Aerospace Engineering Masters (MSc)

Program Overview

Students will gain expertise in areas such as computational fluid dynamics, finite element analysis, and advanced materials, while also developing their analytical, research, and entrepreneurial abilities.

Program Outline

You will apply techniques such as advanced computer-based design, Computational Fluid Dynamics and Finite Elements Analysis. Complementary subjects include advanced CAD/CAM and green engineering and energy efficiency.

Outline:

Mode Duration Attendance Start date

Full time 1 year Delivered in one-week blocks September 2024, January 2025 Full time 2 years including professional placement Delivered in one-week blocks plus placement year September 2024, January 2025 Part time 2 years Delivered in one-week blocks September 2024, January 2025 Complementary subjects covered include computer-integrated product development, advanced CAD/CAM plus green engineering and energy efficiency. In addition, the Engineering Research Techniques, Entrepreneurship and Quality Management module will develop your business and management skills. As well as the professional, analytical and management skills necessary for employment, the course will provide you with the transferable skills required in the workplace, such as communication, IT, teamwork, planning, decision making, independent learning ability and problem solving. Students will be supported by our dedicated placement team in securing this opportunity. In the lectures, emphasis is placed on the numerical models and analytical techniques in fluid dynamics and heat transfer and some of the more advanced theories behind CFD. The module also provides you with advanced computational knowledge in fluid dynamics, therefore enhancing your employment potential in a wide range of industries. Currently, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is widely used in engineering design of advanced structures. A structure could have several bending and torsional modes and with every mode there will be a corresponding natural frequency, damping ratio and mode shape.

• Aerospace Design & Analysis (15 credits) Computers and software are normally used in modern engineering design and manufacture of advanced products and processes.
• Research Techniques, Innovation & Sustainability (15 credits) Research Techniques, Innovation and Sustainability equips you with the skills and knowledge required to select and justify a research topic and then to plan and execute that research project.
This module introduces research in these contexts and allows you to develop your own research plan. You will also develop your innovation skills through a combination of workshops and team working, resulting in submission of an innovation proposal aimed to address UN Sustainable Development Goal 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities. In undertaking the dissertation, you will develop not only a deeper understanding of your subject area but will also be able to demonstrate a high level of autonomy in terms of project dissertation planning and management. You will be able to demonstrate knowledge and competence in reviewing existing published literature and data and, through your own efforts, apply one or more of a range of research methods to collect and analyse data and draw well-founded conclusions as a result of your research.

Optional Modules:

• Advanced CAD/CAM Systems (15 credits) This module covers advanced CAD and CAM techniques in conceptual design and manufacture and is heavily focussed on rapid manufacturing methods involving mould design, machining tool path optimisation and full machining simulation verification, and machining collision avoidance subjects will also be covered.
• Advanced Control Systems (15 credits) This module introduces you to classical control system analysis and design concepts.
Time domain design methods are followed by frequency domain design methods. Although the module mainly deals with continuous-time systems, the discrete-time systems are also discussed. Digital competency is fostered by the use of simulation tools such as MATLAB & SIMULINK. Adaptability is nurtured as you navigate between time and frequency domain design methods and different types of control systems. It provides you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and develops and enhances key employability and subject specific skills in your chosen discipline. It is your responsibility to find and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this should not normally involve more than two placements which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months.

Assessment:

Assessment typically comprises exams (e.g. test or exam), practical (e.g. presentations, performance) and coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation).

Type of assessment Year 1

Coursework: 84% Exams: 13% Staff have a wide range of experience across research and industry and continue to practise and research at the cutting edge of their discipline. We offer a wide range of specialist facilities on site, supported with software technology and laboratory technicians. Today we are the largest aerospace provider in higher education (HESA data 07/08). Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.

Careers:

Graduates have gained positions at Rolls-Royce, CAA, Sterling Aerospace, Marshalls Aerospace, Royal Navy, AmSafe Armour, Solion Solar Energy, EasyJet, Lufthansa, Flybe, Hawker Hind and Precision Press Parts Corp.

• airload master in the Royal Air Force, Swindon
• lead trial officer in the Army, Wiltshire
• mission system officer in the Royal Air Force, Wiltshire
• research requirement engineer in the Royal Navy, Malvern
• team systems leader in the Royal Air Force, Wiltshire
The course will develop your professional, analytical, research, business and management skills, as well as improving your technical skills and knowledge. For example, you will gain communication, teamwork, planning, decision-making, IT and problem-solving skills which enhance your prospects of gaining employment and progressing your career in the aerospace industry. The programme is built on a comprehensive application of techniques such as advanced computer-based design, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Elements Analysis (FEA). Each module combines a stimulating mix of lectures, practical laboratory work, group work, case studies and presentations. You can choose to study either full time or part time to fit in with work commitments. September and January start dates give you extra flexibility. Postgraduates of this course have taken up posts in a variety of employment settings including Rolls-Royce, CAA, Sterling Aerospace, Marshalls Aerospace, Royal Navy, AmSafe Armour, Solion Solar Energy, easyJet, Lufthansa, Flybe, Hawker Hind and Precision Press Parts Corp. Some postgraduates have continued their studies in PhD research projects. We also encourage women from all backgrounds into the field. Ifrah Mussa – PhD Researcher in Aerospace Engineering Some examples include work with:
• Matra-Marconi Space Ltd;
• Ericsson;
• Balfour Beatty;
• The National Health Service; and
• British Gas.
It provides you with the challenge of undertaking a real-world problem in a virtual engineering environment.

Research areas:

Many academic staff are engaged in a range of research and consultancy activities funded by the Research Councils, the European Union, the government, trade unions and industry. The Aerospace Research Group specialises in space activities, ranging from electric propulsion and planetary robotic exploration to in-orbit servicing technology development. Current research projects are investigating topics within:

• computational fluid dynamics
• aircraft structures
• astronautics and space systems.
• large-scale wind tunnels that enable testing in winds of up to 90 miles per hour
• industry-standard test and experimental equipment for metrology, robotics, rapid prototyping, fatigue and quality control.
We also have a dedicated postgraduate workroom with high spec PCs and a range of software. Computer-aided design facilities include:
• a range of CAD/CAM packages, such as Ideas, SolidWorks and AutoCad
• finite element analysis
• computational fluid dynamics
• virtual instrumentation.
The Faculty has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques.

Placement Profile:

Name: Ruchini Sumithrarachchi Course: MSc Aerospace Engineering Placement role: System Engineer Year: 2018/19 There were three more activities to be completed during the assessment day, which were a group project, a written test and a short pitch delivery. What will your placement role involve? During my placement I will be completing two six-month placements. So far I have been involved mainly in three projects:

• Project 2: Developing a Risk and Issue managing tool.
• Project 3: Validation of a Surveillance overview presentation.
The main area is working as a team and making decisions and improvements as a team. How do you feel that doing a placement will benefit your course and future employment? And I've had the opportunity of delivering a few presentations so far. I could see a major improvement in my presentation skills, which my managers have commented, which will be beneficial in the future. Are there any other benefits of doing a placement? Also, you gain skills specific to your industry of choice as well as the employability skills required for real-life work. What job will you be seeking when you graduate? Trust me, it is going to be difficult during the first few months. They'll be really supportive.
• Most importantly be patient and enjoy.
Course changes explained.

Home 2025/26 MSc full time £11,400 MSc part time £6,270 International 2025/26 MSc full time £19,300 MSc part time £10,615 Home 2024/25 MSc full time £10,900 MSc part time £5,995 International 2024/25 MSc full time £18,500 MSc part time £10,175