University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This three-year honours programme covers the core science and engineering principles required for careers in the aerospace sector, combining theoretical modules with laboratory work and team design projects.

• Year 1 / Foundation topics: engineering mathematics, mechanics, materials and manufacturing, introduction to aerodynamics, programming for engineers and laboratory skills.
• Year 2 / Core aerospace topics: fluid dynamics and aerodynamics, aircraft structures and stress analysis, thermodynamics and propulsion fundamentals, flight mechanics and stability, control systems and instrumentation, and computational methods (including basic CFD and numerical analysis).
• Year 3 / Advanced and design: advanced aerodynamics and aeroelasticity, advanced propulsion concepts, systems engineering and integration, multidisciplinary design project or capstone, specialist optional modules such as spacecraft engineering, advanced structural design, fatigue and fracture mechanics, or experimental aerodynamics.

Teaching methods include lectures, small-group tutorials, computer labs, practical laboratory sessions and project work. Assessment typically combines exams, coursework, laboratory reports and group design projects. There are opportunities to undertake an industrial placement year or a shorter work-based project depending on the route you choose.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally demonstrate strong performance in mathematics and physics at pre-university level. Typical entry expectations include:

• A-levels: strong grades with Mathematics and Physics required; Further Mathematics is highly recommended when available.
• International Baccalaureate: competitive total with Higher Level study in Mathematics and Physics.
• Other qualifications: equivalent qualifications such as BTEC plus appropriate maths components, international qualifications and recognised access routes are considered; applicants may be asked to show evidence of solid numeracy and problem-solving ability.

Admissions also take into account personal statements, references and any practical or project experience. Mature applicants and those with relevant industrial experience or a foundation year are welcomed; discretionary entry routes are available.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme progress into roles across the aerospace, defence, automotive and related high-technology sectors. Typical career destinations include:

• aerodynamicist or aerodynamic analyst
• aircraft or spacecraft structural engineer
• propulsion and jet engine engineer
• systems engineer and integration specialist
• flight test and performance engineer
• design engineer in OEMs, tier-1 suppliers or specialist consultancies

Many graduates enter graduate training schemes with major manufacturers, suppliers and engineering consultancies; others progress to further study (integrated MEng, MSc or PhD) or work in research and development, project management or technical sales and support roles.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a broad engineering curriculum with access to research-active staff and strong links to industry that help keep teaching aligned with current engineering practice. The school provides modern teaching facilities and computing resources for simulation and analysis, supported by practical lab sessions and project-based learning.

Students benefit from employability support, established employer links for placements and graduate recruitment, and extra-curricular opportunities such as student-led design teams and aerospace-focused societies that give practical experience in design, manufacture and testing. The campus environment and central support services aim to help students develop both technical expertise and professional skills valued by employers in the aerospace sector.