Aerospace Engineering MSc

Postgraduate

Engineer working on the outside of a plane

Our Aerospace Engineering MSc is designed to expand your knowledge and expertise in aerospace and aeronautical engineering.

Year of entry

2024-25

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

1 year full-time
2 years part-time
2 years sandwich

Course code

EECT027

Start date

September 2024

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

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Course overview

This course covers subjects such as advanced computer-aided engineering for aerodynamics and structures simulation, experimental methods to analyse structures and materials, and emerging aircraft technologies like unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones.

The aviation and aerospace industry are committed to a sustainable future and our course covers the appropriate techniques, methods and subjects within this ever-changing industrial environment in more detail.
With an emphasis on applied technical work, particular prominence is given to the developments in aircraft autonomy, the design and analysis of aircraft structures, computational fluid dynamics, advanced materials and processes, flight simulation and experimental methods.
You will have the option to apply for a ‘work placement’ opportunity², designed to further develop your skills and knowledge with the aim of maximising your employability prospects. See modules for more information.

Joint Top Modern University for Career Prospects

Guardian University Guide 2021 and 2022

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 UK Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2024

Why you should study this course

Accredited¹ by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), the world's only professional body dedicated to the entire aerospace community.
On and off-site access to commercial engineering software such as 3D CAD, Finite Element Analysis, Computational Fluid Dynamics, as well as training in industry-standard Abacus, SolidWorks, STAR-CCM+, SIMPACK, and Granta Edupack software. Matlab/Simulink software is also available for advanced engineering simulation.
A flight test experience activity has previously been organised by the university and has contributed to student satisfaction (subject to availability).
Our campus buildings provide you with access to facilities including wind tunnels, a composites lab, a metrology lab, a flow measurement lab, an automotive workshop and automotive engine test cell facilities, a model-making shop with laser, foam cutting and woodworking facilities that can be available for individual aerospace projects, fatigue and tensile testing (Instron) equipment, a full-size Harrier Jet, full-scale flight simulators with multiple flight data channels, a range of CNC machinery and a laser workshop (all subject to availability).

Accreditation and professional recognition

This course is accredited¹ and recognised by the following bodies:

Royal Aeronautical Society

Aerospace Engineering MSc is currently accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) up to and including the September 2026 intake, as fully meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.

Studying Aerospace Engineering at Coventry University was my best decision in becoming an engineer. It has taught me engineering principles and standards, strongly supported my professional development and introduced me to the industry. Not only does the course teach engineering subjects and their application in industry, but it also hosts engineering societies, allows for students to gain experience, and provides full support for job application process, which effectively helped me secure position as a professional engineer.
Sebastian Syncerz, Aerospace Engineering MSc graduate, quoted February 2022

head shot of Sebastian in graduation gown and hat

What you'll study

Modules

Computational Fluid Dynamics – 15 credits

Autonomous Aerospace Vehicle Systems – 15 credits

This module has been designed to expose you to the future aerospace concept of autonomous aerospace vehicles, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems and spacecraft systems. You will learn about autonomous aerospace vehicles with an emphasis on UAVs and the necessary associated systems and equipment, including their guidance, navigation and control systems, databases, communication systems and engine selection and optimisation.

Compulsory

Mathematical Modelling in Aerospace Engineering – 15 credits

The aim of this module is to introduce you to the fundamental principles of mathematical modelling, to either capture the key physical mechanisms that dominate engineering applications, or extract the underlying pattern of behaviour from available, collected or generated data.

Compulsory

Aerospace Structures Design and Analysis – 15 credits

Flight Dynamics and Simulation – 15 credits

Experimental Methods and Techniques – 15 credits

Advanced Engineering Materials and Manufacturing – 15 credits

The module is specifically designed to provide analytical material selection methodologies together with the material science that underpins the relationship between microstructure, processing and material properties for metallic, ceramic, polymeric and composite materials.

Compulsory

Project Management – 15 credits

This module aims to prepare you for managing organisational change through projects. It focuses on projects involving major changes, including projects related to new products, new plant and equipment and new operating systems, which will affect the lives of people both within and outside the organisation.

Compulsory

Individual project – 60 credits

The Individual Project provides an opportunity for you to apply theories and techniques from your taught modules. It may focus on one area of study or involve a combination of subjects. You will also develop a personal development portfolio during the course and submit this together with the project.

Compulsory

With work placement pathway

The ‘With work placement’ opportunity² enables you to apply in semester 1 for an optional work placement of up to 12 months, extending the duration of your master’s to 24 months. The placement provides an opportunity for you to develop expertise and experience in your chosen field with the aim of enhancing your employability upon graduation. The work placement would take place in semesters 3, 4 and 5.

Please note that the optional placement modules will incur an additional tuition fee of £4,000. Placement opportunities may also be subject to additional costs, visa requirements being met, subject to availability and/or competitive application. Work placements are not guaranteed but you will benefit from the support of our Talent Team in trying to find and secure an opportunity. Find out more about the work placement option.

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

In a typical week, your contact hours will be divided amongst:

Personal tutorials
Group teaching in tutorial sessions
Labs and workshop activities⁴
Group teaching in lectures

This course can be studied on a full-time or part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Therefore, the part-time teaching arrangements vary. Please request information about studying this course part-time.

