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Motorsport Technology

BEng (Hons)

UCAS code: H331

Start dates: September 2025 / September 2026

Full time: 3 years, 4 years sandwich

Part time: up to 8 years

Location: Headington

Department(s): School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

Overview
Course details
Careers
Entry requirements
How to apply
Tuition fees

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Overview

Master today’s motorsport technology and fast track your way to becoming an incorporated engineer. Our Motorsport Technology degree covers everything from racing and road vehicle design to lap time simulation.

We combine practical experience with theory, and work with the local and global motorsport industry to shape your course. You’ll have full access to our automotive labs, which serve as both your research and teaching spaces.

Some of your teachers are current and former Formula One professionals, and experts in topics such as risk and reliability. You’ll find their knowledge and experience invaluable during your course - and in your search for a job once you graduate.

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Students with a lecturer

Why Oxford Brookes University?

  • Community spirit

    Join Oxford Brookes Racing, Formula Student Team - who’ve been the top UK team and won the Design award more times than any other UK university, and develop skills in designing, building and racing vehicles. Watch more about how the OBR car is designed.

  • Make your CV shine

    Gain invaluable industry experience by going on a paid work placement after your second year.

  • Gain industry knowledge

    The course is taught by motorsport industry experts, and several of them have worked for F1 teams.

  • Brand new facilities

    All Engineering and Motorsport courses are moving from the Wheatley Campus to brand new, custom designed buildings at our main Headington site. These buildings will open in the 2024/25 academic year. You'll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and equipment including a VR cave and material science labs, composite lab, autodynamics workshop and wind tunnel, as well as social learning spaces, teaching rooms and cafe space.

  • Discover job prospects

    Meet prospective employers as part of our Industrial Lecture series, and explore your career options.

  • Free language courses

    Free language courses are available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.

  • Study abroad

    You may be able to go on a European or international study exchange while you are at Brookes. Most exchanges take place in the second year. Although we will help as much as we can with your plans, ultimately you are responsible for organising and funding this study abroad.

  • Accreditation(s)

    Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer. This course is also accredited by The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

    • Engineering Council
    • Institution of Engineering and Technology
    • Institution of Mechanical Engineers

Course details

Course structure

In Year 1, you’ll collaborate with other engineering students on the Stirling Engine design project. Together, you’ll draw the parts, learn the physics and work out the thermodynamics and dynamics, and analyse stress. Then you’ll instrument, market and sell your product in a global digital marketplace.

During Year 2, you’ll study subjects including Control Technology, Materials Engineering and Electronics Systems. You’ll learn key aspects of motorsport technology, racing, and car design. And you’ll discover how to turn your ideas into designs.

You’ll have the chance to go on a paid work placement before starting your third year. Here, you’ll pick up great industry experience that you can apply to your projects in year three. And this will make your CV look competitive. Our students have completed placements at companies such as Alpine, Mercedes, and Williams Advanced Engineering.

Motorsport

Learning and teaching

Our teaching methods include seminars and lectures. You’ll have practical work in:

  • laboratories
  • computer labs
  • workshops.

We emphasise the importance of information technology in modern engineering practice. Almost all our teaching is based on computers.

Assessment

All your Year 1 modules involve continuous assessment.

In Years 2 and 3 we assess you through written examinations. But we assess some modules through coursework only.

Study modules

Teaching for this course takes place face to face and you can expect around 12 hours of contact time per week. In addition to this, you should also anticipate a workload of 1,200 hours per year. Teaching usually takes place Monday to Friday, between 9.00am and 6.00pm.

Contact hours involve activities such as lectures, seminars, practicals, assessments, and academic advising sessions. These hours differ by year of study and typically increase significantly during placements or other types of work-based learning.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

  • IEng Mathematics and Modelling (30 credits)

    A solid foundation in mathematics is essential for budding engineers. This module sets the stage by providing the necessary mathematical tools to support the analytical aspects of year one engineering courses. You will delve into fundamental algebraic and trigonometric principles, explore the applications of differential and integral calculus, and develop skills in using related functions. Additionally, you will gain hands-on experience with mathematical models, applying them to real engineering problems using specialized software.

