Course overview

Acquire the engineering, computational and analytical skills required for a career in the aeronautical industry in this professionally accredited course.

As part of the specialist spacecraft stream, you'll be equipped with an analytical skill set appropriate to the design of spacecraft technologies.

You'll also gain an insight into the unique challenges involved in designing space systems for launch and operation, working in the start-of-the-art learning environment provided by the Department of Aeronautics.

During your first two years, you'll develop a strong grounding in the three disciplinary pillars of aerospace engineering: aerodynamics, lightweight structures and structural mechanics, and flight mechanics and control.

The second year includes further specialised aeronautical material.

You'll explore mechatronics, flight mechanics, propulsion and turbomachinery, and have the chance to attend a flight testing course at the National Flying Laboratory Centre at Cranfield University.

Your work will be assessed by laboratory-based coursework plus design, make and test exercises to develop your design and analysis skills.

You'll develop your expertise further on a group design project in the third year by taking a design concept to the stage where feasibility has been fully explored.

Projects in recent years have included a manned mission to Mars, and a horizontal and vertical launcher vehicle for small payloads.

Your study reaches Master's level in the fourth year, with further core modules relating to the design of spacecraft technologies and a choice of research-led modules.

In the final year, you'll complete a space-related individual research project in your chosen area. This is carried out with departmental specialists, or as an external project with an internationally leading engineering company.