Overview
Ranked 2nd in London for Aerospace Engineering by The Guardian University Guide 2023.
Our Aerospace Engineering BEng degree is an exciting, hands-on course developed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to meet the real world needs of the global aerospace industry.
You will be introduced to fundamental engineering subjects such as structures, materials, fluids, and maths, and gain skills in technical drawing. You’ll then learn about the principles of aircraft design and progress to specialist subjects such as propulsion systems, and flight testing and analysis.
You’ll have access to a range of technical facilities including our aerospace/aviation laboratory, full-motion engineering flight simulator, supersonic and subsonic wind tunnels, materials and structure testing laboratory, and 3D printing in the digital fabrication workshop. Industry standard specialist software for aircraft design is available for you to use 24 hours a day in high-performance computing clusters.
During your time at Brunel, you will benefit from guest lectures delivered by industry professionals who present a valuable insight into current, challenging topics in the field of aerospace. There are also planned visits to engineering and manufacturing companies where you’ll see first-hand the latest breakthroughs in development and technology for future aerospace systems. In addition, you have the advantage of Brunel’s close location to London’s Heathrow Airport for site visits as well as project opportunities, and placement and employment options.
At the end of each academic year, engineering and maths students are invited to showcase their project work at Brunel Engineers +, an event that both celebrates their achievements and gives them the chance to network with industry figures and employers. This video shows some of the projects exhibited at the 2024 Brunel Engineers + event, with explanations by the students themselves.
Our BEng aerospace engineering course is accredited by both the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) (NB: we are seeking accreditation for the with-placement route). These professional bodies ensure that your engineering degree meets the academic requirement to qualify as a professional engineer. This accredited BEng degree in aerospace engineering can be studied full-time over three years, or four years with a placement year. The BEng degree meets the educational requirement to become an Incorporated Engineer (IEng). You may wish to transfer to the MEng route of study at the end of your second year, subject to meeting the progression requirement. The MEng degree fully meets the educational requirement to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and involves a further year of academic study.
We encourage the placement year option. This time in industry helps you to further prepare for the world of work and you’ll have a year’s worth of invaluable professional experience when you graduate. If you decide to go on an engineering placement year, you will have the opportunity to work in the aerospace engineering sector.
As an extracurricular activity, there is the opportunity to be part of a student-led initiative involving the design and build of an unmanned aircraft vehicle and participating in the IMechE industry-sponsored UAS Challenge (Unmanned Aircraft Systems Challenge).
Course content
Course delivery is a well-balanced combination of theory and practical sessions. In your first two years, you will gain solid knowledge and understanding of key aerospace engineering principles. You’ll also develop your reflective skills and professional development planning through the professional engineering practice module. In your final year, you move on to specialist topics such as propulsion systems and flight testing. You will also work on your industry-relevant individual research project.
Compulsory
- Engineering Mathematics and Programming I
Aims: To develop students’ ability to understand and apply fundamental methods of engineering mathematics; to introduce the use of programming in engineering, and develop students’ ability to represent and solve problems algorithmically.
- Engineering Mathematics and Programming II
Aims: To develop students’ ability to understand and apply fundamental methods of engineering mathematics; to introduce the use of programming in engineering, and develop students’ ability to represent and solve problems algorithmically.
- Engineering Practice
Aims: To develop the skills required by students studying in all engineering disciplines, thereby supporting their journey through Higher Education and into their professional life with the intention of maximising their employability. Skills development in the following areas will be addressed: problem solving; personal development; professional development; career planning; basic engineering design; introductory project management; communication; working in inclusive teams; health and safety; security.
- Engineering Systems and Energy 1
Aims: To provide a grounding in concepts of measurement and uncertainty; to provide knowledge about applied physics relations that govern engineering systems within their boundaries and via their variables of interaction; to establish ability to define system boundaries and apply relevant simple models.
- Engineering Systems and Energy 2
Aims: To provide a grounding in concepts of measurement and uncertainty; to provide knowledge about applied physics relations that govern engineering systems within their boundaries and via their variables of interaction; to establish ability to define system boundaries and apply relevant simple models.
- Engineering Mechanics - Statics
Aims: To provide a grounding in the fundamental principles of engineering mechanics; to provide knowledge and understanding of Newton’s laws and their application for the solution of static problems; to provide experience and confidence in problem-solving.
- Engineering Mechanics and Materials (Mechanical and Aerospace)
Aims: To provide a grounding in the fundamental principles of engineering mechanics – dynamics of rigid bodies; to provide knowledge and understanding of the common and important material properties for various engineering applications; to provide experience and confidence in problem-solving.
- Mechanical Engineering Science
Aims: To present principles governing the mechanics of solid bodies under static condition; to present interpret and apply concepts and theories of classical engineering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer to engineering systems; to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in modelling and analysing engineering problems; to achieve an appreciation of laboratory instrumentation and data analysis.
