Aerospace Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons)
Subject and course type
- Engineering: aerospace, aviation and aircraft
- Undergraduate
The Aerospace Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons) degree and Aerospace Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons) degree with Space Technology pathway from Kingston University are accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), leading to chartered engineer (CEng) status. We are the only UK university with industry-standard flight simulators that include Airbus A320 Flight Simulator, Helicopter Simulator and Six-Degree of Freedom Motion Simulator.
You are reading:
Gain the skills and knowledge you need for an out-of-this-world career
Launch your career developing aircraft and spacecraft.
At our Roehampton Vale campus, you will have access to a modern environment with the latest technology, including:
- a fully-equipped rocket propulsion test lab for testing and firing of live rockets for data acquisition. You can fire rocket engines you have designed and constructed
- a fully-equipped manufacturing workshop where you can manufacture your rocket engine designs using the extensive range of equipment – including CNC machines
- 3D rapid prototype printer which enables you to print your computer-designed models for testing and evaluation
- industry-standard test and experimental equipment for metrology, robotics, fatigue and quality control
- state-of-the-art computing facilities for computer aided design (CAD) and other specialist software
- a mission control room equipped with high-performance PCs with tri-screen setup, for planning and operating space missions
- a flight simulator, where you can programme a mathematical model of your design into the simulator and then monitor the results
- large-scale wind tunnels that enable testing in winds of up to 90 miles per hour
- laser doppler anemometry system, which allows us to make very accurate velocity measurements in the wind tunnel.
You’ll learn both the theory and practical skills you need to succeed in your future career and put your knowledge to the test in a flight test course, onboard a flying laboratory aircraft. You’ll be employment-ready at graduation.
Engineering at Kingston University
Follow along as our students talk through the skills they're developing to design their future careers.
Why choose this course
If you dream of developing and engineering the aircraft and spacecraft that connects earth with space, our Aerospace Engineering MEng/BEng (Hons) degree could be the right launchpad.
This course has an innovative curriculum, excellent links with industry and cutting-edge facilities. As a result, Kingston is the perfect place to study aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, dynamics and materials.
Throughout the course, you'll put theory into practice by applying what you learn to aerospace design problems. You’ll also participate in a group design project to give you a chance to experience the development process in a work-like environment.
You can choose whether to take the BEng or MEng version of this course. The MEng has an extra year of study and can provide a faster route to chartered engineer (CEng) status. However, both courses provide the option to pursue an industrial placement, which can boost your employability even further. In addition, you can take our specialised Space Technology pathway, if you know that’s the area you want to work in after graduation.
Whatever you choose, employability is a key element of this programme. As a result, you'll enhance your skills throughout the course through industrial visits, placements, and extra-curricular activities. Students are also encouraged to take part in our Formula Student Competition, which involves designing and making a race car.
If you are studying in Sri Lanka, find out more on our page for country-specific information.
Accreditation
The Aerospace Engineering MEng course is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society and satisfies, in full, the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) and Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration.
The Aerospace Engineering BEng(Hons) course is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society and satisfies, in part, the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration and in full, Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration.
This course is undergoing routine renewal in 2024/25 academic year.
Course content
You can choose to take an optional professional placement year between Years 2 and 3 (BEng (Hons)) and Year 3 (MEng only). MEng students have to study and earn 120 credits in Year 3 while taking their industrial placement using work-based learning by carrying out an industrial individual project as well as applied business and management analysis. They also need to study an aerospace engineering science module using blended/distance learning model (subject to RAeS accreditation).
The Space Technology pathway is the same as the standard programme for the first two years, but students are expected to work on a space-related project in the Engineering Project Management module at level 5. In the final year, students must take Space Vehicle Design and work on a space-related individual project and group project.
Extended degree with a foundation year
If you would like to study one of our engineering degrees at Kingston University but are not yet ready for Year 1 of an undergraduate course, a foundation year is ideal. Please see the engineering foundation year course page for details.
Year 1
Year 1 provides an introduction to aerospace engineering under Professional Practice, and will underpin the skills and knowledge required for further specialised study. You will study a mix of analytical subjects, such as mathematics, structures, dynamics, electronics, thermodynamics and engineering applications, alongside an introduction to the profession of engineering.
