Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Postgraduate Student
Handbook 2022/23

Faculty of Engineering
MSc
• Advanced Materials Engineering
• Advanced Mechanical Engineering (inc. with
Aerospace, Energy Systems, Materials and
Powerplant Technologies
• Advanced Mechanical Engineering (Online
Learning)
• Advanced Mechanical Engineering with Industrial
Placement
• Sustainable Engineering: Renewable Energy
Systems and the Environment
• Satellite Data for Sustainable Development

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 The contents of this Handbook are, as far as possible, up-to-date and accurate at the
date of publication, though may be subject to revision. Changes and restrictions are
made from time to time and the University reserves the right to add to, amend, or
withdraw courses and facilities, to restrict student numbers and to make any other
alterations as it may deem desirable and necessary. Changes are published by
incorporation in the University Regulations.

It is the responsibility of each individual student to become familiar with University

Regulations which apply to them, and in particular with any changes made to their
programme during years of attendance:
https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/academicregulations/

Note: “In the unlikely event of any conflict between the General Academic Regulations and
other University publications, including Course Handbooks, the Regulations take precedence.”
(extract from University Regulations)

The University of Strathclyde is a charitable body, registered in Scotland SC0152

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Contents
Section 1
Introduction / Welcome from Director of Education …………………………………...……………5

Academic Year – Key Dates to Note...…………………………..………………………….................7

Student Support Services……………………………………..………………………………………….8

Academic Programme Advisers
People in the Department
Disability
Staff-Student Liaison Committee (SSLC)
Problems? – Where to go
Useful Administrative & Other Information………………………………………………………….11
Access to Buildings
Change of Address / Personal Details
Email Accounts
Graduation
Jury Duty Exemption
Myplace
References
Student Complaints
Student Lifecycle (Student Business / Graduations / Transcripts)
Student Visas
Use of Computing Facilities and Resources
Copyright
Academic Information………………………………………………………………………………………15
Attendance/ Absence and Personal Circumstances
Class Details - Modules and Timetables
Coursework (including Extensions and Late Submissions policies)
Examinations (General Information)

Use of Calculators
Use of Dictionaries
Use of Electronic Devices
Pass mark
Resit Attempts
Requests to sit Examinations off campus

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Section 2

Educational Aims and Programme Regulations………………………………….………..................21

PGT Programmes Information

EF900: Individual Project/Dissertation
Boards of Examiners for PGT Courses
Library
Student self-development
PGT Curriculum

MSc Advance Materials Engineering ……………….………………………..……………………….28

MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering- All on campus streams……..…………..…………….30

MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Placement.…………………………….33

MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering – Online Learning.………………………….................35

MSc Sustainable Engineering: Renewable Energy Systems and the Environment……...…....37

MSc Satellite Data for Sustainable Development (January start) .……………………………….48

Appendices
Appendix 1 – Guidance on Student Projects and the supervision

Appendix 2 - Departmental Health & Safety Arrangements

Appendix 3 - Access to University Premises Policy

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Introduction
The aim of this Handbook is to provide a brief guide to some essential procedures to assist you during
your studies at the University of Strathclyde. The Handbook contains practical information about the
University, the Department and your programme of study and is an important reference document which
will help you to ensure that your time here is organised efficiently and to maximum benefit.

The University of Strathclyde has existed in various forms in Glasgow since 1796 and received its
Royal Charter in 1964. Our institution is recognised as one of the largest and most important in
the field of engineering education and research in the UK. We are located in the centre of Glasgow -
Scotland’s commercial and industrial capital - with four faculties now in existence, Engineering,
Humanities & Social Sciences, Science and the Strathclyde Business School.

The Faculty of Engineering comprises of eight departments, covering all major engineering areas:
Architecture, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical & Process Engineering, Civil & Environmental
Engineering; Design, Manufacture & Engineering Management; Electronic & Electrical Engineering;
Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering and Naval Architecture, Ocean& Marine Engineering.

Welcome from MAE Director of Education

On behalf of all staff in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE), I am thrilled
to extend a very warm welcome to all of our new and continuing students. We are particularly excited
this year to welcome you all fully back to campus for the first time since the start of the global pandemic.

Engineering is a fascinating, stimulating and rewarding career. Engineers are always in demand in a
very wide range of roles and, given the current global challenges we face, never more so than now. Your
engineering education at Strathclyde will stand you in the best possible stead and open doors in all
sorts of organisations or indeed equip you to start one of your own. Modern life has been shaped by
engineers and they are always at the forefront when new demands emerge. It is a wonderful time to
be an engineer and study engineering, as we face the challenges of the coming decades.

For those of you who are new to the subject and to studying at university or fully on campus for the first
time, you may find the learning environment rather different to previous studies at school or
college. Adapting to studying in a university setting can, at the start, be almost as challenging as the
technical content of the programme of study itself. I urge all students to think carefully about how you
manage your time and to develop effective study methods. If you do and if you approach your studies
with diligence, commitment and intelligence, you will build an excellent platform for success both in your
studies at Strathclyde and in the fulfilling career that follows. Furthermore, with good time management
and study technique, there should be ample time for you to enjoy everything that life at university has
to offer and I encourage you to do just that!

This Handbook will provide you with guidance on the operation of the MAE department and is designed
to assist you throughout the duration of your studies and to let you know how and where to seek help,
should you need it. Also, your Adviser of Studies can help clarify regulations and academic
requirements, help and advice on specific modules can be sought from individual Module Registrars
and Lecturers, and your Personal Development Adviser can support with general problems, should you
encounter any. Please let your Student Representatives know about any persistent issues, which they
can convey to the Department through regular meetings of the Staff/Student Liaison Committee.

I hope you find your studies challenging, enjoyable and rewarding, and we look forward to getting to
know you and to working with you. We hope you will have an enjoyable and successful time with us.

With very best regards,

Dr Emma Henderson
Director of Education

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Student Charter
Departmental staff aim to:

• be responsible and responsive in all matters related to students

• respect individual students as partners in the learning process
• maximise learning opportunities
• minimise bureaucracy and ensure the transparency of procedures
• maintain a friendly and caring environment
• operate an efficient information system
• identify clearly the responsibilities of staff and students
• facilitate innovative developments where appropriate
• ensure equality of opportunity for all

Engineering Profession
All programmes in the Department are designed to lead to Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, in that
they are accredited by one or more of the professional institutions in the Council of Engineering
Institutions. It is your responsibility to exploit this benefit, although staff here will be pleased to help you
with advice, form-filling and so on.

You are strongly recommended to begin your own developing association with the professional body
you choose by joining up now. It costs little (Student Membership is sometimes free for students on
accredited courses). You will keep abreast of changes in UK SPEC and your time as a student will be
credited to you when you eventually apply for full membership.

Employability (definition by Careers and Employability Group)

The Strathclyde graduate will be recognised as deeply knowledgeable and adaptable, demonstrating
the skills, attributes and confidence to thrive in an evolving, often challenging world. To meet the needs
of professions and career pathways, this will be achieved through the design of our curricula and the
provision of opportunities for all students to engage in work related activities, entrepreneurial events
and programmes and globally conscious initiatives throughout their studies.

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Academic Year – Key Dates to Note
Up-to-date University academic Key Dates are listed at https://www.strath.ac.uk/keydates/. This
webpage should be used to check the various important term dates.

Please note that the University is closed as outlined below - during closures, there is no
admittance to most campus buildings and Departments/staff are unavailable (Security Services
remain on site).

Semester 1

Dates

University Closed 26 September 2022

University Closed 23 December 2022 – 03 January 2023 (inclusive)

Semester 2 (Semester 1 for PGT January starts)

Dates

University closed 07 April 2023 and 10 April 2023

University Closed 01 May 2023

Summer

Dates

University Closed 29 May 2023

University Closed 14 July 2023 and 17 July 2023

Academic Teaching (date commencing) and equivalent Timetabling System weeks are at:
University Academic Weeks Calendar 2022-23

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 Student Support Services
There is a wide range of support and information services around the University. Details are available
from the central ‘Strathlife’ student webpages at http://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/strathlife/.

Information and various Student Business forms are also available on the main Student Lifecycle
website at: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/studentlifecycle/.

In this section of the Handbook, we outline where you can find support within the Department of MAE.

Academic Programme Advisers

There is an Adviser of Studies for each of your programme. The aim of the Adviser is to assist with
counselling you on various aspects of your studies (in particular for academic queries/issues and to
help in choosing any optional subjects to study), as well as providing support on personal matters.

There is also a Programmes Leader, who is responsible for the management of applicable programmes.

MSc Advanced Materials Engineering Dr Stella Manoli [email protected]

MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering
(including with Aerospace, Energy Systems,
Materials & Powerplant Technologies
Dr Marcello Lappa [email protected]
MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering with
Industrial Placement
MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering – Dr Jie Yuan [email protected]
Online Learning
MSc Sustainable Engineering: Renewable Dr Paul Tuohy [email protected]
Energy Systems and the Environment
MSc Satellite Data for Sustainable Dr Annalisa Riccardi [email protected]
Development

PGT Programmes Leader Dr Olga Ganilova

Director of Education Dr Emma Henderson

The above is subject to change; refer to your Pegasus record for up-to-date information.

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People in the Department
Departmental academic staff are primarily based on Level 8 of the James Weir Building. All students
must report to MAE Reception room JW804 on arrival prior to meeting with staff.

Staff sometimes work from home - initial contact and meeting arrangements must be made via email.

PLEASE REFER TO THE UNIVERSITY’S STAFF TELEPHONE DIRECTORY

or MAE STAFF SEARCH WEBPAGE
FOR ALL DEPARTMENT STAFF NAMES AND CONTACT DETAILS.

Head of Department Prof Bradley Wynne

Director of Education Dr Emma Henderson

Departmental Safety Convener Dr Fiona Sillars

Departmental Operations Manager Mrs Marie Gray

PGT Contact [email protected]

Disability
A disability is generally defined as a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-
term adverse effect on a person's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. It covers physical
disability, some medical conditions and mental illness.

If you have or think you have a disability, you should disclose it as soon as possible to enable you to
access any additional support that you may need. Information provided is treated as confidential and
will not be shared without your consent. The University has a dedicated Disability and Wellbeing Team
offering advice and assistance (refer to the ‘Strathlife’ webpage for details). If you believe you qualify
for special assessment arrangements, you must visit the team without delay. Requirements must be
prepared several weeks prior to exams starting.

Prof Cartmell ([email protected]) is the MAE Departmental Disability Coordinator.

Further details and additional contacts can be obtained from the Disability & Wellbeing Service
webpages at https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/disabilityandwellbeing/.

Staff-Student Liaison Committee (SSLC)

A Staff-Student Liaison Committee, which normally meets at least once per semester, provides a forum
where academic problems may be raised by representatives. Students are encouraged to consider the
benefits of becoming a ‘Student Rep’, further information on which can be found on the Student
Representation webpage and from the USSA at https://www.strathunion.com/voice/studentreps/.

Departmental Student Reps are encouraged to run the SSLC, which normally comprises two Reps from
each programme, the Programmes Leader, Advisers of Studies and senior members of staff or others
as appropriate.

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When selected, the names of Reps are notified to all students. If there is an issue which is important
to a large number of students and you believe it should be discussed by this Committee, you must
inform the Student Rep so that it can be placed on the agenda for the next meeting. However, before
the issue is brought to the meeting, it is ESSENTIAL that it has first gone through the proper ‘Problems’
channels which follow. Only if there has been no satisfactory resolution, should a problem be raised
at SSLC.

Problems? – Where to go

First port-of-call
…..if unresolved

start-of-year
choices
Adviser

Forums/ immediate Adviser

if not resolved quickly
Lecturer or problems with
module work
Registrar

longer-term if other students have

the same problem
Adviser academic Student
problems Rep

Adviser Programmes
course options
Leader

..and if all else fails

Adviser

University non-academic Director

social, health, of
Wellbeing Team personal, etc
Education

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Useful Administrative & Other Information

MAE Reception (Central Services)

General student enquiries should be directed in the first instance to [email protected] (academic
queries must be sent to the relevant Adviser email address).

If necessary, students can drop into our departmental Central Services Reception, on Level 8 of the
James Weir Building, room JW804. Opening hours for students, which are subject to change, are:

Monday – Friday: 1000-1230hrs and 1330-1600hrs

Access to Buildings
If you wish to access University premises out-with normal hours (generally 0800–1800hrs) it is important
that you read Appendix 2 of this Handbook.

All queries or campus issues can be directed to the Security Services team, who are part of the
University’s Safety, Health and Wellbeing Directorate – see Security section at
https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/ourcampus/whatsoncampus/ (building codes are listed at
https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/estates/roombooking/buildingcodes/).

If you experience an issue with physical access getting around on campus, please email:
[email protected] where a member of Estates staff will be able to assist.

Change of Address / Personal Details

Students are required to notify the University of any change in term-time or permanent home
addresses without delay. Letters are sometimes posted to students, therefore it is vital that your current
addresses on file are accurate and up-to-date. All relevant details must be updated via Pegasus – see
https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/studentlifecycle/personaldetails/.

Email Accounts
You must check your ‘@uni.strath’ email account on a regular basis, to ensure that you do not miss
announcements or updates. Email accounts must always be used to send communications and should
also be cleared regularly, as notifications cannot be received when an account has reached capacity.

Failure to read emails could impact on your studies if you miss an important message (online
forums are not the sole means used by the University for issuing communications).

Graduation
Award Ceremonies, known as Congregations, are normally held in June/July and October/November.
All students hoping to graduate or be presented must complete enrolment well in advance and pay the
appropriate fee. Details of ceremonies and enrolment forms are usually available in March each year
- see http://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/graduation/.

