BEng (Hons) Manufacturing (Mechanical) Degree Apprenticeship

What you will study

Year 1 (Level 4) 

In year one, you will establish a solid foundation in engineering fundamentals through modules such as Engineering Maths, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical Engineering. Core skills are further developed in Engineering Design and CAD and Engineering Materials and Processes, with hands-on workshops and practical lab work enhancing technical confidence. The Work Based Learning module ensures that academic knowledge is directly applied within your workplace, reinforcing relevance and real-world learning. 

Modules:

• Engineering Maths
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering Design and CAD
• Engineering Materials and Processes  
• Work Based Learning

Year 2 (Level 5) 

In year two, the focus shifts to applied mechanical and manufacturing engineering. You will study Mechanical Design and Analysis, Digital Innovation in Engineering, and Manufacturing Technology and Automation. Design for manufacture and digital workflows are strengthened through Design to Manufacture (CAD/CAM). Organisational awareness is developed in Engineering and Operations Management, and you will begin your Industrial Project, aligning your learning to business needs. 

Modules:

• Mechanical Design and Analysis 
• Digital Innovation in Engineering
• Design to Manufacture (CAD/CAM)
• Manufacturing Technology and Automation
• Engineering and Operations Management
• Industrial Project 

Year 3 (Level 6) 

In year three, you will engage with advanced and strategic topics such as Mechanical Modelling and Simulation, Continuous Improvement and Lean, and Systems Engineering. Professional readiness is supported through the Professional Practice module. The final Project spans the year, giving you the opportunity to deliver a substantial, work-based solution to a real industrial challenge demonstrating your capability as a competent, work-ready graduate engineer.

Modules:

• Mechanical Modelling and Simulation
• Continuous Improvement and Lean
• Systems Engineering
• Professional Practice
• Project

NOTE: Please note that this programme is currently subject to validation. Course content, structure, and module titles may be subject to change prior to final approval. 

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

The standard entry requirements of the University for this programme are (for Level 4 entry):

• 48 UCAS tariff points from an appropriate Level 3 qualification such as A Levels
• 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C, including Maths and English Language/Welsh

Applicants without the necessary UCAS tariff points, or who have qualifications that do not carry UCAS tariff points, will be considered based on their professional experience within the industry they intend to study the apprenticeship in. All applicants who do not meet the above requirements will be interviewed prior to being made an offer, providing those without formal UCAS tariff points the opportunity to demonstrate how their skills and experiences from within the industry make them a suitable candidate for this programme of study.

Teaching & Assessment

Our teaching approach is designed to be flexible, engaging, and focused on your success. Learning is delivered through Wrexham University’s Active Learning Framework, blending on-campus sessions with online activities to give you the best of both worlds. You’ll develop key employability skills throughout your studies, with teaching that adapts to your needs and prepares you for the demands of your future career.

• Face-to-Face Learning: You will engage in lectures, seminars, and workshops in various settings, incorporating case studies and problem-based learning. In some instances, sessions maybe be recorded for later access via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
• Virtual Learning: Delivered through the VLE and Microsoft Teams, virtual learning includes asynchronous tasks (videos, quizzes, readings, virtual visits) and synchronous activities (discussions, case studies, simulations). Sessions will be recorded where appropriate
• Tutorials: Delivered both in person and online, tutorials promote active participation through individual and group engagement. They are designed to encourage critical thinking, reflective practice, and student-led learning, supporting creativity, independence, and a deeper understanding of subject knowledge and professional practice
• Assessment Strategy: The degree has an innovative assessment strategy with no formal exams, replacing them with coursework, practical work, and project-based assessments that mirror industry practice. This approach, combined with access to modern facilities and strong employer input, ensures graduates are well-prepared for employment or further study in the sector

Teaching and Learning

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments.

Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.

Career prospects

This degree apprenticeship is ideal for individuals employed in the manufacturing sector who want to upskill while working. By combining academic study with direct workplace application, apprentices gain the technical knowledge, problem-solving ability, and professional skills required to advance into senior technical, supervisory, or project management roles, while laying the foundation for Chartered Engineer status or postgraduate study.

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our undergraduate fees.

Accommodation

At Wrexham University, we offer on-campus en-suite rooms within our Wrexham Student Village. These private, fully furnished spaces are conveniently located, providing easy access to campus facilities, study areas, and social spaces. Plus, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the city centre!

With all bills included, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and large social areas, you’ll find everything you need for a great student experience.

Explore our student accommodation options to find your perfect home away from home.

Subject to validation

Courses shown as “subject to validation” are new courses which are in development and the details of these courses are in the process of being finalised through the approval cycle, known as the ‘validation’ process. As soon as the programmes are validated the details of the course will be confirmed. The majority of new courses that are still ‘subject to validation’ are approved by the validation process; however, this is not guaranteed and should the course not go ahead as planned, or be significantly amended, you will be informed by the university and assistance will be provided to those who have been offered a place to find a suitable alternative course either at Wrexham University or at another provider.

Apply Now

Individual Applicants
If you're applying for a Degree Apprenticeship as an individual, please complete our online application form.

Employers
If you're an employer looking to reserve a place for a future apprentice or would like more information about the Degree Apprenticeship on behalf of an employee, please contact us at apprenticeships@wrexham.ac.uk.