Teaching contact hours

The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 12 contact hours per week in the taught semesters. In addition, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study each week, approximately 30-35 hours depending on the demands of individual modules.

Your project-based semester will be supervisor-supported, self-directed study in the region of 45 hours per week as well as supervisor meetings around 1 hour per week and optional workshops supporting your project which can add up to 10 additional hours across your project semester.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods may include reports, tests, exams, practical coursework and presentations as part of individual assignments or group work elements.

The Coventry University assessment strategy aims to ensure that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

The university is committed to providing a global educational experience², which is reflected throughout the teaching experience. The course has previously recruited diverse international graduates and promotes multicultural experiences.

We have a teaching and research collaboration with Bologna University in Italy, which has enabled guest lectures by Bologna staff to Coventry University students and by Coventry University to Bologna University students, as well as research collaborations. We have also developed a range of associations with institutions across the globe to expand study abroad and collaborative project opportunities, including Onera in France, Emirates Aviation University, Rolls Royce, MBDA, Airbus Defence and Space, to name a few.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2024/25 entry.

The normal entry route to the course will be through a minimum 2:2 honours degree in aerospace/aeronautical engineering or a related subject area. Applicants offering equivalent professional qualifications and experience will be considered on merit.

Students who do not fit with the above entry requirements are invited to apply and their degrees and experience will be assessed for appropriate content by the course director.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications; speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international pre-master's. Upon successful completion our International Pre-Master's - Engineering will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this postgraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

Some international students may require an ATAS certificate to study this course. For further information see our ATAS Certificates web page.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course. For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Fees and funding

2024/25 tuition fees.

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£11,200 \| £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year	Request fee information
EU	£11,200 \| £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year with EU Support Bursary £18,600 \| £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	£18,600 \| £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year	Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees³and student loans visit our Postgraduate Finance page and see the university's Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Our aim is to offer you sector-leading facilities⁴.

Student looking at monitors analysing flight navigation

Flight Simulators

Our simulators create an exciting way to learn, with 61 channels of flight data which can be analysed to assess the accuracy of a students’ own design. The simulators are incorporated into an air traffic control environment.

Harrier Jet

Our Harrier T4 allows you to gain hands-on experience with the parts, tools and mechanical aspects of a real aircraft. It is used by many engineering disciplines to learn how an aircraft works and how to maintain it.

Wind Tunnel

Built and tested by the Mercedes AMG PETRONAS Formula One team, our open jet single return wind tunnel is used for teaching aerodynamics. You can also test your project work, such as wings, plane tails or full aircraft models.

Careers and opportunities

Upon successful completion, you will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: advanced principles of flight dynamics, structures, aerodynamics, materials, advanced engineering modelling techniques and aerospace-related systems (and their future applications); advanced analysis and design tools and processes; the implementation and critical evaluation of design solutions through simulation and practical applications; the planning, execution and critical evaluation of projects in the field of aerospace-related systems at a professional level.
Conceptualise complex technical aspects of future aerospace systems.
Conduct detailed and systematic technical analyses of aspects of current/future aerospace systems.
Devise technical solutions to problems in the design and implementation of current/future aerospace systems.
Critically evaluate solutions devised to problems arising in the design and implementation of aspects of future aerospace systems.
Select, apply and critically appraise tools and techniques of advanced analysis and design.
Implement appropriate software and hardware solutions and simulations and critically evaluate the outcomes.
Plan, perform, critically evaluate and present the results of an independent project in chosen specialist subject area.

The specialist topics studied on the programme are designed to prepare you for work in companies involved with aeronautical engineering, but there are also many roles in related industries that rely on the same technology, such as the automotive industry. Possible destinations could include the fields of design, development, operations and management, as well as projects, systems, structural and avionics engineers.

On successful completion, you will have developed a wide range of transferrable professional and technical skills including the ability to produce technical, written reports and deliver oral presentations, engage in self-directed study, operate as part of a team, demonstrate a critical awareness of professional, legal, social and ethical issues.

Where our graduates work

Previous graduates have obtained jobs as aerospace systems analysts, senior manufacturing engineer and systems engineers at companies including Meggit, Rolls-Royce, BAE, SEMP Ltd, as well as in the automotive industry with Jaguar Land Rover and more internationally at Singapore Aerospace Manufacturing (SAM) for example.

Graduate Immigration Route visa

Based on current information from the UK Government, international students whose study extends beyond summer 2021 may be eligible for a visa under the UK Government’s Graduate Immigration Route, which will enable students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two (2) years. Check the most up to date guidance available to check your eligibility and any updates from the UK Government before making an application or enrolment decision.

How to apply

UK students

To apply to study for a postgraduate course at Coventry University, you can apply online.

Full-time applications

Part-time applications

For further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Chat with our admissions team

Complete our contact form.

International students

Full-time international students should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for postgraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International guide which contains lots of useful information about our courses, accommodation and tips for travel.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

applications.io@coventry.ac.uk

Chat with our admissions team.

Complete our contact form.

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

⁴Facilities

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2023/2024 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2024/25 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.