The Cambridge Engineering department is recognised for its high-end research and is ranked as the top university for this in the UK. They have strong industry connections, and several projects are actually funded by companies. Students have access to tools, machinery, computers, books, and workshops. There are even Language programs, offering courses in French, German, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese; some students may even choose to study abroad in their third year.
This course allows students incredible scope to hone in on their interests, with up to nine specializations currently available: Aerospace and Aerothermal Engineering, Bioengineering, Civil/ Structural/ Environmental Engineering, Electrical and Information Sciences, Energy and Sustainability, Information and Computer Engineering, Instrumentation and Mechanical Engineering. There is the option to do a three-year course, but most continue to fourth year.
In first year, you take four compulsory papers in mechanics, materials, electrics, and mathematics, as well as coursework projects. These are designed to expand your knowledge and design skills and include both lab and computer work.
In second year, you take eight papers, extending these core topics to a higher level. You now study structures, thermofluids, information, and business economics, in addition to your first-year topics. Your coursework is centred around lab work and computing; you will also have a mandatory robot competition project.
In third year, you study ten papers, an extension activity, and two design/computer projects. The aim is to allow you to specialize in one of the nine core disciplines of engineering. The extension activity is non-technical and could, for example, take the format of a language course. You will be asked to finish a six-week placement in the industry by the end of your third year.
In fourth year, you take a personal project alongside eight papers. If you choose to take this, you graduate with a BA and Meng. Engineering is one of the most popular and competitive courses at Cambridge, with only an average of 15% of 2500 applicants receiving an offer in 2020.
The course is very male-dominated, with almost 75% of students being male. In order to apply you will need to have A-Level (or equivalent) in Maths and Physics; some colleges may require you to take a third science or maths subject, or the STEP exams. A-Level Further Mathematics (or equivalent) is also recommended. Your graduate employment prospects are incredibly high. Many students end up being employed by renowned industrial companies.
This course is accredited by the Engineering Council (though, to ensure that it is recognised by more specific engineering bodies, you should be careful to take a suitable selection of papers in your final year).