    By the end of this module, you'll gain the ability to tackle defined engineering problems systematically, choose appropriate problem-solving approaches, and apply differential and integral calculus to diverse engineering scenarios. Additionally, you'll become proficient in matrix algebra, essential for solving complex systems of equations, and learn the practical use of trigonometry in solving triangles. 
     

  • Engineering Design & Practice I (30 credits)

    Through a subject-specific engineering product as a case study, you will delve into technical drawing, CAD/CAE, modelling, management, and machining, gaining a holistic understanding of the engineering design process. Additionally, this module introduces you to electrical and electronic circuits, laboratory testing, and experimentation, providing invaluable hands-on experience. You will develop mathematical proficiency to solve complex engineering problems, master the design and analysis of electrical circuits, and critically evaluate system architectures. By honing your technical drawing skills and adhering to international standards, you will effectively communicate engineering designs.
     
    By the end of this module, you will develop a deep understanding of electrical circuits, master the art of technical drawing, and gain proficiency in CAE tools for comprehensive design analysis.

  • Basic Electrical Engineering (15 credits)

    This foundational module is designed to provide you with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of electrical engineering. You will cover essential electrical quantities, parameters, and the operation of electronic components and circuits that are crucial for your journey as an engineering student.

    By completing this module, you will develop crucial skills in problem-solving, circuit design, research, project execution, and effective communication. Moreover, you’ll gain a solid understanding of the general operation and behaviour of electrical circuits, enabling you to predict their outcomes. You'll gain hands-on experience in designing basic electrical and electronic circuits, with a focus on sustainability, legislation, and safety considerations. 
     

  • Basic Dynamics (15 credits)

    This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the foundational principles essential for assessing mechanical engineering designs concerning equilibrium and motion. These principles are applicable across a spectrum of primary mechanical and automotive parts, devices, and systems.

    On successful completion of this module, you will be competent in recognizing the different forces at play on typical engineering parts and devices under the influence of uncomplicated static loads. Additionally, you will cultivate the skill to craft and utilise free-body diagrams, along with shear force and bending moment diagrams, for an array of straightforward engineering devices, parts, and systems.

  • Basic Stress Analysis (15 credits)

    In this module, you will be introduced to the principles used in the analysis and design of mechanical engineering systems. This module will cover the fundamentals of engineering materials and their properties, which are crucial in the design phase. You will learn how to assess the influence of material structure on the mechanical behaviour of components, enabling you to make informed decisions regarding material selection for engineering applications.
     
    By the end of this module, you will be able to accurately calculate stresses and strains in simple components subjected to various loading conditions. Through diagrammatic analysis, you will evaluate loading and stresses effectively. Additionally, you will understand the importance of employing factors of safety to ensure structural integrity. 

  • Basic Thermodynamics (15 credits)

    In this module, you’ll explore the foundations of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Discover how these principles apply to real-world engineering scenarios, determining system characteristics and performance. Critically assess heat and work transfers, along with internal and external fluid flows. Evaluate the behaviour of gases and vapours as working fluids. You’ll also gain knowledge of flow measurement techniques and characteristics of internal and external flows. Understand the importance of energy efficiency and conservation through the evaluation of engineering systems. Enhance your practical skills with a short independent laboratory investigation.
     
     
    By the end of this module, you will demonstrate your understanding of thermo-fluid concepts by applying relevant theories to analyse engineering systems numerically. 

Year 2

Compulsory modules

  • Design and Practice II (double) (30 credits)

    In this module, you will embark on an introductory study of control systems, focusing on both digital and analogue control using electronic systems. You will develop your ability to analyse digital control problems and devise logical implementations for both combinational and sequential logic scenarios. Additionally, you will gain the skills to identify the components of a digital control system, select suitable controllers, and implement control algorithms.

