In Year 1, you will acquire the fundamental
engineering knowledge and skills, building a solid foundation for students to
undertake a deeper study in Year 2. You will have the opportunity to carry out
hands-on practical work in laboratories and workshops throughout the programme.
Most modules are designed to develop key employability skills such as
communication, presentation, team-working, planning, and project management.

 In Year 1, there is a clear structure and
guidance for your learning, with an emphasis on the acquisition of fundamental
engineering knowledge and skills (e.g. Mathematics and IT), practical skills,
design skills and the initial development of Future Skills.

Core Modules

The module introduces students to the fundamental scientific principles that underlie aviation.  In particular, aerodynamics, thermodynamics, mechanics of materials, structural analysis and mechanics of flight.  This module has some elements in common with the engineering programme, but it does not go to the same depth.  The module is primarily delivered through lectures supported by tutorial sessions and laboratory-based practical sessions.

 The aerodynamics section will cover the fundamental properties of fluids, the main basic conservation equations used, and their engineering applications. It also introduces the concept of dimensions and the SI units of measurement.

 The thermodynamics section deals with the relationship between heat and various other forms of energy.  The emphasis will be on the impact of these relationships on the performance of aircraft propulsion systems. 

 The flight mechanics section will cover the main forces keeping the aircraft airborne and the balance of forces in different flight attitudes. Topics of aircraft performance and flight stability will be discussed.

·         Engineering Mathematics and Computing – (30 credits)

The aim of this module is to provide students with a solid foundation in engineering mathematics and computational tools essential for solving engineering problems. The mathematics component covers key topics including algebra, functions, logarithms, trigonometry, calculus, differential equations, vectors, and statistics. These topics are designed to equip students with the analytical skills required to tackle complex engineering challenges.

 The computing component introduces students to modern engineering software and programming techniques. Students will develop proficiency in Autodesk Inventor for computer-aided design (CAD) and Python for problem-solving, data representation, and visualisation. Emphasis is placed on applying mathematical and computational tools to model, analyse, and solve real-world engineering problems.

 By the end of this module, students will be able to confidently integrate mathematical principles with computational methods, forming a critical foundation for advanced engineering study and practice.

·         Engineering Mechanics: Statics, Dynamics and Materials – (30 credits)

This module aims to provide students with a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of statics, dynamics, and materials. It covers the analysis of forces on beam structures and trusses in static equilibrium and understanding equivalent force systems, friction, centroids, and moments of inertia. A vector-based approach to particle and rigid body dynamics is presented in this module, covering both kinematics and kinetics for particles as well as for rigid bodies. Core topics include Newton’s second law, principles of linear and angular momentum, and conservation laws. The module also explores the classification of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. It emphasises the study of mechanical properties of metals, covering key concepts such as engineering stress and strain, Poisson’s ratio, modulus of elasticity, material performance relationships, and the failure characteristics of both ductile and brittle materials. Lectures are complemented by hands-on laboratories and tutorials in statics, dynamics, and materials.

·         Navigate with Introduction to Flight Operations and Aviation Industry – (30 credits)

This module will introduce students to Future Skills through engagement with Navigate. Students are guided to identify and take ownership of their personal academic journey through the development and application of academic skills aligned to KU Graduate Attributes and their discipline-specific professional body learning outcomes. Students are tutored in a range of learning-to-learn techniques and are introduced to assessment for learning and the role of feedback, reflection and feedforward as an integrated part of their learning journey. This will be supported through active engagement in the KU Navigate Programme, enabling students to understand and begin to develop a design thinking approach to Future Skills development.

 The Level 4 Personal Tutorial System (PTS) is integrated within this module, and timetabled tutorial sessions provide an opportunity for regular discipline-focused small-group discussion and debate to reinforce the key themes and practices of the taught programme. Professional and personal development skills are reflected throughout the module, and the authentic application of the methods developed is highlighted in the taught curriculum. Employability skills are explored in the PTS, and students are challenged to consider the development of these skills between their Level 4 modules and graduation.