Core modules
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 SolidWorks 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.
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 emphasizes 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.
30 credits
This module introduces aerospace and astronautics engineering students to the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, providing a foundation for understanding their principles and applications in engineering. The fluid mechanics section covers the fundamental properties of fluids, basic conservation equations, and their engineering applications. Key topics include dimensions and SI units, the law of similarity, Reynolds number, and Mach number, as well as aerodynamic forces on aerofoil sections. The thermodynamics section explores the relationship between heat and other forms of energy, focusing on the principles governing energy transfer and conversion. Core topics include the laws of thermodynamics, their applications in engineering systems such as internal combustion engines and refrigeration, and their relevance to aerospace technologies. This module is delivered through lectures, tutorial sessions, and hands-on laboratory experiments, including a thermodynamics experiment on refrigeration and an aerofoil experiment to study lift and drag forces.
Aerospace Engineering BEng/MEng only: core module
30 credits
This module introduces aerospace and astronautics engineering students to the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, providing a foundation for understanding their principles and applications in engineering. The fluid mechanics section covers the fundamental properties of fluids, basic conservation equations, and their engineering applications. Key topics include dimensions and SI units, the law of similarity, Reynolds number, and Mach number, as well as aerodynamic forces on aerofoil sections. The thermodynamics section explores the relationship between heat and other forms of energy, focusing on the principles governing energy transfer and conversion. Core topics include the laws of thermodynamics, their applications in engineering systems such as internal combustion engines and refrigeration, and their relevance to aerospace technologies. This module is delivered through lectures, tutorial sessions, and hands-on laboratory experiments, including a thermodynamics experiment on refrigeration and an aerofoil experiment to study lift and drag forces.
Aerospace Engineering (Space Technology) BEng/MEng only: core module
30 credits
This module aims to provide a solid foundation for a career in the space industry with a focus on transferable skills, teamwork, understanding engineering processes and specialist space knowledge. The module forms part of the Kingston University Future Skills program and delivers the strategy in line with the skills and knowledge content required by the Space sector. The module is part of a series of modules that develop on each other delivering the university Navigate, Explore and Apply strategy. The Navigate strategy is corresponding to the engineering process of conceptual design.
The group project will be aligned with an external competition that has a significant and complex space engineering challenge (e.g. the Mach-X rocket competition). The group project will culminate (at L6) in a finished space engineering competition entry.
Workshop and machining skills will be developed, engineering processes will be taught demonstrating the latest industry practices. Transferable skills that are useful to a student’s career that are industry independent will be developed. Specialist knowledge that will provide a systems overview will be given to provide students specific sector know-how.
Year 2
Year 2 will introduce you to specialised topics in aerospace engineering such as aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, dynamics and materials. It includes further study of mathematics, electronics, control and computing. A design-orientated module (Aerospace Engineering Design and Project Management) will apply the principles taught in the other modules to problems of aerospace design.
Core modules
30 credits
This module provides an integrated study of the core disciplines of Aerodynamics, Propulsion, and Aircraft Performance, essential for understanding the operational and performance characteristics of aircraft. Through lectures, experiments, and simulations, students will learn the fundamental principles, practical applications, and advanced concepts within each area. The module is structured to balance theoretical understanding with experimental and analytical skills, preparing students for advanced studies in aerospace engineering.
30 credits
This module is designed to provide the students in their second year of BEng Aerospace Engineering with an understanding of fundamentals mechanics of materials, aerospace structural design and analysis process, vibration theory with relevant applications, and the use of composite materials in aerospace. This module covers the main structural components of aircraft and space structures, airframe construction methods, and introduces the analysis of linearly elastic problems, including axial loading, torsion, pure bending, and shear stress analysis along with shear centre calculations. Presentation of important concepts such as free and forced vibrations of single degree-of-freedom undamped linear systems, types and characteristics of damping and its effects on the response is introduced as part of this module. The module also examines the advantages of composite materials in aerospace structures, particularly their high strength-to-weight and stiffness-to-weight ratios, which are critical in primary aerospace applications. Lectures are complemented by hands-on laboratories and tutorials in aerospace structures, composite materials, and vibration analysis.