    On successful completion of this module, you will possess a strong foundation in control systems, empowering you to tackle complex control problems in various industries. The hands-on experience and exposure to industry-standard simulation and modelling packages will enhance your practical skills, making you a valuable asset in the field. Effective documentation and communication abilities will enable you to collaborate seamlessly with other engineers and contribute to the maintenance and implementation of control systems. 

  • Materials Engineering (15 credits)

    This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of materials used in mechanical engineering, with a focus on selection, design, manufacturing optimization, and environmental impact assessment. You'll delve into the specifics of metals and polymer composite materials, gaining valuable insights into their structure, properties, and manufacturing processes.

    By the end of this module, you'll have the underpinning knowledge and comprehension necessary to make informed decisions about materials selection for engineering applications. You'll explore how the structure and properties of materials are influenced by their manufacturing processes, leading to optimized performance in real-world scenarios. Additionally, you'll gain an understanding of the factors and processes involved in material degradation, enabling you to evaluate and account for these factors in your design work.
     

  • Electronics and Control Engineering 1 (30 credits)

    In this module, you'll develop a comprehensive understanding of electronic and electrical systems, their control mechanisms, and their integration with existing processes. The focus is on preparing you to analyse, apply, and predict the performance of these systems, especially in the context of high-level autonomous operations. 

    Upon completing this module, you'll be able to explain the operation and limitations of major control, electrical, and electronic systems. You'll have the skills to analyse complex electronics and control problems, design appropriate tests, and accurately assess outcomes. Leveraging industry-standard modelling and simulation software, you'll be capable of explaining and analysing the behaviour of electronics and control systems. 
     

  • Engineering Dynamics (15 credits)

    This module is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of dynamic mechanical systems. The focus includes mechanical vibration, control systems, and the performance evaluation of single-degree-of-freedom systems, as well as first and second-order systems. Additionally, you'll explore the kinematics of mechanisms, gears, and epicyclic gears. The coursework is enriched with practical laboratory exercises, providing hands-on experience to complement theoretical learning. 

    By the end of this module, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively analyse the dynamic performance of mechanical systems. 

  • Thermal Systems (15 credits)

    In this module, you will build upon your foundational knowledge of engineering thermodynamics to explore the application of these principles in analysing and designing equipment and systems across various engineering domains. You will delve into the intricacies of gas mixtures, combustion chemistry, and thermodynamics, enabling you to evaluate key indicators and performance metrics. 

    This module equips you with valuable skills and knowledge applicable in diverse engineering scenarios. You will not only comprehend the inner workings of thermal systems but also learn to evaluate their performance under varying conditions. Through practical exercises and CAE modelling, you will compare mathematical models with real-world results, honing your ability to assess and optimise thermal systems' efficiency and effectiveness.
     

  • Electrical Machines and Drives (15 credits)

    In this module, you will delve into the realm of electrical machines and their drives, a critical area in the realm of Electro-Mechanical Engineering. The module focuses on designing drives for electrical machines and challenges you to create effective solutions, backed by appropriate specifications. You’ll engage in research and literature reviews, which will fine-tune your analytical skills. 

    This module will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of various electrical machines and their applications, encompassing both fundamental concepts and more intricate aspects where applicable. Through mathematical analysis, you will develop problem-solving skills in tackling intricate challenges. You will gain the ability to decipher the intricacies of electrical machines and predict their behaviour through analytical means. 
     

  • Stress Analysis (15 credits)

    In this module, you'll delve into the intricacies of static stress analysis using closed-form solutions derived from fundamental principles. You'll also explore how this understanding relates to failure criteria and the material properties of the component. Practical application of theories will be facilitated through a hands-on laboratory session, offering a real-world context to the learned concepts.

    Through this module, you'll gain a profound ability to calculate stresses, strains, and deflections in beams undergoing bending and torsion. You'll be adept at determining various stress components like principal, octahedral, hydrostatic, and deviatoric stresses in three-dimensional components. This skill set will enable you to evaluate the strength and deformation suitability of a diverse range of components under static loading conditions. 
     

