Aerospace Engineering

Program Overview

The Aerospace Engineering program provides a comprehensive education in the design, manufacture, and operation of flight vehicles. Students gain knowledge in aircraft performance, flight mechanics, propulsion, flight dynamics, and computational aerodynamics. The program prepares graduates for careers in aircraft design, propulsion systems, flight control, research and development, and space exploration.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Aerospace Engineering

is a specialized engineering discipline focused on the design, manufacture, and operation of flight vehicles, including both traditional aircraft and modern unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This program offers a comprehensive approach to the field, covering various aspects such as:

• Aircraft Performance: Analyzing and optimizing the performance of flight vehicles in terms of speed, range, and efficiency.
• Flight Mechanics: Understanding the principles of flight and the dynamics of aircraft in different flight conditions.
• Aircraft Propulsion: Studying the different types of propulsion systems used in aircraft, including jet engines, turboprops, and electric motors.
• Flight Dynamics: Analyzing the stability and control characteristics of aircraft, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
• Computational Aerodynamics: Utilizing computational tools to simulate and analyze the flow of air around aircraft, optimizing their aerodynamic performance.
• Flight, Guidance and Navigational Control Systems: Designing and implementing systems for controlling the flight path and navigation of aircraft.
The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and analytical abilities to excel in various roles within the aerospace industry.
• Fundamentals of Electronics & Circuits: Basic concepts of electronics and circuit analysis.
• Aerospace Engineering Skills: Introduction to specific skills and tools used in aerospace engineering.
• Effective Communication Skills: Developing effective communication skills for technical presentations and reports.
• Fluid Mechanics: Understanding the behavior of fluids and their interaction with aircraft.
• Dynamics: Analyzing the motion of rigid bodies and their applications in aerospace engineering.
• Aerospace Control: Designing and implementing control systems for aircraft.
• Simulation of Engineering Systems: Utilizing simulation tools to analyze and optimize complex engineering systems.
• Aircraft Performance: Advanced analysis of aircraft performance parameters.
• Flight Dynamics: In-depth analysis of aircraft dynamic behavior.
• Computational Aerodynamics: Advanced computational methods for aerodynamic analysis and design.
• Aerospace Propulsion: Studying different types of aerospace propulsion systems and their performance characteristics.
• Software Engineering: Principles of software development and its applications in aerospace engineering.
• Professional Communication & Development: Developing professional communication skills and career development strategies.
• Wireless Communications & Signal Processing: Understanding wireless communication technologies and their applications in aerospace systems.
• Risk and Reliability Analysis: Assessing and mitigating risks in aerospace systems design and operation.
• Aerospace Manufacturing, Materials & Structures: Studying materials and manufacturing processes used in aerospace engineering.
• UAV Design Project (OIP): Practical project involving the design and development of an unmanned aerial vehicle.

Year 3

• Integrated Work-Study Programme (IWSP): Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering projects through industry placements.
• Flight & GNC Systems: Advanced study of flight control and guidance systems.
• Composite Materials & FEA: Studying composite materials and their applications in aerospace structures, including finite element analysis techniques.
• Professional Engineering Practice: Developing professional engineering skills and ethics.
• Capstone Project: Completing a major independent research project in a chosen area of aerospace engineering.

Assessment:

Assessment methods may vary depending on the specific module but typically include:

• Examinations: Written exams testing knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts.
• Coursework: Assignments, projects, and presentations demonstrating application of knowledge and skills.
• Laboratory work: Practical experiments and simulations to reinforce theoretical learning.
• Group work: Collaborative projects to develop teamwork and communication skills.
• Capstone project: Comprehensive research project demonstrating the ability to apply knowledge and skills to a real-world problem.

Teaching:

The program is delivered by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals with expertise in various areas of aerospace engineering. The teaching methods include:

• Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and core concepts.
• Tutorials: Interactive sessions for problem-solving and clarification of concepts.
• Laboratory work: Hands-on experiments and simulations for practical application of knowledge.
• Group work: Collaborative projects to develop teamwork and communication skills.
• Guest lectures: Industry experts sharing real-world experiences and insights.

Careers:

Graduates of the Aerospace Engineering program have a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors of the industry, including:

• Aircraft design and manufacturing: Designing, developing, and manufacturing various types of aircraft, including commercial airliners, military aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
• Aerospace propulsion systems: Designing, developing, and testing different types of propulsion systems for aircraft, including jet engines, turboprops, and electric motors.
• Flight control systems: Designing and implementing systems for controlling the flight path and navigation of aircraft.
• Aerospace research and development: Conducting research and development activities to advance aerospace technologies and systems.
• Space exploration: Contributing to the design and development of spacecraft and space exploration missions.

Other:

The program also offers the opportunity to participate in an overseas immersion program in Glasgow during the vacation between years 2 and 3. This program allows students to collaborate with academics and industry professionals at the University of Glasgow and gain international experience.