Note: Enrolment for graduation and fee payment does not constitute an explicit intention/request to exit
a programme early. The Department, via your Adviser of Studies, must also be informed.

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Jury Duty Exemption
Where required, a Jury Duty excusal letter can be requested by email to [email protected]. The
Citation Number and relevant Personal ID Number (as stated on documentation received from the
Court) should be provided when emailing.

Myplace
The University’s virtual learning environment (VLE) is called Myplace. All modules for which you are
officially registered will automatically appear on Myplace. In addition, MAE students will see dedicated
year/programme pages and a General MAE PGT page with some generic information.

Login using your Strathclyde student DS username and password. Details can be found at
https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/strathlife/whatitslikestudyingatuniversity/myplace/. You will find
hints and tips as well as support via the link to the ‘Student Support Section’ - including how to submit
an assignment electronically and an explanation of Turnitin.

Myplace delivers online resources and activities designed to enhance learning. The pages generally
include assessments, online discussion, learning materials (e.g. lecture slides) and class news.

Please note that it will take a few days after registration for your classes to update through the
University’s systems, so that everything appears in Myplace. If you are not registered for a class and
think that you should be, you should contact your Adviser of Studies urgently.

References
When companies ask for referees who can comment on academic progress as well as your general
conduct, students should contact their individual Project Supervisor in the first instance, where
applicable or can ask their Adviser of Studies. It is department practice to provide a reference directly
to the employer and not to the student.

Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), staff are not permitted to provide references
without student consent. Reference requests will therefore be declined where students have not
contacted and agreed this with the relevant member of staff prior to the request being received.

Student Complaints
Please refer to the below University website for the official complaints procedure (note: major issues
should always be directed to your Adviser of Studies in the first instance).

https://www.strath.ac.uk/contactus/complaintsprocedure/

Student Lifecycle (Student Business / Graduations / Transcripts)

Student Lifecycle is part of Student Experience & Enhancement, with a Helpdesk located on Level 4 of
the Learning and Teaching building (hours of opening normally Monday-Friday 1000 to 1600 hours).

Out-with these times, much of the information and forms you may require should be available from the
Student Lifecycle webpages at https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/studentlifecycle/. For
contact details, please refer to the ‘Contact Us’ link.

Changes to curriculum modules or programmes must be notified to Student Business by the

Department through the academic Adviser of Studies (see earlier section of this Handbook for details).

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Student Visas
Students granted a Student Visa have the responsibility to abide by its conditions. Engaging with your
studies prevents any problems and protects your visa status. Students who hold a visa who are absent
or need to briefly leave the Glasgow area at any time during their studies, must first request
permission from the Department before making any arrangements.

UK Immigration Rules are very strict and the consequences of not adhering to these can include being
suspended from your studies and/or reported to the Home Office.

Visa queries must be directed to the International Student Support Team – refer to their webpage
https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/whileyourehere/internationalstudentsupportteam

Use of Computing Facilities and Resources

The University will not permit the use of its computer facilities and resources for access to, or
transmission of, information which is considered by the University to be unacceptable; illegal; in breach
of university policies, such as those on Equal Opportunities and Harassment; wasteful of resources or
not commensurate with the provision of facilities for legitimate educational purposes.

Examples of such unacceptable use may include:

accessing/displaying pornographic material; stating defamatory opinions/views concerning

individuals or organisations; accessing/displaying discriminatory material or material which
encourages discrimination; engaging in games or chain e-mail; publishing information which is
intended to misinform and thereby causes anxiety or inconvenience to another; unauthorised
use of University logos, titles etc; spamming; corrupting or destroying another user’s data;
violating the privacy of other users; disrupting the work of others; using JANET (Joint Academic
NETwork) in a way that denies service to others; misuse of networked resources such as the
introduction of viruses.

The University actively monitors usage of the University computer facilities and resources which
includes monitoring the access to, publication or receipt of, any Internet materials by any user.

IT details can be found via Information Services at https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/is/.

Copyright
Under UK Copyright laws, original works such as books, journal articles, images, music or films are
protected by copyright. This means that they cannot be reproduced (copied), on paper or electronically,
unless: covered by a licence, permitted by statutory exceptions or legal defences or where permission
is given by the copyright holder. Remember that materials found on the Internet are equally protected
by copyright even if there is no fee or password required to access them.

The University has a range of licences in place which permit students to make copies of extracts, for
example one chapter or one article, from copyright works for the purpose of their studies and in other
cases the law will often provide a defence. If you are unsure whether you can copy material, always
check if there are Terms & Conditions or similar and follow them. With web-based materials, if in doubt,
provide a link (URL) rather than copying the material. Never link to sites that you know contain ‘pirated’,
infringing (or otherwise illegal) material. Further guidance is available (see link below).

It is important that students observe the terms and limits of licences and exceptions. Failure to do so
may make you personally liable for copyright infringement, as well as cause; loss of access to materials
such as eBooks, eJournals or databases, by your fellow students and the whole University. Dealing
with copyright material inappropriately can be a disciplinary offence and a breach of University
regulations.

13
It is important when copying other people’s work, in print or on the internet, to do this fairly. This means
that whilst copying for your research or your assignments is generally permissible, republishing copies
on social media or the public web is likely to cause problems. You should only copy as much as you
need for your work and should not reuse other people’s work in a commercial context without checking
if you need permission. Finally, always acknowledge your use of other people’s work and cite them
accordingly. This will help you stay legal as well as avoiding plagiarism.

The good news is that normally, you own copyright in material you produce such as a dissertation or
project report and this too is protected by copyright.

If you have any questions or concerns, please visit the Information Governance and Compliance
webpage https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/is/compliance/.

14
Academic Information
General Regulations for all courses are published on the University’s website at
https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/academicregulations/.

Policies and Procedures for students are published on the Student Experience and Enhancement
Services (SEES) website https://www.strath.ac.uk/sees/studentpolicies/. These include:

Absence and Voluntary Suspension Personal Circumstances Student Discipline

Academic Dishonesty Academic Appeals Assessment and Feedback

Compensation Scheme and Motivational Merit & Honours Classification &

Progress Distinction Other Awards Rankings

Extensions to Coursework Late Submission of Dignity & Respect (inc

Submission Coursework Equality & Diversity)

Student Guidance on the Use of Charging for Course Material Student Representation
Social Media and VLEs

All students must refer to relevant policies for full information, to be familiar with, remain aware
of and consult each where required during their studies. Outlined below are some key points.

Academic Appeals
Appeals can only be made after you have been officially informed of a Board of Examiner
outcome/decision and associated results via Pegasus. Included will be a link to indicate when and how
to make an appeal and the final deadline. Appeals are assessed by a Faculty panel, although
departments are asked for their response for consideration alongside the student submission. Any
appeal must have significant grounds (for example, instead of an opinion that a mark should be higher).
Discussion with your Adviser of Studies before making a formal appeal is advisable. Please refer to
the University’s Appeals policy before submitting an appeal directly to the Faculty Office – Engineering.

Academic Dishonesty
The University regards academic dishonesty as a serious offence. Allegations of academic dishonesty
will be fairly assessed and appropriate action taken. An allegation that has been dismissed as a
disciplinary offence may still incur an academic penalty for poor scholarship.

The University is aware that there are a variety of temptations for students to engage in academically
doubtful or dishonest activities. Promoting a general climate of academic integrity within the student
body is important.

Plagiarism and Collusion

Plagiarism is taking the work of others and presenting it as your own. Collusion is using the work of a
fellow student, with his or her knowledge, and presenting it as your own.

You could be accused of plagiarism if you:

• hand in (as your own) work that was written by someone else
• copy out someone else's work and hand it in
• copy out sections of someone else's work and include it in your own submitted work without
acknowledging it
• use someone else's work in any of the above ways with a few words changed

15
"Someone else" might be the writer of a journal article, textbook or website. It could be a fellow student,
though you might then be accused of collusion. The “work” could be a full essay, paragraph or sentence
i.e. copying (or altering in a minor way) a complete paragraph or sentence constitutes plagiarism.

You could be accused of collusion if:

• you and another student submit identical or almost identical work

Any work submitted for assessment, e.g. essays, laboratory reports, homework and tutorial
assignments, must be solely the work of the individual student or group (if a group assignment is set).

If there is evidence of plagiarism or collusion, penalties will be imposed ranging from a reduction in
marks, to resubmission of work, to University disciplinary action. Each case of plagiarism/collusion will
be discussed by an adjudication panel who will recommend an appropriate course of action. Please
see https://www.strath.ac.uk/media/ps/cs/gmap/plagiarism/plagiarism_student_booklet.pdf for the
University’s guidance on plagiarism. For any doubts as to what constitutes plagiarism, please read this
document.

Assessment and Feedback

The Department fully subscribes to the approach to Assessment and Feedback outlined by the
University at http://www.strath.ac.uk/learnteach/informationforstudents/students/assessfeedback/ and
elucidated in the ‘Assessment and Feedback Cycle’. The document ‘Making the most of your
Assessment and Feedback at Strathclyde’ is also available from this webpage.

Accordingly, assessment and feedback methods used by each module are explicitly stated in the
associated Module Descriptor Form (MDF). Current MDFs can be found on the MAE student
information webpage (see below ‘Class Details - Modules and Timetables’ section for link).

The Department also recognises that, in addition to constituting a formal response to assessment,
feedback also incorporates informal communication between staff and students (either individually or
collectively) that provides information on progress and performance. This implies a more bilateral
process in which students are encouraged to seek feedback by actively engaging with staff as appropriate.

Compensation
Compensation is a mechanism by which the Board of Examiners’ can award credits for a module which
has been narrowly failed i.e. even though a pass mark has not been achieved, a resit is not required.
Engineering Council rules for accredited programmes apply the following limits:

• 20-credits of compensation can be awarded in 1st year.

• 30-credits (maximum) of compensation (with no more than 20-credits in any one year) can then
be awarded between years 2-5 of a BEng/BSc or MEng/MSci programme.

In exam boards, compensation will be applied to modules as soon as modules are eligible.

Attendance / Absence and Personal Circumstances

Poor attendance makes a course more difficult and is often associated with poor performance.

All students are expected to be in attendance for activities during all Terms (as listed on the University’s
Key Dates webpage). This includes Welcome & Development Week, Consolidation & Development
Week and all formal examination periods/diets.
The following procedures and regulations relating to absence through illness should be noted:-
• Students must sit all assessments/examinations unless prevented by illness, in which case a
medical certificate must be produced as documentary evidence. Personal Circumstances must be
notified to Student Business Engineering within five working days of the latest affected

16
 examination or date of submission of affected assessment - this includes scheduled assessments
during the semester, such as presentations. Self-certification is not sufficient.
• Failure to attend due to being “unaware of the dates or times or submission deadlines” of
assessments and missing an examination due to “misreading the timetable or oversleeping” are not
valid reasons for non-attendance. An ‘Absent’ will be recorded in such situations (refer to the
Personal Circumstances policy), which will impact on a student’s degree classification.
• Students whose performance has been, or will be, affected by circumstances that are severe and
outside their control must inform the University as soon as they are aware of these
circumstances by recording them on Pegasus under ‘Personal Circumstances’ (clearly state the
extent, duration and nature, plus how they impact on performance/attendance) and also by
submitting supporting documentary evidence to Student Business Engineering. In addition,
students must contact their Adviser of Studies as soon as possible to discuss adverse circumstances.

CIRCUMSTANCES THAT WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

Personal Circumstances Boards (PCBs) meet prior to each Board of Examiners to consider whether
intervention is required, based on the personal circumstances submitted. PCBs will disregard
circumstances which a student could reasonably have avoided, where measures should have been
taken to reduce their impact or where circumstances are no different from those facing a significant
number of other students (which you are expected to cope with as part of a properly managed
workload). Computer problems, failure of a single data source or lack of back-up are not valid mitigating
circumstances and not acceptable grounds for discounting attempts or appealing.

Students who do not submit formal Personal Circumstances via Pegasus will not be considered by the
PCB or subsequent Exam Board. NO notifications of circumstances will be accepted after the PCB has
met and students cannot appeal where they fail to report their circumstances prior to Exam Boards.

Class Details - Modules and Timetables

Module Description Forms (MDFs) for all MAE classes can be found on the MAE Student Information
webpage http://www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/mechanicalaerospaceengineering/student-information/.
These contain the most up-to-date details for all syllabuses/assessments. General class enquiries
should be directed to Module Registrars. Past exams papers can be found using the University’s Library
pages.
Timetables can be found via the University Timetabling page http://www.strath.ac.uk/timetables.
Information on personalised student timetables can also be found via this webpage.

Note: Personalised timetables cannot always fully reflect all information. Students should also
consult relevant module pages on Myplace for certain individual slot schedules.

Coursework
It is the responsibility of students to keep up to date with coursework and ensure that all assignments
are submitted prior to relevant deadlines. If you miss a deadline without satisfactory reasons, you
may find that your assessment for that module is heavily compromised. Only you can judge if losing
marks might affect either your progress or final assessment.

Policy and Procedure on Extensions to Coursework

The University’s Extensions policy is in place to support students and to help staff to monitor students’
use of extensions for identifying those who may require extra support. Where circumstances negatively
impact on studies, students can request an extension to a coursework deadline. Extension requests
should be made in advance of a submission date, via the Myplace online request facility.

For the University’s extensions policy, which provides guidance on requirements, see here.

Policy and Procedure on Late Submission of Coursework

It should be noted that penalties will be incurred for late submissions. Coursework is deemed to be late

17
when submitted after the published deadline without an agreed extension and in the absence of
personal circumstances. Students should ensure that they are familiar with this policy, available here.