Year 3 (optional placement year)

Optional modules

Optional Work Placement Year (compulsory for sandwich year students)

You will be encouraged to work in industry for one year between the second and final years of the course. You will need to cover the transport and living costs. Our work placement programme has been commended by professional bodies as a model of excellence. We have placement opportunities with local, national and international engineering companies and product manufacturing companies. These are advertised through our placement office where support and guidance in applying for placements is provided. We have an excellent record of graduates gaining full-time employment with their industrial placement company. Sponsored students spend the year with their sponsoring company. Students who are not sponsored will be assisted in finding a suitable placement.

Year 4 (or year 3 if no placement)

Compulsory modules

  • Engineering Project (30 credits)

    This module aims to provide you with a platform to delve deeply into a practical engineering issue, fostering a comprehensive understanding of real-world problem-solving. You will undertake a substantial project that goes beyond the scope of your previous coursework, allowing you to solidify your knowledge and hone the skills you've acquired during your studies. 

    Throughout the module, you will be required to meticulously document your project's journey, from its inception to its completion, in a comprehensive report. You'll learn to prepare effective project plans and Gantt charts, crucial tools for organising and executing the project in a systematic manner. Your ability to critically evaluate engineering practices through in-depth analysis of published literature will be nurtured. You'll also learn to apply a diverse range of both innovative and established techniques to address complex engineering problems, showcasing your problem-solving prowess.
     

  • Management Ethics, Energy and Sustainability (30 credits)

    This module is designed to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges that intersect business, society, and sustainability. With a specific focus on the automotive, transport, and general engineering sectors, this module delves into critical topics such as project management, leadership, energy, environmental concerns, sustainable engineering, ethics, and social aspects of employment.

    By the end of this module, you'll possess a holistic perspective on business practices and their impact on the triple bottom line: economic, social, and environmental aspects. You'll learn to craft effective business plans, making compelling arguments that incorporate sustainability principles, echoing the shift towards a circular economy.
     

  • Vehicle Dynamics (15 credits)

    This module is designed to provide you with a comprehensive grasp of both theoretical and practical aspects related to the critical components of vehicle dynamics: tyres, ride, and handling. Through a combination of theory and practical exercises, you will delve into various analyses and design considerations to understand the dynamic behaviour of vehicles.

    By the end of this module, you will develop a critical understanding of the techniques required to analyse and assess the handling and ride qualities of an entire vehicle. Throughout the module, you will gain proficiency in using computer-based tools for vehicle dynamic analysis and design, enabling you to confidently prepare specifications for optimal vehicle performance. Additionally, you will be encouraged to explore and solve new vehicle dynamics problems independently, nurturing your ability to strategize solutions autonomously.
     

  • Motorsport Engine Technology (15 credits)

    This module is designed to equip you with an in-depth understanding of modern engines, including Hybrid Electric Powertrain (HEP) systems and alternative fuels. Firstly, you will grasp and explain the underlying working principles and design solutions of contemporary engines and HEPs. Secondly, you will learn to connect various topics coherently and logically, enabling a holistic perspective. Lastly, you will acquire analytical techniques crucial for evaluating engine performance, combustion characteristics, and making informed decisions about design and development.

    By the end of this module, you will not only have a confident grasp of engine cycles, combustion processes, and key performance indicators but also the ability to adapt and innovate engine components and ancillary systems.
     

  • Electronics and Control Engineering 2 (15 credits)

    This module is designed to provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in the realm of electronics and control systems. The focus is on equipping you with the expertise to create, analyse, and critically evaluate complex electronic and control systems. The module will also explore the integration of these advanced systems with existing processes and applications, unveiling their impact on the technological landscape.

    Upon completing this module, you will possess the advanced capabilities required to excel in the design, analysis, and evaluation of intricate electronic and control systems. These skills will be invaluable in applications such as Computer Integrated Manufacturing, where the fusion of electronic systems and automation plays a pivotal role.
     

