The purpose of the Stage 1 Engineering year is to prepare students for further study in their chosen engineering discipine. The students will be equipped  with a fundamental understanding of mathematical and scientific principles required to pursue studies in all fields of engineering and will begin to be introduced to some specialised topics. The teaching and learning environment will include a mixture of lectures, tutorial and laboratory sessions. Students will   begin to work collaboratively in groups as well as individually. Assessment will be by a mixture of continuous assessment and examination. 

• Students will be equipped with a knowledge of fundamental science, engineering, technology and mathematics necessary to pursue studies in engineering.
• Students will be introduced to concepts of design and experimentation and will learn how to conduct experiments, and analyse experimental results.
• Students will be introduced to concepts of sustainability and the need for engineers to respond to society's needs.
• Students will engage in team work and will learn how to work collaboratively in a number of settings, including laboratories.
• Students will learn about the importance of ethics and responsibility within engineering practice.
• Students will learn how to communicate effectively in a number of formats, including verbal and written.
• Students will learn how to work independently and how to take responsibility for their own learning.

All the ME programmes include options for Professional Work Experience. In some cases this can be a placement of 6 or 7 months, earning 30 credits. Shorter placements are also possible.