Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies

Aerospace engineering is concerned with the design, development, and operation of aircraft and spacecraft, a field that combines some of the most demanding applied science and engineering challenges humans have faced. Aerodynamics, structural mechanics, propulsion, avionics, flight dynamics, and materials science all contribute to the discipline, and engineers working in aerospace must integrate knowledge across all of these areas to create systems that are simultaneously powerful, efficient, safe, and reliable. The addition of pilot studies to this degree makes it distinctive, introducing you to the theory and principles of flight from the perspective of someone who will one day sit in the cockpit as well as the design office.

At the University of Liverpool, this three-year, full-time programme covers the core areas of aerospace engineering, including aerodynamics, aero structures, propulsion systems, flight dynamics and control, communications, avionics, and aircraft materials, and includes a two-day flight test course in a Jetstream aircraft that gives you direct exposure to the behaviour of a real aircraft in flight. The pilot studies module is based on the Private Pilot Licence ground school syllabus, complementing the engineering content with an introduction to flight from the practitioner's perspective. The programme includes a year abroad, broadening your academic and professional horizons.

A typical entry tariff of 136 points reflects the rigorous scientific and mathematical demands of the programme.

Graduates from aerospace engineering programmes are sought by aircraft and spacecraft manufacturers, defence contractors, airlines, regulatory agencies, and engineering consultancies. The pilot studies element is particularly valued by those who wish to move between engineering and operational roles in aviation, or to work in flight testing and certification. Professional registration as a chartered engineer is a common long-term career goal, and the programme provides a strong academic foundation for that pathway.

Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in aerospace engineering, fluid dynamics, or related fields.