Skip to main content

Aerospace Vehicle Design

MSc in Aerospace Vehicle Design

Learning Mode

Full-time

Duration

1 Year

Start date

September

Qualification

MSc

Fees

£13,960 Per Year

Location

Cranfield, Bedfordshire, UK

About the Course

This prestigious MSc specialization is ideal for engineering graduates aiming to deepen their expertise in aircraft, avionic, or structural design. With a curriculum grounded in aerodynamics, systems integration, structures, and flight performance, students engage in practical group and individual projects, supported by flight experience on Cranfield’s Saab 340B or equivalent aircraft. These real-world challenges prepare graduates for technical and leadership roles in aerospace.

Career prospects

Graduates are highly sought after by leading aerospace and defense companies worldwide. Typical job roles include Aircraft Designer, Systems/Avionics Engineer, Structural Design Engineer, Flight Test Engineer, Project Engineer, Technical Manager or Chief Engineer

Alumni are in senior positions at organizations like BAE Systems, Airbus, Dassault, and Rolls-Royce. Cranfield’s dedicated Career Service supports students with coaching, CV prep, interview training, and employer networking

Why choose Aerospace Vehicle Design at Cranfield?

Industry Connected

Cranfield partners with aerospace, defense, automotive, and energy sectors through projects, placements, and expert lectures.

Global Opportunities

International research collaborations and diverse students from over 100 countries enrich global learning experiences.

Professional Accreditation

Courses accredited by IMechE, RAeS, and IET support Chartered Engineer status and enhance employability globally.

Course Overview

The MSc in Aerospace Vehicle Design at Cranfield University is a globally respected program tailored for engineering graduates and professionals aiming to excel in aircraft design and systems integration. Delivered in a practical, industry-focused environment, the course covers the full lifecycle of aerospace vehicles, including conceptual design, structural analysis, propulsion systems, avionics, and manufacturing techniques. Students engage with real-world projects and benefit from Cranfield’s close collaboration with major aerospace companies such as Airbus, BAE Systems, and Rolls-Royce. With access to cutting-edge facilities—including a wind tunnel and aircraft simulation labs—graduates are highly prepared for roles in civil or military aerospace sectors.

Course Duration

Length of the course

  • 1 year

Mode of Study for international students:

  • Full-time

Course Curriculum

The MSc in Aerospace Vehicle Design at Cranfield expands both technical depth and practical experience for aspiring aerospace engineers. The first six months combine advanced modules—such as Thermodynamics & Propulsion, Aerodynamics, Flight Dynamics, Structures, Avionics, Systems Design, and Manufacture—with a hands‑on Group Design Project, where multidisciplinary teams tackle real-world aircraft challenges. In the final six months, students pursue an Individual Research Project, applying rigorous research methods to engineering issues under expert supervision. Tailored stream options in Aircraft, Avionics, or Structural Design enable focused specialization. This balanced curriculum readies graduates for leadership in aerospace design and systems engineering.

Admission Requirements

Entry Criteria

  • Academic qualifications

UK 2:1 or above in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering disciplines (some 2:2 may be considered); Pre-Master’s programme available for other backgrounds

Language Proficiency

Standard requirement:

IELTS 6.5+ with ≥ 5.5 in each band; or equivalent (TOEFL 92, PTE 65)

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees:

£13,960 Per Year Full Time

Scholarships and Bursaries:

IMechE Postgraduate Master’s Scholarship: Up to £6,500; automatically considered for eligible engineering students.

Cranfield Course Excellence & GREAT Scholarships: Available for academic distinction or country-specific awards (e.g., India).

Chevening & Commonwealth Shared Scholarships: Apply via national schemes for full funding

Career Opportunities

The Structural Design option of Cranfield’s Aerospace Vehicle Design MSc is highly valued by global employers. It equips graduates with multidisciplinary design expertise, enabling immediate industry impact and fast-tracked career growth. Alumni have secured senior roles in structural design, stress analysis, and systems design at top companies like BAE Systems, Airbus, Dassault, and Rolls-Royce.

Contact Us

Reach out for any inquiries or assistance needed.

Courses

Explore these related interests as well

Close Menu