Aviation Technology with Pilot Studies

You’ll be introduced to the key science and engineering principles that underlie aviation studies in Year 1, when you’ll also develop the theoretical knowledge you need for the Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) – you can meet the CAA’s ground exam requirements as part of your studies. During this year and the following summer you’ll also spend ten hours in the air, working towards your PPL.

Optional modules will also give you the chance to explore related areas such as process chemistry, management or the broader context of surface and air transport in an evolving economy and society.

Year 2 will incorporate the theoretical knowledge to prepare you for the CAA commercial pilot ground examinations. You’ll also learn more about how airlines and airports operate, their economic importance and the practical challenges that arise from commercial, technical, regulatory and political constraints.

In your final year you’ll learn more about vital issues of safety and reliability in aviation, as well as the health and security issues that affect different elements of the industry. You’ll also deepen your understanding of aerodynamics, aircraft design and construction, and work on a team technology project to apply your knowledge to a specific problem in aviation.

Projects

Every year of the course gives you hands-on experience of project work. This gives you the opportunity to explore your subject further as well as developing valuable skills in problem solving, communication and teamwork.

Find out more about our Projects

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Technical Skills and Applications 20 credits
• Aviation Engineering Materials 10 credits
• Theoretical Knowledge for the Private Pilots Licence 20 credits
• Aviation Engineering Science 20 credits
• Introduction to Aviation 20 credits
• Mathematical Techniques 1 10 credits

Optional modules

• Foundation Mathematics 10 credits
• Fundamentals of Process Chemistry 10 credits
• Foundation Engineering Physics 10 credits
• Introduction to Management 10 credits
• Introduction to Surface and Air Transport 10 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Aircraft 1 20 credits
• Aviation Health and Safety 20 credits
• Advanced Pilot Theory 40 credits
• Airline and Airport Operations 20 credits
• Mathematical Techniques 2 20 credits

Year 3

Compulsory modules

• Aircraft 2 20 credits
• Aviation Safety and Reliability 30 credits
• Aviation Technology Project 40 credits
• Aviation Futures 30 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Aviation Technology with Pilot Studies BSc in the course catalogue

Broadening your academic horizons

At Leeds we want you to benefit from the depth and breadth of the University's expertise, to prepare you for success in an ever-changing and challenging world. On this course you broaden your learning through core and/or optional modules. Find out more on the Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching.

You’ll study among academics who are leaders in their field – staff have conducted research for organisations such as NASA, the US Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and the US Air Force. Our research leads directly into our teaching, meaning you’ll hear about the very latest developments in your studies.

You’ll benefit from our integrated style of teaching and learning, using methods such as lab classes, project work, lectures, tutorials, example classes and group activities, allowing you to gain first-hand experience of applying your knowledge to real-life situations. Together they will equip you with in-depth knowledge and key practical skills that will put you in a good position to compete in science and technology-related careers. Our close links with industry also mean that you have direct contact with industry and potential employers from an early stage in your course