For more detailed information on both Extensions to Coursework and Late Submissions, all students
must read over the relevant links which can be found on the MAE Student Information webpage (link
within preceding section above).

If you think you are unlikely to meet a coursework deadline due to medical issues or personal
circumstances, you must apply for an extension without delay.

NOTE: Extensions and Late Submissions are NOT applicable to Projects.

Examinations
It is important to note that:

• students MUST remain available for exams during ALL exam diets and should therefore not
arrange holidays within such periods. Published exam dates may change and therefore you
must not make arrangements to leave the area prior to the official end of ‘Term’, which
includes examination periods. No special arrangements will be made in such cases.
• students will normally have two attempts to pass classes during the course of the academic
year. Those who fail to complete a class at the first attempt will be given one additional
assessment opportunity before the next Board of Examiners. This will either be by coursework
or examination, as outlined in the class Module Descriptor Form.
• those who are permitted to carry classes to subsequent years will be given the opportunity to
resit during the following academic year. Students should note that failure to pass any
compulsory class after four attempts maximum (where permitted) will result in withdrawal from
the degree. For level 4 and 5 modules, only ONE resit is allowed (i.e. two attempts in total).

For further information, please check the University SEES Student Lifecycle webpage at
https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/exams/.

NOTE: during the semester 2 exam period, level 4 and 5 modules are normally scheduled to take
place early in the diet (though students must always be available throughout the full duration of
all formal examination diets).

Exam Co-ordinators’ details for all departments (inc MAE for module codes beginning “16” and “ME”)
are listed at https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/disabilityandwellbeing/disabilitysupport/ddc/.

Use of Calculators
It is recommended that students have a basic SCIENTIFIC calculator for use in examinations as,
although calculators may normally be taken into an exam, they must not be used to store text /formulae
nor be capable of communication (see ‘Use of Electronic Devices’ below). Invigilators may require
calculators to be reset. Candidates are not permitted to share the use of calculators.

Use of Dictionaries
Regulations state that students whose native language is not English are permitted to use paper-based
English/native language dictionaries in University examinations. These dictionaries will be subject to
scrutiny by the Invigilator in charge of each examination. Electronic dictionaries are not permitted in
University examinations. Regulations state that, unless instructions have been issued to the contrary,
dictionaries shall not be used in language examinations.

Use of Electronic Devices

Electronic devices are not permitted during examinations (unless with prior written permission of the
Department/School). Electronic devices include, but are not limited to: mobile phones, music players,
tablets and smart watches. Candidates are not permitted to bring earphones into the examination room.
DEVICES CANNOT BE USED AS CALCULATORS DURING EXAMS.

18
Pass mark
Normally the pass mark for each individual class is 50% for academic level 5 modules and 40% for all
others, unless otherwise notified. It is important to note that students on Honours and Masters courses
are expected to perform at a substantially higher level.

There are a number of reasons to set your sights higher than the above pass marks, not least the fact
that marks appear on Academic Transcripts, copies of which are often sought by prospective employers.

In addition, results contribute to the grading of final award classifications, so it is important to secure
the highest possible. In line with recommendations of accrediting institutions, the mechanism for
calculating final marks is based on first attempts, so continued high performance will be rewarded.

Resit Attempts
If a student does not pass a particular examination then it is essential to resit at the next examination
diet or available opportunity (to complete supplementary work to a satisfactory standard), so that the
total credits required for the final degree can be accumulated. All students must be available to
attend examinations during exams diets on campus as necessary.

Note: although Examination Boards normally allow two attempts to gain credits for a specific module,
such attempts must be at two consecutive offerings of the assessment. For the purpose of
determining final award classifications, marks obtained at the first attempt are used.

Requests to sit exams off campus

All students must attend for examination at the University of Strathclyde on the dates and times
scheduled, including mid-semester assessments (for example, class tests, presentations, etc).
Events such as holidays, family gatherings, or other personal appointments do not constitute
exceptional reasons for exam purposes. In addition, sporting commitments will only be considered for
students who are officially registered on the University’s elite athlete Sports Scholars programme.

The following specific cases will NOT be considered by the Department:

• where a student wishes to leave the University during/prior to the end of an examination period
• where a student has a resit examination (all students must attend resits in Glasgow in person)

NOTE – arrangements to travel overseas should not be made until you know that you have
passed all classes for the current academic year.

Students who decide to make travel arrangements (such as purchasing non-flexible/changeable tickets)
prior to receiving official results at the end of the academic year, must return to the University campus
in Glasgow for the resit diet to attend examinations in person for any failed classes.

Where critical and provisionally agreed in principle by the Exam Co-ordinator, requests to take an
examination at a bona fide institution other than this University (normally a suitable overseas exchange
institution or a British Council Office) should be formally made in writing to the relevant Exam Co-
ordinator. Only EXCEPTIONALLY will permission be given to sit an examination out-with the University.

Such a request must be made no later than six weeks prior to the start of an examination diet. If
permission in principle is granted, you must thereafter arrange for written communication to be sent by
an authorised person at the proposed off-campus site confirming that the institute agrees to act for the
University of Strathclyde in this matter and giving a contact name, telephone number, e-mail and full
postal address (post box addresses are not suitable). This formal written communication must reach
the Department no later than four weeks prior to the start of the examination diet. Your request and
the statement from the “authorised person” mentioned above are then sent to the University’s Director
of Professional Services, from whom formal approval must be obtained. Examination papers cannot
be issued to an alternative bona fide institution unless the above procedure has been followed.

Students will be liable for all expenses incurred and any fees charged by an overseas institution/site.

19
20
Section 2

PGT Programmes, Educational Aims &

Regulations

21
PGT Programme Information

Advanced Materials Engineering

Materials engineering is the field of engineering where materials have been developed, processed, and
tested to be used in a variety of applications, from computer chips and aircraft wings to wind turbines
and biomedical devices.

The Advanced Materials Engineering programme through a variety of modules leads to awards in
Postgraduate Certificate (requires 60 credits), Postgraduate Diploma (requires 120 credits) and MSc
levels (requires 180 credits).

The programme includes a total of 5 compulsory teaching modules in the field of materials (e.g. metal
and alloys, composites, processing and fabrication of materials) and a wide range of optional modules
from which the student can choose. For students interested in pursuing an MSc qualification, an
individual research project will be completed, generally working alongside industrial partners and
research colleagues. Individual staff-supported projects provide students with the opportunity to apply
the skills and knowledge acquired during their studies to a specific problem or project.

The Advanced Materials Engineering programme attracts graduates from a range of backgrounds in
engineering, physics and materials science. This programme is designed to build a comprehensive
understanding of basic materials engineering, including industrial metallurgy, composites, and
advanced materials. Students will gain a broad knowledge base on advanced manufacturing processes
and the importance of materials sciences. In addition, students will benefit from industry exposure
through funded research projects, site visits and visitor lectures and other employability initiatives with
the National Manufacturing Institute of Scotland and the Advanced Forming Research Centre.

Advanced Mechanical Engineering- on campus

The Advanced Mechanical Engineering programme offers flexible postgraduate training opportunities
and leads to awards at Postgraduate Diploma and MSc levels. The course includes
technical/specialist and generic taught modules, and industry-relevant projects for those
progressing to the MSc. Teaching methods include lectures, practical exercises and site visits. The
MSc requires 180 credits and the PgDip 120 credits.

This programme has been specifically conceived to attract graduates from different branches of
engineering, physics or mathematics interested in developing a successful mechanical engineering
career in industry, public institutions or academic research. It has therefore been designed as a broad-
based programme covering a wide portfolio of mechanical engineering modules.

Inherently multidisciplinary, this programme stands at the intersection of different specialisms, which
include (but are not limited to) aerospace disciplines, materials science, energy systems and powerplant
technologies. Students can develop relevant knowledge and skills in any of these four specific sectors
(AME with specialism) or build a more general curriculum (general AME) involving a balanced
combination of theoretical, analytical, computational and experimental techniques and methods. This
flexibility allows our course to branch out and put students in a condition to tackle a variety of industrially
relevant problems. Teaching is delivered by qualified and long experienced academics, who are at the
forefront of their respective fields. Individual projects in semester 3 are student led with staff support,
allowing students to put in practice the theoretical knowledge and skills they have been provided with.

This programme is particularly suitable for Graduate Engineers in the

following sectors:
o Chemical, Petrochemical & Process Engineering
o Design Engineering

22
o Energy & Power Generation
o Manufacturing
o Oil & Gas
o Power Plant
o Renewable Energies

Advanced Mechanical Engineering- Online Learning

The Advanced Mechanical Engineering Online learning programme has been developed to provide
high calibre mechanical engineering graduates with an in-depth technical understanding of advanced
mechanical engineering topics, working flexibly on their studies part time, while in other employment
or circumstances.

Engineering involves the creative process of turning knowledge of science and technology into
products, services, and infrastructure that benefit society. For example, the energy sector is currently
undergoing major changes, providing significant technological challenges and offering excellent career
prospects for well-qualified engineers. The role of engineering is crucial in developing efficient
technologies that can help protect the environment while contributing to competitiveness and economic
growth.

The Advanced Mechanical Engineering (Online Learning) course offers flexible, part time postgraduate
training opportunities, and leads to awards at Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma and MSc
levels. The PgCert requires 60 credits, the PgDip 120 credits, and the MSc 180 credits. The MSc
project carries 60 credits.

Renewable Energy Systems and the Environment (RESE)

Engineering involves the creative process of turning knowledge of science and technology into
products, services, and infrastructure that benefit society. The energy sector is currently undergoing
major changes, providing significant technological challenges and offering excellent career prospects
for well-qualified engineers. The role of engineering is crucial in developing efficient technologies
that can help protect the environment.

The RESE course attracts graduates from a range of backgrounds and exemplifies the multidisciplinary
nature of engineering required to meet the challenges of a “just transition” to sustainable renewable
energy systems that benefit local and wider environments.

The RESE course is structured to deliver knowledge and skills plus experience of real-world
application. The 5 compulsory taught classes in semester 1 establish the knowledge base for
application in group and individual projects in semesters 2 and 3. Group projects tackle industry and
societal challenges, employing a range of software tools, with students presenting their outcomes to
peers and at a final ‘industry day’ forum. During semester 2 site visits to renewable energy sites are
arranged to gain practical insights from practitioners. Students select an additional 3 elective taught
classes in semesters 1 and 2. Individual projects in semester 3 are student led with staff support,
allowing students to explore fields relevant to their individual career path.

Satellite Data for Sustainable Development

The MSc in Satellite Data for Sustainable Development has been developed to provide high calibre
graduates with an in-depth technical understanding of how satellite data can be used to address global
challenges particularly in sustainable development. It offers a cross-disciplinary approach to the
teaching of geospatial data, data analysis and sustainability. The applied learning activities of the MSc
programme are strategically aligned with the goals and interests of the University of Strathclyde’s
Centre for Sustainable Development at Strathclyde, to give students a wider exposure to the global
movement that surrounds the 17 UN SDGs.

The programme will focus on the practical use of satellite data in direct applications to SDGs through

23
the analysis of case studies, invited lecture talks and engagement, through student projects with start-
ups and NGOs actively working in the field. Students will gain an insight in to the broad use of satellite
data across various industries and will be equipped with a host of technical skills and knowledge relating
to space system design, remote sensing and data analytics.

Students joining the course will take 4 compulsory modules and have the opportunity to select among
a wide range of optional classes in the area of Entrepreneurship, Business and Management, Machine
Learning and Data Analysis, Urban Design, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Space Systems and
Energy Systems.

The Satellite Data for Sustainable Development course offers flexible postgraduate training
opportunities and leads to awards at Postgraduate Diploma and MSc levels. The course includes
specialist and generic taught modules, and an individual project for those progressing to the MSc.
Teaching methods include lectures, practical laboratories, invited lectures and a final individual project.
This course is suitable for graduates with a broad range of backgrounds: Engineering, Physical
Sciences, Applied Sciences, Public Policy, Law, and Business. Other qualifications may also be
considered provided there is evidence of capacity for postgraduate study and an attitude to data
analytics.

Individual Project:
Alongside completion of 120 credits of taught modules, students completing the MSc route
undertake an industry-relevant project which entails the production of a dissertation. This individual
project involves an in- depth study and production of a thesis – it may be focused on an idea suggested
by industrial contacts or aligned to one of the many areas of research strengths within the Department.

24
EF900: Individual Project/Dissertation
MSc students from all programmes will undertake the class EF900, the Individual Project. This usually
occurs after a taught part of the course. Students are expected to undertake supervised, individual
project work, with the award of MSc being made on the basis of an acceptable electronic thesis
submission pdf file, as directed by their Project Supervisor. This component is valued at 60 PG credits.

Students are encouraged to self-generate a project topic based on their experiences of the course and
aligned with their future career aspirations. More specific details on this process will be detailed at the
beginning of semester 2, while general guidance can be found in this Handbook’s Appendix. It is the
students’ responsibility to identify, in the first instance, suitable project supervisors in the MAE
department based on research and other interests.

Students who do not wish to self-generate a project, will be able to suggest a topic/area of interest using
a selection form and will be asked to select multiple research areas of interest. Supervisor allocation
will then be managed centrally by the department and students will be notified of their allocated
supervisors. The allocation committee will do their best to match one of the areas of interest indicated
with the supervisor specialising in the area. However it cannot be guaranteed (see Appendix for details).

The Project Coordinator will hold an introductory project meeting at the beginning of semester 2 for all
students undertaking projects in the summer and following academic year. The current Coordinator is
Dr Ganilova ([email protected]), to whom all project queries should be directed.

In order to graduate at the ceremony in November, the final version of the student’s dissertation must
be submitted online via Myplace by the published deadline (a first draft should be submitted to the
project supervisor 2 weeks prior to the final submission deadline which will provide time for feedback).

