Foundation Degree in Motorsport Engineering (Validated by The Open University)

On completion of the course it is envisaged that students will have acquired a high level of motorsport engineering skills and relevant industrial exposure to allow them to gain employment within the motorsport sector.    The course allows you to develop an understanding of the relationship between key areas of motorsport technologies including engine technologies, chassis design, emerging technologies and sustainability issues. You will also develop skills to effectively plan, present and manage motorsport projects.

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

 A minimum of 64 UCAS Tariff points including:

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile CC

OR

• Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma with overall award profile MPP

OR

• Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma with overall award profile MM

OR

• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 50% overall and 50% in level 2 Access Mathematics. 

OR

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.    

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations. Each module is graded individually with an overall single final grade (Pass, Merit, or Distinction) awarded at the end of the course. Students are assessed using a range of methods. These may include:

• Class tests: Work will be completed exam conditions, typically during your timetabled session.
• Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.
• Presentations: Students will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate.
• Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities.

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance.

Related Degree Programmes

Students that successfully complete the Foundation Degree programme traditionally progress to one of the following Universities:

• University of Central Lancaster
• University of Bolton
• University of Wolverhampton
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Derby
• Coventry University

Entry requirements and year of entry are subject to the University.

Employment

This Foundation Degree programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to thrive in the changing world of work. Roles may include, but are not limited to: Race engineering, factory to on-event Race car design and implementation, this could be specialist or a more holistic design role Technical roles, responsibilities within motorsport team operations Technical roles and responsibilities within the wider sphere of automotive and the motorsport supplier network e.g. powertrains, ancillaries etc Manufacture of specialist motorsport components e.g. specialist fabrication.

There may also be opportunities to apply for apprenticeships with leading race teams.

The Open University is committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need.   The course will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to:

Technical Skills

• Race car chassis dynamics, tuning and driver development.
• Systems fault finding and diagnostic techniques and rectification
• Powertrain maintenance and performance development
• Race team operations and logistics
• Design Tools and Techniques
• Motorsport science
• Development Tools
• Fabrication design and manufacture

Employability Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team Working
  

As part of the course you will be in the workshop. You will therefore require suitable PPE (boots, overalls, gloves etc estimated cost £100.

As part of the course you will be expected to participate in field trips to race events which will incur an estimated cost of £100.