BEng (Hons) Renewable & Sustainable Engineering (with International Foundation Year)

What you will study

Our course has a broad base in order to allow you to develop skills and the ability to contribute to the design of renewable energy systems and progress to meet future requirements both within the UK and worldwide markets.

YEAR 1 (INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION YEAR)

You will be enrolled in the International Foundation Year programme that will be co-taught alongside home students, fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning environment. This integration allows you to benefit from diverse perspectives, enhance your cultural awareness, and build strong academic and social connections within the university community.

MODULES

• English for Academic Purposes (Core): Strengthen your academic English skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. This module supports IELTS preparation, helping you meet English language requirements for degree entry while building confidence for university-level study.
• Study Skills for Success (Core): Develop the essential academic, digital, and organisational skills you will need to thrive at university. From managing your time and structuring assignments to researching and referencing, you will build the confidence to study independently and successfully.
• Maths and Computing for Problem Solving (Core): Strengthen your maths skills while learning how to apply them through programming. Topics include algebra, trigonometry, statistics, and problem-solving techniques relevant to computing and engineering.
• Collaborative Practice (Core): Work with students from other subject areas to explore cross-disciplinary challenges. You will develop key skills in teamwork, communication, and research while tackling relevant themes across different fields.
• Engineering Principles (Core): Build your understanding of core topics in physics, mechanics, and electrical circuits. The module also introduces sustainable energy technologies and their role in modern engineering.
• Engineering Practice (Core): Take a practical approach to engineering by working on a design and prototyping project. You will also explore the ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities of engineers in today’s world.

Students entering the programmes with an IELTS score of 5.5 with no skills score below 5.0 will be required to undertake the non-credit bearing English for Academic Support module alongside English for Academic Purpose.

• English for Academic Support (Core): Enhance your academic English throughout your studies. This module supports continued development in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, with a focus on IELTS improvement and meeting the language demands of your degree.

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 4)

In year 2, you will develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts, principles and theories in engineering. You will acquire basic mathematic skills related to engineering and design problems, and use CAD for engineering design. You will also gain competence of working safely in engineering laboratories and workshops, and be able to conduct laboratory procedures, measurement and workshop practices under the guidance of a tutor.

MODULES

• CAD and production Science
• Introduction to Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Science
• Engineering Mathematics
• Engineering professional development
• Future Energy Systems and Sustainability
• Materials and the Environment

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 5)

Level 5 will build on the knowledge, concepts and skills acquired at Level 4 in addition to more specialist knowledge, skills in engineering design and analysis. More in-depth in theories in electrical power engineering, renewable energies, structures and finite element analysis, etc will be explored. You will also develop an understanding of business and research methods.

MODULES

• Engineering Futures - Research, Ethics, and Sustainability
• Further Engineering Maths 
• Electrical Power Engineering 
• Wind and Hydro Engineering
• Mechanics, Structures & FEA
• Solar and Biomass Energy Engineering 

YEAR 4 (LEVEL 6)

At Level 6, you will acquire a critical understanding and application of the higher level concepts, principles and theories in engineering, as well as a critical understanding and explanation of advanced topics in composite materials, design, modelling/simulation, and advanced renewable technologies. You will use the knowledge and skills you have acquired to do an individual project.

MODULES

• Mechanical Engineering Modelling and Simulation
• Smart Grids, Storage and Energy Mix
• Energy Saving, Low Carbon and Recycling Systems
• Professional Engineering
• Project

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 International Foundation Year (IFY) programme is aimed at international applicants who normally be aged 17 or over before 31 December in the year of registration, will have completed a 12-year school system, and reached at least AS level at the appropriate grade as defined by Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC), in their respective relevant discipline.

Applicants will fulfil the English language requirements for the respective programme entry, via possession of a UKVI approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved Centre.

Depending on the applicant’s IELTS score the following programme options are available: 

IELTS 5.5 With No Skill Score Below 5.0

Applicants with IELTS score of 5.5 with no skills score below 5.0 are only eligible to apply for the 1-year standalone International Foundation Year. If applicants hold an alternative SELT, acceptance maybe granted subject to Wrexham University admissions assessment on eligibility. Once accepted on to the International Foundation Year, applicants will be issued a one-year confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

Students will initially apply for a subject specialism (e.g. International Foundation Year Engineering) with the intention of progressing to a subject specific honours degree route (e.g. BEng (Hons) Aeronautical & Mechanical Engineering), subject to the successful completion of the International Foundation Year.

Students are required to sit an approved UKVI SELT at the end of Semester 1 to apply for their chosen bachelor’s degree programme at Wrexham University or any other higher education institution (HEI) requiring a second CAS.

Support and guidance from the international team will be provided, and applications will be assessed based on individual merit, entry requirements, and programme availability.

IELTS 5.5 With No Skill Score Below 5.5

Applicants with an IELTS score of 5.5 with no skills score below 5.5 are to apply for the 4-year integrated International Foundation Year pathway. In some cases, acceptance of alternative English language proficiency certificates with an equivalent of IELTS 5.5 with no skill score below 5.5, can be accepted subject to Wrexham University admissions assessment on eligibility.

Once accepted on to the International Foundation Year, applicants will be issued with a four-year Confirmation of Acceptable for Studies (CAS). This CAS will cover the full duration of the programme. 

During the International Foundation Year, the chosen undergraduate course pathway can be changed, subject to approval from the academic department and in accordance with UKVI regulations, e.g. from Aeronautical & Mechanical Engineering to Electrical & Electronic Engineering.

Any course transfer would need to be completed within time limits set by the academic admissions tutors, usually before the end of semester 2 of the International Foundation Year at the latest.

Non-Standard Entry Criteria

Students who have successfully completed a pre-sessional programme at Wrexham University with an IELTS Academic overall score of 5.5 with no skill score below 5.5 will be eligible to apply for the International Foundation Year. Applications will be evaluated based on individual merit and programme

Teaching & Assessment

A broad range of assessment methods are used; these include task-based exercises, oral and poster presentations, essays and laboratory reports, and written exams. Each module is assessed by a variety of methods, enabling students to display their full potential. A project dissertation will form one of the final parts of your assessment.

Teaching and Learning

Wrexham University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

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.

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, student-led seminars, field trips and guided research.

Independent learning is an important aspect of all modules, as it enables students to develop both their subject specific and key skills. Independent learning is promoted through guided study or feedbacks given to students.

Career prospects

The career prospects of low carbon and renewable energy students are one of the brightest in this expanding, under skilled area.  Upon completion, you can go on to do an MSc in renewable engineering and related PhD. 

Previous students are working in sustainability related jobs in government and industry (Renewables and low carbon business). There is also considerable scope for entrepreneurial students to start their own business in this expanding sector. 

Our Careers & Employability service is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

The course equips you with a thorough knowledge and skills in engineering at the forefront of new and emerging technologies. Graduates will be well placed to become subject specialists within the industry or to pursue research careers within academia.

This programme prepares students for a career in Renewable Energy and Sustainability related work. Please see indeed.co.uk/Renewable-Energy-jobs to get an idea of the current opportunities available.

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.

Programme specification

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.