RESE Theses from recent years may be found on the web at:
https://www.strath.ac.uk/research/energysystemsresearchunit/courses/individualprojects/

Part-time Students
Normal duration for part-time (PT) study on MSc programmes is 36 months, meaning 60 credits should
be completed per year. PT students can choose to start the project in the summer of their second year
of study, in line with the full-time cohort, or in the new academic session starting in September.

PG Diploma Students
Students enrolled in the PG Diploma course, who wish to be moved to the MSc and meet the
requirements, can request that a transfer be considered at the June Board of Examiners. They can still
choose a project, however this will be ‘at risk’ and will not be confirmed until after the Board. Students
should inform their Programme Adviser and [email protected] of the option they wish to choose:

• Students can wait until Board results are released before commencing their project, which
means starting early June, submit mid-September, then graduate in June the following year.
• Students can commence their project ‘at risk’ in May and if the Board of examiners agree on
the MSc transfer, they can continue and graduate in November. The ‘at risk’ process must be
discussed with the relevant Programme Adviser.

PLEASE NOTE: the undertaking of the project of 60 credits, to qualify for the award of MSc, requires
approximately 600 hours of study. Therefore, it is important that students are fully committed to their
project during this period. Any request for an extension will only be granted by the Personal
Circumstances Board for recognised extenuating circumstances.

IMPORTANT: Extensions and Late Submissions are NOT APPLICABLE to projects.

For example, other work commitments are not considered an adequate reason. Delays due to
unavailability of software or hardware required for project delivery will not result in an extension
(potential mitigation strategies will be discussed and agreed directly with the Project Supervisor).

25
Boards of Examiners for PGT Courses
There are usually three meetings of the Board of Examiners per year. June, August and September.

• The June Board will normally consider the transfer of candidates between PgCert, PgDip and
MSc and progression to the MSc project/dissertation. This Board will also consider any
outstanding candidates from the previous academic year.
• The August Board will consider PgCert, PgDip and MSc students with resit examinations which
are preventing them from progressing to the next stage of their programme.
• The September Board of Examiners is the main Examination Board for PGT Courses. This
Board considers the award of MSc, PgDip and PgCert, and the transfer of students between
MSc, PgDip and PgCert. Outstanding issues from the earlier Examination Board will also be
considered.

o Note, the Boards of Examiners may allow a thesis/dissertation to be re-submitted only

if the original mark is at least 45%, in which case the re-submission must be made
before the end of November (in the same calendar year).

Full details on Board of Examiners can be found at:

https://www.strath.ac.uk/exams/examboardsandresultsfaq/

Library
We expect students to use the library independently as part of their daily study routine. Independent
study using books and journal articles will augment class notes and facilitate a deeper understanding.
Distance learning students can access the University library online services, whilst on campus students
can also access our hard copy media too. All students can borrow online books and download academic
papers and journals.

The library also offers a postal service for distance learning students.

The University of Strathclyde uses an integrated search service called SUPrimo. This service allows
students to access online journals, reports, articles, books, exam papers and other relevant materials.
Additionally, students have access to a wide selection of databases subscribed to by The University of
Strathclyde.

A guide on how to use the library is here: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/library/

Student Self-Development
The University provides a range of information that guide you through some common tasks at university.
For example, reading and writing tips, grammar and language help, time management, avoiding
plagiarism, making presentations and critical thinking.

These can be accessed here: http://www.strath.ac.uk/studyskills/

The University also provides online IT training for common software packages including Microsoft Office
(Word, Excel, Powerpoint) and for University systems (Pegasus, Nemo, webdrives, MyPlace etc).

Staff will assume that all students are familiar with Microsoft Office to a basic level, and can engage
with all University systems.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

26
The following sections detail specific information relating to curriculum and the requirements
to complete your programme.

Please read this section in detail prior to selecting modules and contacting your Programme
Adviser regarding curriculum.

PGT Curriculum
As soon as registration is complete, students should give consideration to their curriculum, and the
modules they wish to undertake to obtain the requisite credits for their level of registration .

Specialist Instructional Modules

Specialist instructional modules focus on different technical aspects allowing multidisciplinary tailored
learning to suit individual needs. When choosing technical modules, individuals will discuss the options
with their programme adviser.

Generic and Optional Instructional Modules

Students can select from a range of generic modules which are available to provide other skills which
are considered necessary for professional engineers. Those on offer include the areas of Design
Management, Project Management, Environmental Impact Sustainability, Information Management,
Financial Engineering, Risk Management, and Knowledge Engineering and Management for
Engineers. It is also possible for students to select alternative ‘elective’ masters level modules with
approval of the Programme Adviser.

Important:
1. All curriculum choices are subject to approval by your Programme Adviser.
2. It is possible to take up to 20 credits from modules out with those listed above with the approval
of the Programme Adviser and of the related Module Registrar
➢ It is a student’s responsibility to contact the Module Registrar to ask permission before
completing the curriculum form and to forward the corresponding email to your
Programme Adviser.
3. Students are expected to finalise their curriculum as soon as possible at the start of semester,
changes beyond the end of week 2 are not possible.
4. It is the student’s responsibility to check that the timetables of your selected classes do not
clash.
5. Normally the balance of credits between semester 1 / semester 2 should be either 60 / 60 or
50 / 70. For those in part time study, the balance of credits between semester 1/ semester 2
should be 30/30, or 25/35.
6. Certain classes require specific pre-requisites. It is the students’ responsibility to check that you
satisfy ALL pre-requisites (listed at the beginning of the class MDF). If in doubt, contact the
module Registrar.

27
MSc Advanced Materials Engineering
Curriculum

All students shall undertake an approved curriculum as follows:

• for the Postgraduate Certificate no fewer than 60 credits

• for the Postgraduate Diploma no fewer than 120 credits
• for the degree of MSc no fewer than 180 credits including the project

Compulsory Modules
ME962 Degradation of Metals and Alloys (SEM1)

ME966 Fundamentals of Materials Science (SEM1)

ME978 Advanced Materials Processing & Manufacturing (SEM1)

16565 Engineering Composites (SEM2)

ME931 Industrial Metallurgy (SEM2)

Students for the degree of MSc only:

EF900 Project

Optional Modules
Students must choose 70 credits of optional credits which must include a minimum of 30 credits
from List A and a minimum of 30 credits from List B.

List A (minimum of 30 credits)

EF927 Design Management

EF931 Project Management

EF932 Risk Management

EF929 Financial Engineering

AB975 Sustainability

EV939 Environmental Impact Assessment

List B (minimum of 30 credits)

BE900 Tissue Mechanics

BE906 Biomaterials and Biocompatibility

CL996 Materials and Microstructures

28
CL976 Pre-stressed concrete, composite materials and structural stability

CP535 Molecular and Interfacial Science, OR CP970** Molecular and Interfacial Science (online)

DM946 Micro and Nano Manufacturing

DM947 Advanced Forming Technology and Systems

DM948 Advanced Materials and Production Technology

16598 Aerodynamic Performance

ME926** Nuclear Power Systems

ME927 Energy Resources and Policy

ME928 Energy Systems Analysis

ME929 Electrical Power Systems

ME930 Energy Modelling and Monitoring

ME945** Introduction to Open Source Computational Fluid Dynamics

ME948** Hydraulics

ME950** Boiler Thermal Hydraulics

ME953 Engineering Artificial Environments

ME963** Structural Integrity

ME965** FEA in Mechanical Engineering Design

**denotes those modules delivered by online learning. A maximum of 30 credits spread over the
programme by distance learning may be selected.

Not all optional modules on this list will be available in each academic year.

Exceptionally, such other Level 5 modules as may be approved by the Programme Adviser.

29
MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering - All on
campus streams
September & January START Curriculum
All students shall undertake an approved curriculum as outlined below.

The number of credits is dependent on the programme:

• PGCert (full time)- 60 credits taught classes (1 semester)

• PGDip (full time)- 120 credits taught classes (2 semesters)
• MSc (full time)- 120 credits taught classes PLUS 60 credit Project (2 semesters plus summer)
• Part time students select half the classes per semester.

To accumulate these credits modules must be selected following the requirements:

• 3 or 4 Generic modules (30-40 credits) must be from List A

• 9 or 8 Specialist modules (90-80 credits) must be from List B to provide other skills necessary
for professional engineers (CEng).
o This will include 3 compulsory modules if you are enrolled with a specialism, eg.
‘with Aerospace’.
• Modules selected from other departments must not exceed 20 credits, must be relevant to
your programme and must be approved by the class registrar and the MSc programme
adviser in advance of adding to the curriculum on Pegasus.
• A maximum of 30 credits of online modules are permitted and should be spread between
semesters.
• Curriculum must be split evenly:
• Full time students modules are split as 60:60 or 50:70 credits, which usually means 5
or 6 modules in SEM1 (Sept-Dec)and 7 or 6 modules in SEM2 (Jan-May),
• Part time students’ modules must be split 30:30 or 25:35 credits.
• It is students responsibility to make sure there are no clashes in the timetable. The
Programme Adviser will verify your choice of curriculum but cannot check timetabling.
• Students have until the end of week 2 from the start of the semester (SEM1 or SEM2) to
change module choices. If the choice needs amendment before the end of week 2, the
student must amend the curriculum as required on Pegasus and inform the programme
adviser by email, otherwise the student must continue with this class.

Additional restrictions in curriculum choices:

• ME526 and ME963 cannot be taken together

• ME931 and ME960 cannot be taken together
• Modules substantially similar to the ones in the student’s previous study cannot be selected.

List A Module Descriptors can be viewed through the Class Catalogue:

http://but.mis.strath.ac.uk/classcatalogue/

MAE Level 5 and Postgraduate Module descriptors indicated in List B are available to view at:
http://www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/mechanicalaerospaceengineering/student-information/
Please refer to Undergraduate MDFs for Level 5 classes.

30
LIST A

Generic Modules

EF927 Design Management (SEM1)

EF929 Financial Engineering (SEM2)
AB975 Sustainability (SEM1)
EF931 Project Management (SEM1)
EF932 Risk Management (SEM2)
EV939 Environmental Impact Assessment (SEM2)

LIST B

Specialist Modules:

16565 Engineering Composites (SEM2)

16587 Pressurised Systems (SEM1)
ME507 Machinery Diagnosis and Condition Monitoring (SEM 2)
ME514 Advanced Topics in Fluid Systems Engineering (SEM2)
ME517 Spaceflight Systems (SEM2)
ME526 Engineering Plasticity (SEM1)
ME527 Introduction to Engineering Optimisation (SEM2)
ME528 Control Systems Design (SEM1)
ME953 Engineering Artificial Environments (SEM2)
ME966 Fundamentals of Materials Science (SEM 1 - online)
ME926 Nuclear Power Systems (SEM 2 - online)
ME928 Energy Systems Analysis (SEM1)
ME929 Electrical Power Systems (SEM1)
ME948 Hydraulics (SEM1 -online)
ME960 Applied Metallurgy (SEM2 - online)
ME962 Degradation of Metals and Alloys (SEM 1-online)
ME965 FEA in Mechanical Engineering Design (SEM1 - online)
ME963 Structural Integrity (SEM 2 - online)
ME975 Satellite Data Assimilation and Analysis (SEM2)
ME976 Satellite Applications for Sustainable Development (SEM2)

Aerospace (Compulsory for AME with Aerospace MSc, optional for others):
ME979 Fundamentals of Aeronautical Engineering (SEM2 - online)
16599 Aerodynamic Propulsion Systems (SEM2)
ME512 Spaceflight Mechanics (SEM1)

Energy (Compulsory for AME with Energy Systems MSc, optional for others):
ME927 Energy Resources and Policy (SEM1)
ME929 Electrical Power Systems (SEM1)
ME930 Energy Modelling and Monitoring (SEM1)

Materials (Compulsory for AME with Materials MSc, optional for others):
16565 Engineering Composites (SEM2)
ME978 Advanced Materials Processing and Manufacturing (SEM1)
ME931 Industrial Metallurgy (SEM2)

Power plant Technologies (Compulsory for AME with PPT MSc, optional for others):
ME923 Gas and Steam Turbines (SEM 2-online)
ME929 Electrical Power Systems (SEM 1)
ME950 Boiler Thermal Hydraulics (SEM 2-online)

31
Please note the following when selecting curriculum:

No more than 3 online modules can be selected over the programme.

Students may select up to 20 credits relevant to their programme, from another Department.
Examples of these are:

Department of Design Management and Engineering Management (DMEM):

Note: there are limitations on numbers for these classes and you should contact the class registrar

DM928 Enterprise Resource Planning

DM934 Design Methods
DM943 Sustainable Product Design and Manufacture
DM944 Product Costing and Financial Management
DM945 Systems Thinking and Modelling
DM946 Micro- and Nano-Manufacturing
DM947 Advanced Forming Technology and Systems
DM948 Advanced Materials and Production Technology
DM953 Lean and Green Logistics
DM985 Remanufacturing
DM986 Mechatronics Systems Design Techniques
DM991 Organisational Buying Behaviours and Structures
DM992 Strategic Procurement Management

Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Marine Engineering (NAOME):

NM958 Risers and Mooring Lines
NM966 Marine Pipelines
NM833 Renewable Marine Energy Systems
NM977 Subsurface Technology

Department of Biomedical Engineering:

BE900 Tissue Mechanics
BE903 Cardiovascular Devices
BE916 Introduction to Biomechanics
BE923 Haemodynamics for Engineers
BE924 Medical Robotics

Other modules out with the above selection will be at the discretion of the Programme Adviser
of Studies, whom the student should contact prior to selection.

