BEng (Hons) Robotics, Automation and Mechatronic Engineering
School of Coding & AI in Partnership with Harper Adams University
Course Overview
Robotics is transforming every industry, from advanced manufacturing and health care to agriculture, logistics, defence and autonomous transport. As more companies adopt intelligent automation, the demand increases for engineers who can design, build and maintain smart robotic systems.
The BEng (Hons) Robotics, Automation and Mechatronic Engineering degree gives you the practical engineering and digital skills to create the next generation of automated technologies. This forward-looking programme combines robotics, artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, electronics and software development, preparing you to apply innovative and technological solutions to real-world engineering problems.
Industry will teach you through practical projects and collaborative learning, and you will graduate with the confidence to develop intelligent robotic solutions to improve productivity, sustainability and everyday life.
| Qualification Title | BEng (Hons) Robotics, Automation and Mechatronic Engineering |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Awarding body | Harper Adams University |
| Mode of Study | Full-Time |
| Delivery | Classes run seven days a week. Students are required to attend two days per week |
| Duration | Full-Time: 3 Years |
| Intakes | May, September |
| Campus | Birmingham |
Course Structure & Modules
Year 1
- Credits: 20
- Code: SQ4007
The “Computing Technology” module is designed to provide a broad introduction to computer science and to a range of programming languages, suitable for those with or without prior programming experience. This module emphasises problem-solving techniques, both computational and non-computational, focusing on correctness, design, and style. It provides a foundational understanding of computational thinking, abstraction, algorithms, data structures, and the broader spectrum of computer science. The module transitions through various programming languages, starting with C and moving to Python, SQL, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, thus offering a broad understanding of the field. The flexible structure of this module ensures its relevance and adaptability for both current industry practices and future technological advancements. This module is an overview of basic algorithms and a survey of many different computational language implementations.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
- Analyse and solve problems using computational thinking, applying fundamental concepts of computer science across various domains.
- Design and implement algorithms in different programming languages, demonstrating a clear understanding of functions, variables, conditionals, loops, and data structures.
- Evaluate and improve the correctness, design, and style of code, showcasing the ability to assess and optimise computational solutions.
- Synthesise knowledge of programming concepts to create web and mobile applications, employing technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- Apply the principles of data management using SQL for effective storage and retrieval of information.
- Credits: 20
- Code: SQ4008
In this module, you will be introduced to the connection between mathematical tools and techniques, accepted theories of mechanics and the use of software applications in the modelling, analysis and prediction of the behaviour of mechanical systems. These could be mechanisms, components of machines, or moving bodies, on any scale. It uses a combination of teaching and learning approaches, including practical laboratory-based exercises and the use of industry-standard software to model mechanical systems. This module is essential to your understanding of a wide range of other subjects at this level and further your understanding of mechanical science and systems used in robotics and mechatronic systems.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Review the value of theoretical methods to predict the real-world behaviour of mechanical systems.
- Select and apply a range of mathematical techniques to solve static and dynamic problems.
- Apply physical and software resources to investigate, analyse and communicate solutions to engineering scenarios.
- Credits: 20
- Code: SQ4003
“Professional and Study Skills” is a module designed to equip students in data science, business, and engineering with essential professional and academic skills. This module provides an opportunity to develop capabilities in key areas such as research, writing, web technology, Markdown, Excel, tidy data management, introductory programming, and effective presentation techniques. By integrating these skills, the module supports students in becoming proficient and adaptable professionals, capable of excelling in their academic and future career pursuits.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
- Research and synthesise literature relevant to data science, business, and engineering, demonstrating effective information gathering and analysis skills.
- Develop and maintain web pages using GitHub and Markdown, showcasing an understanding of basic web development principles.
- Utilise Excel for data analysis and management, applying principles of tidy data for efficient data handling.
- Implement basic programming concepts using tools like Code Copilot and command-line interfaces.
- Design and deliver compelling presentations, effectively communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences, both technical and non-technical.
