The University of Leicester's BEng Aerospace Engineering is a three-year campus-based course that provides a solid grounding in mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineering before building your knowledge in aerospace-related subjects. This course is suitable for students who wish to complement general engineering knowledge with specialist skills in flight dynamics, aircraft design, and aero-engine technology.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll cover core modules such as Sustainable Engineering Design, Engineering Mathematics with Programming 1 and 2, Solid Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer, Principles of Electrical Engineering, and Digital Electronics and Communications. This year builds your analytical, practical, and computational skills across all engineering disciplines.
Year 2: Modules include Engineering Experimentation and Analysis, Integrated Engineering Design, System Dynamics & Control, Materials & Structures, Dynamics & Thermofluids, Aircraft Performance & Navigation, and Aerodynamics & Aircraft Systems. You’ll deepen your understanding of aerospace systems and participate in hands-on design and experimentation.
Year 3: You’ll study advanced topics like Flight Dynamics, Aircraft Navigation, Aero-Engine Design, Aerospace Materials, and Aircraft Performance, often delivered by industry experts. Management modules cover business finance, project planning, and professional ethics. You’ll also have the opportunity to attend a practical flight test course or use a flight simulator to enhance your skills.
Focus areas: Flight dynamics, aircraft navigation, aero-engine design, aerospace materials, aircraft performance, and engineering management.
Learning outcomes: Analyse and design aerospace systems, apply higher mathematics and engineering principles, use industry-standard software and laboratory equipment, communicate technical ideas, and work effectively in teams.
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Engineering Council (partial CEng), meeting the educational requirements for Incorporated Engineer and partially for Chartered Engineer status.
Reputation (employability rankings): University of Leicester engineering graduates are highly employable; the course has a good reputation within the UK for its links with industry and practical focus.
The University of Leicester's BEng Aerospace Engineering programme gives you access to world-leading facilities that support your academic and practical development. You will have the opportunity to utilise specialist laboratories, advanced equipment, and digital tools that are geared for 'hands-on' learning and cutting-edge research in aerospace engineering. You will have access to:
Student Workshop: With standard manufacturing equipment (drills, lathes, milling machines) and rapid prototyping devices, including a laser cutter and 3D printers, you can develop hands-on engineering skills and practice project builds.
Charles Wilson Wind Tunnel: A closed-loop wind tunnel for aerodynamics testing and environmental fluid mechanics. You will be using it in your third year for projects such as morphing wings and aerodynamic analysis.
Advanced Microscopy Facility: Staffed with modern electron microscopes for material and surface analysis on the nanometre scale, to support research and coursework in aerospace materials.
Mechanics of Materials Laboratory: Dedicated to the study of the mechanical behaviour of aerospace materials, including fatigue and high-temperature performance.
Digital TWIN Laboratory: Enables digital modelling, simulation, and testing of aerospace parts and systems.
Flight Test Course and Flight Simulator: Take part in attending a hands-on flight test course or utilising a flight simulator in order to extend your knowledge in flight dynamics as well as vehicle performance.
Formula Student Workshop: Engage in designing, developing, and testing a racing car for the year-round Formula Student competition, earning experience in teamwork and project management.
EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Innovative Metal Processing: Access to cutting-edge research and training in innovative aerospace materials and manufacturing techniques.
Open Door Policy & Small Teaching Groups: Inclusive support and small classes are offered by the School of Engineering, ensuring individual guidance and mentoring.
The facilities ensure that you gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in aerospace engineering.
Graduates of the BEng Aerospace Engineering at Leicester are highly employable, ready for leadership roles in aerospace and related sectors. Typical job roles include Aerospace Engineer, Design Engineer, Manufacturing Systems Engineer, and Project Manager. Leicester’s strong industry links and professional accreditation support excellent career prospects.
You’ll benefit from:
Professional accreditation: Accredited degree supporting your journey to professional registration
Industry engagement: Industry engagement and guest lectures for networking
Individual academic support: Small group teaching and open-door policy for individual guidance
Reputation and employability: The University's great international reputation and high employability figures
Higher Academic Progression: Students can progress to postgraduate study in areas such as MSc Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautics, or Astronautics. The program's robust technical and research foundation also generates opportunities in areas such as AI & Data Science, Management, and Technical Development.
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