32
MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering with
Industrial Placement
Programme Structure
Taught Classes (120 credits)

The criteria for the selection of the 120 credits related to the taught classes are identical to those already
illustrated for the MSc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering (no fewer than 30 modules from List A and
no fewer than 80 from List B).

The course structure is illustrated in the following figure:

Industrial Placement (30 credits)

Students will undertake an industrial placement in the period after you have completed the taught part
of your degree, but before your MSc project. The Department will support you in making applications
for industry placements. Please note that it is the student’s responsibility to secure a work
placement.

Dedicated support sessions tailored to meet the needs of this programme have been arranged with
Career Services staff and details of these will be shared with students after they have registered on
the course. These sessions will help students submit applications, prepare for interviews and provide
guidance to help students prepare for the work placement environment.

Students will be supported by the University while on placement and will be allocated an academic
supervisor who will act as the point of contact during the placement.

Please note: Students who fail to accumulate 210 credits over the programme duration will be
transferred and considered for an award of MSc/Postgraduate Diploma or Certificate in an
appropriate Mechanical Engineering programme.

33
Student Charter for Industrial Placement
The Department will endeavour to support you by working with you to provide:
• a programme of support to enable you to develop the knowledge and skills needed to secure a
work placement;
• opportunities to reflect on your learning, the skills you are developing and action required to
address development needs;
• access to opportunities to develop your skills and advise you in your attempts to gain
experience through the University of Strathclyde Career Service;
• assistance for you to seek access to employer networking opportunities, events and
presentations;
• access to information on placement opportunities and to understand what employers are
looking for to enable you to create opportunities to put yourself in a competitive position within
the recruitment and selection process;
• One-to-one support with job hunting, application, CV and cover letter development and with
preparing for interviews and assessment centres through the Careers Service;
• support whilst on work placement and on your return to the University to help you review your
progress, reflect on your learning and development needs arising from your placement
experience;
• a named contact (University of Strathclyde) who will support you during the work placement
and help you review your learning and achievements; your workplace supervisor should be the
first point of contact for any problems that arise during your work placement.

We expect you to:

• fully participate in programme of support offered by the Department and Careers Service and
attend all planned sessions;
• complete any tasks by the due date; be punctual, arriving ready for the start of all sessions;
• be a self-managing, motivated career professional, taking responsibility for your own
professional development and making full use of the range of services and support provided to
help you secure a work placement;
• recognise that it is your responsibility to secure a placement, take action early on in your course
to understand the competitive UK job market and prepare for making placement applications;
• prepare for employer networking and other events by researching the employers you plan to
approach and preparing questions in advance to ensure you make the most of the opportunity;
• meet the norms and expectations for professional conduct in the particular area of work you
are undertaking (whilst at University and when on work placement) and take action to seek
guidance in the event of any uncertainty about the standards of behaviour expected;
• ensure that your personal presentation (including written) is at all times professional and
business like when dealing with employers and employer related organisations; wear
appropriate business attire for any face to face contact with employers or their representatives;
• raise any concerns you have about your programme of learning with an appropriate person
(e.g. programme adviser for the academic element and work place supervisor when on work
placement) as soon as possible;
• make full use of the support provided by the University and specifically the Careers Service.
• complete all work placement documentation by the deadline and declare any difficulties and/or
disabilities that may impact on your performance at work.
• to honour the agreed duration of the placement (agreed at time of contract between the student
and placement provider) and work professionally throughout this period. Under certain
circumstances, should the student or placement provider need to finish the placement earlier,
the student will then move to the student project part of the Masters programme at the earliest
scheduled opportunity. Any changes to the work placement need to be endorsed by the Head
of Department.

34
MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering –
Online Learning
Curriculum

All students shall undertake an approved curriculum as follows:

• for the Postgraduate Certificate – no fewer than 60 credits

• for the Postgraduate Diploma – no fewer than 120 credits
• for the degree of MSc – no fewer than 180 credits including the Project

MAE Level 5 and Postgraduate Module descriptors are available to view at:
http://www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/mechanicalaerospaceengineering/student-information/

Available Modules (for Sep 2022)*

Core Technical Classes:

ME919 Electrical Power Systems 10 credits (SEM 1)

ME962 Degradation of Metals and Alloys 10 credits (SEM 1)

ME965 FEA in Mechanical Engineering Design 10 credits (SEM 1)

ME966 Fundamentals of Materials Science 10 credits (SEM 1)

ME946 Pressurised Systems 10 credits (SEM 1)

ME948 Hydraulics 10 credits (SEM 1)

ME945 Introduction to Open-Source CFD 10 credits (SEMS 2)

ME926 Nuclear Power Systems 10 credits (SEM 2)

ME950 Boiler Thermal Hydraulics 10 credits (SEM 2)

ME960 Applied Metallurgy 10 credits (SEM 2)

ME963 Structural Integrity 10 credits (SEM 2)

ME979 Fundamentals of Aeronautical Engineering 10 credits (SEM2)

ME923 Gas and Steam Turbines 10 credits (SEM 2)

Students may select up to four from the following generic classes

(Note, these classes will run subject to minimum number of registrants):

DM810 People, Organisation and Leadership 10 credits (SEM 1)

DM811 Project Management 10 credits (SEM 1)

DM814 Technology and Innovation Management 10 credits (SEM 1)

DM808 Introduction to Systems Thinking, Modelling and Optimisation 10 credits (SEM 2)

35
DM805 Engineering Risk and management 2 10 credits (SEM 2)

DM812 Strategic Procurement Management 10 credits (SEM 2)

Students may undertake up to 20 credits relevant to their course, from another

Department. Examples of these are:

Department of Biomedical Engineering:

94 928 Introduction to Biomechanics 20 credits (SEMS 1&2)

XXX Sustainable Development Goals 20 credits (SEM 2)

Other modules out with the above selection will be at the discretion of the Programme Adviser of Studies
whom the student should contact prior to selection.

Communication
Students are required to communicate with the Department through e-mail and module forums, and are
also encouraged, unless advised otherwise, to submit coursework electronically. Students are,
therefore, expected to purchase or have access to a suitable computer (with internet access) and
printer. This should also prove useful at a later stage for project work.

Students MUST access their University emails on a regular basis so that all communications are
received and responded to in a timely fashion.

Important updates will be given through Myplace and students will receive an email through their
Strathclyde email addresses to let them know, for example, of a marked assignment or a posting on a
class forum. Students are encouraged to use their Strathclyde email address so that they receive these
notifications.

If you think that you may have issues meeting the computing requirements of the course or will not have
access to a reliable internet connection, you should contact the programme adviser before the start of
the course. Students who are not able to access a suitable personal computer may be advised to
delay or cancel starting the course as inability to access a suitable computer or internet connection may
make it difficult or impossible to complete the course.

Please note that while we will try to be reasonable and help wherever we can, computing issues such
as erratic or slow internet connections, inability to access VPNs, install software or upload/download
files due to country or company restrictions, issues relating to non ‘IBM PC type’ computers and
outdated software/operating systems cannot be considered reasons for non-completion or submission
of coursework.

If in any doubt about this, you should contact the programme adviser prior to beginning the course.

36
MSc Sustainable Engineering: Renewable
Energy Systems and the Environment
Now in its twenty-fourth year, the course is part of the Sustainable Engineering postgraduate
training provision. In today’s society, there is a growing awareness that the quality of life must be
balanced by the need for conservation of world resources, especially energy, and the protection of the
environment. Society therefore needs professionals who understand this balance and seek to
harness energy resources in an environmentally friendly manner.

On the course you will learn about the different energy resources: renewable, fossil and nuclear,
and the systems employed to harness and make use of these resources such as geothermal, wind,
hydro and photovoltaic systems, combined heat and power schemes, heat pumps, solar thermal
capture devices, high efficiency plant, advanced materials, advanced buildings, storage systems,
adaptive control systems, the importance of end users and controls. You will also learn about the
impact energy has on the environment and the ways in which this impact can be reduced. In particular,
you will come to understand the technical relationships between Renewable Energy Systems and the
Environment and feel confident about using modern computer-based methods to address the
complexities that underpin these relationships.

The programme consists of instructional classes covering key energy themes (normally first
semester); group projects tackling topical and demanding issues, site visits to see renewable and
sustainable energy systems in practice (second semester), followed by an individual project, possibly
with industrial attachment, leading to the submission of a dissertation. Teaching methods include:
lectures, discussions, group working, informal crits, site visits, debating, and computer-aided learning.

The course leads, at its final level, to an MSc degree by instruction while offering Diploma and
Certificate qualifications for students completing selected parts, either on a full- or part-time basis.
There are three course parts, progressive in their rigour, corresponding to these three possible
qualifications. The course has been accredited by the Energy Institute, the Institution of Mechanical
Engineers and the Royal Aeronautical Society and deemed to satisfy further learning requirements for
progressing to Chartered Engineer status.

Part A: Instructional Classes

All 5 specialist modules and several generic modules are offered in the first semester, with other
generic modules offered in the second semester. The specialist classes address the principles,
concepts and issues which underpin all Renewable Energy Systems. The objective is to inform
students about the different generation, supply and utilisation technologies and to prepare those who
will progress to Part B. Details of specialist classes can be found in Part A of this document, while
details of generic classes can be found in the separate Sustainable Engineering Course handbook.
Students can select elective instructional modules in place of generic classes with the approval of the
programme adviser and the module registrar. Successful completion of six instructional modules (with
a correct mix of classes, see later) will lead to the award of a Postgraduate Certificate.

Part B: Group Project

In the second semester students undertake a design project (valued at 40 credits) in addition to
completing the remaining credits from part A taught modules. While the approved projects will change
over time, they will typically involve the evolution of an energy system from inception to completion,
including an assessment of its cost effectiveness and environmental impact. For example, this might
involve the evaluation of a renewable energy design, the quantification of the impact of advanced
facades with generation, insulation, shading properties and smart controls on an energy efficient
building, or the analysis of field data from an energy installation to form and validate a model. Industry
attachment is encouraged, often the project will be undertaken within a real industrial context. On
successful completion of Part B (the 40-credit group project plus a total of 80 credits from taught
modules), students can either graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma or continue down the MSc route.

37
Part C: Dissertation
In this part of the course, students undertake supervised, individual project work which typically entails
an in-depth study of an issue (or set of issues) possibly identified from the Part B activities.

Curriculum
Part A - Module Descriptors
All students shall undertake an approved curriculum as follows:

• For the Postgraduate Certificate - no fewer than 60 credits including the 10 credit compulsory
class and 20 credits of Faculty-wide or Approved Elective Optional Classes and 30 credits of
classes chosen from the appropriate individual pathway.
• For the Postgraduate Diploma - no fewer than 120 credits including the 10 credit compulsory
class, a 40 credit group project and at least 20 credits of Faculty-wide or Approved Elective
Optional classes and at least 30 credits of classes from the appropriate individual pathway
• For the degree of MSc only - no fewer than 180 credits including Individual Project (60 credits)

Individual pathway Compulsory Classes:

ME 927 (SEM1) Energy Resources and Policy

ME 928 (SEM1) Energy Systems Analysis

ME 929 (SEM1) Electrical Power Systems

ME 930 (SEM1) Energy Modelling and Monitoring

Information on the following Generic Modules are available in the Sustainable Engineering handbook
or by browsing the University class catalogue:

Compulsory Class:
AB 975 (SEM 1) Sustainability

Faculty-wide Optional Classes:

EV 939 (SEM2) Environmental Impact Assessment

EF 927 (SEM1) Design Management

EF 929 (SEM2) Financial Engineering

EF 931 (SEM1) Project Management

EF 932 (SEM2) Risk Management

ME 527 (SEM2) Engineering Optimisation

ME953 (SEM2) Engineering Artificial Environments

MAE Level 5 and Postgraduate Module descriptors are available to view at:
http://www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/mechanicalaerospaceengineering/student-information/

Please refer to Undergraduate MDFs for Level 5 classes

38
 Part B: Group Project

Part B commences on Monday 9 January 2023 at 1400 hours (venue to be confirmed). In this part
of the course, projects are constructed in a student led process for groups of typically four to six
individuals. Each project involves the critical evaluation and/or evolution of an energy/environmental
system, including a technical appraisal and, where appropriate, an assessment of its cost effectiveness
and environmental impact.

For full details of examples of Group Projects, please visit:

https://www.strath.ac.uk/research/energysystemsresearchunit/courses/projectwebsites/

The expectation is that each group will:

• progress the project independently facilitated by the course tutors and in collaboration with an
associated industrialist or focussed on a current industry challenge.

• present themselves for project kick-off on Monday of week 1 semester 2 and project crits
on Thursdays between 2.00pm and 5.00pm (venue to be confirmed).

• submit a web-based final project report which includes a succinct statement on the main
technical, economic and environmental findings and the learning and technical outcomes.

• Make a final presentation of the project during the University’s Knowledge Exchange week, to
an audience of industrialists and tutors.
Date to be confirmed in Semester 2.

As a complement to the Part B projects, field trips w i l l b e u n d e r t a k e n . Visits usually take

place on Wednesdays. Participation is compulsory. Dates and venues to be confirmed at start
of semester 2.

SITE VISITS
[Please note these locations and dates are provisional]
Date Visit Comment
TBC New Lanark and SSE Hydro Hydro, micro-hydro, water source heat pumps

TBC GSK Irvine GSK biomass, wind, storage and chip

TBC Fintry+AD Eco-village, PV, Solar HW, Biomass, Air Source

Heat Pump, Elec Vehicles, building upgrades, AD
CHP Plant, biomass DH.
TBC West Whitlawburn Housing Biomass district heating and large scale windfarm,
and Whitelees Wind Farm domestic energy efficiency.

