4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The MEng Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies offered by UWE Bristol is an exclusive four-year program that has been formulated after consulting with the local aerospace industry partners, which combines cutting-edge aerospace engineering and aviation-focused pilot studies. The course is ideal for students who want to learn technical engineering capabilities while they get practical flight training and industrial insight.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll gain a solid grounding in aerospace engineering principles through modules in materials and manufacturing, stress and dynamics, energy and thermodynamics. Early project-based learning and laboratory work build your foundational technical skills.
Year 2: Specialise through Systems, Design, and Manufacturing pathways. You’ll deepen your knowledge in core aerospace disciplines and begin pilot studies, focusing on navigation, aviation safety, aircraft instrument systems, and aviation regulations at a practical level.
Year 3: Continue advanced aerospace modules and pilot studies, with opportunities for placements and professional briefings from leading aerospace organisations. You’ll work on embedded projects for weeks and develop digital and physical prototypes, applying your skills to real-world challenges.
Year 4: Do a Master's Group Capstone Project and select four advanced optional modules, such as Advanced Aerodynamics, Aeroelasticity and Flight Loads, Structural Integrity in Design, Principles of Flight Test, Space Systems Design, Aero-acoustics, Advanced Manufacturing, or Principles of Lean Engineering. You also have to carry out a minimum of 20 hours' powered aircraft flying training under the instruction of a licensed instructor (additional cost).
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 leadership in multidisciplinary teams.
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS); re-accreditation in progress for 2025 intake.
Reputation (employability rankings): 86.5% of engineering graduates in work or further study after 15 months; average salary £28,000 (15 months post-graduation).
You’ll develop practical skills in UWE Bristol’s state-of-the-art School of Engineering, using engine test cells, subsonic and supersonic wind tunnels, and advanced manufacturing workshops. The program features embedded project weeks, group design projects, and factory tours. Pilot Studies modules use real-world pilot training materials, and you’ll 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). This flying experience is essential for graduation and provides a strong foundation towards a Private Pilot Licence (PPL), though the degree itself does not confer a PPL. You will have access to:
Engine test cells for propulsion studies
Subsonic and supersonic wind tunnels for aerodynamic testing
Robotics laboratories and manufacturing workshops
Computer-aided design (CAD) suites and digital facilities
Electronic fabrication facilities for avionics and control systems
Group and individual design projects
Factory tours and briefings from leading aerospace companies
Minimum 20 hours of practical flying training (additional cost)
Placement opportunities with key aerospace partners
Access to dedicated engineering library resources
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.
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