Compulsory
- Engineering Mathematics and Programming
The aim of this module is to enhance knowledge about application of mathematical modelling to engineering problems and to provide knowledge and understanding about various mathematical techniques that are used to solve mathematical problems relevant to engineering. Programming techniques will also be introduced for solving mathematical models
- Design Process for Machine Elements, Manufacturing Processes, Materials and CADThis module introduces relevant mechanical components, assemblies in an engineering design context and Computer Aided Design (CAD). Students learn to consolidate the disciplines of materials science, materials engineering and modern manufacturing processes.
- Engineering Business (Core)This module helps to develop and demonstrate an understanding of project management by working as part of a team to research and plan a project and enhances student preparedness for work placement and employment.
- Aerodynamics and CFDThis module provides introduction to the fundamental principles of aerodynamics and development of experimental laboratorial procedures for basic aerodynamics. Students learn basic concepts of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to be used in aerodynamics problems.
- Solid Mechanics and Intro to FEAThis module helps to establish a solid foundation for the analysis of solids and structures based on the fundamental principles of continuum mechanics. Students learn to link models and engineering applications with a range of real-life examples, experimental testing and comparative analysis of experimental measurements and theoretical results.
- Flight Mechanics and Aircraft DesignThis module introduces the basic principles of aircraft flight performance, stability and control, and aircraft design.
- Thermodynamics and Heat TransferThis module introduces new fundamental concepts of thermodynamics and apply to relevant thermal power and heating/cooling systems. Students learn basic concepts of heat transfer.
- Dynamics of MachinesThis module helps to establish a foundation for vibration analysis and machine dynamics. It will introduce analytical and graphical methods for mechanism analysis and synthesis.
Compulsory
- Major Individual ProjectThis module provides experience in planning, researching and conducting a major engineering project in the specialised course of study. Students will apply engineering techniques, critically assess the findings, putting forward ideas and drawing conclusions.
- Applied AerodynamicsThis module introduces more advanced concepts of aerodynamics to develop further aircraft wing aerodynamics and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for the solution of aerodynamic problems. It will provide a flight test experience to students.
- Mechatronics and Control EngineeringThis module introduces knowledge and methods for designing and implementing mechatronic systems for control and robot systems. Students will develop an understanding of modelling dynamic systems using transfer functions and block diagrams by providing a mathematical foundation for control systems analysis, design and performance improvement.
- Aerospace StructuresThis module introduces advanced concepts for the analysis and design of lightweight structures for aerospace vehicles. Students will learn basic principles underpinning modelling of composite materials and basic principles of static and dynamic aero elasticity.
- Sustainable Engineering Management and PracticeThis modules helps to learn pertinent environmental, quality, health & safety issues, and their relevant related regulations, influencing engineering business. Students will develop professional and technical skills to assess and manage these impacts within the framework of industry-recognised Management Systems.
- Aircraft PropulsionThis module introduces students with the basics of aircraft propulsion systems. It will provide an understanding of the different propulsion systems for subsonic and supersonic flight and understanding of performance parameters of air breathing engines.
- Space Mechanics and AirworthinessThis module introduces students to aspects of the mechanics of space and orbit flight and fundamental concepts of atmospheric re-entry and atmospheric heating. Students will learn introduction to aircraft airworthiness requirements and regulations and explain how to meet these requirements in aircraft design and manufacture.
- Flight Testing and AnalysisThis module provides a flight test experience to students through the demonstration and analysis of aircraft flight performance and manoeuvring data.
This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.
This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.
Please note that all modules are subject to change.
Read more about the structure of undergraduate degrees at Brunel.
Careers and your future
An aerospace engineering degree from Brunel will equip you with innovative technical knowledge and transferable skills relevant to demanding careers in the aerospace, aeronautical and related industries.
Some students have job offers before they graduate. They take up employment in fields such as aircraft and components design and manufacture, maintenance and testing, flight simulation, aviation, avionics and patent engineering.
Brunel’s high-calibre graduates are working for prestigious organisations, including: Rolls-Royce, Airbus, British Airways, BAE Systems, GE Aviation, Thales, Bombardier, Lockheed Martin and the Ministry of Defence. Opting for the year in industry during your aerospace engineering degree often leads to a job offer from your placement company.
UK entry requirements
2025/26 entry
- GCE A-level AAB-BBB including Maths and one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science, Electronics or Design and Technology (Use of Maths, Mathematical Studies, Critical Thinking and General Studies not accepted).
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (QCF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with Distinctions in Further Mathematics for Technicians and Further Mechanical or Further Electronic /Electrical Principles modules.
- BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF) DDD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with Distinctions in Engineering Principles and Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.
- BTEC Level 3 Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (RQF) DD in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with Distinction in Further Mechanical or Electrical Principles (QCF), Engineering Principles & Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems (RQF), AND A-Level Maths at grade B.
- BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma (QCF)/BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (RQF) D in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with A-Levels grades BB to include Grade B in Maths and Grade B in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Environment Studies, Computer Science or Design and Technology.
- International Baccalaureate Diploma 30 points, including 5 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 5 in one of the following subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Geography or Design Technology.
- Obtain a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma Engineering or Engineering Science and Maths with 45 credits at Level 3. All Maths and Science units must be Distinctions at level 3.
- T levels : For subjects accepted and grade requirements please contact the admissions office. Please note, A-level Maths will be needed alongside T levels in order to be considered for entry.
A minimum of five GCSEs are required, including GCSE Mathematics grade C or grade 4 and GCSE English Language grade C or grade 4 or GCSE English Literature grade B or grade 5.
Brunel University London is committed to raising the aspiration of our applicants and students. We will fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.
EU and International entry requirements
English language requirements
- IELTS: 6 (min 5.5 in all areas)
- Pearson: 59 (59 in all sub scores)
- BrunELT: 58% (min 55% in all areas)
- TOEFL: 77 (min R18, L17, S20, W17)
You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.
Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.
Fees and funding
2024/25 entry
UK
£9,250 full-time
£1,385 placement year
International
£23,615 full-time
£1,385 placement year
Fees quoted are per year and may be subject to an annual increase. Home undergraduate student fees are regulated and are currently capped at £9,250 per year; any changes will be subject to changes in government policy. International fees will increase annually, by no more than 5% or RPI (Retail Price Index), whichever is the greater.
More information on any additional course-related costs.
See our fees and funding page for full details of undergraduate scholarships available to Brunel applicants.
Please refer to the scholarships pages to view discounts available to eligible EU undergraduate applicants.
Teaching and learning
First Year Students
The Engineering Year 1 is common to all disciplines during term 1 (Chemical; Civil; Electronic and Electrical; Mechanical; Automotive and Aerospace Engineering), providing a broad educational base and opportunities for cross-disciplinary study. While much of the teaching will remain common to all disciplines during term 2, there will also be some opportunity for discipline-specific teaching activities.
Lectures
Lectures will be delivered using a variety of different methods. Some will be delivered live online or in-person on-campus, while others will be pre-recorded and made available online for you to access prior to engaging in interactive in-person tutorials or seminars on campus. Some on-campus live lectures will be simultaneously livestreamed; all live lectures, whether delivered online or on-campus, will be recorded and made available for you to review after each lecture has taken place.
Tutorials
All lecture-based modules will be supported by regular (in most cases, weekly) tutorials or seminars that will all be held on campus, allowing you to work with both staff and other students on the practical application of what has been discussed during lectures.
Laboratory classes
Laboratory classes will be held on campus. Students will have the opportunity to perform experiments and carry out other hands-on practical activities in the engineering labs and workshop spaces. Small group project work will also be carried out in person on campus, supported by regular on-campus interactive discussion sessions (workshops).
You'll need to come onto campus on most days to participate in all the teaching activities that make up the Engineering Year 1.
The University’s online digital assessment platform will be used for the submission of written course work. All examinations will take place in person on campus. Other forms of assessment, such as presentations, are also expected to be run on campus.
All other undergraduate students (year 2, 3 and MEng year)
To ensure you receive the maximum support and have the greatest opportunity to reach your full potential; the expectation is that you enrolled on these programmes and attend in-person all teaching activities including examinations that are scheduled on campus. This will be the majority of all activities. However, where for pedagogical reasons alternative methods of delivery are used for activities; you'll be notified and be expected to engage with the activity at the time of delivery.
Laboratory Support
- For modules with practical learning content, these will be delivered in-person on campus in the laboratories.
Assessment
- Traditional examinations will be taken in-person on campus.
Access to specialist software
- You'll have access to relevant engineering software on campus. You're also able to install software on your own personal laptops and connect to the Brunel License server through a VPN connection. This provides continued access to all services.
Contingency
If for any reason there are access restrictions imposed on staff or students, alternative arrangements will be made and due notice given.
Access to a laptop or desktop PC is required for joining online activities, completing coursework and digital exams, and a minimum specification can be found here.
We have computers available across campus for your use and laptop loan schemes to support you through your studies. You can find out more here.
Our aerospace engineering degrees are delivered by world-renowned academic staff. They are also researchers, collaborating with commercial organisations like aircraft manufacturers. This means they feed their cutting edge research back into the course. There will also be guest lectures from industry experts and aerospace engineering site visits.
There are opportunities to study abroad during your second year, either in Europe or at University of Iowa in the USA.
Study will combine lectures, tutorials and seminars, laboratory work, computer simulation, field work, self-study, research reports and project work.
Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.
Assessment and feedback
Your progress will be assessed via assignments, presentations, design projects, technical and laboratory reports, exams and the final year major individual research project.
