MSc Aerospace Engineering

When you join this programme, you won’t just sit in lectures or focus on theory. You’ll get hands-on with real engineering tools, take part in design/build/test challenges, use specialist labs to see how things work in real conditions, and complete an in-depth research project. Salford has invested heavily in aerospace facilities, so you’ll graduate with both the “why” and the “how” behind the science.

Experiential Learning at Salford — what you’ll do and use:

Aerodynamics Laboratory
Get experience with both low-speed and supersonic wind tunnels, running experiments to see how airflow behaves under very different conditions.

Control & Dynamics Laboratory
Work with programmable control systems to test and analyse things like damping, short-period oscillations, forced vibration, and how different controllers perform.

Flight Simulation Tools
Train with the Merlin MP520-T Engineering Flight Simulator and an Elite Flight Training System, which let you model flight dynamics in lifelike scenarios.

Design-for-Manufacture and Systems Integration Projects
In modules such as Aerospace System Design and Aerospace Assembly, you’ll design, build, and test aerospace systems or components, always considering real-world regulations and standards. This includes producing professional documentation and carrying out ground testing.

Software and Computational Tools
Learn to use industry-standard finite element analysis (FEA) software through the “Engineering Computation” module. You’ll build models, analyse vibrations, and interpret results like an industry engineer.

Hands-on Learning: Labs, Practical Sessions & Team Projects
Your modules include plenty of lab-based practicals and workshops. You’ll also take part in team projects, group presentations, and collaborative work — just like in professional engineering environments.

Factory Visits & Workshops
Visit industrial sites and aerospace factories to see real-world production and assembly in action, from forming and joining techniques to how fixtures are used in manufacturing.

Independent Research Project
For your 60-credit dissertation, you’ll carry out your own experimental or computational research on a topic of your choice in aerospace engineering — applying everything you’ve learned in a professional context.

Industry Connections
Benefit from the School’s strong links with aerospace and aviation businesses in the UK and abroad. These partnerships mean access to guest lectures, industry insights, and networking opportunities.

Specialist Aeronautics & Robotics Environment
Study in a purpose-built space designed specifically for aeronautics and robotics, equipped with tailored labs, workshops, and instrumentation.

Library & Research Support
Alongside academic resources at the University of Salford library, you’ll also have access to the Salford Innovation and Research Centre (SIRC) if you’re keen to explore advanced research or continue on to a PhD.

At Salford, you’ll have access to specialist, purpose-built laboratories that bring theory to life. These include aerodynamics labs with both low-speed and supersonic wind tunnels, a control and dynamics lab, and even advanced flight simulator facilities — the same kinds of tools you’ll find in industry.

You’ll also benefit from guest lectures by industry experts, opportunities to take part in collaborative research and development projects, and regular networking with aerospace companies both in the North West and further afield.

On top of this, the university’s dedicated careers services are there to help you with every step of your professional development — from CV writing and interview prep, to finding placements, internships, or your first graduate role.

Employment & Salary Prospects

Aerospace is a sector where your skills are highly valued. In the UK, early-career aerospace engineers typically earn between £25,000 and £34,000, depending on the employer and location.

As you gain experience, salaries usually rise quickly into the £30,000–£50,000 range, with senior engineers regularly earning above £52,000 — and often much more in leadership positions.

University–Industry Partnerships

Salford has excellent links with leading aerospace, defence, and aviation employers. Alumni have gone on to build successful careers at organisations such as Airbus, BAE Systems, Roll-Royce, Thales, and the Royal Air Force.

The MSc programme itself is designed with industry input, including modules on design-to-manufacture and systems integration, as well as case studies led by industry partners. This ensures you graduate with the skills and insight employers are actively looking for.

Accreditation & Long-Term Value

The MSc is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society, giving your qualification professional recognition across the aerospace industry worldwide.

It also meets the Engineering Council’s AHEP standards, a key step if you want to pursue Chartered Engineer status or aim for senior professional roles later in your career.

Graduate Outcomes

Graduates of the programme typically move into roles across the full aerospace spectrum — from designing and manufacturing aircraft and spacecraft, to working with specialist suppliers of engines, avionics, structures, and control systems.

Many also go on to contribute to advanced projects in areas such as environmental control systems, flight control technologies, and major aircraft sub-systems — making a direct impact on the future of aviation and space technology.