The BEng (Hons) Aeronautical Engineering at De Montfort University is a three-year, on-campus program designed for students passionate about aircraft design, flight mechanics, and advanced engineering. You’ll study experimental and theoretical aerodynamics, flight dynamics, propulsion systems, aircraft structures, and simulation technologies, preparing for a wide range of roles in the fast-growing aerospace sector.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll develop a foundation in mathematics, mechanical and electronic principles, and the basics of aeronautical design. Modules include General Engineering Tools and Principles 1 & 2 (covering solid mechanics, dynamics, electronics, and mathematics), and Fundamentals of Aeronautical Design 1 & 2, where you’ll use MATLAB, Simulink, and CAD software to explore flight mechanics, thermodynamics, and aircraft structural design.
Year 2: You’ll advance to Mechanical, Energy and Aeronautical Tools and Principles (covering advanced mathematics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer), Dynamics, Instrumentation and Control (focusing on system modelling, vibrations, and feedback control using MATLAB/Simulink), and Aircraft Structures and Flight Dynamics (studying airframe structures, materials, and stability/control). You’ll also complete a major group design project in Design and Project Management, developing advanced CAD and FEA skills.
Year 3: You’ll specialise in Human Factors and Aviation Management, Propulsion Systems (jet engines, thermofluids, aero-engine noise), and select a project-based pathway:
• Modelling and Simulation for Aeronautical Projects (CFD/FEA, flight simulation, programming)
• Materials and Design for Aeronautical Projects (advanced materials, aeroelasticity, structural design)
You’ll also complete an individual project, applying your skills to real-world aeronautical challenges, and study advanced topics in manned and unmanned aircraft design and maintenance.
Focus areas: Aerodynamics, flight dynamics, propulsion systems, aircraft structures, simulation technologies, control systems, advanced materials, CAD, FEA.
Learning outcomes: Mastering the principles of aeronautical engineering, practical design and simulation, advanced problem-solving, project management, collaboration, and preparation for aerospace industry jobs.
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), supporting your path toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Reputation (employability rankings): DMU achieved Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework; 100% of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics graduates in employment or further study (DLHE 2016-17); strong industry links and placement with companies like BAE Systems.
You’ll gain practical skills in DMU’s AIRFOX DISO flight simulator, instrumented low-speed wind tunnel, and advanced engineering labs. The curriculum integrates industry-standard software (MATLAB, ANSYS, OpenFOAM), group design projects, and hands-on wind tunnel testing of prototype aircraft. You’ll also join student societies like DMU Flyers and DMU Racing for extracurricular engineering experience. Facilities and learning opportunities include:
AIRFOX DISO flight simulator for flight simulation technologies
Instrumented low-speed wind tunnel for aerodynamic testing
MATLAB, ANSYS, OpenFOAM, and advanced CAD/FEA software usage
Group and individual project design
Industry-experienced academic staff and international research collaborations
Student societies for interactive and competitive engineering projects
Graduates of the BEng (Hons) Aeronautical Engineering at De Montfort University are highly employable, moving into roles such as aerospace engineer, aircraft designer, flight test engineer, propulsion engineer, simulation engineer, aviation manager, and MRO engineer. Alumni have secured positions in sectors including aircraft aerodynamics, wind turbine design and maintenance, aviation management, defence, and aircraft maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO).
You’ll benefit from:
Accredited degree: The program is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), supporting your journey to Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and recognised by industry worldwide
Industry links and research collaborations: DMU is a member of the Midlands Aerospace Alliance and collaborates with organisations such as Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, HS Marston, and international research institutes, offering opportunities for placements, industry projects, and networking
Hands-on experience: Access to advanced facilities such as the AIRFOX DISO flight simulator, instrumented low-speed wind tunnel, and industry-standard software (MATLAB, ANSYS, OpenFOAM) for practical learning and research
Real-world projects and block teaching: The curriculum includes experimental and theoretical aerodynamics, aircraft design, flight dynamics, propulsion, and simulation, delivered through focused block teaching and assessed via exams, lab exercises, group presentations, and project work
Career support: Regular networking events, employability workshops, and placement opportunities help you connect with employers and prepare for graduate roles
Graduate outcomes: The median salary for DMU aeronautical engineering graduates is £26,000 fifteen months after graduation, £28,000 after three years, and £29,000 after five years, with a typical range of £21,500–£32,500 depending on experience and role. Many DMU graduates progress to well-paid technical, analytical, and leadership roles as they gain experience. 90% of DMU engineering graduates are in work or further study within six months of graduation, with alumni working at companies such as Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, and in the wider aerospace and defence sectors.
Further Academic Progression: Students can progress to the integrated MEng after year three (subject to progression requirements), or pursue postgraduate study such as MSc Aeronautical Engineering or related fields. The program’s strong technical and industry foundation also opens doors to careers in research, management, and advanced technical development.
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