing facilities and self-service photocopiers. The
Library is also a designated EDC (European Documentation Centre). The
computerised library catalogue (OPAC) is available on-line, as are electronic versions
of reading lists. Opening hours are lengthy and there is on-line access to subjectspecific data bases and networked CD-ROMs from networked labs and study
bedrooms on campus. The Library organises self-guided tours for First Year students,
and presentations from librarians are an integral part of the postgraduate research
methods and design module. User support is also available from staff at the Library
help-desk, via printed and online guides and through a series of 'Lunchtime in the
Library' training sessions. There are a variety of study environments in the Library,
including individual and group study desks, private carrels and group study rooms.
Computing Facilities:
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The School has installed many computers to enhance the extensive central facilities
provided by the Computing Services (see below). The additional facilities provided
by the School fall into two general categories:Group 1 – Computing services primarily intended to support teaching activities.
Access to these machines is limited only by timetabled teaching/tutorial requirements.
Group 2 – Computers intended to support research in the School, but to which
students have access whilst undertaking certain electives and/or by prior arrangement
with their project supervisor.
Group 1
The School has many PCs that are used to support its teaching activities by exposing
students to relevant applications software. The largest concentration of these is in the
PC Rooms TW/1/15 and T/2/10. All of these computers use Microsoft Windows NT.
The two CAE Rooms (TW/1/14 and T/2/09) house Engineering Workstations that are
used extensively to support CAD and CAE teaching. These workstations use the
UNIX operating system with the Common Desktop Environment as windowing
systems. A further substantial group of workstations has been installed in the Design
Projects area as part of an Engineering Faculty initiative.
Group 2
The majority of the computer based research in the School is done on Sun
Microsystems and Windows NT workstations. Those students opting for projects
closely allied to these research projects in their final year should therefore already be
familiar with this type of facility
Computing Services provides the University IT infrastructure, and works in close
collaboration with Faculty IT Co-ordinators and Departments' IT Support Specialists
in maintaining staff PCs and departmental networked laboratories. There is a
dedicated server for web based teaching support, the LEARN server, accessible both
on and off campus; each member of staff is able to edit web pages on this server
relating to their own modules.
Learning and Teaching Development:
Learning and Teaching Development (LTD) is the University's centre for teaching
and learning innovation, providing support for teaching, learning and assessment by
acting as a reference service for students for learning and study skills. It works with
tutors seeking to help particular students as well as providing general guides on
studying, learning and assessment.
Staff Development:
Staff Development (SD) provides continuing professional development in teaching
and other skills. Probationary staff attend a full programme of SD courses and, in
their third year, the Quality Assessment Unit assesses their teaching through direct
observation and a portfolio. Accreditation for this process has been awarded by the
Institute for Teaching and Learning (ILT). Permanent staff take refresher courses and
investigate new developments in teaching through SD courses.
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Counselling Service and English Language Study Unit:
The Counselling Service and English Language Study Unit are able to support
individual students in resolving problems and in improving communication skills for
international students.
Faculty of Engineering Teaching and Learning Support Centre:
The Faculty of Engineering Teaching and Learning Support Centre supports the
implementation of innovative Teaching and Learning Methods into the curriculum,
within the Faculty of Engineering, via the use of appropriate technologies. The
Centre provides a focus for computer based learning and teaching activities in the
Engineering Faculty, unlimited advice on Computer aided learning/assessment and
distance learning materials, a limited amount of free software development time, and
help to secure funding and manage projects relevant to learning and teaching
The Mathematics Learning Support Centre:
The Mathematics Learning Support Centre, based in the Department of Mathematical
Sciences, provides a range of services designed to support any undergraduate student
in the University in their learning of mathematics. In particular it aims to help
students in the earlier stages of their studies who might benefit from resources and
tuition over and above that normally provided as part of their programme.
Disabilities & Additional Needs Service:
The Disabilities & Additional Needs Service (DANS) offers support for students
including adaptation of course materials into Braille/large print/tape/disk/other
formats; organising mobility training; BSL interpretation; provision of
communication support workers; notetakers in lectures/tutorials; assessment of
specific support, equipment and software needs; individual/small group tuition for
students who have dyslexia; representing students’ needs to academic and other
University departments; organising adapted accommodation to meet individual
needs; helping to organise carers to meet any personal care needs; organising
appropriate support for students who have a mental health problem.
DANS has links with the RNIB Vocational College, Derby College for Deaf People
and the National Autism Society to offer effective support to students at the
University. It regularly takes advice from other national and local organisations of and
for disabled people.
Where a student has complex support or accommodation needs, contact with DANS
is strongly advised prior to application.
9. Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of learning:
The University has a formal quality procedure and reporting structure laid out in its
Academic Quality Procedures handbook, available online at:
http://www.lboro.ac.uk/admin/central_admin/policy/academic_quality/contents.html
and directed by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching). Each Faculty has an Associate
Dean for Teaching responsible for all learning and teaching matters. For each Faculty
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there is a Directorate (responsible for the allocation of resources) and a Board
(responsible for monitoring quality issues within each department). Support is
provided by the Staff Development Unit and the Quality Assessment Unit. Student
feedback on modules and programmes is sought at regular intervals, individual
programmes are reviewed annually, and Departments review their full portfolio of
programmes as part of a Periodic Programme Review (every five years).
Minor changes to module specifications are approved by the Associate Dean
(Teaching) on behalf of the Faculty Board, and ratified by the University Curriculum
Sub-Committee in accordance with the University's quality procedures. Major
changes are formally considered by the University Curriculum Sub-Committee.
All staff participate in the University's staff appraisal scheme, which helps to identify
any needs for staff skills development. Both probationary staff and those seeking
promotion to Senior Lecturer are subject to a formal teaching evaluation scheme,
administered by the Quality Assessment Unit and accredited by the Institute for
Learning and Teaching.
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