MSc Aerospace Engineering

At the University of Bristol, the MSc in Aerospace Engineering isn’t just about learning theories—it’s about preparing you to thrive in one of the most advanced and exciting industries in the world. From the very first day, you’ll get stuck into practical, hands-on work: collaborating with your peers on design challenges, mastering advanced simulation tools, and sharpening soft skills like communication and teamwork that employers truly value.

And location matters. Bristol sits at the centre of the UK’s aerospace cluster, home to global giants like Airbus, Rolls-Royce, GKN, Leonardo, and Boeing. That means you’re not just studying aerospace—you’re living it, with networking, placements, and career opportunities right on your doorstep.

Tailoring Your Learning

This MSc is flexible, letting you explore the areas that inspire you most. Optional units reflect Bristol’s world-leading research strengths:

• Aerodynamics

• Composites

• Aeroacoustics

• Space Engineering

• Control Systems

You can shape your degree around your interests while applying your knowledge to real design challenges.

What Practical Learning Looks Like

• Group Multidisciplinary Design Task
  Work as part of a team on a project that feels like a real industrial brief—think conceptual aircraft design. Alongside technical problem-solving, you’ll also build teamwork, leadership, and communication skills that employers are looking for.

• Research-Driven Specialisation
  Dive into optional modules guided by active faculty research, letting you specialise in cutting-edge areas like composites or aeroacoustics.

• Proximity to Industry
  Studying in Bristol places you within reach of aerospace leaders, making it easier to access internships, placements, and industry events.

Additional Experiential Elements

Even beyond the core curriculum, Bristol’s infrastructure makes sure you’re learning in the best possible environment:

• Advanced Laboratories & Simulation Tools
  With teaching focused on aerodynamics, composites, and control, you’ll gain experience using specialist labs and computational resources.

• Vibrant Research Culture
  As a postgraduate, you’ll be part of an active research community—working alongside MSc, PhD, and postdoctoral researchers in groups like Fluid Flow & Aerodynamics, the Bristol Composites Institute, Dynamics & Control, and Robotics.

• World-Class Academic Support
  With full access to university libraries, study spaces, and academic resources, you’ll have everything you need to push your learning further.

• Industry-Relevant Projects
  From group projects to dissertation work, you’ll tackle challenges that reflect real-world aerospace and beyond. Many graduates go on to roles in aerospace, automotive, and space exploration—with a Bristol MSc, you’ll be ready to contribute from day one.

Where this degree can take you
Graduates from this MSc are well-positioned to move quickly into leadership roles within aerospace design, cutting-edge research and development, or technical consultancy across multiple high-tech sectors. Common career paths include:

• Aerospace Design Engineer

• R&D Engineer (specialising in areas such as aerodynamics, composites, or control systems)

• Systems Integration Specialist (in aviation or space systems)

• Technical Project Manager or Consultant in advanced engineering industries

Boosting your employability
At Bristol, you won’t just study in the classroom—you’ll gain real-world exposure through the University’s Industrial Liaison Office, which connects students directly with leading companies. From mentorship and internships to industry-led input on your group design project, you’ll benefit from direct engagement with professionals who know what it takes to succeed. Engineers from partner firms also play an active role in your projects, giving you both feedback and valuable industry insight.

Graduate employment & salaries
Career prospects for aerospace graduates from Bristol are consistently strong. Within 15 months of graduating, the median starting salary is around £30,000, rising to about £32,000 after three years and £37,000 after five. In Bristol specifically, aerospace engineers typically earn £40,500 on average, with a range between £33,482 and £50,030. Importantly, over 80% of graduates are in employment or further study just over a year after finishing their degree.

Strong industry connections
Bristol sits right at the heart of one of Europe’s largest aerospace hubs. The University enjoys close partnerships with global names such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce, GKN, Leonardo, and Boeing—all just a short distance from campus. These connections bring opportunities for collaboration, project sponsorship, and even scholarships. For example, Boeing UK supports students working on unmanned aerial systems (UAS), funding standout projects and recognising top talent with awards.

The long-term value of your degree
This MSc isn’t just about your first job—it’s about building a career with credibility. The programme is underpinned by Bristol’s nationally leading aerospace teaching and world-class research. The University is ranked 5th in the UK for research, with 94% rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. That reputation carries weight globally, whether you choose to move into industry or pursue further research.

What you’ll walk away with
By the time you graduate, you’ll have more than just specialist knowledge. You’ll gain:

• Technical expertise in aerodynamics, composites, control, or space systems

• Teamworking skills through multidisciplinary design projects

• Research experience working alongside one of Bristol’s renowned research groups

All of this ensures you’re not just ready for your first role—but for a long, successful career in aerospace and beyond.