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3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of the West of EnglandThe BEng(Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies at UWE Bristol is a three-year industry-informed degree developed in consultation with local aerospace partners. It's the ideal course for students wanting to combine in-depth aerospace engineering studies with aviation and pilot practice, qualifying you for an engineering career or further completing pilot certifications.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll build a solid foundation in aerospace engineering principles, studying materials and manufacturing, stress and dynamics, and energy and thermodynamics. Early project-based learning includes designing, developing, and optimising a model aircraft in the Introduction to Aeronautics module, supported by laboratory and practical work.
Year 2: You’ll specialise through Systems, Design, or Manufacturing pathways, deepening your knowledge in core aerospace disciplines. Pilot Studies modules introduce navigation, aviation safety, aircraft instrument systems, and aviation regulations, using real-world pilot training materials (not certified for a PPL). You’ll also participate in group projects and industry-focused activities.
Year 3: You’ll complete an Engineering Project, an Aerospace Group Design Project, and the Pilot and Airline Operations module. Optional modules include Aero Structures, Avionics, Composite Engineering, Control Engineering, Further Aero-Propulsion, Further Aerodynamics, Spaceflight, Space Engineering, Digital Manufacturing in Aerospace, and Integrated Electro-Mechanical Systems. A minimum of 20 hours of flying training in a powered aircraft with a licensed trainer is required for graduation (additional cost applies).
Focus areas: Aerodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics, aerospace systems design, navigation, aviation safety, aircraft instrument systems, and manufacturing.
Learning outcomes: Design and analyse aerospace vehicles, apply pilot knowledge to engineering solutions, develop prototypes, integrate aviation safety and regulations, and demonstrate teamwork and professional skills.
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS); re-accreditation currently in progress for 2025 intake.
Reputation (employability rankings): 86.5% of engineering graduates employed or in further study 15 months after graduation; average salary £28,000 (15 months after graduation).
You will gain hands-on experience in UWE Bristol's cutting-edge School of Engineering, utilising facilities such as a flight simulator, engine test cells, and advanced manufacturing workshops. The program includes project-based learning, group design projects, and a flight test course in an actual aircraft. You must complete at least 20 hours of flying training with a licensed trainer, facilitated through partners such as Wings Alliance (UK) or Northwestern Michigan College (USA). Placement opportunities with major aerospace companies and regular factory tours enhance your industry readiness. You will have access to:
Flight simulator for practical flying hours
Engine test cells for propulsion studies
Subsonic and supersonic wind tunnels for aerodynamic experiments
Robotics laboratories and manufacturing workshops
Computer-aided design (CAD) suites and digital resources
Group and individual design projects
Professional briefings and factory visits from leading aerospace firms
Minimum 20 hours of practical flying training (at additional cost)
Placement opportunities with major industry partners
Use of specialist engineering library facilities
Graduates are highly employable, with job opportunities ranging from the design and manufacture of civil and military aircraft to working with helicopters and jet engines. UWE’s strong industry links and professional accreditation support excellent career prospects and access to placements with top employers. Graduates report median earnings of £28,000 one year after graduation, £32,000 after three years, and £37,000 after five years. UWE Bristol is ranked in the UK top 20 for graduate employment prospects, with 92% of graduates in work or further study 15 months after graduation.
You’ll benefit from:
Professional accreditation: Accredited degree supporting your journey to professional registration
Industry partnerships: Strong industry partnerships with leading companies such as Airbus UK, Rolls-Royce, GE Aviation, Leonardo Helicopters, GKN Aerospace, and BAE Systems
Practical experience: Hands-on experience with advanced aerospace facilities and real-world projects
Career support: Dedicated career support and networking events
Aerospace cluster access: Access to the UK's largest aerospace cluster and the West of England's £2.7 billion aerospace and advanced engineering sector, home to over 10 world-leading aerospace companies and the National Composites Centre
Further Academic Progression: Postgraduate study can be pursued in fields such as MSc Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautics, or Astronautics. The program's solid technical and industry foundation also opens up access to fields like AI & Data Science, Management, and Technical Development.
10th Grade transcript and 12th Grade predicted from school counselorEnglish test results: IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.5), TOEFL iBT 80UCAS Personal Statement upto 600 wordsOne teacher's letter of recommendationEducational Resume showcasing all extracurriculars, internships, projects, etc A-levels: Grade C in Mathematics plus a pass in a science or technical subject (Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Design and Technology, Electronics, Engineering, IT, Further Maths, Physics)International Baccalaureate: A minimum grade of 5 in Higher Level Mathematics and a pass in one of the following at Higher Level: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design Technology, Physics, Environmental Systems and Societies. We accept the IB Career-related Programme in conjunction with other Level 3 qualifications.GCSEs: Minimum grade C/4 in English and MathsMinimum 20 hours of flying training in a powered aircraft with a licensed trainer is required to graduate with the Pilot Studies award (additional cost applies).Tariff points (UCAS): 112 pointsPortfolio, project links, or YouTube channel to enhance your application (optional)Application via UCASAerospace EngineerFlight Test EngineerPropulsion EngineerAircraft Design EngineerAerodynamics SpecialistAvionics EngineerStructural AnalystMaintenance EngineerCAD TechnicianSatellite Systems Engineer
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