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Accessibility statement
A image to illustrate Finite element analysis: principles and applications module
Engineering is at the heart of modern life. Today, engineers use computers and software to design and manufacture most of the products, processes and systems in our lives. This module introduces finite element analysis (FEA), a widely used computer-based analysis technique that employs numerical methods to solve complex engineering problems. The module covers the fundamental theory of FEA and its practical modelling and analysis techniques, illustrated through various real-life engineering applications.
The module comprises three blocks.
All blocks include modelling and simulation activities using Ansys for FEA. These activities are designed to teach you how to use the software, develop good modelling practices, and understand the importance of verifying and validating computational results.
Block 1
The first week of Block 1 introduces postgraduate study skills, such as critical reflection and the requirements of an FEA analysis technical report. It also covers the finite element method's role in today’s industry. It then introduces the finite element method. It uses FEA software (Ansys Workbench) to illustrate the basic theory and apply it to the linear analysis of stresses and deflections in solids, heat transfer, and thermal stresses. Alongside FEA theory, Block 1 gives an overview of 3D stress analysis and principles, which are important in modelling and FEA. The block ends with an overview of FEA thermal stress and diffusion analysis.
Block 2
The second block covers advanced topics in FEA and their practical applications to materials and structures, with particular emphasis on non-linear analysis. These include large deflections, buckling, and non-linear material behaviour. The fundamental concepts will be supplemented by practical activities and simulation exercises using Ansys.
Block 3
The final block starts with a review of the theory of mechanical vibrations, including multi-dimensional mass-spring systems and Euler beam theory. It then describes the finite element formulation of vibrating systems, considering both free and forced vibrations. The block also covers modal analysis, transient response analysis, harmonic response analysis, and wave/sound propagation. The theory will be complemented by activities and exercises using Ansys.
The module is for engineers and scientists who want to understand the fundamental theory of FEA and gain practical experience in the techniques for safely modelling and analysing engineering products and problems.
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Course work includes:
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
T808 is a compulsory module in our:
You can study this module on its own or use the credits you gain towards an Open University qualification.
T808 is an option module in our:
Sometimes you cannot count a module towards a qualification if you have already counted another module with similar content. To verify any excluded combinations with this module, check with an adviser before registering.
Finite element analysis: principles and applications (T808) starts once a year – in November.
It will next start in November 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in November 2031.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the academic regulations, which are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
There are no entry requirements for this module.
As the mathematics and mechanics involved in this module are significant, we recommend you have a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, or be familiar with subjects such as calculus, heat transfer, matrix algebra, stress analysis, vibrations, and computer-aided modelling.
We strongly advise you to take the T808 Entry quiz before registering. This quiz assesses your understanding of the mathematics and mechanics required to study the module successfully.
Revision material is available on the module website after you register, and we encourage you to work through this if you don’t have a mechanical engineering background.
Finite element analysis software is complex, comprising menus, dialogue boxes, text input boxes and textual and visual output. The visual output varies according to the input parameters, so it can’t be anticipated. We provide descriptions for all figures. Screen readers might not work with this software. You could find using this software challenging if you have a visual or manual dexterity impairment.
The materials for this module are a series of web pages. Some online material might not be fully accessible using a screen reader (mathematical and scientific materials and activities may be particularly difficult to read in this way). We provide transcripts of audio material and alternative formats of other study materials, including electronic text that you can print.
If you have particular study requirements, tell us as soon as possible, as some of our support services may take several weeks to arrange.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our disability support pages.
StartEndRegister byEngland fee
01 Nov 202630 Apr 202708 Oct 2026£1,865
If you study this module as part of an eligible qualification, you can apply for a postgraduate loan to support your study costs. To find out more, see Postgraduate loans in England.
Studying with The Open University can boost your employability. OU courses are recognised and respected by employers for their excellence and the commitment they take to complete. They also value the skills that students learn and can apply in the workplace.
Over 30,000 employers have used the OU to develop staff so far. If the module you’ve chosen is geared towards your job or developing your career, you could approach your employer to see if they will sponsor you by paying some or all of the fees.
You can pay part or all of your tuition fees upfront with a debit or credit card when you register for each module.
We accept American Express, Mastercard, Visa and Visa Electron.
Please note: your permanent address/domicile will affect your fee status and, therefore, the fees you are charged and any financial support available to you. The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
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