Aerodynamics
Postgraduate
MSc/PgDip/PgCert
Aerospace Engineering
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Attendance
Full-time
Course
One year
Next enrolment
September 2021
In a nutshell
Global aerospace is at the forefront of advanced engineering and technology. Despite the prevailing unprecedented challenges, there is long-term demand for highly-skilled aerospace engineers to help drive innovation, deliver new efficiencies, and set new benchmarks.
Aerospace engineering at Salford focuses on the design and creation of aircraft, spacecraft and associated components. Across a range of specialist modules, you will refine your analytical skills and practical knowledge of engineering devices and associated components used in the production of civil and military aircraft, spacecraft, and weapons systems.
This programme is designed to meet the requirements of the Engineering Councils Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP).
You will:
- Enhance your understanding of aerodynamics, system design and flight control
- Study in a purpose-built learning environment dedicated to aeronautics and robotics teaching and research
- Gain critical thinking skills and the confidence to make informed decisions on the design, development and manufacture of the next-generation craft and equipment
- Benefit from an expert teaching team, supported by strong connections within the aviation industry
International
students accepted
This is for you if...
1.
you are an engineering or numerate science graduate looking to refine your skills to develop a career in aviation and aerospace industries
2.
you are an experienced industry professional looking to cement or enhance your existing knowledge for career progression or diversification
3.
you aspire to be a leading aerospace engineer with long-term ambitions to work at a senior professional level in the aerospace industry
All about the course
Course delivery
Aerospace Engineering is delivered over one year full-time. For the PG Dip award, you will study four 30-credit bearing modules. For the MSc award, you will study a further 60-credit dissertation project module based on a topic of your choice.
Course content
This course curriculum explores a range of specialist engineering topics. In trimester one, you will explore Aerodynamics and Engineering Computation. In the second trimester, you'll study Aerospace Assembly, Flight Simulation, and Flight Dynamics and Control. In trimester three, you will bring together all of your learning to carry out high-level coordinated academic and practical work to form part of your final assessment.
Modules
On completion of this module you should have a comprehensive understanding and systematic understanding of knowledge and concepts of aircraft performance by modelling aerodynamic loads and propulsion system performance, leading to key results in both steady and accelerated flight. You will also learn how to predict and interpret optimal performance in cruise, climb and glide and to use predictive modelling techniques in propulsion system and airfield analysis.
You will cover:
- Detailed study of equations governing two-dimensional, compressible, inviscid aerodynamic flows
- Analysis of the aerodynamic performance of aerofoil sections over a range of flight conditions, including; subsonic, transonic, supersonic and hypersonic freestream flows
- Use of linearised flow theory results for the analysis of supersonic wing flows
Engineering Computation
This module provides a systematic understanding of knowledge on finite element analysis as a tool for the solution of practical engineering problems. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of the development of appropriate finite element models of physical systems, and how to interpret the results of the analysis. The module also covers advanced aspects of finite element analysis including harmonic vibration analysis and will give practical instruction in the use of an industry-standard finite element analysis program.
Aerospace System Design
In this module you will develop an in-depth knowledge of aerospace systems and subsystem integration. As a case study which is representative of larger aircraft, an in-depth knowledge of design to market requirements of unmanned aerial vehicles and their associated systems is a cornerstone of the module. You will design and implement system requirements relevant to integrated aerospace systems.
A key focus of this module is ‘design for manufacture’ and hence the design has to be built and tested at the end of the module. You will develop a core competency of the design, build, integrate and test procedures of aerospace systems for future requirements.
You will be able to demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the operating principles of aerospace system design and prepare system specifications and integration plans. Ground testing, documentation and flight operations manuals are produced in line with CAA guidelines and requirements. You will also develop a critical understanding of aerospace system developments for future system requirements
MSc Project and Dissertation (60 credits)
In this module you will design and undertake a substantial and unique independent research project, to be presented as an academic dissertation. The nature of the project will depend on which of the three MSc you are taking.
