TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BEng (Hons)

Robotics with Foundation Year

Build a strong foundation in robotics and electronics, covering maths, physics and engineering. It's ideal if you're returning to education or don’t meet entry requirements for the 3-year programme.

Our typical offer

32 UCAS points

Immersive, practical learning

Engage in hands-on learning, with practical elements embedded in nearly every module. From building real-world projects to showcasing functional robots, the experience is deeply applied, research-informed, and aligned with global challenges like AI and renewables.

Connect with emerging industry

With employers attending the final showcase and an active industrial liaison board, the course stays tightly aligned with industry needs. Benefit from expert career coaching, job opportunities and placements.

Step into world-class facilities

Receive a personal electronics toolkit and gains access to cutting-edge labs, including robotics, machine vision and nanotech clean rooms. These facilities support deep exploration and innovation in robotics.
BEng (Hons) Robotics with Foundation Year
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About

Robotics engineers lead innovation by designing intelligent systems that power industries – from autonomous vehicles to bio-inspired machines – and address global challenges like sustainable energy, smart cities and advanced manufacturing.
At Plymouth, you'll learn from expert lecturers with strong industry ties. Our BEng (Hons) Robotics with Foundation Year programme introduces electronics, programming and engineering principles. Designed for students returning to education or without standard entry qualifications, it provides access to specialist labs, industry-informed teaching, and flexible progression into robotics or electronics degrees. With strong support systems, accredited pathways, and opportunities to explore real-world projects, this course sets you up for success in the fast-evolving world of robotics.
 

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
 
A full list of potential progressions routes is listed under course details
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
  

This course is for you if...

you are looking to start with a foundation year and progress to a professionally accredited degree in robotics
person with lines around their head, depicting experience
you are eager to build and programme real robots and explore topics like sensors, motors and intelligent automation
Drone
you are eager to gain industry-ready skills and experience through placements with top companies
Icon showing hand and cog
you aim to master cutting-edge technologies and learn in high-spec facilities
icon representing testing model

Details

 
 
 

Foundation year

Taught by University lecturers on campus, you’ll be part of the University of Plymouth from day one. You'll study six modules over the foundation year, including mathematical methods, applied mathematics (mechanics), physics and electronics. The year is geared towards helping you to progress onto one of our degrees in electronic engineering or robotics. You’ll take about 17 taught hours per week, and put in at least the same amount of time in independent study. 

Core modules

COMP060
Principles of Computing and AI 30 credits

This module introduces computer literacy, programming, software design, and cutting-edge computing applications in STEM for academia and industry. It teaches principles, applications and skills to leverage advances in computing and AI for problem solving in science. Students will learn to programme in Python-like languages used in concurrent and later modules and be exposed to industrial applications via guest lectures.

100% Coursework

MATH060
Foundational Mathematics in STEM 30 credits

This module lays the mathematical foundations for students in Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science, showing how maths is fundamental to understanding the real world. It introduces number and algebra, functions, Euclidean geometry, the exponential and logarithm, trigonometry and calculus, focusing on principles, understanding, presentation and effective study. Mathematics students learn basic methods of proof.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

PHYS060
Physics, Mechanics and Applied Mathematics 30 credits

This module teaches how mathematics can be applied to model the real world and analyse data collected from experiment. Led by laboratory investigation, students study applications of maths to motion, static equilibrium, and learn Newton's laws, before proceeding to understand the structure of matter, waves and electricity. Mathematics students learn the geometry underlying mechanics and some probability and statistics.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

SFPT001
Global Scientific Challenges: Projects and Labs 30 credits

Student will work in a group to explore a global scientific challenge facing society and connected to their pathway. Through lab experiments and data analysis they will understand the science behind addressing this challenge and its impact on everyday life. Parallel lectures in statistics and data analysis will be used to support project work and interpret findings, with students reflecting on the group work process.

50% Tests

25% Coursework

25% Practicals

 

Progression

Upon successful completion of this foundation year, you can progress to one of our following degrees: 
 

What’s the difference between BEng and MEng?

BEng (Hons)
  • A three year degree, with the potential for it to be four years with a placement year
  • Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
MEng (Hons)
  • A four year integrated masters, with the potential for it to be five years with a placement year
  • Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Course-specific academic regulations

This course has unique rules relating to:

  • Passing a module
View the full regulations for this course

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

After starting my foundation year in Robotics, I’ve received so much amazing support. Not having a background in mathematics or science hasn’t been a problem as lecturers are always friendly and on hand to help. The quality of online learning has been excellent, and I have been easily able to access help with course content through zoom revision sessions and emails

Deanna
BEng (Hons) Robotics with Foundation Year graduate
Deanna Harries - BEng (Hons) Robotics with foundation year

Specialist high-tech facilities

Plymouth’s robotics facilities in the Smeaton Building offer a dynamic, hands-on learning environment for you to engage with both custom-built and industrial robots throughout your studies. From robot dogs and drones to humanoid platforms, these advanced tools are available for coursework and student-led projects. 
The labs are equipped with cutting-edge resources such as 3D printers and design software for rapid prototyping, while dedicated research spaces delve into areas like motor learning, artificial intelligence, and sustainable agriculture using state-of-the-art robots including iCub, Baxter, and autonomous farming systems. 
Smeaton BuildingFirst and Final year students working with Robots in the labs – bipedal robotics and control engineering 
 
