Cranfield University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations of fluid dynamics with practical training in modern CFD tools and high-performance computing. Core topics typically include numerical methods for partial differential equations, finite-volume and finite-element discretisation, meshing strategies, stability and convergence, and verification & validation. You will study turbulence modelling (RANS, LES, hybrid approaches), compressible and incompressible flow solvers, conjugate heat transfer, multiphase flows and reacting flows where relevant to application areas such as propulsion and power systems.

Practical modules emphasise hands-on use of commercial and open-source CFD codes, in-house research codes and pre-/post-processing tools, together with scripting for automation and parallel performance tuning. The course normally culminates in an individual research project or industry-linked dissertation that applies CFD to a realistic engineering challenge, often using Cranfield's experimental facilities and HPC resources.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a good honours degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, civil engineering, applied mathematics, physics or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a lower-class degree plus relevant industry experience may be considered.

Essential background knowledge includes undergraduate-level fluid mechanics, numerical methods and mathematics (calculus, linear algebra). Practical experience with programming or engineering software (for example Python, MATLAB, Fortran, C++ or commercial CFD packages) is highly desirable.

International applicants must meet English language requirements; evidence of proficiency (such as recognised English tests or prior study in English) will be required if your first language is not English.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MSc go on to roles where numerical simulation is central to design, analysis and optimisation. Typical job titles include CFD engineer, aerodynamicist, simulation engineer, performance engineer, R&D engineer, and research scientist. Employers are found across aerospace and defence, automotive and motorsport, energy and power generation, marine and offshore industries, HVAC and process engineering consultancies, and numerical software vendors.

Many graduates also progress to doctoral research or technical specialist tracks within industry, leveraging their skills in turbulence modelling, multiphysics coupling, optimisation and high-performance computing to lead complex simulation projects.

Why study at Cranfield University

Cranfield is a postgraduate university with a strong engineering and technology focus and long-established links to industry sectors that rely on CFD. The course sits within schools and research centres that work directly with aerospace, defence, automotive and energy partners, giving students access to industry-led projects and potential placements.

Students benefit from specialist facilities and support for computational research, including access to high-performance computing, dedicated CFD labs, wind tunnels and turbomachinery test rigs for validation work. Teaching is delivered by academics active in CFD research alongside experienced industrial practitioners, so learning is grounded in current engineering practice and emerging challenges.

Small-group teaching, project-led assessment and opportunities for collaborative research make the programme especially suitable for those who want to develop into hands-on simulation specialists or continue into research and development careers.