Program Overview
The Aerospace Engineer Degree Apprenticeship program combines on-the-job training with academic study at the University of Derby, providing the skills and knowledge for a career in mechanical engineering within the aerospace industry. Learners can choose between two routes: BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering (Aerospace) or BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Electronics (Aerospace). The program offers a blended learning experience with lectures, practical training, and online learning, preparing graduates for roles such as aerospace engineers, mechanical engineers, and research and development engineers in the aerospace industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Aerospace Engineer Degree Apprenticeship is a Level 6 program designed to provide specific skills and knowledge for a general career within the mechanical engineering sector in the aerospace industry. It incorporates elements of all relevant mechanical technologies and their application throughout the program. The Degree Apprenticeship aims to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors to progress in a career in mechanical engineering. Learners can choose between two specific degree routes:
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering (Aerospace): This route provides a solid background and appropriate skills for practicing as a professional Mechanical engineer within the aerospace sector and other advanced engineering sectors.
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Electronics (Aerospace): This route produces graduates who can practice successfully as professional mechanical engineers with a wider knowledge of electronics within the aerospace sector, especially concerning engine development.
Outline:
The program is a blended learning program that combines on-the-job training with academic study at the University of Derby. The program is delivered over four years and includes:
- Block study and day release: These are agreed upon with the employer and allow for practical training and on-the-job experience.
- Year 1: Applied Scientific Methods 1, Aerospace Engineering 1, Electrical Principles and Analysis, Analogue and Digital Electronics, Materials and Manufacturing Processes, Business Management and Regulations
- Year 2: Electronic Systems, Thermofluids, Advanced Applied Analytical Methods 2, Structural Analysis and Materials
- Year 3: Aerospace Engineering 2, Control and Instrumentation, Embedded Systems, Advanced Mechanical Design and Materials
- Year 4: Advanced Engineering Design Modelling, Applied Thermodynamics, Independent Study and Professional Development
- Year 1: Applied Scientific Methods 1, Aerospace Engineering 1, Computer-aided Design, Materials and Manufacturing Processes, Business Management and Regulations, Mechanical Design and Modelling
- Year 2: Aerospace Engineering 2, Advanced Applied Analytical Methods, Thermofluids, Structural Analysis and Materials, Corporate Responsibility and Professional Development
- Year 3: Computational Fluid Dynamics, Vibration and Dynamics, Advanced Engineering Design Modelling, Applied Thermodynamics
- Year 4: Advanced Mechanical Design and Materials, Independent Study and Professional Development
Assessment:
The program includes a combination of assessments, including:
- On-the-job assessments: These are conducted by the employer and assess the learner's practical skills and knowledge.
- University assessments: These include coursework, exams, and presentations.
- End-point assessment: This is a final assessment that is conducted by an independent assessor and assesses the learner's overall competence.
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced academics and industry professionals. The teaching methods include:
- Lectures: These provide a theoretical foundation for the program.
- Workshops: These provide hands-on experience with the practical aspects of the program.
- Online learning: This allows for flexible learning and provides access to a wide range of resources.
- Industry visits: These provide an opportunity to see how the theory learned in the program is applied in real-world settings.
Careers:
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be qualified to work as mechanical engineers in the aerospace industry. Potential career paths include:
- Aerospace engineer: Designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace systems.
- Mechanical engineer: Designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and components.
- Research and development engineer: Conducting research and development activities in the aerospace industry.
- Project manager: Managing engineering projects in the aerospace industry.
Other:
- The program provides access to state-of-the-art industry-focused laboratories, including those dedicated to materials testing, composite materials, advanced manufacturing, thermofluids, robotics, materials categorization, advanced design, and additive manufacturing.
- The curriculum has been designed to reflect the latest developments in mechanical, materials, and manufacturing engineering within the aerospace industry.
