Aerospace Computational Engineering MSc

Program Overview

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The MSc in Aerospace Computational Engineering at Cranfield University equips students with advanced computational methods and skills for digital age aerospace applications. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience through group projects and an individual research project, preparing graduates for careers in aerospace engineering, software development, and other related fields. The industry-led curriculum and strategic industry links ensure the program's relevance to real-world needs and industry expectations.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

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Overview

The MSc in Aerospace Computational Engineering aims to enhance your skills through a detailed introduction to state-of-the-art computational methods and their applications for digital age aerospace applications. This course aims to provide students with generic practical skills and cutting-edge knowledge adaptable to a wide variety of applications in aerospace computational engineering, allowing them to meet the demand of an evolving workplace requiring highly qualified engineers with core software engineering skills and mathematical analysis techniques.

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Objectives

• Equip students with the skills required to pursue a successful career in computational aerospace design and engineering.
• Provide students with generic practical skills and cutting-edge knowledge adaptable to a wide variety of applications in aerospace computational engineering.
• Enable students to meet the demand of an evolving workplace requiring highly qualified engineers possessing core software engineering skills and competency in mathematical analysis techniques.
• Provide students with an opportunity to interact with students from other disciplines.

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Description

This unique program offers:

• A blend of skills-based and subject-specific material.
• An introduction to state-of-the-art computational methods and their applications for digital age aerospace engineering applications.
• An opportunity to develop core software engineering skills and competency in mathematical analysis techniques.
• A curriculum designed to prepare students to meet the demands of an evolving aerospace industry seeking highly qualified engineers.

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Outline

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Structure

The MSc in Aerospace Computational Engineering consists of:

• Taught modules: 40%
• Group project: 20%
• Individual research project: 40%
The program utilizes a blended learning approach, including:
• Structured lectures
• Computer-based labs
The program allows part-time students to complete the compulsory modules on a flexible schedule, agreed upon with the Course Director.

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Delivery

• Taught Modules:
40%
• Group Project:
20% - Projects focus on a range of aerospace applications, including digital wind tunnel development, advanced turbulence models, structural analysis, fluid-structure interaction, digital design, advanced visualization techniques, and the next generation of computational methods for the industry.
• Individual Project:
40% - Students conduct a research project in collaboration with industry or on a topic of personal interest.

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Modules

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Compulsory Modules:

• C++ Programming:
This module covers object-oriented programming, C++ programming for solving problems in computational engineering, and the use of libraries for C++ development.
• Computational Methods:
This module explores numerical integration, numerical solutions to differential equations, and linear systems of equations.
• Numerical Modelling for Compressible Flows:
This module introduces the numerical solution of the hyperbolic systems of partial differential equations for compressible fluid flow.
• CAD & Airframe Design:
This module focuses on creating CAD models using CATIA software and applying principles of design to build various aircraft components.
• Computational Aerodynamics:
This module focuses on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), including key concepts, non-linearities, shock formations, Riemann solvers, turbulence modeling approaches, and shock-capturing schemes. It also covers high-performance computing and using mesh motion to analyze rotating domains.
• Modelling Approaches for Aerospace Applications:
This module covers governing equations for external flows, advanced turbulence modeling approaches, CFD methods for low- and high-speed flows, and advanced aerospace applications, including digital wind tunnels.
• Computational Engineering Structures:
This module focuses on Finite Element Methods (FEM), including the Direct Stiffness (Displacement) Method, development of truss and beam element equations, the Plane Stress element, and error analysis.
• Validation and Verification for Aerospace Applications:
This module covers verification and validation methods, including managing computational errors and uncertainties related to external flow simulations in aerospace applications.

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Assessment

No information available in the provided context.

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods

• Lectures
• Computer-based labs
• Group project
• Individual research project

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Faculty

The program is taught by experienced academic staff from Cranfield University with active research and industry experience. The faculty includes:

• Professor Karl Jenkins - Professor of Computational Engineering and Head of Centre for Computational Engineering Sciences
• Dr. Tom-Robin Teschner - Lecturer in Computational Fluid Dynamics
• Dr. Laszlo Konozsy - Reader (Associate Professor) in Fluid Mechanics and Computational Engineering
• Dr. Irene Moulitsas - Senior Lecturer in Scientific Computing
• Dr. Panagiotis Tsoutsanis - Reader in Computational Fluid Dynamics & Head of Advanced Numerical Methods Group
• Dr. Antonios Antoniadis - Lecturer in Computational Engineering Science
• Dr. Salvatore Filippone - Lecturer in Software Engineering for Technical Computing
• Dr. Peter Sherar - Leaver returned as consultant

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Unique Approach

• Industry-led curriculum ensures program relevance to real-world needs and industry expectations.
• Strategic links with the industry provide internships, visiting lectures, and industrial seminars.
• Emphasis on cross-disciplinary education and knowledge transfer.

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Careers

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Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are employed in a range of roles, including:

• Aerospace Engineer
• Business Engineer
• CFD Application Engineer
• Computational Modelling Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Data Science Specialist
• Flight Operations Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Pilot Officer
• Research and Development Project Manager
• Software Development Engineer
• Structural Engineer
• Technical Project Leader
• Test & Reliability Engineer

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Companies Hiring Graduates

Graduates are sought after by:

• Airbus
• Capgemini Engineering
• Dassault Aviation
• easyJet
• Safran Engineering Services
• Thales
• Volvo Group
• Yodel

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Further Education

Some graduates pursue PhD degrees in research projects often proposed by industrial companies related to unsolved engineering problems or academic research in computational engineering.

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Other

The program offers:

• A part-time option for professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge while continuing employment.
• A peaceful campus location in the English countryside.
• Opportunities for international students, including funding and scholarships.
• Outstanding career support services and resources.