Aerospace Engineering

This four-year course in Aerospace Engineering combines advanced theory with practical experience and is tailored to equip you with the broad set of skills required to solve the engineering problems of the future.

You will study a wide range of subjects, organised across four main themes: aerodynamics, structures and materials, dynamics and control, and systems and design. You will apply your knowledge and professional engineering skills to diverse applications such as fixed and rotary wing aircraft, spacecraft and space missions, and renewable energy.

The first two years of the course are devoted to core concepts, which are taught via lectures, supported by practical experience through coursework, and computer and physical lab activities. In addition to core theoretical knowledge, you will develop wider skills, such as teamwork and presentation skills, as part of our design-build-test project.

The third-year research project will allow you to apply your technical knowledge to tackle an open-ended problem; for example, the automated landing of an unmanned air vehicle (UAV), design of a potential space mission, or experimental testing of advanced composite materials. You will be working closely with academics who are world-leading specialists in their research areas, and make use of our extensive facilities.

The degree is capped off by a group design project in the final year. This is an industrial-focussed project where you will work in groups to undertake the design of a whole aerospace vehicle, and replicate processes found in industry. You could be asked to design a hydrogen-powered civil aircraft, a future uncrewed aerial vehicle, or even an interplanetary science mission. In the final year, you also select optional units, which allow you to specialise in the areas that most suit your interests and career plans.

Bristol lies at the heart of aerospace engineering in the country, and our Industrial Liaison Office organises company engagement through all years of the course, making the most of nearby aerospace companies.

The diversity of topics in aerospace engineering makes this a challenging degree, but the reward is a uniquely broad education which equips you for an exciting career in solving the problems of the future.