TBC Hydrogen Office and Offshore Large scale Offshore Wind,Small scale Wind/PV,
Wind Catapult Hydrogen Electrolysis, Hydrogen Storage, H2
Vehicles, Fuel Cell, Heat Pump.

Projects must have a high technical content and include a significant amount of quantitative analysis,
simulation or experimental work

The following provide examples of project templates which help illustrate the group project activity:

39
Example Project One: Clean Fuel Technologies

Objectives: Acting as a small consultancy/development partnership the group will prepare a

brief for a large public transport company to consider alternative fuels to replace
diesel.

Outline: This subject emulates the project carried out in Reading for the Council bus
company and takes into account previous experience in Italy. The subjects to
be considered by members of the team working in partnership include:

Experience using biofuels in Italy (e.g. esters of rape seed oil)

European Commission policy on alternative fuels
Relationship to "set aside" land policy for agriculture
Technical aspects of the fuels and their use
Pollution aspects and their costs
Costs, including taxes
UK Government policy
Relationship with developing countries

Procedure: The team would make two presentations to a transport company. The final
report would be circulated to one or more companies. The team would include
members able to cover details of engineering, environmental impact, transport and
marketing. The work would be structured under a team leader for individual
responsibilities within the group.

Programme: A possible activity plan:

Week Tasks
1-2 Formulation of the project and allocation of responsibilities and tasks. Initial site visits.
3-5 Initial reports and in-house discussion. More details on site.
6 First presentation to the associated company.
7 - 10 In-depth investigation and individual report presentation.
11 Assembly of final report.
12 Final project presentation.

Outcome: Feasibility report for the bus company and two presentations to the company.

40
Example Project Two: Commercial Viability of Landfill Gas (LFG)

Objectives: To examine the various factors that determine the economic and resource viability
of landfill gas (LFG) and to scope the potential multi-purpose use as a source of
energy in Scotland.

Outline: Organic wastes decay in landfills under anaerobic conditions, producing a mixture
of primarily methane and carbon dioxide. Methane is a potent "Greenhouse Gas"
and emissions from landfills can also be a significant environmental risk. However,
once the environmental impacts of LFG are controlled, its methane content makes
it a useful source of renewable energy. Using the gas offers significant
environmental benefits over flaring it off or simply venting it to the atmosphere.
Strengthening environmental protection legislation is mandating effective gas
control measures at most landfills. Energy recovery, if perceived as an economically
viable prospect, can complement the prime objective of gas control.

Procedure: The team will:

establish a database of Scottish landfill sites.

assess the potential landfill gas resource in Scotland.
consider the impact of current and future environmental legislation.
consider sustainable development strategy and LFG utilisation, particularly
in rural areas.
examine the potential applications, markets and economic potential of LFG.
investigate the economics, investment and infrastructure requirements of
various utilisation scenarios.
identify those areas which are more suitable for the deployment of particular
utilisation scenarios.
investigate the perceived constraints or barriers to investment
and commercialisation of LFG as an energy source.

Programme: A possible activity plan:

Week Tasks
1-2 Establish sites data base.
3-5 Resource assessment aspects.
6 First presentation to collaborators.
7-8 Utilisation options, applications and potential markets.
9 - 10 Sustainable development and implementation issues.
11 Draft final report, second presentation.
12 Final project presentation.

Outcome: A report to illuminate and clarify the commercialisation issues and the interactions
of the various participants (waste operators, developers and potential customers).
In this manner, the study will develop a method for matching potential market
applications with the most suitable sites and their chances for a successful
development.

41
Example Project Three: Renewable Energy, Bottom-Up

Objective: To evaluate national energy policy, but from the experience of individual installations
and programmes.

Outline: It is well known that the major difficulties facing a company developing renewable
energy, relate to institutional and local factors, and not to grand policy. For instance
raising finance is a very immediate difficulty; obtaining planning permission is a local
problem that varies from area to area; installation and maintenance of equipment
require the skills of local companies whose abilities vary greatly; many practical
matters are not foreseen at national level, but only come to light with working
experience.

Procedure: The team will:

consider UK policy and experience of renewables from a governmental point

of view.
plan which renewables schemes to consider in detail, e.g. some of those
developed in Scotland and Northern England that can be visited.
divide the work for detailed investigation of named projects, subject
to cooperation from the operators and owners.
make site visits and individual cooperation with the operators.
report on particular schemes.
analyse common and special factors.
identify relationship to national policies.
conclude and recommend.

Programme: A possible activity plan:

Week Tasks
1-2 Specification of the task; literature review.
3-5 Detailed plan and trial visits.
6 First presentation to collaborators.
7 - 10 Detailed site/company reports.
11 Draft final report; second presentation to collaborators.
12 Final report.

Outcome: The aim is to publish the results as a web-based information resource.

42
Example Project Four: Energy Conscious Building Design

Objectives: To impart an understanding of the principles underlying the design and operation
of energy efficient buildings and to encourage the development of skills in
the application of advanced simulation within a design context.

Outline: This project will entail a review of best practice in terms of each building design
parameter (construction, layout, etc.), the utilisation of available energy (passive
solar, group heating, etc.) and system control. Sources consulted will include the
Energy Efficiency Office, the Energy Design Advisory Service, the Building
Research Establishment and the Energy Technology Support Unit in the UK; and
the programmes of the Commission of the European Community, especially DGXII
and DGXVII.

Procedure: The various options available for energy saving will be identified and placed within
a suitable ‘taxonomy’. Dynamic energy modelling techniques will then be used to
assess the energy savings and environmental impact of the different design options
and environmental control regimes. In particular the project will focus on advanced
energy saving technologies such as adaptive envelopes, ‘smart’ controllers,
simulation based energy management systems, passive solar features and energy
use metering. The feasibility of the integration of photovoltaic panels into the building
fabric could also form a component of the project.

Programme: A possible activity plan:

Week Tasks
1 Team formation, development of project brief, preliminary task assignment.
2-3 Best practice review and industrial visits.
4 Technical planning, detailed task assignment.
5 – 10 Energy/environmental appraisal by computer simulation.
11 Economic evaluation.
12 Submission of group report and poster.

Outcome: The elaboration of a methodological approach to energy conscious building design

based on simulation. The methodology will offer a procedure whereby designers can
differentiate between available options and select near optimum combinations. A
particular building design will be evolved to demonstrate the methodology in use.

43
Example Project Five: Transmission of Renewable Energy

Objectives: To identify where the "best" sources of renewable energies may be found.
To examine technically the feasible solutions which would enable the energy
gained to be transmitted to the users.

Outline: In general the sources of renewable energy are far away from the high concentration
of users, e.g. areas of high winds or waves are not normally near densely populated
cities. As a result, the cost of transmitting the acquired energy becomes
uneconomic unless attractive solutions are available. The study will explore the
usable potential of renewable energy and consider ways in which it might be
maximised in the future.

Procedure: The project begins by identifying locations of renewable energy sources in Europe
with a view to assessing the spare capacity available on existing transmission
systems. Case studies will be used to examine the range of options and the
economic/environmental issues.

Programme: A possible activity plan:

Week Tasks
1-2 Preparation for project work. Definition of objectives and preparation of work schedule.
3-4 Literature review and selection of case studies.
5-8 Data collection and analysis, review of technologies for energy transmission and
storage.
9 - 10 General conclusions extracted from case studies with projections for the future.
11 Assembly of final report.
12 Final report and presentation preparation.

Outcome: At the micro level: a practical assessment of the limitations on exploitation of

Renewable Energy Systems in the short to medium term, in a form appropriate
for use by regional planning authorities.

At the macro level: an assessment of existing systems to determine spare capacity

and availability, and an identification of the best option for future European
development.

44
Example Project Six: Energy from Waste

Objectives: To examine and evaluate EfW systems, principally multi-fuel/MSW incineration

technology, as representative of the BPEO in the context of an integrated and
sustainable waste management strategy, encompassing waste minimisation,
recycling, energy recovery and landfill.

Outline: The Government’s policy on sustainable waste management is clearly intended

to increase the proportion of waste managed by the disposal options towards the
top of the ‘Waste Hierarchy’. Further, > 85% of MSW is currently being landfilled,
despite the fact that under NFFO tranches 1 and 2 municipal waste to energy
represented
82% of contract awards. However, to date the vast majority of these projects
have never been implemented.

Procedure: The team will: Review UK waste management strategy and policy developments
relating to EfW. Investigate recent EfW case histories. Detail an EfW integrated
scheme in terms of the various design, control and technology aspects found in
a typical MSW incineration plant with energy recovery facilities. Explore the
environmental issues, advantages and impacts likely resultant from an EfW scheme,
i.e. air pollution, principally dioxins, and ash residue treatment and disposal.
Particularly in the light of pollution control and new UK emission limits. Further,
consider human health and safety aspects of surrounding population. Consider the
role and influence of the planning authority. Consider the economics, investment
and infrastructure requirements along with any Government ‘Level playing field’
policy, i.e. the tax treatment of incinerator residues, etc., likely to act as a barrier or
affect implementation. Assess the local issues and factors likely to be responsible
for the
‘critical mass’ necessary for or influencing the implementation of any EfW facility.

Programme: A possible activity plan:

Week Tasks
1-2 Literature review of EfW technology
3-5 Investigate case histories
6 First presentation to collaborators
7-8 Environmental impact/pollution issues
9 - 10 Implementation issues
11 Draft final report, second presentation
12 Project presentation and report/poster submission.

Outcome: An informed report on EfW technology, environmental impact, implementation

factors and the likely future role in a sustainable waste management strategy.

45
Example Project Seven: Disposing of Decommissioned Offshore Oil
Platforms in the North Sea

Objectives: To examine decommissioning and disposal procedures currently adopted by the

oil industry and determine the associated environmental impacts resulting from
these methods.

Outline: This project aims to:

identify a small number of feasible methods which could be used in disposing

of decommissioned offshore oil platforms in an environmentally friendly way.
technologically examine one key issue or problem which has to be overcome
or solved if the groups preferred method is to become a feasible solution.
outline a procedure for the implementation of the chosen method for a
given concept which has been adopted in platform design.

Procedure: It is recommended that some of the following steps should be taken:

Acquire an understanding of the problems involved.

Examine the various options on offer.
Critically review these options.
Select a preferred option and give the reason for your choice.
Consider the key issues relating to the options and identify one technological
problem requiring attention.
Investigate the problem.
Make visits, discuss the problem, think out solutions, evaluate them etc.
Prepare a contents list for the report.
Write the report using the contents list as a guide.

Programme: The following twelve week programme is suggested:

Week Tasks
1 Project specification and literature review.
2-3 Identification of options with advantages and disadvantages.
4-6 Analysis of key issues for preferred option.
7 Review, presentation of initial ideas and evaluation
8 - 10 Refine analysis.
11 - 12 Reporting and final presentation.

Outcome: An informed report on platform decommissioning procedures and the resulting

environmental impacts from these methods, concluding with a report on future
decommissioning procedures that minimise environmental damage.

46
Example Project Eight: Decentralised Integration of Wind Energy with
Desalination Plant

Objectives: To study the architectural and control options which exist when designing
an integrated wind driven desalination plant and to identify the optimum solutions.

Outline: In many parts of the world fresh water is scarce and reliance is placed on
desalinated brackish or sea water. Desalination is energy intensive, and creation of
new water plants inevitably means parallel creation of new energy supplies. Given
recent environmental awareness, renewable energies such as wind are often
considered in this context. For new water plant remote from a strong grid, local,
decentralised energy production is an alternative to grid creation or reinforcement.
This gives rise to a major problem - desalination processes tend to be designed to
give constant power demand whereas wind can only supply power in a random
manner. Special approaches must be taken in designing architecture and control
strategies to overcome this mismatch. Three desalination techniques are suited
to wind energy: reverse osmosis (mechanical), electrodialysis
(electrical/mechanical) and vapour compression (thermal/ mechanical). It is not
clear which combination offers best overall advantage.

Procedure: The project team will:

identify the operational characteristics of different desalination plant (for a

team of four it is suggested that one member specialises in electrodialysis, one
in vapour compression and two in reverse osmosis)
identify the scope for varying the gross power demand of the plant either
by modularisation or ‘acceleration/deceleration’
define performance indices for a combined wind-desalination system (e.g.
water quality, overall efficiency, cost etc.) against which assessments can be
made
define a specification for a target plant in terms of required water production
profile and quality limits
model and refine different architecture and control strategies to obtain the
‘best’ systems based on each of the three desalination processes, this being
done by time domain modelling using a year’s worth of one hourly wind
speeds as the
basic input.

Programme: The following twelve week programme is suggested:

Week Tasks
1 Project planning and task allocation, definition of target specification.
2-3 Definition of operational constraints/characteristics of desalination plant.
4 Planning of computer programming strategy.
5–7 Testing of models.
8 – 10 Ongoing refinement and assessment of systems.
11 – 12 Reporting and final presentation.

Outcome: The outcome will be a report highlighting the key technical, economic and
operational considerations which must be taken into account when designing a
decentralised, integrated wind driven desalination plant.

47
MSc Satellite Data for Sustainable
Development (January start)
The programme consists of four compulsory modules (for a total of 50 credits) and up to seven optional
modules (for a total of 70 credits) over the full calendar year run alongside an individual project. The
wider choice of optional modules allows students to deepen their knowledge in specific fields of interest.
A descriptive table of how the study load can be distributed across two semesters is provided below.