- Credits: 20
- Code: SQ4009
This module provides you with a thorough grounding in the development of mechanisms and technologies for actuation, for example, chain drives, fluid power, levers, gears and motor drives. This is the module that will take you from an entrant with no or minimal experience of actuation technology to become knowledgeable and be able to work confidently with actuation technology.
Through a range of teaching and learning techniques, such as tutorials, laboratories and reading, the module will investigate the development of actuation science, methodologies and technologies relevant to robotics, automation and mechatronic systems. The module will be assessed using a two-part process. Firstly, a spreadsheet will be developed to determine component specifications and performance. This will be complemented with a professional discussion based on the application of actuation technologies relevant to robotics, automation and mechatronic engineering disciplines.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Design and develop mechanisms to translate force, torque and velocity to meet given requirements.
- Select and specify the components required to satisfy the functional performance needs for a given actuation system.
- Explain the operation of fundamental fluid power components and simple systems.
- Credits: 20
- Code: SQ4011
This module offers an engaging introduction and an overview to programming, utilising a modern programming language (typically Python). Designed to accommodate both novices and those with some programming background, it covers a spectrum of fundamental concepts of coding. Key topics include reading and writing code, testing, debugging, and utilising Python-specific features. This module provides essential underpinning skills for other computer science modules. The content will be highly relevant and adaptable, enhancing employability and professional development in technology-driven industries. This module focuses on a single programming language, such as Python, as a modern, scalable toolbox, building on the Computing Technology module, which is an overview of basic algorithms and a survey of many different computational language implementations.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
- Analyse and apply programming concepts to develop functional code, showcasing the ability to interpret and create basic programming structures.
- Construct and execute scripts, using loops, conditionals, and data structures, demonstrating comprehension and practical application.
- Evaluate and debug code, applying systematic approaches to identify and resolve coding issues, enhancing code reliability and performance.
- Create and manipulate classes and objects, illustrating understanding of object-orientated programming principles.
- Synthesise knowledge of programming to develop solutions for real-world problems, demonstrating creativity and adaptability in coding.
- Credits: 20
- Code: SQ4010
This module will cover the fundamentals of automation principles as applied to industry. The student will already be aware of actuation methods, drive and gearing techniques from another module (Actuation for Mechatronic Systems), and they will learn and apply sequence programming to these devices to enable useful applications to be developed. The microcontroller or Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) will be examined and applied to operate these actuators along with the use of sensors to read the environment and to verify the actuator state. Programming will be introduced in a practical way to allow the actuators to operate in a dynamic environment.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who complete this module will be able to:
- Identify and select common sensors and their application for a range of engineering and manufacturing applications.
- Choose and analyse an actuator that is relevant and appropriate for a given application.
- Describe and critique an automation system and its application in a wider context.
Year 2
- Credits: 20
This module engages students in an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving and research within a design and consultancy context. It emphasises the identification and solution of real-world problems, requiring students to critically analyse a subject domain, establish design boundaries, and devise innovative solutions. This module cultivates essential skills in project planning, execution, and presentation, preparing students for diverse professional environments. Workshops supporting project design, methodology, and presentation skills are integral, enhancing the student’s ability to contribute effectively in varied interdisciplinary settings. This module is crucial for developing the agility and adaptability required in contemporary professional fields.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
- Critique the current state of understanding of a problem, utilising appropriate information and research techniques.
- Formulate advanced and creative solutions or proposals to enhance the current state of knowledge in the subject domain.
- Design effective methods to deliver a solution to the identified problem, demonstrating innovative thinking and practical skills.
- Interpret, report, and present the project rationale and solution coherently within the context of the existing knowledge base, utilising appropriate communication skills and formats.
- Credits: 20
The module offers students a comprehensive exploration into the dynamic field of mechatronics, where mechanical and electronic systems synergistically converge. This module delves into the principles and applications of mechatronics, emphasising the integration of mechanical design, electronics, computer science, and control theory. Students will develop an understanding of the symbiotic relationship between mechanical components and intelligent control systems, preparing them for the challenges of designing and implementing sophisticated mechatronic systems. The module adopts a hands-on approach, encouraging application through laboratory exercises and projects. Through a blend of theoretical insights and practical experiences, students will gain the skills necessary to design, model, and control complex mechatronic systems, fostering a solid foundation for their continued academic and professional journey in the realm of robotics and automation. The module’s content is designed to instil a holistic perspective on mechatronics and its role in shaping the future of engineering solutions.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Specify, select and integrate appropriate components such as controllers and sensors to build a mechatronic system.
