Aerospace Engineering Masters (MSc)

Program Overview

This MSc in Aerospace Engineering prepares students for careers in the aerospace industry, focusing on practical skills and emerging technologies. Through compulsory modules in simulation, flight dynamics, modelling, research methods, and a project, graduates develop problem-solving, analytical, and teamwork abilities essential for aerospace engineering. The program offers optional modules to customize studies, and students benefit from experienced staff, excellent facilities, strong industry links, and opportunities for field trips and research.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc in Aerospace Engineering is designed to address skills gaps within the aerospace industry. The program focuses on developing skills in the design, development, testing, and production of flying vehicles. It emphasizes practical learning and incorporates emerging technologies within the industry. The program aims to equip graduates with the ability to solve complex, real-world engineering problems autonomously. It is ideal for individuals seeking to start or advance their careers in aerospace engineering by developing leadership, analytical, and teamwork skills.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• Full-time or part-time study options available.
• Duration: 1 year (full-time).
• Start Dates: September 2024 and January 2025.
• Delivery: In-person.
• Sandwich option: Available.

Modules:

• Aircraft Flight Physics: Investigates the influence of high-speed aerodynamics on the flight dynamics of flexible aircraft during different flight phases.
• Computational Modelling: Develops skills in various modelling and simulation methods, explaining the underlying conceptual and mathematical foundations and providing real engineering challenges.
• Research Methods: Develops skills for conducting technical studies effectively at an advanced level.
• MSc Project (Engineering): Undertakes an advanced-level project involving research and originality, encompassing the design of a system, service, or product, incorporating aspects of current research or advanced developments.
• Optional Modules:
• Aerospace Structures and Materials:
Investigates material selection, structural assembly, and the challenges of material degradation, assessing their impact on aerospace vehicle structures.
• Advanced Aerodynamics and Propulsion: Provides a technical overview of main aerospace engine types, enabling performance calculations in their respective applications.
• Microcontroller Systems: Develops a unique and specialist skillset in designing and implementing microcontroller systems through practical skills in embedded software development and hardware interfacing.

Teaching:

• Delivered by experienced, professionally qualified staff.
• Oversight by an Industry Advisory Committee.
• Fluid and Thermodynamics Laboratory
• Additive Manufacturing Laboratory
• Advanced Composites Workshop
• Aerospace Workshop
• CNC Manufacturing Workshop
• Engineering Innovation Centre
• Fabrication Workshop
• Flight Simulator Suite
• Innovation Projects Workshop
• Wind Tunnel Laboratory
• The Library (Preston Campus)
• Guest lectures and masterclasses on topics such as:
• Effective use of software packages for computer-aided design
• Computational fluid dynamics
• Finite element analysis
• Strong industry links, providing opportunities for guest lectures and other learning enhancements.
• Encouragement to join the Royal Aeronautical Society and participate in local branch events.

Careers:

• Potential career paths in:
• Aerospace
• Space
• Defence
• Automotive
• Biotechnology
• Energy and manufacturing
• Close working relationships with industry partners seeking new talent.
• Opportunities for research and teaching, including postgraduate research degrees.
• Transferable skills applicable to a wide range of areas, including aerospace, robotics, design, building, prototyping, and platform development.
• Graduate job opportunities in defence, automotive, and environmental industries.

Other:

• The program is taught by the School of Engineering and Computing.
• The Aerospace Engineering Society organizes lectures, events, visits, and competitions.
• The program has been designed to be tailored around areas of interest, offering a combination of set and optional modules.
• The program provides additional, dedicated support for those pursuing the placement route, assisting in finding 6 to 12 month placements.
• Students have opportunities to participate in field trips and site visits, experiencing live projects.
• The program has been designed with input from renowned industry links.
• The program has received £3.2m investment in unmanned air systems (UAS) technology.
• The program has a flying field for UAV testing located 20 minutes from the Preston Campus.
• The program is subject to ongoing review and development.
• Changes may be necessary to comply with accrediting bodies, subject benchmark statements, or student feedback.
• The University reserves the right to make variations if deemed necessary or in the best interests of students.

UK:

• Full-time: £9,000 per year
• Sandwich year: £2,500 for the sandwich year
• Part-time: £1,000 per 20 credits

International:

• Full-time: £16,900 per year