  • Motorsport Vehicle Performance (15 credits)

    This module is designed to take your prior knowledge to the next level, focusing on advanced vehicle performance topics crucial to the world of motorsport. You will delve into intricate subjects such as lap-time simulation, data acquisition, instrumentation, and telemetry.

    At the end of this module, you will be adept at systematically grasping and applying advanced concepts related to motorsport vehicle performance. You'll harness your engineering knowledge to synthesise racing car performance, utilising computer simulations and mathematical models grounded in first principles. The ability to create accurate computer simulations of racing car lap times using specialised synthesis and modelling tools will be a key takeaway.
     

Please note: As our courses are reviewed regularly as part of our quality assurance framework, the modules you can choose from may vary from those shown here. The structure of the course may also mean some modules are not available to you.

Careers

This course is your chance to join the IMechE Monitored Professional Development Scheme which lets you progress your career on the path to IEng as part of your accredited placement year.

The course carries accreditation from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Institution of Engineering Technology (IET). When you complete it, you’ll have met the academic requirements for achieving Incorporated Engineer status.

After finishing the work placement, many students find success in securing a job with the company they worked for. Graduates are now with businesses including Tuthill Porsche, plus many Formula One and Formula E teams.

You may consider taking on a similar course at postgraduate level. After finishing this BEng you could go on to complete an MSc course.

Entry requirements

Wherever possible we make our conditional offers using the UCAS Tariff. The combination of A-level grades listed here would be just one way of achieving the UCAS Tariff points for this course.

Standard offer

UCAS Tariff Points: 112

A Level: BBC

IB Points: 30

BTEC: DMM

Contextual offer

What is a contextual offer?

UCAS Tariff Points: 88

A Level: CCD

IB Points: 27

BTEC: MMM

Further offer details

We welcome applications from candidates with alternative qualifications, and from mature students.

International qualifications and equivalences

How to apply

Application process


Full time Home (UK) applicants
Apply through UCAS


Part time Home (UK) applicants
Apply direct to the University


International applicants
Apply direct to the University

Full time international applicants can also apply through UCAS

Tuition fees

Please see the fees note
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,600
International full time
£16,900
International sandwich (placement)
£1,600
Home (UK) full time
£9,250*
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module*
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,700
International full time
£17,750
International sandwich (placement)
£1,700

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

financefees@brookes.ac.uk

Tuition fees

2024 / 25
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,600
International full time
£16,900
International sandwich (placement)
£1,600
2025 / 26
Home (UK) full time
£9,250*
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module*
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,700
International full time
£17,750
International sandwich (placement)
£1,700

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

+44 (0)1865 534400

financefees@brookes.ac.uk

* Following the government’s announcement of 4 November 2024, we expect to increase our undergraduate tuition fees for UK students to £9,535 from the start of the 2025/26 academic year. Please visit The Education Hub for more information about the changes. We will confirm our fees for 2025/26 as soon as possible.

Please note, tuition fees for Home students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Oxford Brookes University intends to maintain its fees for new and returning Home students at the maximum permitted level.

Tuition fees for International students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students. 

The following factors will be taken into account by the University when it is setting the annual fees: inflationary measures such as the retail price indices, projected increases in University costs, changes in the level of funding received from Government sources, admissions statistics and access considerations including the availability of student support. 

How and when to pay

Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.

  • For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
  • For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy page

Additional costs

Please be aware that some courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. Specific additional costs for this course are detailed below.

Funding your studies

Financial support and scholarships

Featured funding opportunities available for this course.

Oxford Brookes Bursary for home students Undergraduate maintenance loans for part-time UK students Undergraduate maintenance loans for full-time UK students Undergraduate tuition fee loans for UK students Oxford Brookes Bursary Scheme

All financial support and scholarships

View all funding opportunities for this course

Information from Discover Uni

Full-time study

Part-time study

Programme changes:
On rare occasions we may need to make changes to our course programmes after they have been published on the website. For more information, please visit our changes to programmes page.