- Develop, implement and evaluate an algorithm to control a mechatronic system.
- Identify and specify key considerations when developing and signing off on mechatronic systems.
- Credits: 20
This module will provide an opportunity for the learner to understand and appreciate the context and interconnectivity of Industry 4.0 as applied to modern manufacturing. You will apply a range of digitally augmented manufacturing techniques such as such as CNC and additive manufacturing you create real components to a design specification. This will enable you to understand the impact, opportunities, and limitations of these techniques on quality. Whole-process capability will be examined and modelled, using a range of cutting-edge techniques such as discrete event simulation so you can propose improvements to the efficiency of manufacturing systems. Throughout, solutions will be evaluated for environmental, social and financial sustainability of smart manufacturing systems for industrial applications with an emphasis on regulations, legislation and UN SDGs.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Apply selection methodologies, based on capabilities, cost and sustainability for materials and processes for a given application in industry.
- Manufacture, assemble and assess a simple multi-component system.
- Propose and implement manufacturing solutions utilising tools, techniques and philosophies integral to Industry 4.0 for a given sector.
- Use and apply software tools and techniques such as discrete event simulation to develop, systematically, and improve the efficiency of manufacturing systems.
- Credits: 20
“Sustainability and Ethics for Machines and Humans” is a pivotal module designed to address the broad spectrum of ethical issues emerging in fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and engineering. The course delves into the complexities and challenges posed by the integration of advanced technologies in society. It critically examines the ethical implications, including deploying AI and automation systems, as well as the responsibilities of individuals in creating technology that aligns with societal values and ethical standards. The module emphasises the importance of ethical decision-making in the development and application of these technologies, highlighting the impact on various aspects of human life.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
- Evaluate the ethical implications and challenges of AI, robotics, and engineering projects in various real-world scenarios.
- Assess the balance between technological advancement and ethical considerations in robotics and engineering.
- Analyse case studies on the ethical deployment of AI and robotic systems, focusing on the societal and moral impact.
- Apply ethical principles in the design, development, and implementation of AI and robotics, ensuring responsible and sustainable technological solutions.
- Synthesise knowledge through practical projects, demonstrating the ability to address ethical dilemmas in AI, robotics, and engineering contexts.
- Credits: 20
- Code: SQ
The design and validation involved in the engineering of a product is key to its success.
As well as the ability to rigorously apply engineering theory to an application, a professional engineer also needs a good understanding of the wider world in which their product will operate and of the customer who will purchase it.
In this module, you develop your professionalism and wider communication and teamworking skills by following a structured design process to deliver a product that meets a customer brief.
You will design and validate a product from beginning to end, improving your capability in defining a problem, utilising specialist methodologies and techniques, working in a team, and liaising with customers and technical specialists.
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Identify requirements and constraints within a client brief, in order to create a product design specification.
- Engineer a product to meet a product design specification.
- Develop a product to meet ‘design for manufacture’ and ‘design for assembly’ constraints.
- Plan and execute a test to evaluate a design against a product design specification.
- Credits: 20
There are many aspects of industry that could benefit from the development of automation and robotics. This module will begin by discussing the current applications of robotic systems highlighting the areas which will benefit from robotics as well as the engineering challenges these present. The technical aspect of the module will build on the core Mechatronics modules to integrate the current state of the art in Robotic Engineering with contextualised industrial and research applications. Future trends will be examined from the foundation of knowledge in robotic technology, placing the learner in the position to understand, create, and apply advanced techniques in robotics. Techniques including Image Processing, multi-tasking operating systems, advanced libraries of applications, swarming, navigation, vehicle communication, machine state and behaviour programming will be covered with practical examples.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Design and implement an autonomous mobile robot to perform a given task or challenge.
- Create and implement an algorithm and software to control a robot arm in a real situation.
