4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The MEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering with Pilot Studies at the University of Salford is designed for students eager to combine advanced engineering with practical pilot skills. You’ll study the design, management, and operation of next-generation aircraft, with the option to pursue pilot training toward a Private Pilot Licence.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll build a solid foundation in core engineering and aviation, studying modules like Aviation Business Enterprise, Engineering Mathematics, and Principles of Air Navigation and Meteorology for Aviation. This year focuses on developing your understanding of materials, structures, and the basics of flight.
Year 2: Advanced specialist aviation modules increase your knowledge. You'll study Safety Assessment in Aviation & Human Factors, Aerodynamics E2, and Route Planning and Navigation Systems. Problem-solving and collaboration are fostered through group projects and simulation exercises.
Year 3: The year develops your skills in Aerodynamics, Aircraft Design Enterprise, and Avionics. You'll complete a substantial Final Year Project and learn about Industrial Management to equip you for real-world engineering problems.
Year 4: Postgraduates will also study Finite Element Analysis, Flight Dynamics and Control, and Aerospace Assembly. Flight Simulation is undertaken as a module, and an optional flight test course is undertaken using Cranfield University's National Flying Laboratory Centre's aircraft.
Focus areas: Aircraft design, avionic systems, flight management, navigation, propulsion, safety assessment, pilot training
Learning outcomes: Advanced engineering knowledge, practical flight exposure, threat evaluation, system integration, aviation management
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society
Reputation (employability rankings): Average graduate salary: £27,000 (15 months after graduation); strong industry reputation with employers such as NATS, Ryanair, Leonardo, and Goodrich
t Salford University, you will have access to a broad range of cutting-edge labs and facilities that are industry-standard to enable practical learning in aircraft engineering and pilot studies. The School of Science, Engineering, and Environment has specialised practical rooms for individual projects, group projects, and advanced fabrication to equip you with the technical and problem-solving skills needed by the aviation industry. This is how you'll bridge your knowledge to practice:
The Maker Space: Fabrication machinery of high spec, including 3D printers (FFF, SLA, composite), laser and vinyl cutters, and clean laboratory space to solder electronics, build drones and robots. Print Hive enables CAD-driven 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, high-end electron and optical microscopes, and reverse engineering metrology equipment. Ideal for high-end engineering projects and component analysis.
THINKlab: A state-of-the-art collaborative engineering, simulation, and data visualisation facility that enables smart technology, interactive learning, and industry collaboration.
Acoustics Calibration and Test Laboratories: UKAS-accredited laboratories for vibration, sound and acoustics testing, with in-house specialist testing and consultancy capability.
Spray and Petroleum Laboratories: Sophisticated simulation codes and computer software of industry-leading quality for material and fluid research, enabling aerospace and allied industry innovation.
Energy House: World-class, fully climatized research facility for environmental and systems testing to enable multidisciplinary engineering activity.
Other opportunities: You will also be able to use group project rooms, electronics assembly labs, and 24/7 study suites, as well as industry placement opportunities and real-world flight testing opportunities through collaboration with top aviation organizations.
Graduates of the MEng (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.
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