What you will study
You can choose to take an optional sandwich year between Years 2 and 3 (BEng(Hons)) and Year 3 (MEng only). MEng students have to study and earn 120 credits in Year 3 while taking their industrial placement using work-based learning by carrying out an industrial individual project as well as applied business and management analysis. They also need to study an aerospace engineering science module using blended/distance learning model (subject to RAeS accreditation).
The Space Technology pathway is the same as the standard programme for the first two years but students are expected to work on a
space-related project in the Engineering Project Management module at level 5. In the final year students must take Space Vehicle
Design and work on a space related individual project and group project.
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list as these could change before your year of entry.
Year 1
Year 1 provides an introduction to aerospace engineering under Professional Practice, and will underpin the skills and knowledge required for further specialised study. You will study a mix of analytical subjects, such as mathematics, structures, dynamics, electronics, thermodynamics and engineering applications, alongside an introduction to the profession of engineering.
Core modules
Introduction to Engineering Design and Manufacture
30 credits
The principal aim of this module is to provide students with a flavour of what is involved in engineering design and to develop the good academic and professional practice needed to succeed during the course and attain professional status.
The module introduces the key aspects involved in:
- planning a project from start to finish,
- design processes incorporating a sustainability agenda,
- building an awareness of the interactions across various disciplines,
- regulatory frameworks and Health and Safety procedures.
The module develops good academic and professional practice by developing skills in self-reflection and recording professional development. The basic principles of measurement and manufacturing processes in a workshop and testing environment are also addressed in the module.
Engineering Mechanics, Structures & Materials
30 credits
The module introduces you to the fundamentals of structural analysis (statics and dynamics) and the mechanical behaviour of a broad range of engineering materials. The mechanics part provides an understanding of the behaviour of particles and rigid bodies whilst stationary and in motion. Bodies such as trusses in equilibrium are studied and the external and internal parameters such as force, moment, stress, strain, etc. are defined and calculated. The analysis of structural components will be developed with theoretical and numerical skills that are necessary in the design of real world structures. This section also introduces the dynamics of particles and rigid bodies with their engineering applications. Material test methods will be used to determine the deformations and failures of the various engineering materials. A selection of materials for engineering applications, such as metals, ceramics, polymers and composites, will be studied including their carbon footprint and their impact on the environment. The module is primarily delivered through lectures supported by tutorial sessions and laboratories.
Engineering Mathematics and Computing Applications
30 credits
The aim of this module is to provide a thorough background in engineering mathematics and equip you with the mathematical skills essential for solving engineering problems. The module also introduces the use of computing methods in engineering. The mathematics part comprises algebra, functions, logarithms, trigonometry, calculus, differential equations and vectors. The computing part covers the use of software for problem solving, visualisation and data representation. The emphasis is on using mathematical and computational tools to solve engineering problems.
Fluid Mechanics and Engineering Science
30 credits
This module introduces you to the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and engineering science. Taught to mechanical, aerospace and civil engineering students, it will use this broad audience to enhance a collaborative learning environment. The fluid mechanics section will cover the fundamental properties of fluids and the main basic conservation equations used and their engineering applications. It also introduces the concept of dimensions and the SI units of measurement. The engineering science section will consider subject areas relevant to each discipline. For mechanical and aerospace engineering students it will introduce thermodynamics and electrical engineering and for civil engineering students it will consider soil mechanics. The thermodynamics topic covers the key concepts of system, work, heat and the main thermodynamics laws with special reference to their engineering applications. The electrical engineering section covers the basic concepts and electrical quantities such as charge, current, resistance, voltage, power and energy before looking at fundamental electrical components and how they can be incorporated into both AC and DC circuits. The soil mechanics topic will introduce the fundamental properties of soils and their essential aspects.