Year 3
- Credits: 40
The ability to resolve complex problems is a fundamental capability of a professional engineer. Fundamental elements of this capability include being able to define a problem, being able to select and correctly apply relevant tools, techniques, methods and practices in the resolution of the problem and the ability to critically evaluate the efficiency of the applied process.
Successful completion of your Honours Engineering Project will demonstrate your motivation, resilience, and ability to select and apply appropriate methodologies in the resolution of an engineering problem selected from your chosen field of specialisation. The Honours Engineering Project functionally assesses in a holistic way your ability to engage with and deliver a successful body of work and as such, forms the capstone activity for the curriculum and a culmination of study on the course.
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Select, justify and use appropriate tools and techniques to define and constrain an engineering problem or challenge. For resolution.
- Plan and utilise appropriate methods to ethically and sustainably deliver a solution to the engineering problem.
- Conduct a technical evaluation of the project outcomes in relation to the satisfaction of the project requirements.
- Conduct a reflective evaluation of the project outcomes in relation to the methods and practices adopted.
- Present project conclusions and recommendations to a technical and non-technical audience.
- Credits: 20
The deployment of intelligent robotic and autonomous systems mitigates the ever-decreasing availability of personnel for industry whilst contributing to the potential increase in productivity and indeed reliability. In this module, you will be exposed to new and emerging technologies in relation to designing and deploying intelligent manufacturing systems. Equally, you will appreciate the need to embed cyber-security throughout the manufacturing operations. This includes security in terms of hardware, software and peopleware.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Create and validate using advanced software tools in a automated manufacturing processes.
- Summarise the relevance and application of intelligent robotics in a manufacturing environment.
- Critically appraise the cyber-physical security requirements in mechatronic systems for relevance in business operations.
- Credits: 20
This module addresses concepts and algorithms of modern artificial intelligence (AI), introducing the theories, practices and tools that underpin AI technologies, such as game-playing engines, handwriting recognition, and machine translation. The module emphasises hands-on learning, where students will actively engage with graph search algorithms, classification, optimisation, machine learning, and large language models. By integrating these concepts into programming projects, students will gain a working understanding of AI frameworks and acquire the skills to design and implement intelligent systems.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who complete this module will be able to:
- Analyse and understand the foundational concepts and algorithms that underpin modern artificial intelligence.
- Develop Python programs that incorporate AI technologies, demonstrating practical application of AI frameworks.
- Analyse and apply graph search algorithms, classification, and optimisation techniques in AI.
- Design and implement intelligent systems using principles learned from machine learning and large language models.
- Curate knowledge of AI frameworks with practical programming skills to create AI solutions.
- Credits: 20
Engineers are expected to be able to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team in the delivery of solutions to agreed standards and deadlines. Engineers, to be effective, must be able to study a given situation and be able to calculate delivery feasibility against time and resource availability. It is also a normal expectation that engineers are required to resolve complex problems in parallel to other work, and to work effectively with colleagues.
You will have gained group work experience in prior studies. This module aims to provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate your capability of working as a member of a project team having joint and several responsibilities for the delivery of the project. Further, to demonstrate in an applied context, an appropriate depth and breadth of technical knowledge and management capability, professional engineering behaviours, and an understanding of project delivery risks.
Each group project is generally sourced from companies within the engineering industry – companies typically provide background information, details of the problem or challenge, and some references for the team at the outset. Project deliverables and success criteria will be negotiated between the client and team early in the project.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
- Devise, negotiate and agree on deliverables in response to a given automation-based project presented by industry or a business.
- Plan, conduct and manage the delivery of a programme of work to deliver stakeholder value in a timescale negotiated with the company.
- Present project conclusions and recommendations to the client company with due consideration for a technical and non-technical audience.