FULL TIME STUDENTS

January Semester Summer Semester September Semester

Core module Core module

Satellite Applications for Sustainable Geographical Information

Development Goals (20 credits) Systems (10 credits)

Core module
Optional Module (10 credits)
Satellite Data Assimilation and Analysis
(10 credits)
MSc Individual
Core module Project (60 credits)
Optional Module (10 credits)
Machine Learning for Satellite Data (10
credits)

Optional Module (10 credits) Optional Module (10 credits)

Optional Module (10 credits) Optional Module (10 credits)

Optional Module (10 credits)

Curriculum
As soon as registration is complete, students should give consideration to their curriculum, and the
modules they wish to undertake to obtain the requisite credits for their level of registration. All students
shall undertake an approved curriculum as follows:

50 credits of core compulsory classes

• ME975 Satellite Data Assimilation and Analysis (10 credits, Sem 2)

o for students to develop a knowledge on available satellite datasets, how they can be
assimilated, and which tools exist to analyse them
• ME977 Machine Learning for Satellite Data (10 credits, Sem 2/April block)
o for students to develop an understanding of the use of machine learning techniques in
the processing of satellite data, inclusive of cloud-based GPU computing and ethical
use of spaceborne and ground data.
• ME976 Satellite Applications for Sustainable Development Goals (20 credits, Sem 2)
o for students to develop an understanding of the capability of the use of satellite data to
address UN SDGs. Introductory lecture on the sustainability of satellite data provision.
The course SF105 is planned to be used as propaedeutic for this class and introduction
to SDGs.

48
 • CL961 Geographical Information Systems (10 credits Sem 1/September)
o for students to provides a thorough introduction to the field of Geographical Information
Systems and spatial analysis

A minimum of 20 credits from the following optional classes

• EF931 Project Management

• AB975 Sustainability
• CL994 Circular Economy and Transformations Towards Sustainability
• EF932 Risk Management
• CS978 Legal, Ethical and Professional issues for the Information Society
• EV939 Environmental Impact Assessment

Classes, bringing taught credit total to 120 credits, to be chosen from

• AB931 Design Studio

• AB935 Urban Landscape Design
• CL971 Air pollution, Climate Change and Human Health
• CS952 Database & Web Systems Development
• CS985 Machine Learning for Data Analytics
• CS988 Big Data Tools and Techniques
• CS989 Big Data Fundamentals
• CS990 Database Fundamentals
• ME512 Spaceflight Mechanics
• ME517 Spaceflight Systems
• ME927 Energy Resources and Policy
• ME928 Energy Systems and Analysis
• ME930 Energy Modelling and Monitoring
• NM833 Marine Renewable Energy Systems
• Z1931 Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Commercialisation

• Z1986 New Venture Planning

• Exceptionally, such other Level 5 classes, totalling no more than 20 credits, as approved by the
Programme Adviser.

Students for the degree of MSc only

• EF900 Individual Project

Important:

1. Students have until the end of week 2 from the start of the semester to change module choices.
If the choice needs amendment before the end of week 2, the student must amend the
curriculum as required on Pegasus and inform the programme adviser by email, otherwise the
student must continue with this class.
2. Other modules out with the above selection will be at the discretion of the Programme
Adviser of Studies whom the student should contact prior to selection.

49
Appendix 1 - Guidance on Student Projects
and the supervision

1. Introduction

This document aims to provide students and supervisors with a summary of the relationship that
should build up between both parties during the project and the responsibilities on each part. This
document aims to cover supervision of individual research projects in the department.

1.1 Project purpose

Projects provide students with an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge acquired during their
course of study and during placement periods to a specific problem or project. These topics can be
extremely varied. Some may lean more towards design or development, others may be part of a wider
research programme, or industrial collaboration. They offer the chance to undertake in-depth study
into a project area of personal interest or value, with the potential of producing a unique body of
work. Irrespective of the specifics of the project, the main priority is to encourage the aim of
“Technical Achievement”, defined as follows:

“Make a contribution to the field in which you are working, in line with the application,
ability, intelligence and imagination expected of a MSc/Hons graduate level engineer.”

The assessment scheme has been devised to encourage and reward this. The project is worth a
significant portion of the final degree qualification and classification. Undergraduate projects constitute
40 credits and MSc project 60 credits. It is expected, that students spend a MINIMUM of 400 or 600
hours of works towards it respectively.

2. Supervision and Roles

The project module contains both student and staff stakeholders. This section of the document aims
to set out the main stakeholders who may be involved in the management, supervision and completion
of student projects.

2.1 Module Registrar/Project Coordinator

The project coordinator or module registrar will be the contact point during the project selection
phase, they will also be responsible for advising on all matters surrounding assessment and submission
of the work, and keeping the myplace module page up to date. The project coordinator will be available
to answer general queries regarding the project. The best way to contact them will be provided on
the myplace page.

Students may also at times be contacted about their projects from the generic MAE-UG or MAE-PG
emails.

50
2.2 Project supervisor

The main function of the project supervisor is to support the student in developing a coherent project
and ensure they remain focussed on this. This supervisor should provide feedback on the work
done by the student. It is not the supervisors’ function to direct or instruct the student what
to do.

The student may take project problems to the supervisor but should not expect to have the work
closely directed or time-managed by the supervisor: it is emphasised, this is your project - you have
to demonstrate that you are capable of independent project work, just as would be expected of you
upon graduation.

Supervisors will know about the approaches to carrying out projects, the common pitfalls and be able
to provide advice on structure, plans, etc. Some supervisors may be technical experts in the project
area and some may not. If this is the case expertise should be sought by the student from elsewhere
in the University or externally, if necessary. This should be discussed with the supervisor.

Students should note that supervisors will be supervising a significant number of students on top of a
teaching, research, knowledge exchange and administration. Supervisors are not expected to ‘chase
up’ students who fail to attend meetings or produce work.

Where supervisors will be on extended periods of absence from campus (>2 weeks) of the project,
this will be communicated to the student wherever possible. Ideally, a meeting will be held before the
leave takes place, to ensure that the student has a clear plan of work for the duration of leave of the
supervisor, and where appropriate a substitute supervisor may be identified.

Supervisors are expected to:

• Advise on planning and methodology;

• Respond to students in a timely manner (e.g. to email usually within 3 days);

• Review and provide feedback on one draft of the thesis within 2 weeks by prior agreement*;

• Give informal feedback approximately every fortnight on progress (i.e. meet in person or via
Zoom)*;

• If necessary, agree a substitute supervisor in extended periods of absence;

• Advise students of extended periods of absence from campus (where known);

• Be constructively critical of work and offer helpful suggestions and direction.

*based on full time working for an MSc project, and may be pro-rata’d where MSc students are not working
on project full time.

2.3 Student

Students are individually responsible for their own project work and for managing all tasks and
communications in relation to the project. It is crucial that each student engages early on with the
individual project to allow adequate time to achieve a positive outcome.

51
Students are expected to discuss at the first project meeting the most suitable means of
communication with the supervisor, and the most appropriate meeting schedule. It is the responsibility
of the student to arrange and minute meetings. It is recommended that the students update the
supervisor on the progress once a week via e‐mail and indicate their plans for the following week. If
the student experiences technical or personal difficulties they must discuss them with their supervisor
as early as possible. Problems rarely disappear without being addressed.

During the project, the onus is on the student to drive and deliver on the project. This means the
students have to be proactive in their time management, including arrangement of meetings, workload
management, decisions on the project development, as well as minor technical problems coming up
during the research progress.

At all times, when speak to supervisor, other department, faculty, or wider University staff, and
external contacts, it is expected that a professional approach will be adopted and any relevant
University policies adhered to.

An essential part of the student’s work will be to familiarise themself with the up-to-date technical
and/or research literature in the field of research; there will be some assistance on the MyPlace page
provided by library services.

Students are expected to:

• Be responsible for the progress of their project.

• Be professional at all times.

• Arrange and minute* supervisory meetings and other necessary appointments, etc.

• Progress and carry out work; being responsible for ensuring that work is of an appropriate
standard.

• Inform their supervisor of planned absences and of illness.

• Maintain a log book** of project progress.

• Correct spelling or grammatical errors.

*Students should discuss with the supervisor at the first meeting whether they wish to review the meeting
minutes.

**Log book may be physical or online

3.0 Queries
Questions or queries on this guidance should be directed to the project supervisor or project
coordinator in the first instance.

Prepared and Approved by:

Education Committee

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

52
 September 2023

Appendix 2
Departmental Occupational Health
and Safety Arrangements
Emergency / First Aid telephone numbers (internal) - Extension 2222 (or 3333)

Emergency telephone number 9 (external connection) then 999 for Fire / Police / Ambulance

1. Safety Organisation
Health and safety within the Department is organised in accordance with the University Safety Code
(Section 6.6 of the University Calendar) which should be studied by all members of staff. All
members of staff will be issued with a copy of these Regulations and are required to sign a
declaration stating that the Regulations have been read and understood. Supervisory staff should
ensure that the attention of students is drawn to the provisions of the Safety Code and Departmental
Safety Regulations.

The Head of the Department has ultimate responsibility for all health and safety matters.

Health and safety management is undertaken by the Departmental Safety Convener.

An Area Safety Committee has been formed to monitor health and safety issues within specific
areas. The identities of current post-holders and their areas of responsibility can be obtained from
Central Services or from the Departmental Safety Convener.

General information on any health and safety matter should be directed to the Departmental Safety
Convener in the first instance.

The University’s Safety Services Unit can be contacted on Ext 2726.

2. Departmental Safety Committee

A Departmental Safety Committee has been appointed consisting of at least three persons
representative of the main groups of staff working in each area and include, where appropriate, at
least one student. The Departmental Safety Convener convenes the meetings of the Departmental
Safety Committee and acts on its behalf as necessary.

3. Fire
In the event of a General Fire Alarm the procedure is set out in the Fire Regulations posted at every
floor of the James Weir Building and any other building you may occupy. Read these carefully and
check from time to time for any changes which may be made.

• Fire drills will be held at least once per semester.

• Know the meaning of the audible fire alarms.
• Know every escape route in the building.
• Exit by a different route at each drill.
• Note locations of fire extinguishers - all are clearly marked.

In the event of a fire being discovered:-

• Leave the room, close the door and raise the alarm by activating the nearest "break-
glass" fire alarm call point and informing the security wardens (Ext 2222 or 3333).

53
 • If it is safe to do so, use an appropriate fire extinguisher to attack the fire. Do not use
water where electrical equipment or flammable liquids are involved.

• In the case of laboratory fires, if it is safe to do so, switch off all electrical and fuel
supplies to the equipment involved or, if necessary, to the entire laboratory.

• Do not store combustible materials on or near electric heaters.

• Do not accumulate waste material.

• Keep litter bins covered.

• Keep fire exits clear of obstructions

4. Accident or Illness
Emergency Telephone Numbers - Extension 2222 or 3333

• If possible give immediate assistance to the patient. General First-Aid Guidance notes
are contained in all First-Aid boxes. A First Aid box may be found in all of the
Departmental Laboratories.

• Get help of colleagues.

• Telephone 2222 or 3333 giving own name and department, exact location (building,
floor, room number) and nature of incident.

• Say if a doctor is required.

• Do not move the patient from reported position (unless obviously necessary to avoid
further injury) until the arrival of the ambulance services.

• The patient should be accompanied to the hospital by a colleague.

5. Reporting of Accidents and Dangerous Occurrences

All accidents and dangerous occurrences, however apparently trivial, should be reported to the
member of staff in charge or to the technician in charge of the laboratory. The Departmental Safety
Convener should also be informed.

An official Accident or Occurrence Report Form S.1 should be completed for all accidents and
dangerous occurrences and sent to the University Safety Officer via the Departmental Safety
Convener. Should an incident result in hospital attendance, the Safety Office should be informed
by phone as soon as possible.

6. COSHH
Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1988 (COSHH), it is incumbent
upon anyone involved in the use of hazardous materials to ensure that a safe working practice is
agreed upon. No work is permitted until a RISK ASSESSMENT and COSHH form has been
completed. Copies of each assessment must be lodged with the Safety Convener.

All staff and relevant students should be acquainted with the Regulations.

Copies of the approved Guidance handbook on COSHH may be obtained from the Safety Convener
or the University Safety Office.

Failure to comply with the Regulations may result in that area of activity being shut down BY LAW.

54
 7. Hazardous Operations

Work should not proceed unless a Risk Assessment has been issued and signed.

Suitable protective clothing must be worn for all potentially dangerous operations (e.g.
grinding/welding) supplies of which are available from the technician in charge of the laboratory.

All areas in which special hazards exist (e.g. lasers) are clearly marked and entry to these regions
is restricted to those personnel having permission to work in them. Refer to the Protection of Eyes
Regulations 1974.

All hazardous materials and glassware should only be transported or carried in properly designed
safety containers. Winchesters should be carried only in proper holders, not in the hand.
Passenger lifts should not be used unless special precautions are taken.

8. Permits to Work
All persons, other than trained workshop staff, who wish to use machine tools, hand held tools or
welding equipment, etc must have a Permit to Work signed by the Head of Department or his
appointed Deputy and an appropriate Academic Supervisor. Permits will only be granted to persons
who can show evidence of satisfactory training and relevant experience. Permit holders must liaise
with the Laboratory Superintendent before using any equipment. Permit application forms can be
obtained from the Departmental Safety Convener.

9. General Laboratory/Workshop Procedure

• Protective clothing and safety glasses must be worn at all times.

• Coat racks or lockers are provided and should be used for outdoor clothing (coats, scarves,
etc.).

• Food and drink is not permitted in laboratories or workshops.

• Always use machine guards where provided.

• Clean tools and machines after use and deposit all scrap material in the bins provided.

• Keep litter bins covered.

• Observe and obey No Smoking signs.

• Observe and obey all warning signs.

• Horseplay is forbidden.

• When operating equipment in the laboratories, at least two people should be present. One of
these should be a technician or a member of the academic staff. Where working alone is
essential, the completion of a Risk Assessment must be performed and endorsed by the
Laboratory Superintendent or Academic Supervisor prior to the commencement of such work.