In Year 2, there will be an increased expectation of independent study, supported by a reduced emphasis on the use of traditional lectures. You will study the engineering principles underpinning aircraft technologies such as aerodynamics, propulsion, structures and materials science and performance of aircraft. You will study aircraft maintenance operations, aircraft systems, airworthiness, and air transport economics. You will also learn to design and make aircraft structures using computational skills such as CAD and FEA. You will have problems based learning and interdisciplinary group work to tackle a live, real-world problem supplied by a well-known company or
organisation.

Core modules

·        Aerodynamics, Composite Material and Computer-Aided Design – (30 credits)

This second-year BSc Aerospace Engineering module provides students with a solid foundation in aerodynamics and the application of advanced engineering materials for designing aerospace components. The curriculum includes an introduction to virtual design techniques, such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computer-Aided Design
(CAD), Emphasising their role in analysing aerospace structures. The module covers both low-speed and high-speed aerodynamics, beginning with the fundamental principles of fluid flow and aerofoil properties, boundary layer behaviour, and high-speed compressible flow dynamics. It highlights key design processes and material selection specific to aerospace components, incorporating essential terminology and practical applications. The learning experience is enriched through interactive lectures, flipped classroom tutorials, and problem-solving activities. Laboratory work includes wind tunnel testing, composite material manufacturing and analysis, flight simulation, and FEA/CAD computing exercises.

·        Explore with Professional Development for Aviation Operations – (30 credits)

This module supports students in identifying the skills acquired during their aircraft maintenance practicals and the early stages of their degree. It prepares them for Level 6 study by enhancing their ability to reflect on learning, develop critical thinking, and
strengthen communication skills.

Aligned with Kingston University graduate attributes, the module fosters a reflective approach to learning, an appreciation of lifelong learning, creativity, and effective communication. This mirrors industry expectations, where trainee engineers must reflect on their performance during training phases.

The teamwork project allows students to contextualise their expertise, demonstrating their ability to integrate knowledge into practical applications. This experience directly supports their preparation for the work-based project in the End-Point Assessment, equipping them with essential problem-solving and collaborative skills for professional
Aviation operations.

·        Aircraft Systems – (30 credits)

This module is designed to give students a broad understanding of the operation of the major systems typically found on an aircraft. It will use a Systems Engineering perspective to look at the interaction of the systems.   It will also review the maintenance requirements of these systems and, more generally, how aircraft maintenance is planned, delivered and regulated.

·        Electronic and Control Systems – (30 credits)

Due to technological advancements, electronic and control system fundamentals play a vital role across many engineering disciplines. In this module, you will be introduced to the fundamental principles of control system engineering. This module also extends electronics teaching to more complex devices and methods for the analysis of electronic circuits. You will learn how to model and analyse the behaviour of
dynamic control systems. You will understand the concepts of stability and the effects
of the feedback loop in a control system.

Furthermore, you will apply conventional control theory and more advanced artificial intelligence-based techniques to solve feedback control problems. MATLAB will be used to reinforce the concepts learned in the module through simulation. This module is technical and content-rich to enhance analytical as well as employability skills across many engineering disciplines.

Module content is delivered through formal lectures, which are supported by computing laboratory sessions along with tutorials and additional support material available on the virtual learning environment. The assessment is through an in-class test, a practical laboratory exercise and examinations.

In Year 3, you will study advanced materials and structures, propulsion and performance, aircraft maintenance, airworthiness and air transport economics. The assessment tasks in Year 3 focus on the real world-engineering activities that enhance students’ employability. In Year 3, you will also learn about maintenance logistics, maintenance cost drivers and the key aspects of project planning. You will apply business methods to assess the economic and financial aspects of air transport and/or engineering projects. In this final year, you will be expected to select and apply the requisite practical skills in your own independent research work in the Individual Project module.

