The University Of Sheffield is the only University in the UK that has Controls Engineering as an independent department. Sheffield engineering students are exposed to two projects which involve industry challenges and these are solved in multidisciplinary teams. This multidisciplinary team exposure helps build solutions based on perspectives from various engineering disciplines. The various student-led projects ranging from Underwater ROV, satellites to solar telescopes provide great hands-on skills as well, and transferable skills. Also, Sheffield has its own Engineering Leadership Academy inspired by MIT's leadership program to address the skills gap between engineering and industry and to create leaders who can have a positive impact on society.
Course Curriculum :
Our course is relevant to the industry (automation, robotics) and the modules are revised based on their relevance. We get hands-on experience with excellent labs to understand the difference between theory learned and when practically applied. Our lecturers encourage us to use software used in the present industry to ensure we bloom as competent engineers. Our department tries to keep career fests to meet Industry members and we occasionally have guest speakers at our lectures. In addition to this, our University has its own student workspace area called iForge where students can create their own designs and manufacture their product models. We also have a research scheme called 'SURE' where engineering students can work for 6 weeks over a research project under the guidance of a faculty member.
Exams :
I was asked for 2 LoRs and one SoP. An important point is to be yourself and clearly state what fascinates you to choose your stream and bring out what you can get to the University and what you expect to get out of Uni. It is also a good point to mention how you hope to bring a change back home or abroad with the knowledge you gain from your course. I didn't have any round of interviews before entry into University. However, the University offered some optional English and Mathematics tests to understand the knowledge we possess in these two subjects. My advice would be to revise some A-level/ other high school curriculum mathematics to be comfortable for the test as well as prepared for University. These tests mainly were to understand the additional support that can be provided to students who have difficulty with the basics.
Placement :
Companies we are partnered with are Rolls Royce, IBM, local startups like TwinkleHive, etc. Sheffield University has its own alumni network group on LinkedIn. Many alumni volunteer to become mentors to students as part of the industry mentoring scheme. Our department posts about projects and internship opportunities as well as invites some alumni as guest lecturers for some modules (to share the relevance of the module in industry and share a little bit about working in industry)
Internship :
I have applied but didn't get one.
Events :
There are various student-led projects from creating a solar telescope to launching a rocket to creating an Underwater ROV for international competitions. There are additional classes offered to develop entrepreneurship and leadership skills. Campus infrastructure is wonderful - the lab facilities, student workspace, libraries, gyms, cafeteria, etc. All labs are equipped with the latest, PAT tested models to work on. Libraries have all module related books and offer silent spaces to study and work on PCs. The cafeteria is run by students and the money is used to maintain student spots like our very own 'Student Union'. The Student's Union hosts international cultural fests, food fests to make international students feel at home and offer great socializing opportunities. Our University also has its own band and a club run by students. Safety is given utmost importance and the university offers cab services for women during late hours. Our Uni also runs consent, race equality sessions to help understand the importance of such topics.
Fees :
22,025
Scholarship :
I have received the Departmental Scholarship for scoring high marks at high school and retaining a first-class in year 1. Amount: 3,000 year 1; 1,000 then on.
Faculty :
Most of the University faculty consists of researchers who work as our lecturers. They are engaged in high-quality research and are always ready to share their knowledge with us. Our lecturers encourage us to ask questions and engage well in class. They focus on ensuring that we gain industry-ready skills. Outside lectures we have tutorials wherein we are given individual support to get our academic doubts cleared. We also have a personal mentor who helps keep track of our academic progress and also offers support with any personal problems. All my lecturers have had a deep impact on me and have helped me fuel my passion for Controls Engineering.
Hostel :
I used to live in University accommodation in year 1. The price was about 145 per week. The room was good with a pinboard and a spacious table. I opted for a single bedroom and shared a flat with 6 other girls. We had a common kitchen and sitting area. The laundry machines and dryers were paid service. Per usage, the cost would be about 6. The accommodation reception was the place where we picked our posts, letter, and also booked recreational facility rooms. The accommodation had a common room where parties and get-togethers could be hosted. Besides, there was a small movie/Gaming room which could be booked in advance.
