Aerospace Engineering with Foundation Year

Aerospace engineering is one of the most technically demanding and culturally significant branches of engineering. It is concerned with the design, development and testing of aircraft, spacecraft and related systems, and it draws on aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, materials, avionics and systems engineering to solve some of the hardest engineering problems encountered in civilian and defence aviation, space exploration and beyond. The industry is undergoing rapid transformation, with commercial space access, electric aviation, unmanned aerial systems and next-generation propulsion all creating new challenges and opportunities for engineers.

At the University of Surrey, this four-year full-time programme, which includes a foundation year for students who need additional preparation in mathematics and physics before entering degree-level engineering study, develops the skills and knowledge you need to launch a career in aerospace engineering and related industries. The foundation year provides a thorough scientific and academic grounding, ensuring you are ready to engage with the technical demands of the main degree. Across the full programme you will study aerodynamics, flight mechanics, propulsion systems, structures and materials, control systems, avionics and spacecraft engineering, developing both theoretical understanding and practical engineering competence.

Surrey has a particular strength in space engineering, which gives the degree a distinctive orientation toward the growing space sector alongside traditional aerospace.

You will develop strong analytical, design and problem-solving skills alongside the professional capabilities that aerospace employers expect. The range of industries where aerospace engineering skills are valued, from space and defence to automotive, renewable energy and technology, is genuinely broad.

Graduates move into aerospace, space, defence, automotive, renewable energy, transport, and technology industries, as well as consultancy and research. Many pursue Chartered Engineer status, and postgraduate study in aerospace, space or related engineering is a well-supported pathway.