30 credits
This module builds on the pre-requisites of Design and Materials modules at level 4. The purpose of this module is to introduce students to computational simulation process like finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach. ANSYS package will be used to conduct FEA and CFD analysis on real-world engineering problems. Students will get the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge gained from Aerospace Structures, Materials and Vibrations to analyse structural behaviour of a model based on its material properties and optimise their design. The knowledge gained from Aerodynamics and Performance module will be used to conduct CFD analysis over an aerodynamic body where students can learn to validate their computational results with experimental or other numerical data. This would equip students with up-to-date flow and structure analysis techniques.
Aerospace Engineering BEng/MEng only: core module
30 credits
This module aims to provide a solid foundation for future engineers in the aerospace industry, focusing on transferable skills, collaboration, understanding engineering processes, and specialised aerospace knowledge. It is a key component of the Kingston University Future Skills program, designed to meet the demands of the aerospace sector. The module is part the university's Navigate, Explore, and Apply (NEA) strategy. The Explore phase concentrates on initial design, enhanced by skills in cost-effective design and analysis. Throughout this module, five key themes are explored, with a group project serving as the central element that integrates this and other modules in the curriculum. This project will align with an external competition that poses a significant and complex challenge in aerospace engineering, such as the RAeS Design, Build, Fly competition with entry at L6. Students will engage in the complete design cycle, supported by additional topics to ensure they are prepared for industry. To support the group project, students will acquire workshop and machining skills while learning engineering processes that reflect current industry practices in aerospace. Furthermore, they will cultivate transferable skills applicable across various sectors.
Aerospace Engineering (Space Technology) BEng/MEng only: core module
30 credits
This module aims to provide a solid foundation for a career in the space industry with a focus on transferable skills, teamwork, understanding engineering processes and specialist space knowledge. The module forms part of the Kingston University Future Skills program and delivers the strategy in line with the skills and knowledge content required by the Space sector. The module is part of a series of modules that develop on each other delivering the University's Navigate, Explore and Apply strategy. The Explore corresponds to preliminary design, enhanced with cost-efficient design and analysis-driven design skills.
The group project will be aligned with an external competition that has a significant and complex space engineering challenge (e.g. the Mach-X rocket competition). This module is the next step to that will culminate in a space engineering competition entry at L6.
Workshop and machining skills will be developed, engineering processes will be taught demonstrating the latest industry practices with respect to the space sector. Transferable skills that are useful to a student’s career that are industry independent are also included.
Year 3
In Year 3, you will deepen your knowledge of specialised aerospace engineering subjects and will broaden your expertise in other areas of engineering. BEng students undertake a major group design project and an individual research project along with business and management as well as further and more in depth studies of aerodynamics, propulsion, structure, materials and dynamics including applied computational techniques widely used in industry. MEng students have the opportunity of integrating industrial placement with further studies using a combination of work-based learning as well as blended and distance learning (subject to accreditation by RAeS).
Core modules
30 credits
This module enhances students' knowledge and understanding of aerospace aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and aircraft flight dynamics. In compressible aerodynamics, students will examine the properties of shockwaves. The propulsion topics include air-breathing engine cycles, axial flow turbomachinery, and combustion systems. Flight dynamics theories and performance evaluation will be demonstrated through live flight tests. Additionally, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) will be introduced as a tool to analyse advanced aerodynamic phenomena, such as transonic and supersonic flows, boundary layer behaviour and compressibility effects in both external and internal flows.
30 credits
This module provides third-year BEng Aerospace Engineering students with an advanced understanding of aerospace structural design, structural dynamics, and finite element analysis. Aerospace structures, such as aircraft wings, fuselages, and control surfaces, as well as spacecraft structures like satellite frames, are made from thin-walled sheets reinforced by Z, C, or T section stringers. To simplify analysis, structural idealization supports various types of loading. Structural dynamics focuses on how structures respond to dynamic, time-varying forces, unlike static loads. These forces, from sources like aerodynamic pressures and engine vibrations, require robust designs that can handle them without failure. Students will learn to formulate equations for multi-degree-of-freedom and continuous systems, estimate natural frequencies and mode shapes, and determine eigenvalues and eigenvectors. The course includes finite element applications specific to aircraft structures, with lab sessions to solve problems using industry-standard finite element software. Lectures are complemented by computer labs and tutorials, providing hands-on experience and practical problem-solving skills.