 Core modules

·         Air Transport Economics – (30 credits)

Throughout the remainder of their studies, students have studied material that has been focused on a specific role or roles within the air transport industry, whether it be aircraft design, maintenance, operations or repair and overhaul.  The aim of this module is to take a step back and explore how employers within the various sectors of the air transport industry combine all these functions in order to make a profit.

 The module also compares the operation of the air transport market with that in other sectors and, in more general terms, looks at what makes the industry tick.  It also looks at the standard methods of recording and reporting financial performance.

 On successful completion of this module, students should not only understand how their future role will contribute to their employer’s success, but, should they decide to move away from the air transport sector, they should have a firm grounding in the general economic principles by which all industries operate.

·         Aircraft Design Group Project – (15 credits)

This module is a core module in the BSc Aerospace Engineering programme and forms one of the capstone experiences of the course. This major project-based task is undertaken throughout the final year of the programme and allows the students to experience working as a design team, researching and studying in depth an industrially relevant design task.

 The module provides the students with a simulated experience of the difficulties and needs for teamwork within the modern engineering environment. It encourages the students to work together to achieve defined goals and milestones and provides a platform for them to demonstrate their employability skills in this key area. It allows the students to develop their project management skills alongside their organisational and interpersonal skills. 

 ·         Aircraft Performance, Materials Failure and Structural Analysis – (30 credits)

This module is designed for students from a range of aerospace-related programmes with the knowledge and skills needed to analyse and optimise aircraft performance and propulsion systems. It covers a range of propulsion technologies, enabling students to assess their operational efficiency and impact on overall aircraft performance. The module encompasses both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, teaching students to estimate performance metrics, interpret flight data, and identify conditions for optimal efficiency.

 A significant component focuses on structural analysis, where students will use idealised models of aircraft structures to simulate operational scenarios and predict structural behaviour. This hands-on approach, combining analytical and computational methods, deepens their understanding of how design variations affect aircraft integrity under different conditions.

 Additionally, students will develop expertise in selecting materials for aerospace components by evaluating factors such as strength-to-weight ratios, temperature resilience, and fatigue resistance. These skills will prepare them to make informed decisions that enhance safety and efficiency in aircraft design.

 Integrating theoretical instruction with practical applications, the module includes case studies and project-based learning. By its conclusion, students will be proficient in using advanced analytical tools, interpreting complex datasets, and devising strategies to optimise aircraft systems, preparing them for impactful careers in aerospace engineering.

·         Applied Business Management – (15 credits)

Students will demonstrate the ability to apply their developing professional skills competencies in their chosen area and will ensure they have a broad understanding of the business environment in which professional activities are undertaken. The module will develop the students’ technical, management and interpersonal skills required to perform in a team environment and prepare the students for employment and entrepreneurship.

 Students will participate in Kingston University’s Bright Ideas competition, where they will work together as a team to develop a business idea of their choice. To do this, they will need to interact with relevant stakeholders outside of the university. 

 Students will be guided to interact with professional and learning communities beyond the university and reflect on these interactions. This may include participation in co-curricular events such as subject-specific and career development events (e.g. talks, workshops, speed interviews), networking opportunities offered by the subject-specific professional bodies, exploring pathways to professional chartership/membership, leveraging interactions with professionals in the development of the final year research project, and reflecting on the co-benefits of these interactions.

 ·         Individual Project  – (30 credits)

A BSc project should result in a project with a detailed understanding of technical or research topics. This detailed understanding should be demonstrated by critical thinking, acquisition of coherent and relevant knowledge, analysis of tasks and development of technical solutions to an engineering problem. This should be achieved through the use and application of computational software, and its application, or through experimental/practical work. This should demonstrate the development of engineering practice to solve complex problems. A BSc project should result in a range of depth of specialist knowledge. Ability to apply results obtained from their work to evaluate and develop their design solution.