BEng Hons Aerospace Systems Engineering with Pilot Studies

The BEng (Hons) Aerospace Systems Engineering with Pilot Studies at the University of Hertfordshire is a unique program designed to develop your expertise in aerospace engineering from both a technical and a pilot’s perspective. You’ll study core engineering principles, aircraft systems, and flight operations, with opportunities for hands-on flying and simulation throughout the course. This degree is ideal for students seeking a mix of engineering and practical aviation training with preparation for a career in aerospace, aviation, and beyond.

Curriculum structure:

• Year 1: You’ll build foundational engineering skills with modules like Introduction to Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Mathematics for Aerospace, Fundamentals of Aerospace Projects, Aerospace Mechanical Science, Fundamentals of Autonomous Systems Design, Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing, Programming for Aerospace Engineering, and Electronics for Aerospace Engineering. You’ll also be introduced to industry-standard computer packages and have the option to participate in a Flight Experience course at a partner flying school in the USA (additional cost).

• Year 2: You’ll deepen your knowledge with Applied Aerodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics for Aerospace, Aerospace Materials, Aerospace Systems Modelling and Control, Aerospace Structural Mechanics, Aircraft Systems Integration, Aircraft Technical, Air Law and Operational Procedures. You’ll study elements of PPL Ground School, conduct wind tunnel experiments, and participate in group projects to design and manufacture a model aircraft, with the best teams competing in national university challenges.

• Year 3: Your final year features a BEng Individual Project (Aerospace), Computational Analysis of Fluids and Structures, Flight Testing, Aircraft Propulsion, Professional Engineering and Quality Management, Navigation, Meteorology and Human Performance, Flight Performance, Planning and Communications, and Pilot Training Experience. You’ll work on a group Aerospace Design project—designing and test-flying a full-size aircraft using simulators—and complete flight training at a nationally recognised flight centre (additional cost).

• Students can choose an additional placement year or a year abroad to study without paying any tuition fee.

Focus areas: Aerodynamics, flight systems, propulsion, avionics, flight operations, aircraft design, systems integration, pilot training.

Learning outcomes: Design and analyse aerospace systems, integrate pilot and engineering perspectives, apply computational and experimental methods, and demonstrate teamwork and professional competencies.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS); meets academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration (2022–2026 intakes).

Reputation (employability rankings): 1st in the East of England for Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering (Complete University Guide 2024).