BEng (Hons) Aeronautical Engineering

In this module, you’ll first be introduced to the history and terminology of the aerospace and aviation industries, along with some basic theory of flight. Then you’ll undertake a group project to do the preliminary design of a light aircraft conforming to EASA CS-23 standards. It is to be powered by a single piston engine (SEP). You’ll choose the performance of the aircraft based on a survey of the potential market for its type. You will then work in groups through the various stages of the design, both internal and external, checking that the aircraft will meet certification requirements and can do the tasks for which it is intended as well as being commercially viable, developing communication, teamwork, and project management skills throughout the process.

This module introduces core principles of Engineering Dynamics and Electrical Engineering, applying mathematics, natural science, and engineering methods to analyse motion and electrical systems. Kinematics, kinetics, Newton’s laws, energy principles, and circuit theory are used to model linear and rotational systems, recognising limitations of techniques. 

Activities include interpreting technical literature, investigating systems using laboratory skills, and selecting appropriate materials, equipment, and technologies with awareness of constraints. Circuit diagrams and behaviours under DC and AC supplies are analysed. Emphasis is placed on effective communication in technical contexts, and on planning and recording self-directed learning as a foundation for lifelong development.

This module develops core mathematical concepts, notation, and techniques essential for solving complex engineering problems. It reinforces prior knowledge and introduces calculus and algebra to support the application of engineering principles. Emphasis is placed on selecting and applying appropriate analytical techniques, using first principles where necessary, and recognising their limitations. 

Mathematical knowledge is applied to reach substantiated conclusions across a range of engineering contexts. The module also establishes a foundation for further mathematical study and supports the development of lifelong learning and self-directed development, forming the basis for continued professional development (CPD) in engineering.

This module introduces key principles of engineering materials and structural analysis. It covers stress, strain, beam theory, torsion, thermal stresses, frameworks, and Mohr’s circles for stress and strain analysis in two- and three-dimensional components. You will explore material testing, properties through bonding mechanisms, strengthening methods, phase diagrams, heat treatment, and corrosion principles and protection. The types and use of polymer materials will be included. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between material structure and performance, and on applying analytical methods to real-world problems. Laboratory sessions support hands-on learning, while assessments include coursework, and coursework to develop skills in selecting materials and analysing simple structures in mechanical engineering contexts.

This module introduces core principles of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, applying mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering principles to complex problems. Key topics include energy transfer, fluid behaviour, and the use of analytical and computational techniques for thermofluid modelling, with attention to methodological assumptions and limitations. 

Emphasis is placed on evaluating technical literature and data sources to support engineering analysis, and on developing practical investigation skills through laboratory work. Broader considerations such as sustainability, safety, and system performance are addressed. The module also supports effective communication and encourages reflective practice and professional development.

This module introduces fundamental manufacturing processes such as casting, forming, machining, and finishing. It explains how materials behave during production and how to choose suitable methods for different applications. Key concepts such as production cost, efficiency, and sustainability are explored, with attention to the environmental and societal impact of manufacturing decisions. 

The module highlights safety awareness and introduces basic risk identification in industrial settings. It also covers the principles of quality control and continuous improvement. Engineering management and commercial aspects are introduced to provide a broader understanding of modern manufacturing practice within professional engineering environments.

This module extends core mathematical knowledge by introducing a broader range of techniques relevant to the analysis and solution of complex engineering problems. Key topics include differential equations, numerical methods, partial differentiation, determinants, matrices, Laplace transforms, and functions of a complex variable. Emphasis is placed on the accurate selection and application of analytical and computational methods, recognising their limitations within engineering contexts. Mathematical principles are developed through lectures, with discipline-specific sessions offering applied examples. Problem-solving seminars support the use of first principles and the development of confidence in modelling and interpreting engineering systems.

In this module, you'll learn the basic principles and theory of statics and dynamics as related to the static and dynamic behaviour of an aircraft and the theory of flight control as related to the dynamic behaviour of an aircraft.

