Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc

Program Overview

The Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc at Cranfield University is a one-year postgraduate program with three pathways: Aircraft Design, Avionics Systems Design, and Structural Design. It equips students with the technical, business, and management skills necessary for careers in the aerospace industry. The program features a group design project, individual research project, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the National Flying Laboratory Centre's light aircraft. Graduates are highly sought after by major aerospace companies and are eligible for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.

Program Outline

Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc

Degree Overview

The Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc is a postgraduate program offered by Cranfield University. It is a one-year program with three specialist pathways to choose from:

• Aircraft Design
• Avionics Systems Design
• Structural Design (available for September intake only)
The program aims to build your knowledge of the design of a wide variety of flying vehicles, with a focus on the technical, business, and management aspects that encompass aircraft design in the civil and military aerospace sectors. The program integrates a range of disciplines required for modern aircraft design and covers topics such as:
• Aircraft systems design
• Avionic systems design
• Design for manufacture
• Initial aircraft design
• Operation and cost
• Propulsion integration
• Stability and performance
• Structural design and airframe
The program is open to students with a first or upper second class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in any relevant discipline. Applicants who do not fulfill the standard entry requirements can apply for the Pre-master's course, which prepares them for entry to the MSc program for a second year of study.

Outline

September Intake:

• Term 1:
• Thermodynamics & Propulsion Systems
• Aircraft Structures 1
• Flight Mechanics
• Aerodynamics: Fundamentals
• Introduction to Aircraft Design
• Group Design Project (start)
• Individual Research Project (preparation)
• Term 2:
• Aircraft Systems Design
• Avionic Systems Design
• Aircraft Structures 2
• Aerodynamics: Subsonic & Performance
• Flight Dynamics & Stability
• Group Design Project (continue)
• Individual Research Project (start)
• Term 3:
• Initial Vehicle Design
• Design for Manufacture
• Management & Economics for Aerospace
• Aircraft Design Optimisation
• Group Design Project (completion)
• Individual Research Project (continue)
• September - March:
• Individual Research Project (completion)

March Intake:

• Term 1:
• Aircraft Performance
• Flight Mechanics & Control
• Aircraft Structures 1
• Aerodynamics: Fundamentals
• Group Design Project (start)
• Individual Research Project (preparation)
• Term 2:
• Aerodynamics: Subsonic & Performance
• Aircraft Systems Design
• Avionic Systems Design
• Aircraft Structures 2
• Group Design Project (continue)
• Individual Research Project (start)
• Term 3:
• Initial Vehicle Design
• Design for Manufacture
• Management & Economics for Aerospace
• Aircraft Design Optimisation
• Group Design Project (completion)
• Individual Research Project (continue)
• March - August:
• Individual Research Project (completion)

Individual Modules:

• Thermodynamic & Propulsion Systems
• Aircraft Structures 1 & 2
• Flight Mechanics
• Aerodynamics: Fundamentals, Subsonic & Performance
• Introduction to Aircraft Design
• Aircraft Systems Design
• Avionic Systems Design
• Flight Dynamics & Stability
• Initial Vehicle Design
• Design for Manufacture
• Management & Economics for Aerospace
• Aircraft Design Optimisation

Assessment

The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Exams: Written exams are used to assess your knowledge and understanding of the theoretical aspects of the program.
• Coursework: This can include assignments, essays, and presentations that allow you to demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world problems.
• Group Design Project: This project allows you to work in a team to design and develop a new aircraft.
The project is assessed on the basis of your written report, your oral presentation, and the quality of your design.
• Individual Research Project: This project allows you to research a topic of your choice and write a dissertation.
The project is assessed on the basis of your written dissertation and your oral presentation.

Teaching

The program is taught by a team of experienced lecturers and researchers who are experts in their field. The teaching is delivered through a variety of methods, including lectures, tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions, and site visits. The program also has access to a range of facilities, including the National Flying Laboratory Centre's (NFLC) light aircraft, which students can use to fly during a Student Experience Flight.

Careers

The Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc program prepares graduates for careers in the aerospace industry, including roles in:

• Aircraft design
• Avionic systems design
• Structural design
• Project management
• Research and development
Graduates of the program have gone on to work for major aerospace companies such as Airbus, BAE Systems, and Boeing.

Other

The Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc program has been accredited by Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). The program also has a strong reputation for research, with staff actively involved in cutting-edge research in all aspects of aerospace engineering.

Summary

The Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc program is a challenging and rewarding program that prepares graduates for successful careers in the aerospace industry. The program is well-regarded by employers and offers students access to excellent teaching, facilities, and resources.