Aerospace Technology BEng (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
Students working on the harrier jet

Designed to provide you with the opportunity to acquire the vital technical and management skills required to join and support the engineering teams, to solve these multi-disciplinary problems in the aerospace industry.

Year of entry

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

Course code

H402

Start date

September 2023

How to apply
Book an Open Day
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Course overview

This course gives you the opportunity to develop a thorough understanding of the principles of mechanical, electrical and aerospace engineering, and how this knowledge is applied in the development of projects for aerospace systems and their management. 

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Global Ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

  • This course offers a variety of curriculum and learning opportunities, industry insight and a range of technical facilities4.
  • This course aims to enable you to develop and critically analyse engineering technologies, components and processes utilised in the aerospace industry.
  • The course is designed for engineering students that are interested in working in the global aerospace sector. You can expect to learn how to apply your engineering knowledge to address the rapid development of technology and the requirement for cost-effective carbon-reduction solutions.
  • This course aims to meet the demand for skilled engineers and upon successful completion, graduate career prospects could be wide-ranging and possibly include design, manufacturing, MRO engineering and management.
  • The highly practical and technical focus of the programme concentrates on engineering mathematics, aircraft systems, control systems, aerodynamics, aircraft structures and manufacturing, mechanical engineering and engineering management - all of which aim to give you the opportunity to build a strong base from which to start professional work in aerospace design, using the latest software tools4.;

Accreditation

Royal Aeronautical Society

Royal Aeronautical Society

Aerospace Technology BEng (Hons) is currently accredited1 by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), as fully meeting the educational requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration and partially satisfying the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.

The University’s accreditation with RAeS shall be up for renewal in 2023/24, and all intakes up to and including May 2024 are covered by the current accreditation. If any changes occur with respect to our accreditation, we will notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

More than just a degree

Three years at Coventry University has completely changed my life. I came to university knowing almost nothing, but I will be leaving equipped with all I need for the rest of my life.

Lord Koomson, Aerospace Technology BEng (Hons), December 2020
Student using aerospace equipment with the harrier jet in the background

What you'll study

This course has a common first year 

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.  

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).   

Common first-year courses 

  • Aerospace Systems Engineering BEng (Hons)
  • Aerospace Systems Engineering MEng 
     

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field.  

Modules

  • This covers the essentials of fluid mechanics and aerodynamics and an introduction to Matlab programming to enable solving of simple engineering problems.

    Compulsory

  • This module teaches the fundamental principles behind mechanics and thermodynamics which underpin many engineering disciplines. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to develop competence in mathematical methods relevant to engineering whilst at the same time emphasising fundamental concepts an engineer needs to understand in order to produce a mathematical formulation of a problem. 

    Compulsory

  • Covers the basic concepts and principles used in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, focussing on steady-state DC circuit analysis and AC circuit analysis. 

    Compulsory

  • This module covers the creation and development of a viable product, process or system to meet a defined need through a structured approach to the design process, design management, and creative problem-solving. 

    Compulsory

  • This multi-disciplinary module builds upon and reinforces the technical content across the first year of the Aerospace Cluster courses. It develops engineering practice, software and programming skills that are crucial attributes expected of a professional engineer. 

    Compulsory

The second year builds on the foundations of the first year to enhance your specialist knowledge of the analysis and design aspects of individual aerospace systems, along with aircraft maintenance management, aerodynamics and structures. The majority of the modules include teaching of industry standard specialist computer aided analysis tools to support your studies and future employability. 

Modules

  • This module aims to enhance your theoretical and practical experience of aircraft maintenance management by introducing the basic theories of aircraft maintenance engineering and maintenance program management. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop a broad understanding of aerospace structures and the application of technology implemented in the aerospace industry. This is achieved through the further study of aerospace structures. This module will present a multidisciplinary view of aerospace structures to provide you with a wider outlook on the topic. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to present the concepts of signal acquisition and processing required as part of the study of avionic systems. It covers data communication and signal conditioning, as applied in aircraft systems. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop a broad understanding of the technology and the application of technology associated with the aerospace industry. This is achieved through the further study of the aeronautical discipline Aircraft Systems and power plants. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to develop a broad understanding of Human Factors and Safety and their applications within the aerospace industrial environments. This is achieved through the further study of relevant aeronautical disciplines and safety-related issues within the aerospace industry. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop a broad understanding of the technology and the application of technology associated with the aerospace industry. This is achieved through the further study of the aeronautical discipline Aerodynamics.  

    Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2  can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3  of £1250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time, you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement. 

Modules

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes. 

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes. 

    Optional

Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two. You could also work on a large final project in an area of your interest, with the support of a mentor and your Academic Personal Tutor.  

Modules

  • The module provides a framework which enables you to integrate your skills and knowledge developed throughout the course to undertake a substantial research project. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to provide an opportunity to research, design, implement and critically evaluate a functional or simulated system, object or concept and to acquire deeper knowledge of a specialist technical area. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to take you through a concept design and build the foundations of project planning and management phases of the entire group project. An emphasis on strategy management practices and philosophies will be covered to broaden their engineering design and management skills. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to enhance your awareness of technical and professional activities. The module is intended to nurture professionalism and prepare you for employment and business opportunities. Vocational, numerical and IT (enterprise) capabilities are refined and the application of these capabilities to complex problems and the development of personal and inter-personal capabilities are achieved through group project work. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop your understanding of the impact that design and evolving technologies have on the performance of different types of aerospace vehicles. The module also aims to enhance your awareness of the theories governing the operation of aerospace vehicles and their testing. Current and future trends in aircraft sustainability are also reviewed. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop a broad understanding of the basic principles and techniques of control engineering and to provide you with a practical understanding of real-time aerospace relevant control applications. Industry-standard software (MATLAB/SIMULINK) will be used for the design of control algorithms for electromechanical applications and implementation of these controllers on a physical rig will enable consideration of hardware effects to be included within the performance analysis. 

    Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Your course will incorporate a range of learning and teaching methods as part of our innovative activity-led learning.

We encourage you to learn through stimulating activities, such as a projects, problems, scenarios, case studies or enquiries in a classroom, laboratory or work setting. 

We aim to present knowledge in an integrated way to reflect the multiplicity and interaction between many types of scientific, commercial, manufacturing and managerial skills and knowledge, necessary to produce a successful engineering product or system.

The course aims to give you the opportunity to work with current staff on real-world problems from industry, commerce and research groups, as you would in professional practice; this means that you can develop all the professional skills at the same time as learning the technical content of your degree.  

Teaching contact hours

We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:

  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
  • Group work
  • Self-directed learning
  • Work placement opportunities2.

The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 16 contact hours per week in the first year, reducing to around 15 contact hours per week in the second and third year as you become a more independent learner. In addition, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study approximately 16-20 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods. 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms.  The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance.  Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety. 

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods include:

  • Formal examinations
  • Phase tests
  • Essays
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Coursework
  • Exams
  • Individual Assignments

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.  

International experience opportunities

Most work placements have been within the UK, but previous students have been placed in GKN Aerospace (Munich, Germany), Bertrandt (Hamburg, Germany) and Airbus (Toulouse, France). The majority of study abroad students have studied at high education institutions within Europe, including Aerospace Engineering at UPM, Spain.

Previous students on the programme have had the opportunity to gain experience of the industry first-hand through our exciting industry-focused field trips, which have previously included the Emirates Aviation University and Emirates Engine Test Centre in Dubai, National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and NASA Goddard Space Flight Centre in the US and Airbus (Toulouse), Airbus (Marseille) and Finmeccanica in Europe. 

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
A Level BBC to include Mathematics and one from Physics, Chemistry, Design Technology, Biology, Further Maths, Electronics, Engineering or BTec Certificate in Engineering. Excludes General Studies.
BTEC DMM BTec in Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or similar, to include a Distinction in the 'Further Engineering Mathematics' unit 28 or 8 Or Calculus To Solve Engineering Problems Unit 7. Does not include BTecs with maintenance or technology in the title,
or,
DM in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Engineering plus Grade B from one A levels from Mathematics and Physics
IB Diploma Overall pass in IB including at least 14 points from three HL subjects one of which must be Maths with a minimum of 4 points
GCSE requirement 5 GCSEs at grade 4 / C or above to include English and Mathematics
Access to HE The Access to HE Diploma to include 30 Level 3 credits at Merit and 15 Level 3 credits at Pass all to be in Mathematics or Physical Science units. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international foundation year. Upon successful completion our International Foundation Year - Engineering will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each component area)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £9,250 per year Not available
International £19,850 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Optional international field trips: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad)

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

All students both on and off-site have access to, and receive training on, commercial engineering software, including 3D CAD, Finite Element Analysis, Computational Fluid Dynamics and Multibody Dynamic Systems for design, simulation and analysis. 

Our excellent practical facilities include a full-size Harrier Jet (used for teaching), five full-scale flight simulators, wind tunnels, UAV workshop, flow and heat transfer labs, composites lab, metrology lab, electrical/electronics lab, fatigue and tensile testing (Instron), a range of CNC machinery, banks of 3D printers and a laser workshop4. 

Flight Simulators

Flight Simulators

Our simulators create an exciting way to learn, with 61 channels of flight data which can be analysed to assess the accuracy of a students’ own design. The simulators are incorporated into an air traffic control environment.

Harrier Jet

Harrier Jet

Our Harrier T4 allows students to gain hands-on experience with the parts, tools and mechanical aspects of a real aircraft. It is used by many engineering disciplines to learn how an aircraft works and how to maintain it.

Model Making Shop

Model Making Shop

Used by our aerospace students to build model aircrafts. The workshop includes laser cutting, wood working and foam cutting technology to help bring our students designs into the real world.

Careers and opportunities

On successful completion of the course a student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific and mathematical principles to solve application problems in the aerospace industry. 
  • Using quantitative and computational methods, interpret the results of analysis and modelling of an aerospace application problem to recommend an appropriate action using relevant technology. 
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of design, design processes and limitations, and life cycle management in developing solutions.  
    Clearly and appropriately communicate complete solutions using both written and oral formats. 
  • Understand the need for professional and ethical conduct in a commercial, economic and social context, by appraising the sustainable development and the regulations governing engineering activities in order to critique the risk, legal and contractual issues and intellectual property. 
  • Demonstrate knowledge of a range of aerospace products, processes, materials and standards, including an awareness of quality issues and their application to continuous improvement. 
  • Evaluate uncertain and incomplete technical data/information and perform practical laboratory work in order to identify the impact on design. 
  • Develop independent learning and problem-solving skills appropriate to current and future study and employment. 
  • Apply management techniques by contributing to a team with the necessary planning, monitoring, adaptability, drive and leadership to achieve the required objectives of an aerospace-related project.

 

Where our graduates work

Previous graduates have obtained jobs as systems design engineers for large aircraft and propulsion manufacturers, e.g. Airbus, BAE Systems, GE Aviation and Rolls Royce, as well as systems suppliers to the aviation industry including Meggitt, Goodrich, Moog and Collins Aerospace. 

Further study

You can choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with the Aerospace Engineering MSc. You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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