In this module, you'll be introduced to the basic concepts of aircraft performance by modelling aerodynamic loads and propulsion system performance, leading to key results in both steady and accelerated flight. You will be taught how to calculate performance in straight and level flight, climb and glide, turns, and on take-off and landing. You will also cover the operating principles and performance analysis of major aircraft navigation systems, with emphasis on inertial navigation systems and the global positioning system.

Your understanding of structural integrity, fitness for service, and mechanical properties will be developed through this module. You will become familiar with the analysis of structures under different loading conditions, yield criteria, and direct stiffness methods. Additionally, you will be introduced to the analysis of composite systems.

In this module you will learn about the fundamentals of lift and drag generation by aerofoils and wings, the theory of low-speed (incompressible) flow, aerofoil aerodynamics and the thin aerofoil theory, wing aerodynamics and the lifting line theory, the fundamentals of boundary layer theory, an introduction to the theory of high speed (compressible) flow, convergent-divergent nozzles, the equipment and techniques employed in wind tunnel testing as well as take the first steps in conducting an aerodynamic simulation using computational fluid dynamics.

This 26-week, two-trimester Aircraft Design module introduces second-year aeronautical engineering students to the key stages of commercial aircraft design at the conceptual and preliminary levels. You will engage with weight prediction, aircraft sizing, propulsion selection, layout of major components, and performance considerations. The module fosters familiarity with EASA/CAA certification standards and incorporates principles of project, risk, and quality management. Through group and individual assessments, you will apply engineering judgement while addressing sustainability, ethics, and security in design. This hands-on module prepares you for advanced design work by developing both technical competence and essential professional skills within an industry-relevant framework.

The individual project involves working independently on a substantial research or industrially relevant task, requiring critical evaluation of technical literature and other reliable sources of information. It promotes the application of an integrated or systems-based approach to solve complex engineering challenges. The work considers environmental and societal impacts, encouraging the development of solutions that minimise adverse effects. Ethical issues are identified and addressed through reasoned decision-making guided by professional codes of conduct. Risk is assessed and managed using structured processes. The project also develops skills in engineering management, commercial awareness, legal frameworks, effective communication, and continuous professional development.

This module has two main components. Industrial management in which you will be introduced to the commercial issues which must be addressed by engineering businesses, and the principles of quality management systems; and project preparation which will develop your ability to work independently, become competent in analysing and assessing the value of information, and develop effective communication skills both written and orally.

In this module, you will study the analysis of high speed (super- and hypersonic) flows and aircraft propulsion engines, particularly gas turbines. The two halves of the module are combined to examine the workings of intakes and exhaust nozzles as part of the study of the components of a gas turbine engine. 

Following on from the Flight Systems module in your second year, you will develop a deeper understanding of the theory of statics, dynamics and flight control as they relate to the dynamic behaviour of an aircraft.

In this module, you’ll undertake a group design project to do the preliminary design of a specified type of aircraft. You will decide the size and performance of the aircraft based on a survey of the potential market for its type and then work through stages of the design, both internal and external, checking that the aircraft will meet certification requirements and can do the tasks for which it is intended as well as being commercially viable.

This module introduces you to Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Aircraft Structural Analysis, with a focus on solving real-world aerospace engineering problems. In the first part of the module, you will learn the fundamentals of FEA, a computer-based method used by engineers to predict how parts will behave under loads, such as stress, strain, and deformation. The second part of the module focuses on aircraft structures and aeroelasticity. You will study statically indeterminate structures—these are structures where internal forces can’t be found using basic equations alone, requiring more advanced methods. The module also includes an introduction to aeroelasticity, which looks at how aerodynamic forces interact with structural flexibility and explores common aeroelastic problems. This part helps you understand the importance of aeroelastic effects in ensuring safe and efficient aircraft design.