- Credits: 20
The use of intelligent IoT (Internet of Things) devices has proliferated across many sectors, both commercial and domestic, to assist in the monitoring of cyber-physical systems in manufacturing and the natural environment for seamless integration to the internet, thus enabling organisations to analyse performance and behaviour, leading to rapid decision-making through human or non-human intervention. This module on IoT (Internet of Things) Data Communications is designed to provide you with comprehensive knowledge of interconnected intelligent devices that capture data and communicate with multiple devices connected to objects of all types. You will explore in-depth the operation and implementation of smart IoT sensors and systems and understand the architecture and the ever-growing number of applications across manufacturing and many other sectors. The module will also focus on communications and security’s critical role in transporting and exchanging data between IoT devices via the Internet.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
Students who complete this module will be able to:
- Critique and analyse the core concepts and architecture of IoT devices and networks.
- Apply knowledge and technical skills to design, build and test an IoT system for a given specification and application.
- Critically appraise the end-to-end functional, operational and security requirements of an IoT system for a given application.
Fees Structure
UK/Home Students’ Fees: £9,790 per year
*The tuition fees displayed on this page are set by our academic partner and apply to programmes delivered by Harper Adams University. Fees are accurate as of September 2026 and may be amended by the partner institution in future academic years. Any changes will be published on our website as soon as reasonably practicable.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have 96 UCAS Tariff Points or an equivalent qualification to be considered for admission. Typical entry qualifications include CCC at A Level, a Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma (MMM, 1080 GLH), or a City & Guilds Advanced Extended Technical Diploma (MMM, 1080 GLH). Applicants with a T Level should have achieved a Merit, while those with Scottish Highers should hold BBCC and Irish Leaving Certificate applicants should have attained four H3 grades.
In addition, candidates are expected to have a minimum of four GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English Language, Mathematics and Science. Equivalent international qualifications and relevant professional or vocational experience may also be considered in line with the institution’s admissions policy.
Benefits
School of Coding & AI’s BEng (Hons) Robotics, Automation and Mechatronic Engineering programme, in partnership with Harper Adams University, equips you with the following:
- Industry-Relevant Knowledge: Develop expertise in robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, electronics and mechanical engineering that employers actively seek.
- Hands-On Practical Experience: Build, programme and test robotic and automated systems through practical laboratory sessions and real-world engineering projects.
- Learn from Industry-Informed Academics: Benefit from teaching that combines academic excellence with practical engineering insights and current industry practices.
- Develop Transferable Skills: Strengthen your analytical thinking, teamwork, communication, project management and leadership skills alongside technical expertise.
- Innovation-Driven Learning: Take part in exciting design challenges that encourage creativity, innovation and engineering excellence.
- Progress to Further Study: Build a strong academic foundation for postgraduate study or specialist research in robotics, automation, AI and advanced engineering.
Future Career
Graduates can pursue careers across a wide range of high-growth industries. These include:
- Robotics Engineer: Design, develop and maintain robotic systems used in manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture and autonomous technologies.
- Automation Engineer: Create automated production systems that improve efficiency, productivity and operational performance across industries.
- Mechatronics Engineer: Integrate mechanical, electronic and software systems to develop intelligent products and advanced engineering solutions.
- Control Systems Engineer: Design and optimise control systems that monitor and automate industrial machinery and complex engineering processes.
- Robotics Software Developer: Build intelligent software that enables robots to perform autonomous tasks with precision and reliability.
- Artificial Intelligence Engineer: Develop AI-powered systems that improve robotic decision-making, machine learning and intelligent automation.
FAQs
It is a multidisciplinary engineering field that combines mechanical engineering, electronics, computing, artificial intelligence and automation to design, develop and operate intelligent machines and robotic systems.
Yes. The course is designed to build your knowledge progressively, starting with engineering fundamentals before moving on to advanced robotics, automation and intelligent systems.
You’ll participate in laboratory sessions, engineering workshops, robotics programming, automation projects, design challenges and an individual final-year project to develop practical industry skills.
Graduates can find opportunities in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, agriculture, logistics, healthcare, renewable energy, defence, construction, smart technology and many other engineering sectors.
Depending on the module, you’ll gain experience with robotics programming, CAD software, embedded systems, industrial automation tools, sensors, microcontrollers and artificial intelligence technologies.
Get in Touch
35 Livery St, Birmingham B3 2PB, United Kingdom
0121 582 4468