Choose to study one the following options listed below:
Flight Dynamics and Control
On completion of this module you will have a complete understanding of how to analyse flight dynamics and the design of flight control systems.
Aerospace Assembly
This module explores the processes associated with the assembly of very large aircraft structures, including the techniques of forming, joining and fixturing. You will be made aware of the relevant regulatory and design standards that have to be met and become familiar with the processes that must be used to ensure conformity with those standards. As part of the module you be given real engineering problems in an industrial or aerospace environment. This is your opportunity to work either as an individual or as an effective member of a group or team under the guidance of both academic and industrial managers.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Our collaborative, multidisciplinary courses will shape the next generation of scientists, engineers, consultants and conservationists. Delivered by a dedicated team of over 200 academic, technical and administrative staff, you’ll experience a supportive environment where you can realise your potential.
FACILITIES
As a leading regional centre for aeronautics and aerospace engineering study and research, we have advanced, specialist facilities:
an Aerodynamics Laboratory which features low speed and supersonic wind tunnels
a Control and Dynamics Laboratory which features a range of programmable control to test damping and short-period oscillation analysis, forced vibration and controller performance
a Merlin MP520-T Engineering Flight Simulator
an Elite Flight Training System which includes a fixed base Piper PA-34 Seneca III aircraft simulator certified by the Civil Aviation Authority as an FNPT II-Multi-Crew Cockpit training environment
What about after uni?
EMPLOYMENT
Aerospace is one of the world’s growth industries and is projected to continue experiencing ongoing growth. In 2018 alone, 62.5 million tonnes of valuable and time-critical air cargo was flown around the world. It is predicted that many as 7.8 billion passengers will use air travel by 2036 (in comparison to 4.4 billion in 2018). The forecasts highlight the potential for you to develop a successful long-term career in this field.
Popular career routes for aerospace engineering graduates range from the design, manufacture and operation of aerospace vehicles to working for aerospace-associated companies and their suppliers, governments and research institutions.
Today, you will find Salford alumni working at leading companies, including Airbus, BAE Systems, Roll-Royce, Thales, and Royal Air Force. Our graduates typically find roles at companies involved in the design and manufacture of major sub-units of aeroplanes and related aerospace vehicles, such as engines, structural parts, avionics or environmental control systems.
FURTHER STUDY
Some of our graduates choose to continue their interest in aerospace and aviation with postgraduate and doctoral research. The Salford Innovation and Research Centre (SIRC) is home to our world-class research focused on the advancement of engineering, robotics and technology for societal progress and economic growth. Learn more about postgraduate research opportunities available through our Doctoral School.
Career Links
To maintain real-world relevance and learning outcomes, the programme team draw on long-standing professional relationships with aeronautics and aviation industry in the north-west, the wider UK and overseas. These links, developed through collaborative research, development projects and commercial testing of products/components, support teaching, foster networking and enhance your learning experience.
What you need to know
APPLICANT PROFILE
This course is recommended for graduates and experiences professionals with ambitions to become successful Chartered Aerospace Engineers, working at a high level in the aerospace industry.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
International applicants will be required to show proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0 with no band below 5.5 is proof of this.
Standard entry requirements
Undergraduate degree
- A 2:2 degree or above in an engineering or numerate science discipline such as aeronautical, mechanical or electrical/electronic engineering or physics.
- Applicants who have a HNC/HND and five years' relevant experience may be considered for entry to the PgDip, initially.
Alternative entry requirements
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.
The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.
Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2021/22 | £8,640per year |
| Full-time international | 2021/22 | £15,030per year |
| Part-time | 2021/22 | £1,440 per 30 credits |
Additional costs
You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Scholarships for international students
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships.
We have a range of scholarships available for students applying for courses in 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. Our Global Gold Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,500 and our Global Silver Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,000 - both are available for students studying in our 2021/22 intakes.
We also offer the Salford International Excellence Scholarship which offers up to £5,000 discount on tuition fees. As this is a prestigious award we have a limited number of these scholarships available.
See the full range of our International Scholarships.