• Avoid loose clothing, long hair and badly fitting footwear.

• Keep all chemicals in suitable storage (see under COSHH).

• Switch off all gas cylinders, water, gas and other taps when not in use.

• Keep labs and workshops tidy.

• Keep floors clean and free of oil and grease deposits.

55
 • Do not obstruct passages, doorways or other thoroughfares.

• Keep clear of overhead lifting-gear.

• Lifting tackle should only be used by trained personnel under the overall supervision of the
technician in charge and in accordance with appropriate regulations. Replace all guard rails
which may have been removed to facilitate the movement of equipment.

• Do not overload electrical power points.

• Trip hazards, such as trailing cables must not run across working areas.

9.1 Office Areas

• Office areas should be kept clean and tidy and free of trailing electrical cables.

• Cables should be inspected regularly and replaced if the insulation shows signs of
wear.

• Materials should not be stored on top of filing cabinets or cupboards particularly near
eye level.

• Filing cabinets should be filled from the bottom to ensure stability and drawers kept
closed.

• Solvents should only be used in well ventilated areas and kept clear of heat sources.

10. Access to Buildings outwith Normal Hours

See Access to University Premises (Appendix 2).

11. Supervision of Postgraduate and Project Students

Supervisors should establish a mode of working with their students such that the supervisor is
aware of and agrees to, each element of work, that safe working practices are agreed and where
appropriate set down on paper and that regular, active, supervision is established.

12. Visitors to Laboratories

Visitors to the laboratories who are not accompanied by a member of staff should report to the
relevant Laboratory Superintendent.

Maintenance staff should report to the relevant Laboratory Superintendent before commencing
work in any laboratory area.

Children under the age of 14 are not normally permitted to enter laboratories or workshops. (See
Appendix 2 of this Handbook).

13. Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

All offices, storerooms, workshops and laboratories, of whatever kind, within the Department must
comply with these Regulations.

It should be noted that the University’s Estates Management Department is responsible for all
electrical services in the University, e.g. isolators, sockets and other such fixed equipment and no
one may break into the electrical system for any reason without the authorisation of the University
Electrical Engineer. Persons involved in the use of, and/or responsible for the use of electrical
equipment, must read the Regulations and the University's own handbook entitled "Local Rules for
Electrical Safety" (November 1991), a copy of which may be obtained from the Departmental Safety
Convener. Work on ‘live’ equipment is prohibited unless in the most exceptional circumstances;
before any such work is undertaken permission in writing must be granted by the Departmental
Safety Convener.

56
14. General Electrical Safety
Open-bar electric fires and non-automatic kettles are not allowed in the University.

Multi-way distribution boards with 13 amp shuttered outlets may be used from a socket provided
the total load does not exceed 13 amps and they are designed to BS1363. Adaptors are not
permitted.

Plugs must be fitted by, and new equipment inspected by, a competent person, before being taken
into service, normally by arrangement with the relevant Laboratory Superintendent. A record of the
equipment must be kept (see 15 below). The Departmental Safety Convener may approve
members of staff bringing in their own personal electrical equipment (except those banned items
shown above), however, such items must also be included in the Departmental inventory of
electrical equipment and appropriately inspected and tested (see 15 below).

All staff have individual responsibility to report obviously faulty equipment, e.g. broken plug tops,
damaged cables, etc. to their supervisor or directly to the relevant Laboratory Superintendent.
Equipment thought to be defective should not be used and must be reported immediately to the
relevant Laboratory Superintendent. Such equipment should be removed from service until
compliance with Section 15 is established. Users of equipment should regularly inspect for damage
to casings, cables and plugs etc. and for loose screws.

Where specific hazards exist in laboratory/workshop areas they will be clearly marked at the
direction of the relevant Laboratory Superintendent.

All persons wishing to use new or existing equipment in laboratory areas must liaise with the
relevant Laboratory Superintendent before commencing work.

15. Inspection and Testing of Electrical Apparatus

All electrical apparatus is required to be inspected and tested at certain intervals. Portable electrical
equipment should not be used unless it possesses an approved PAT label.

All fixed installations are the responsibility of the University Electrical Engineer.

All other equipment which can be plugged into a socket, including extension cables, etc. (and can
also include battery operated equipment) is the responsibility of the Head of Department.

The Regulations require records to be kept of the maintenance, inspection and testing of all
equipment in some detail for the duration of its working life. These records will be maintained
centrally by the Departmental Safety Convener. Advice should be sought from the relevant
Laboratory Superintendent prior to the introduction of any new electrical equipment.

16. Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005

Loud noise at work can damage hearing therefore, measures have to be put in place to prevent or
reduce risks from exposure to noise at work. It can also be a safety hazard at work, interfering with
communication and making warnings harder to hear.
The Regulations require the employer to assess the risks to your employees from noise at work;
take action to reduce the noise exposure that produces those risks; provide your employees with
hearing protection if you cannot reduce the noise exposure enough by using other methods; make
sure the legal limits on noise exposure are not exceeded; provide your employees with information,
instruction and training; carry out health surveillance where there is a risk to health.

The Noise at Work Regulations 1989 have been revised and the new 2005 updated legislation
comes into force on 6th April 2006 (with the exception of the music and entertainment sectors where
the Regulations come into force on 6th April 2008).

1. The new Regulations require employers to take specific action at certain action values
(previously called action levels). These relate to:

57
 􀂙 the levels of noise employees are exposed to averaged over a working day or week (e.g. use
of weekly exposure would be appropriate in situations where noise exposures varied markedly
from day to day e.g. gardening staff using power tools on two days of the week); and,

􀂙 the maximum noise (peak sound pressure – noises due to impacts e.g. hammering,
pneumatic impact tools) to which employees are exposed in a working day.

Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB) and the following new values are:

a. Lower exposure action values:

􀂙 daily or weekly exposure of 80dB (previously 85dB);

􀂙 peak sound pressure of 135dB.

b. Upper exposure action values:

􀂙 daily or weekly exposure of 85dB;

􀂙 peak sound pressure of 137dB.

Exposure limit values: (these are levels of noise exposure which must not be exceeded)
daily or weekly exposure of 87dB, peak sound pressure of 140dB. These exposure limit
values take account of any reduction in exposure provided by hearing protection ie personal
protective equipment.

2. There is a new specific requirement to provide health surveillance where there is a risk to
health.
Hearing protection must now be made available where there is exposure above the new lower exposure
action value (80dB).
Hearing protection must be worn and a programme of control measures (see below) implemented
where there is exposure above the new upper exposure action value (85dB).
Noise assessments will require to be reviewed to take into account the changes in the action levels.
(See below).
Health surveillance must be provided for all individuals, staff or students where there is a risk to health
from exposure to noise e.g. employees who are likely to be regularly exposed above the upper exposure
action values, or are at risk for any reason, e.g. they already suffer from hearing loss or are particularly
sensitive to damage. More information on health surveillance is available from the University’s
Occupational Health Service. If you have any concerns regarding occupational noise induced hearing
loss or tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears) please contact the Occupational Health Service on
extension (JA) 4824 or email [email protected]

The implementation of these Regulations can be quite complex and advice should be obtained
from the Safety Officer by anyone affected by them.

17. Buildings and Equipment

Building structural faults should be brought to the attention of the University’s Estates
Management Department.

The safety and installation of electrical equipment and the clearance of electrical faults up to the
normal 13 Amp socket outlets are the responsibility of the University’s Electrical Engineer who is
based in Estates Management.

18. Radiation Hazards

Radiation Hazards are the responsibility of the Area Radiation Protection Supervisors. The
identities and locations of current post-holders can be obtained from your Departmental Safety
Convener.

58
19. Compressed Gas Safety
Only persons within the Department who have been specifically trained may transport, attach or
detach gas cylinders from equipment. These persons will follow the University Guidance on
Compressed Gas Safety.

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Appendix 3
Access to University Premises –
John Anderson Campus
1.0 Introduction

The following policy is aimed at controlling access to buildings belonging to, or occupied by, the
University, in order to balance the need for access with considerations for the general and personal
safety of users, the security of property, and economic considerations relating to energy and security
staff costs.

2.0 Normal Hours of Access

From Monday to Friday the hours of 08.00 -18.00 are classed as the standard hours of access for
University buildings. At all other times, including Saturdays, Sundays, Public holidays and Christmas /
New Year have buildings will be closed and separate arrangements must be made by contacting
Security Services. Appendix A outlines the access hours for buildings within the University on an
individual building basis.

• Security staff are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you wish to contact a member of the
Security team you should ring ext. 3333 from an internal phone or 0141 548 3333 from an external
phone. 2222 is the Emergency number

During the normal opening hours all University staff, partner organisations and students must
carry staff identification badges. Staff and students must be prepared to produce identification, if
requested.

External access can be achieved without restriction between 08.00hrs and 18.00hrs.

3.0 Out with normal hours:

All University staff including partner organisations, have rights of access to their own departmental
accommodation including communal accommodation out with normal hours subject to them informing
Security Control (and having permissions from their departmental areas) of their intention to remain
within or gain access to a building.

• Estates Services may enter in emergency circumstances. Routine operational activity will be
arranged in advance with Security by a senior departmental lead.

• Information Services, routine operational activity will be arranged in advance with Security by a
senior departmental lead.

• Safety, Health and Wellbeing- Routine operational activity will be arranged in advance with Security
by a senior departmental lead.

• Postgraduate and undergraduate students can apply for essential (study based) out of hours
access to buildings via the online request to their Head of Department via the dedicated sharepoint
Intranet site (red card system, Appendix ‘B’). The application will only be approved where the
relevant departmental H&S arrangements have been met. Thereafter a red card will be issued and
must be produced along with their University identification badge.

• Department Occupational Health and Safety Management Arrangements must make adequate
provision for the health and safety of all persons using departmental premises out with normal hours

60
 of access. It is the responsibility of the Head of Department to ensure that visitors granted such
access are fully aware of all appropriate University/Departmental Safety Regulations and
Procedures, including evacuation procedures.

• Organisations who partner with the University may not have DS login credentials. This can be
achieved by application to departmental IT support for a limited DS account. An approved
application will then result in the issuing of a red card.

4.0 Temporary Rights of Access for Visitors

Individuals may be granted temporary access by a letter of authorisation from Head of Department,
a copy of which will be lodged with Security Control and a time bound staff identification card issued.
All other aspects of this policy will apply to visitors.

5.0 Children

Children are permitted to enter what may be termed ‘low risk’ areas i.e. where the hazards present are
similar to a domestic environment. Examples include office accommodation, catering and sports and
recreation facilities of the University during the normal hours of access 0800 – 1800 hrs. Access to
University premises is only permitted if accompanied by a parent or guardian providing constant
supervision. This duty cannot be delegated to another person. This form of access should not be
interpreted as permitting children access on a regular basis for the purpose of childcare.

For any other purpose this shall be subject to Risk Assessment.

6.0 Pet Animals

With the exception of assistance dogs, pet animals are not permitted in University buildings.

61
Normal Hours of Opening for University buildings. All times are Monday to Friday, unless
otherwise stated.

Sports Centre 09.00-22.00 (Sat 09.00-17.00, Sun 13.00-17.00)

Royal College 08.00-18.00(Access to RC out of hours is via JW entrance)

James Weir 08.00-2200

Thomas Graham 08.00-18.00

Henry Dyer 08.00-18.00

Stenhouse wing 08.00-18.00

Cathedral wing 08.00-18.00

Duncan wing 08.00-18.00

Curran Building 08.00-22.00

University Library 07.00-00.00 (Weekends 0900 – 2100, Exams open 24/7)

Hamnet Wing 08.00-18.00

Robertson wing 08.00-18.00

The Wolfson 08.00-18.00

John Anderson 08.00-18.00 (open to 2200 to facilitate classes)

Learning and teaching 08.00-18.00 (open to facilitate classes 1800 to 2200 if required)

Technology Innovation Centre 08.00-18.00

Graham Hills 08.00-22.00 (to facilitate classes, 50 George St closes at 1800)

Livingstone Tower 08.00-22.00

McCance Building 08.00-22.00

Collins / Senate 08.00-18.00

St James Road 08.00-18.00

Lord Hope 08.00-18.00 (Sat 0800 – 1800 on swipe)

* Term time is October-December, January-April and April-June

September 2022

62
 Request for out of hours access to the MAE Laboratories in the
James Weir Building

Please complete the following information and attach a copy to your out of hours access request email, which
should be sent to [email protected] in the first instance.
_____________________________________________________________
• Is the out of hours access being requested to allow the continuation of practical work (covered by your
scheme of work) involving chemicals or hazardous equipment? YES/NO (delete as appropriate)

If you are unclear if the above statement applies to you, please check your Risk Assessment. Both you and your
supervisor need to be clear that any out of hours activities do not pose a risk to Health & Safety.

Request access to Lab no.

Student Name
Supervisor
Date

For all persons requesting access to MAE Laboratories

It is understood that I can only work when I have a partner who is prepared to remain in the building until my activity
has been completed. The onus is on me to ensure that this person has been identified prior to 6pm on weekdays and
6pm on a Friday for weekend work.

The programme of work to be conducted will be discussed in advance and approved by my supervisor or his
nominee prior to its commencement.

Signature ………........……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Supervisor
I request that the above-named be provided with permission to work out of hours. Where the researcher has
requested access to continue practical work the programme will have been approved in advance. I understand that I
have a duty of care to the researchers under my direction working out of hours.

Signature …………........………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

The department will not be held responsible for any accident or incident which occurs should you deviate from
the above. Should you be found within the building working alone, out of hours, your permission to work out of
hours will be withdrawn with immediate effect.

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