 
 

Showcasing your work

Each year, students from robotics are involved in our Student Showcase event. 
This event offers you an opportunity to demonstrate your passion to lecturers and your fellow students, as well as to industry professionals and potential employers.
“I've had the opportunity to meet multiple people in the industry, all of them have seemed very interested in my project which was a great relief as the nature of my project is quite niche and I was curious about the actual industry applications”
 
 
 

A placement puts learning into practice

Take up the option to undertake a paid work placement in industry during your third year. A placement consolidates and develops your engineering knowledge, is an excellent way to gain a competitive edge and helps with making career decisions – many of our students receive job offers or sponsorship as a result of their placements.
Mechanical engineering - student using a soldering iron
  • Get your career off to a great start by spending a year working professionally as a student engineer between years two and three.
  • You could earn ÂŁ15,000 a year or more, and possibly gain sponsorship through your final year(s) at university.
  • Gain experience that will help you find a job when you graduate and a Certificate of Professional or Work Experience in addition to your degree award.

“Completing the placement year and seeing the different areas where students studying similar degrees worked within the same company has given me more of an idea of which areas I would like to explore further and potentially specialise in.”

 
 
 
 
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics is a collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers focused on creating knowledge and innovative solutions that positively impact society.
Dr Adrian Ambroze Associate Professor of Digital Communications Engineering


Associate Professor of Digital Communications Engineering

Dr David Jenkins Associate Professor of Nanomaterials and Devices


Associate Professor of Nanomaterials and Devices

Professor Emmanuel Ifeachor Emeritus Professor


Emeritus Professor

Show all

Support for students

As well as support you'll receive from academics, we have a team of technical staff who assist you with projects and research.
Our technicians are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Senior Robotics Technician, Jake, talks about his work with students.
"I would say be as ambitious as you want, you can almost guarantee you can make it, you just have to be determined"
 
 
 

Level up your studies with the Robotics Society

The Robotics Society welcomes all students to explore robotics – collaborating and innovating together and hosting events like Robot Wars to showcase student creations and inspire new members. Throughout the year, the society offer fun socials, peer support and learning opportunities for anyone curious about robotics or needing support with their studies.
Technical college students exchanging ideas. Getty 1455935808.
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Emily-Jane Rolley-Parnell holding robot fish

One of the main reasons why I chose to study BEng (Hons) Robotics at Plymouth was because there is a lot of lab time. A lot of time to put our learning into practice. We have a lab dedicated to people doing electronics and robotics and acts as a central hub, so there is always someone around to ask for help.

Emily-Jane
BEng (Hons) Robotics graduate

 
 
 

Where could robotics take you?

Learn more about the diverse range of successful career pathways our robotics graduates take after completing the course

Matthew Preston

Matthew
Matthew works as a Robotics Engineer for MSubs Ltd

Joel Gibbard, with the robotic hand he made for his final year project

Joel
Joel works as an Applications Engineer at National Instruments

Jane Sheard

Jane
Jane has been working as a graduate systems engineer at Chess Dynamics

 
 

Launch your career

Our robotics degrees can open doors to a wide range of exciting and impactful careers. Whether you're designing intelligent machines, developing cutting-edge AI systems, or shaping the future of manufacturing, the possibilities are vast. Our graduates have gone on to become:
  • Junior robotics engineers
  • Machine learning engineers
  • Research and development electronic engineers
  • Product and manufacturing engineers
  • Secondary school teachers
They have joined leading companies like , , , and - working on real-world innovations that push the boundaries of technology.
From research labs to industry giants, a robotics degree equips you with the skills to thrive in a fast-evolving world.
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    100% of our robotics graduates felt that staff explained things well

  • ĂŠ

    90% of our robotics graduates felt that staff supported their learning well

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
ÂŁ9,535 per year
Part-time study
ÂŁ795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ18,650 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ19,200 per year
Optional placement year   completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

The Tamar Engineering Project

The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
  • ÂŁ3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • ÂŁ1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above.

A levels
32 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.

BTEC
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: PPP.
12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma: MP.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information, we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses
Pass Access course (preferably from a science/technology subject) (including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above or equivalent). For candidates that do not have a science, electrical or technology background please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk for further advice.

T-level
Pass – Science/Technology pathways only.

International Baccalaureate
24 overall – English and mathematics must be included.

Other qualifications
Mature students with appropriate work experience are encouraged to apply. For those who do not meet the requirements, please enquire for further details.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
Please note: We understand that many applicants remain anxious about meeting the exact terms of our standard conditional offers. We will look again at your application and revise our offer for those applicants who we continue to believe are a good match for our courses, once we have the certainty of your actual results in August.
UCAS course code
H679
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    32 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
    Short of the entry requirements for this course? Don’t worry you may be eligible for a foundation year to prepare you for possible entry onto this course for the following year.
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    H679
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth
     
     
     

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    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
     
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    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.