Aerospace Engineering BEng/MEng
Study of how to design, build, analyse, and operate aircraft, spacecraft, and advanced flight systems.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in aircraft and space technology
Enjoy maths and physics
Like problem-solving
Want a career in engineering or aerospace
Are analytical and detail-oriented
Popular Career Fields
Aerospace & Defence
Engineering & Construction
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Mathematically strong
Engineering & Construction
Precision-focused
Innovation-driven
What is it?
What Is an Aerospace Engineering Degree?
Aerospace Engineering combines mechanical, electrical, and materials engineering with aerodynamics, propulsion, and flight mechanics. It focuses on how aircraft and spacecraft are designed, how they fly, and how to make them faster, lighter, safer, and more efficient.
You’ll explore everything from commercial jets and helicopters to rockets, satellites, drones, and future space vehicles. The degree teaches the science of flight, the engineering behind propulsion and structures, and the technology required to design high-performance aerospace systems.
Why Study Aerospace Engineering?
Aerospace Engineering is ideal if you’re fascinated by flight, space exploration, high-performance vehicles, or advanced engineering challenges. You’ll learn how to design aircraft, analyse aerodynamic performance, develop propulsion systems, and work with cutting-edge technologies used in aviation and space.
The field is rapidly evolving with developments in sustainable aviation, electric propulsion, autonomous flight, and commercial spaceflight.
Course Summary
Study of how to design, build, analyse, and operate aircraft, spacecraft, and advanced flight systems.
What you'll study
Most Aerospace Engineering degrees cover:
Engineering mathematics and physics
Aerodynamics and fluid dynamics
Aircraft and spacecraft structures
Flight mechanics and stability
Propulsion systems (jet engines, rockets, electric propulsion)
Materials and manufacturing for aerospace
Control systems and avionics
Aerothermal engineering
Systems engineering and simulation
Aerospace design, modelling, and testing
Later in your course, you can usually specialise in areas such as:
Space systems and orbital mechanics
Aerodynamics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
Propulsion and engine technology
Avionics and guidance systems
Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) design
Sustainable aviation and green technologies
Skills You'll Gain
An Aerospace Engineering degree develops a powerful set of technical and professional skills, including:
Aerodynamic analysis – understanding how air flows around wings and bodies.
Structural engineering – designing strong, lightweight aircraft and spacecraft.
Propulsion and thermofluids – analysing jet engines, rockets, and advanced propulsion.
Control and avionics systems – enabling safe and stable flight.
Computer modelling and simulation – using CAD, CFD, and engineering software.
Explore Uni Open Days
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Aerospace Engineers are in high demand across:
Commercial aviation
Space exploration and satellite systems
Defence and security
Drone and autonomous flight industries
Aircraft design and manufacturing
Propulsion and engine development
Research laboratories
Automotive and high-performance engineering
Renewable and future-flight technologies
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Year-long industry placements with aerospace companies
Summer internships in aviation, space, defence, or advanced manufacturing
Opportunities to work on research projects or student aerospace teams (rocketry, drone design, jet engine groups)
These experiences help you build practical engineering skills and improve your career prospects.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Maths and Physics. Further Maths is beneficial and sometimes preferred. Some universities may accept Design Technology or Computing as a third subject.
Personal Statement Tips
Show enthusiasm for aircraft, spacecraft, engineering, or physics.
Mention relevant projects — model aircraft, drones, simulations, coding, or engineering clubs.
Reflect on problem-solving, teamwork, or analytical skills.
Highlight any hands-on experience such as electronics, CAD, or mechanical work.
What to do Next
Compare course structures to see whether they emphasise aircraft, spacecraft, or both.
Visit open days or virtual tours to explore labs, hangars, and wind tunnels.
Try online tutorials for CAD, engineering maths, or aerodynamics.
Follow developments in sustainable aviation, reusable rockets, and space technology.
Wider Reading
Carry the Fire – Michael Collins: A personal and vivid account of the Apollo missions.
Introduction to Flight – John Anderson: A beginner-friendly overview of how and why aircraft fly.
The Right Stuff – Tom Wolfe: The story of early test pilots and the dawn of spaceflight.
Rocket Propulsion Elements – Sutton & Biblarz: A foundational guide to rocket engines and propulsion principles.