Aircraft Engineering with Pilot Studies

Combining the practical and theoretical aspects of flight with the underlying principles of aircraft engineering, this unique degree can have you soaring for success in the fast-paced aviation industry. Equipped with a solid understanding of aeronautics, technical skills and commercial aviation knowledge, the course can open up exciting career opportunities.

Develop in-demand engineering knowledge and skills Delivered across three years - or four, if you choose to include an industry placement,, our course focuses on the underlying principles of aircraft engineering. During your studies, you will learn to recognise and alleviate risk, create a safe and efficient operating environment, and assess vital information. You will explore how to enhance flight performance, as you develop flight assimilation and air navigation skills.

Collaboration is core to our values, so we strive to embed this throughout your studies. You will experience group projects that will build your confidence and capabilities in team working, problem-solving and communication - all desirable skills for real-world aeronautical engineering careers.

Learning takes place at our Peel Park campus, minutes from central Manchester. As an engineering student, you will experience hands-on learning using aeronautical laboratories, flight simulators and flight training system. You will also have the opportunity to gather real-time flight data with practical teaching using aircraft from Cranfield University’s National Flying Laboratory Centre. During the flight, the aircraft will conduct specific manoeuvres to gather flight data for your later analysis.

You can also choose to take an optional structured pilot training programme to gain a Private Pilot Licence. These training programmes are delivered by external partners at an additional cost. Details will be available once you join the course.

Get closer to industry The course team has long-standing connections with the aviation industry, both in the North West and beyond. You will benefit from stimulating range of external guest lecturers, project and placement opportunities, and engagement with professional networks, as you learn about the decision-making methods used by industry.

You will also have the option to include an industry placement year between years two and three, where you can gain additional professional and transferable skills, and boost your employability once you graduate.

Our new home for engineering In Autumn 2022, we opened our new £65 million hub for science, engineering and the environment - and our new home for engineering. Sustainability-designed and 100% electric powered, the building offers unrivalled teaching, learning and research facilities and provides exciting new spaces for industry collaboration.

Features • Gain proficiency and knowledge in the planning of multiple leg flight plans and build awareness and experience of aviation meteorology • Learn the engineering principles that underpin the design of propulsion systems for the aerospace industry • Explore the theory of business economics in route planning, learning the techniques and methodologies used for navigating aircraft • Build in-depth knowledge of avionic systems, including flight instruments, flight management, automatic flight, warning and recording and passenger systems • This course is also available with an integrated masters pathway (Ucas code: H492)