Aeronautical Engineering

Program Overview

The Department of Aeronautics aims to provide a program that trains and prepares future leaders in aerospace and related engineering disciplines. This is achieved through an integrated program of study wherein students engage with constituent engineering disciplines such as aerodynamics and solid mechanics from the outset.

The study programs offered to share a common core over years 1-3, with students subsequently tailoring their program of studies to their interests, by choosing from a wide offering of elective modules, choosing to specialize in spacecraft engineering, or completing a year-in-industry and year-abroad placement.

What can you expect from your degree?

• The first year introduces students to the fundamental engineering disciplines associated with aerospace engineering, placing a strong emphasis on mathematics and building a strong foundation for further study. Students are further introduced to computer programming and the use of numerical methods for solving scientific problems, as well as computer-aided design software. Students apply these new skills to the design, manufacture, and testing of a wind turbine.
• In the second year, students continue to study core subjects, such as aerodynamics, solid mechanics, flight mechanics, and propulsion in greater detail and depth. Additional practice with computer programming and design is provided. As part of their studies, students are further afforded the ability to attend the flight-testing course at the Flying Laboratory Centre at Cranfield University.
• A major part of the 3rd year is the group design project, where the class is split into design teams. Each team has to develop a particular design concept to the stage where the feasibility has been fully explored. Projects in recent years have included a "flying wing" passenger aircraft and an advanced tactical stealth fighter, a manned mission to mars, and an electric racing car.