Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering MEng, BEng

The first two years of our five degree courses share the same set of compulsory modules, giving you the flexibility to switch between our different degrees. In Years 3 and 4 you’ll take modules in your chosen specialism.

In Years 1 and 2, you’ll study compulsory modules to establish the core mechanical engineering principles required by all branches of mechanical engineering. You’ll also undertake the first year design and manufacture project. Since many mechanical engineers go on to positions where they have management responsibilities, you’ll develop your knowledge of business practices by studying economics and management, taught by the Leeds University Business School.

Specialist aeronautical and aerospace modules form the basis of Year 3. You’ll learn to apply design to different aspects of modern aerospace vehicles, leading to detailed design of different aerospace vehicle systems. You’ll understand the fundamental principles of flight mechanics, stability and control, orbital mechanics and space flight, aerodynamics and propulsion systems, finite element analysis and aerospace vehicle design.

To experience some of these aspects in practice, you’ll also attend a flight course where you’ll be a passenger in a small aircraft, taking measurements of its performance under a range of manoeuvres.

If you take the MEng course, you’ll continue into Year 4 to learn more about analysing structures unique to the aerospace industry. You will be trained to conduct computational fluid dynamics simulations to analyse the aerodynamic characteristics of aerospace vehicles and you will develop a deeper understanding of aerospace systems. There will be a choice of an optional module, allowing you to focus on the scientific principles of design optimization or rotary wing aircraft.

In addition to the taught modules, 50% of year 4 consists of an aerospace-related group project, usually in conjunction with leading aerospace companies that are members of the aerospace industrial advisory board.

Modules
Year 1
Compulsory modules

• Computers in Engineering Analysis
• Design and Manufacture 1
• Thermofluids 1
• Solid Mechanics
• Engineering Materials
• Engineering Mathematics

Year 2
Compulsory modules

• Engineering Mechanics
• Vibration and Control
• Design and Manufacture 2
• Economics and Management
• Mechatronics and Measurement Systems
• Thermofluids 2

Year 3
Compulsory modules

• Aerospace Vehicle Design
• Aerodynamics and Aerospace Propulsion
• Aerospace Flight Mechanics
• Individual Engineering Project
• Finite Element Methods of Analysis

Year 4
Compulsory modules

• Team Project
• Aerospace Structures
• Vehicle and Product Systems Design
• Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis

Optional modules
Design Optimisation - MEng Rotary Wing Aircraft