MEng Aerospace Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year

The MEng Aerospace Engineering with a Year in Industry at The University of Sheffield is a five-year, integrated master’s program that combines advanced aerospace theory with a paid, year-long industry placement. You’ll study propulsion, aerodynamics, avionics, and aircraft control, while developing hands-on skills in building and flying aircraft. In later years, you’ll tailor your learning to focus on avionic systems or aeromechanics and complete an investigative project of your choice.

Curriculum structure:

• Year 1: You’ll build a foundation in mathematics, mechanics, and introductory aerodynamics, with practical projects such as designing and flying drones and quad planes. Lab sessions in the Diamond facility develop your technical and teamwork skills.

• Year 2: Modules cover propulsion, instrumentation, computational aerodynamics, and aircraft control. You’ll participate in team-based, open-ended projects and can begin to specialise in avionic systems or aeromechanics.

• Year 3 (Industry Placement): You’ll spend a full year working in a paid, course-relevant role with a leading aerospace company, gaining valuable industry experience, professional contacts, and enhanced employability. The university’s Industrial Placement Year team provides support throughout the process.

• Year 4: Return to campus to undertake an individual investigative project, such as advanced propulsion or aerodynamic design, and choose from specialist modules in areas like space systems, materials, or manufacturing. You’ll manage projects from start to finish and further develop independent research skills.

• Year 5: You’ll deepen your knowledge in your chosen stream (avionics or aeromechanics), complete a major research project, and have opportunities to take part in national and international competitions. Advanced modules cover the latest developments in aerospace propulsion, control, and design.

Focus areas: Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Avionics, Aeromechanics, Aircraft Control, Space Systems, Materials and Manufacturing

Learning outcomes: Apply advanced engineering principles to aerospace challenges, design, build, and fly complex air systems, manage interdisciplinary projects from concept to completion, and communicate technical concepts across engineering disciplines

Professional alignment (accreditation): Fully accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Institution of Engineering and Technology, and Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, meeting all academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Reputation (employability rankings): Top 5 in the UK for manufacturing and aeronautical engineering (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024); top Russell Group university in the National Student Survey 2023. Strong industry links with BAE Systems, Boeing, and Rolls-Royce.