Program Overview

Aerospace Engineering Foundation Programme

The Aerospace Engineering Foundation Programme at Aston University is designed to provide students with the essential academic knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to succeed in university-level study. This foundation year prepares students for progression to the BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering degree.

Course Overview

The programme combines core principles in mathematics, physics, and engineering science with collaborative, project-based learning. Students work alongside peers from other engineering disciplines, gaining experience in interdisciplinary thinking and real-world ways of working. The supportive learning community helps students transition smoothly into degree-level study, preparing them to thrive in a fast-moving, high-tech sector.

Why Choose Aston University?

Aston University is ranked 11th in the UK for 'continuation' (Mechanical Engineering; Complete University Guide, 2026) and 12th overall in the UK for Mechanical Engineering (Guardian, 2025). The dedicated academics ensure smooth transitions for students from diverse backgrounds.

Course Description

The Foundation Programme in Aerospace Engineering equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to progress onto the BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering degree. Expert teaching is delivered by passionate staff who are dedicated to student success. Students have access to excellent facilities, including modern computer labs and industry-standard software.

What We Will Provide

• Expert teaching in the UK's second-largest city
• Access to excellent facilities, including modern computer labs and industry-standard software
• Support from experienced faculty and expert technicians

What You Will Provide

• A growth mindset and the ability to adapt to university-level study
• Critical thinking and ambition to excel
• A laptop with an Intel i5 processor or above (or AMD equivalent), although this is not required

What Skills We Teach

• Key technical skills, such as computer-aided design (CAD) and basic metal work
• Essential people skills, including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving
• Understanding of ethical and social impact, preparing students for the diverse and evolving demands of aerospace engineering

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion of the Foundation Programme, students will have the opportunity to progress onto the BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering degree. Graduates from Aston's engineering programmes have gone on to roles such as design engineer, systems engineer, and project manager with leading companies in the aerospace and engineering sectors.

How You Will Learn

Teaching combines engaging lectures with interactive workshops, helping students absorb knowledge through different approaches. Students work on real-world projects that challenge and inspire them, putting theory into practice through hands-on experience.

Facilities

Aerospace engineering is a hands-on discipline combining lectures with practical lab work and design projects. Students develop individual and teamwork skills alongside peers, guided by experienced academics and expert technicians. Facilities include:

• Modern computer labs
• Industry-standard software
• 3D printing and rapid prototyping facilities
• Laser cutting and CNC machining
• Collaborative design studios

Course Objectives

1. Provide the necessary fundamental skills and knowledge for progression into Stage 1 of study.
2. Develop transferable and communication skills required to be successful in further study.
3. Develop ethical and inclusive, problem solvers and critical thinkers.
4. Begin to develop the global awareness, sustainability, and inclusive practice required in modern professional practice.

Modules

The foundation year includes the following core modules:

• Undergraduate Professional Skills
• Mathematics 1
• Introduction to Scientific Principles
• Industries of the Future
• Global Engineering Project
• Engineering Science Foundations
• Applied Physics Foundations
• Mathematics 2

Foundation Year Outcomes

On successful completion of the foundation year, students will be able to:

• Use mathematical principles to solve well-defined problems.
• Solve well-defined problems using technical and scientific concepts.
• Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating inclusive, effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Communicate discipline-relevant technical ideas and solutions effectively.
• Conduct practical activities using appropriate equipment/tools, review data, and draw conclusions to support technical decision-making.

Entry Requirements

• A Levels: Standard offer CCD, EPQ Offer CDD and Level 3 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) grade B
• Contextual offers: Aston Ready is the contextual offer scheme that could reduce the undergraduate offer by one or two grades.
• BTEC: Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma Merit Merit Merit
• IB: 26 including 3, 3, 3 in Higher Level subjects
• Access: Successful completion of the QAA-recognised Access Diploma with 60 credits including 45 credits at Level 3.
• T Levels: All subjects are accepted at T Level: Merit
• GCSEs: GCSE English Language or Literature minimum grade C/4, GCSE Mathematics minimum grade C/4

Fees and Scholarships

• UK students (2026/27): Annual tuition fees Ł9,535
• Scholarships: Aston University is committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Assessment

The foundation programme employs a range of authentic assessment methods, including presentations, coursework, quizzes, and some exams. Assessment methods reflect the most effective and relevant way to review student performance for each module.

Career Prospects

Engineering and physical science skills are essential to many aspects of modern life, making graduates in these fields highly sought after. Students who complete an Engineering and Physical Science Foundation Programme typically progress to study for their bachelor's degree. After finishing their BEng or MEng degree, some graduates have secured roles such as mechanical engineer, design engineer, project manager, and consultant with leading companies.