MSc Aerodynamics and Computation

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Southampton

Program Overview

The MSc Aerodynamics and Computation sharpens your understanding of flow physics, turbulence modelling, and numerical methods to address industrial design challenges. It suits engineering, mathematics or science graduates with strong background in fluid dynamics or aerodynamics who want to work in R&D or pursue advanced research.

Curriculum Structure
You will take core modules like Computational Aerodynamics, Applications of CFD, Aerothermodynamics, and Turbulence: Physics and Modelling, learning how to model flows, simulate aerodynamic forces, and apply finite-volume and finite-difference numerical schemes.
Optional modules such as Experimental Methods for Aerodynamics, Aeroacoustics, Design Search and Optimisation allow you to gain hands-on experience with wind tunnels, data-driven optimisation, and experimental validation of computational models.

Focus areas: “Flow physics & turbulence, numerical methods & CFD, experimental aerodynamics, optimisation, advanced computational modelling”

Learning outcomes: “Understand and simulate turbulent aerodynamic flows; apply CFD & experimental methods; integrate computational & physical data to improve design; conduct independent research in aerodynamics”

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) to meet academic requirements for Chartered Engineer status.

Reputation (employability rankings): University of Southampton is highly ranked (in top ~17 UK in engineering-aeronautics subjects in Complete University Guide 2026), and graduates commonly work in industry with employers like Dyson, Rolls-Royce.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This programme is designed to transform you into an expert software engineer through a deeply practical, industry-focused curriculum that bridges advanced engineering principles with professional development practice. You'll have access to our excellent facilities in the School of Electronics and Computer Science, which houses modern computing laboratories, dedicated agile project spaces, and specialised software engineering tools.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical, industry-relevant experience:

Industry-Standard Engineering Tools: You'll gain proficiency in essential professional tools including Git for enterprise version control, Jenkins for continuous integration, Docker for containerization, JIRA for project management, and modern IDEs for full-stack development.
Agile Software Projects: A key feature is the series of team-based projects where you'll apply agile methodologies to develop significant software systems, from requirements analysis and system design to implementation, testing, and deployment.
Software Engineering Laboratory: You'll work in our dedicated computing labs equipped with collaborative development environments, pair programming stations, and continuous integration infrastructure.
Systems Design Workshop: You'll use architecture modelling tools and design pattern libraries to create robust, scalable software architectures for complex systems.
Testing and Quality Assurance Suite: You'll practice test-driven development, automated testing, and quality assurance techniques using professional testing frameworks and tools.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Aerodynamics and Computation at the University of Southampton gain advanced expertise in aerodynamics, computational modelling, and fluid dynamics, preparing for roles such as Aerodynamics Engineer, CFD Specialist, Aerospace Researcher, and Industrial R&D Engineer. The program emphasizes numerical methods and the physics of turbulence, supporting careers in aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors.

Southampton's Career and Employability Service provides tailored support including networking events, career fairs, CV workshops, and links to paid research projects and placements.
High graduate employability, with recent alumni joining companies like Dyson and Rolls-Royce; salary figures in related fields range from £29,000 to £46,000 within 3–5 years of graduation.
Research partnerships and projects are often supported by major employers and government funding bodies; students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the UK’s largest university wind tunnel.
Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), meeting academic requirements for Chartered Engineer registration and ensuring enduring career recognition.
Graduates demonstrate technical proficiency, analytical capability, and research experience, suited for leadership and innovation in high-performance engineering environments.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may pursue PhD or research roles in aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, or computational engineering, or advance through specialist industry certifications and technical leadership pathways.