Recently, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), on behalf of the Engineering Council UK (ECUK), conducted a comprehensive review of the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Manufacturing Engineering at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China.


Various aspects of the programme were examined, including the quality of the assessments, the academic staff, teaching facilities, learning resource facilities, quality assurance procedures, and the conduct of the examinations. In conclusion, the IET panel was pleased with the quality of all the three degrees in all aspects, and decided to accredit our BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering programme for the first time and renew the current accreditation for our BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering programme and the BEng (Hons) in Product Design and Manufacture programme for another five (5) years.

This achievement not only validates the exceptional standard of education in these disciplines, but also drives young engineers towards professional registration as a Chartered or Incorporated Engineer, which strengthens graduates' global employability and competitiveness in the international engineering sector.

example image alt text

IET is one of the world’s leading professional societies for engineers and technicians and their accreditation covers a whole range of subjects including electrical, electronic, manufacturing, mechanical, systems and software engineering including bioengineering, nanotechnology and renewable energy. It’s recognised globally as an indicator of quality through the Washington and Sydney accords, which are governed by the International Engineering Alliance (IEA).

Visiting panels were deeply impressed by the dedication of the staff at UNNC to delivering a high standard of British education in China, as well as the high quality of UNNC graduates. The panels strongly commended UNNC staff for the excellent support given to students and acknowledged the high-quality laboratory facilities on site provide an excellent learning environment which is recognised and appreciated by the students.

During the accreditation review, the IET panel highly commended the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Manufacturing Engineering for its teaching excellence and innovative approaches. The panel particularly recognised its international faculty team and its 10 national/provincial first-class undergraduate courses. The panel also praised the ongoing Course Transformation Plan (CTP), which optimises curricula, strengthens industry-aligned engineering management, and boosts students' digital competencies—solidifying its leadership in cultivating globally competitive engineers. Notable highlights include the practice-oriented teaching model, such as the Smart Robot Design project led by Amarpreet Gill, which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration between Product Design and Manufacture students and Electrical and Electronic Engineering students. The department's strong industry partnerships (e.g., Boeing) and regional engagement significantly enhance students' employability. With strong industry partnerships and practice-oriented curricula, they prepare graduates for successful international careers in engineering and design.

example image alt text

The Aerospace Engineering programme provides comprehensive training in aircraft structural design, aerodynamics, and flight control systems, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications through flight simulators, wind tunnel testing, and hands-on aircraft model projects.

The Mechanical Engineering programme offers a broad engineering education focusing on mechanical design, materials science, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Through project-based learning and industry collaborations, students develop strong problem-solving skills, with alumni advancing to top universities or careers in automotive and manufacturing sectors.

The Product Design and Manufacture programme cultivates innovative designers skilled in 3D modelling, ergonomics, and manufacturing processes. Students regularly win international design awards (Red Dot, iF) and pursue careers at leading tech companies or further studies at world-class design institutions.

Published on 13 May 2025