BEng Hons Aircraft Engineering with Pilot Studies

At Salford University, you will have access to a vast range of high-end labs and facilities that match industry standards to support practical learning in aircraft engineering and pilot studies. The School of Science, Engineering and Environment houses specialised practical rooms for individual projects, group projects, and advanced fabrication to equip you with the technical and problem-solving capabilities expected by the aviation industry. Here's how you'll transfer your knowledge to practice:

• The Maker Space: High-spec fabrication equipment, including 3D printers (FFF, SLA, composite), laser and vinyl cutters, and clean lab areas to solder electronics, build drones and robots. Print Hive enables CAD-led design and prototyping, including a specialist computer suite for delivering 3D design courses.

• The Morson Engine Room: Equipped with heavy-duty and industrial-grade machinery, including a waterjet cutter, metal additive manufacturing, large-format 3D printing, advanced electron and optical microscopes, and reverse engineering metrology equipment. This building is ideal for high-end engineering projects and component analysis.

• THINKlab: A cutting-edge collaborative engineering, simulation, and data visualisation facility that enables smart technology, interactive learning, and industry engagement.

• Acoustics Testing and Calibration Laboratories: UKAS-accredited facilities for vibration, sound, and acoustics testing, with specialist testing and consultancy potential.

• Spray and Petroleum Laboratories: State-of-the-art simulation software and computational codes of industry benchmark for fluid and materials research, facilitating aerospace and related sector innovation.

• Energy House: World-class, fully climatized research facility for environmental and systems testing, supporting multidisciplinary engineering projects.

• Other opportunities: You will also be able to use group project spaces, electronics assembly labs, and 24/7 study facilities, along with opportunities for industry placements and flight testing in the real world through collaboration with top aviation organisations.

Graduates of the BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering with Pilot Studies at the University of Salford are highly employable, with career paths spanning aircraft engineering, pilot training, avionics, flight testing, air traffic control, and aviation business management. The program is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), supporting your route to professional registration. Salford has strong industry partnerships with employers such as National Air Traffic Services (NATS), CTC Aviation, Ryanair, Leonardo, Goodrich, Airbus, and Boeing, and is also linked with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for advanced study and global networking.

You’ll benefit from:

• Professional accreditation: Accredited degree supporting your journey to professional registration

• Industry partnerships: Strong industry partnerships and alumni network with major employers such as NATS, CTC Aviation, Ryanair, Leonardo, Goodrich, Airbus, and Boeing

• Practical experience: Hands-on experience with advanced facilities, including flight simulators, wind tunnels, and a practical flight test course with Cranfield University’s National Flying Laboratory Centre

• Career support: Dedicated career support, networking events, and placement opportunities

• Industry placement: Optional industry placement year to gain real-world experience and enhance your employability

Salary outcomes: Graduates report a median salary of £25,500 fifteen months after graduation, £24,500 after three years, and £31,500 after five years, with top earners reaching £37,500 at the five-year mark

Further Academic Progression: Students can pursue postgraduate study in areas such as MSc Aircraft Engineering, Aviation Management, or Robotics. Salford’s partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University also opens doors to a dual master’s degree and global aerospace careers. The program’s strong technical and industry foundation enables progression into fields like AI & Data Science, Management, and Technical Development.