Are you passionate about technology? Are you fascinated by engineering? Do you have a natural aptitude for science? If so, then you might want to consider studying a course within this particular field.

However, this programme of study requires students to have strong time management skills as they will be expected to balance their contact lectures with their own personal projects and critical workshops, all of which will be assessed to demonstrate their comprehension of the course content.

Similarly, many students will also be expected to gain hands on industry experience through work placements, so it is also important for potential students to be self-motivated and capable of independent study.

There are a number of career paths available to graduates in this particular field that aren’t specific to this particular industry. Many graduates go on to find that the IT and legal skills acquired throughout the course can be transferred to other industries such as patent law, construction, HR or within IT departments. However, the majority if graduates look to pursue a career in a related field either as a mechanical or maintenance engineer.

 A mechanical engineer uses basic engineering principles to provide efficient solutions to the development of products and machines. Entry level roles in this particular field often pay graduates from £20,000 - £28,000 in the UK. However, this will depend upon geographical location.

Many graduates with qualifications in this particular field will also find work as a maintenance engineer with a starting salary of £20,000 – £24,000 per year, planning the maintenance of machinery and equipment.

The majority of courses will expect students to attend lectures as well as work on their own independent projects that will be assessed to showcase their progression on the course.  Undergraduate students will also have to complete a minimum of 2 work placements before graduating as part of their course in order to gain hands on experience working within the building and construction industry

Undergraduate degree programmes in mechanical engineering last for a minimum of three years, although many will extend the programme to four years in order to allow students the chance to gain hands-on industry experience.  Those wishing to study on this course, will be expected to have high grades in a minimum of 3 A-levels or equivalent and to be able to demonstrate a passion for the subject matter.

Post graduate programmes can last anywhere from 1 – 4 years and will already expect students to have achieved a minimum of 2:1 in their honours degree. Similarly, those who do not speak English as their first language will have to score 6.0 – 6.5 in an IELTS test in order to showcase that there are no language barriers preventing learning.

Whatever you decide to study, the University’s location should play a crucial role in where you decide to study. You will receive a lot of information regarding potential courses, but don’t overlook your emotional requirements. Whether situated in the heart of a buzzing city or studying at a more rural campus with a communal focus – your happiness should always come first.

Irrespective of your course of study, you should attempt to study at a University that is both prestigious and has strong links within the manufacturing and production industry. Many top firms cultivate relationships with certain academic institutions which are beneficial for students wishing to find work placements as part of the course, or simply to network and increase your level of employability post-graduation.

One of the most important things to consider when making a decision on where to study is whether you will be able to afford the cost of your qualification. If fees are going to be a problem, there are a number of bursaries and scholarships available for which you may be eligible. Similarly, is the opportunity for you to find part-time work?

 If your academic grades are a little lower than the entry requirements, then why not take a gap year and gain some work experience? Although it is not compulsory to do so, many degree programmes and post-graduate courses will be flexible with the entry requirements for those with industry-related experience.