Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027

Module ENGI3262: BEng Engineering Project

Department: Engineering

ENGI3262: BEng Engineering Project

Type Tied Level 3 Credits 40 Availability Available in 2026/2027 Module Cap Location Durham
Tied to H103
Tied to H105
Tied to H106
Tied to H214
Tied to H215
Tied to H216
Tied to H314
Tied to H315
Tied to H316
Tied to H514
Tied to H515
Tied to H516
Tied to H714
Tied to H715
Tied to H716

Prerequisites

  • ENGI2211
  • ENGI2201

Corequisites

  • As specified in Programme Regulations

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • As specified in Programme Regulations

Aims

  • This module is designed solely for students studying Department of Engineering degree programmes.
  • This module provides an open-ended challenge for students to investigate a research topic at BEng level, to identify and initiate methods to investigate the topic, to generate data, to analyse this data, to formulate recommendations and to present the work in a written report.
  • It provides the opportunity for the student to carry out an individual research project, contributing to the professional skills required by practising engineers.

Content

  • Final year technical project for BEng students.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Mathematics relevant to the application of specialised engineering concepts.
  • An in-depth knowledge and understanding of a student's chosen area of specialisation and an ability to perform critical assessment and review.
  • AHEP4 Learning Outcomes: In order to satisfy Professional Engineering Institution (PEI) accreditation requirements the following Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes are assessed within this module:
  • M1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems (coursework assessed).
  • M2. Formulate and analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions (coursework assessed).
  • M3. Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed (coursework assessed).
  • M4. Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to solve complex problems. (coursework assessed).
  • M5. Design solutions for complex problems that evidence some originality and meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate (coursework assessed).
  • M6. Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of complex problems.M8. Identify and analyse ethical concerns and make reasoned ethical choices informed by professional codes of conduct (coursework assessed).
  • M9. Use a risk management process to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks (the effects of uncertainty) associated with a particular project or activity (coursework assessed).
  • M11. Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (coursework assessed).
  • M14. Discuss the role of quality management systems and continuous improvement in the context of complex problems (coursework assessed).
  • M15. Apply knowledge of engineering management principles, commercial context, project and change management, and relevant legal matters including intellectual property rights (coursework assessed).
  • M17. Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences, evaluating the effectiveness of the methods used (coursework assessed).
  • M18. Plan and record self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD (coursework assessed).
Subject-specific Skills:
  • To individually specify, manage, conduct and report on an engineering project.
  • To collect and critically review data from a variety of sources
  • To observe, record, analyse and interpret data and experimental evidence both in the laboratory and, if appropriate, in the field
  • Preparation and delivery of a specialised technical report.
  • Effective preparation and delivery of technical presentations.
  • Competent and safe use of standard engineering laboratory instrumentation for independent research, if applicable.
  • Understanding of risk assessment and COSHH.
  • Use of computational tools and packages and/or to write specialised computer programs.
  • To demonstrate an awareness of practical engineering skills
Key Skills:
  • Capacity for independent self learning within the bounds of professional practice.
  • The effective communication of general and specialised engineering concepts (written, verbal, drawing, sketching etc.).
  • Specialised numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
  • Effective use of IT relevant to engineering profession.
  • Time and resource management.
  • Advanced problem solving skills.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Students will indicate their preferred project topics from a list circulated by the Engineering Project Coordinator in advance of the Michaelmas Term of Level 3. Through this process, each student will be assigned a Project Supervisor. Allocations will be made based on preferences, availability, and supervisory capacity.
  • An introductory lecture will outline the structure of the project and provide guidance on key timelines, expected outputs, the importance of maintaining a logbook, the development of the project plan, and the departmental facilities available to support project completion.
  • Teaching will thereafter take place through weekly supervisor meetings, alongside by self directed learning.
  • Students are expected to continue working independently between supervisor meetings. This self organised work provides opportunities to demonstrate industry relevant skills, including effective time management, self organisation, and the ability to progress a technical project autonomously.
  • Supervisor meetings enable supervisors to monitor progress, provide feedback and guidance, and support students in evaluating their development throughout the duration of the project.
  • Further lectures, delivered at key stages of the project cycle, will provide guidance on developing a literature review, constructing an appropriate methodology, organising and presenting results, formulating a critical discussion, and writing up key findings in a journal style, publishable report format.
  • Progress is monitored through a formatively assessed project plan, initial project report, and outline project report, submitted at key points in the project cycle. These provide structured opportunities for feedback and allow students to gauge their progress.
  • On completion of the project, students will submit an academic journal style paper demonstrating their capacity for independent research, analysis, critical assessment, and the selection and application of advanced or specialised techniques appropriate to their research topic.
  • Students will also participate in a poster event, demonstrating their ability to communicate both general and specialised engineering concepts.
  • The project is assessed through a written report, a poster presentation, and an oral examination. The written report will include an abstract, literature survey, results, and discussion.
  • Students will be assessed independently by their Project Supervisor and an Examiner.
  • The written report will assess the student’s ability to communicate complex engineering matters to both technical and non technical audiences.
  • The oral examination will assess the student’s depth of knowledge and understanding of their project.
  • Students’ ongoing academic development is supported by an Academic Advisor Programme, which runs throughout the year and comprises a series of workshops that include tutorials and cohort briefing sessions focused on academic, personal, and professional development.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours Attendance Monitored
Independent Study 275
Tutorials 20 Typically 1 per week 0.5 hours 10 Yes
Lectures 4 1 hour 4
Poster Sessions 1 2 hours 2 Yes
Workshops 8 1 hour 8 Yes
Preparation and Reading 101
Total 400

Summative Assessment

Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Research Proposal 10%
Poster 5%
Report 60%
Oral Examination 25%

Formative Assessment:

Initial Project Plan; Initial Project Report; Updated Project Report; Outline Project Report


Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.