30 credits
The individual project module is a core module for all programmes within the School of Engineering and the Environment.
A MEng project should result in a project with a deeper and broader understanding of technical or research topics when compared to a L6 BEng project. This deeper and broader understanding should be demonstrated by comprehensive critical thinking, acquisition of coherent and detailed knowledge, analysis of tasks and a clear methodology applied to research activities. This should be achieved through the use and application of higher fidelity methods such as higher order software, and its application, and in the development of robust experimental and research techniques. A MEng project should result in a greater range of depth of specialist knowledge within a research and/or industrial environment. Understanding of the results obtained from the work and their implication on their project or area of research should be clearly demonstrated.
15 credits
This module provides you with a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes that will set you apart from other graduates and enhance your employability and confidence. At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile and determine which attributes you need to develop to support your career ambitions.
Taught sessions will give you the opportunity to have coaching conversations with students from across the University, supported and facilitated by the Module team. Outside of these taught sessions, you will engage in activities from a menu of opportunities to develop your Graduate Attributes.
The menu of opportunities allows you to self-select activities such as hackathons, masterclasses and taster sessions, short online learning courses, and study abroad. In your taught classes with students from across the University, you will be encouraged to reflect on the activities you undertake to develop your graduate attributes and work towards the final assignment, a portfolio.
Aerospace Engineering BEng/MEng only: core module
15 credits
The Group Design Project (GDP) provides an opportunity for you to work on a major aerospace engineering design in a team in a way which closely parallels real-world aerospace projects. You will be assigned to a team with a particular project outline description/specification. It is the team's job to develop this specification in details and conduct tasks necessary to complete the project. To achieve this, the team must establish a plan/work schedule, perform technical tasks necessary to fulfil the plan, monitor progress, manage team activities, hold and minute formal team design meetings weekly and resolve any problems that arise. The GDP is a particularly important piece of work since the course regulations state that if you fail it, you will not normally be eligible for a degree. Also, employers tend to place great stock by this project since it provides evidence of both your technical skills and your ability to work in a team.
The module will closely link to another 15-credit module in level 6 Apply. The group project will be aligned with an external competition that has a significant and complex aerospace engineering challenge (e.g. RAeS Design, Build, Fly etc.).
Aerospace Engineering (Space Technology) BEng/MEng only: core module
15 credits
This module aims to provide a solid foundation for becoming an engineer in the space industry with a focus on transferable skills, teamwork, understanding engineering processes and specialist space knowledge. The module forms part of the Kingston University Future Skills program and delivers the strategy in line with the skills and knowledge content required by the Space sector. The module is part of a series of modules that develop on each other delivering the university Navigate, Explore and Apply strategy.
Within this module several themes are broadly developed. The backbone on which this module and others develop throughout the course is the group project. The students will go through the complete design cycle to achieve this and be supported with supplementary topics in support of this to make students industry ready.
To support the group project, workshop and machining skills will be developed, engineering processes will be taught demonstrating the latest industry practices with respect to the space sector. Transferable skills that are useful to a student’s career that are industry independent will be developed. Specialist knowledge that will provide a systems overview in the context of the space specialism will be given to provide students specific sector know-how.
Year 4
Year 4 of the MEng course includes a multidisciplinary group design project that helps to integrate and apply your academic knowledge, develop your teamworking and communication skills, and increase your understanding of real-world engineering issues.
Core modules
30 credits
This module is designed to meet the core requirement for students in the MEng/MSc Aerospace Engineering course by introducing CFD technologies and skills for solving advanced aerospace design and analysis problems, by means of practical workshops using commercial ANSYS CFD software package.
In the lectures, emphasis is placed on the numerical models and analytical techniques in fluid dynamics and heat transfer and some of the more advanced theories behind CFD. In the practical sessions, emphasis is placed on the solution of fluids problems in a realistic aerospace engineering context and on giving students the opportunity to develop good practice of CFD techniques in aerospace engineering applications.
Teaching is delivered through the university’s Canvas platform, enriched with keynote lectures on advanced computational techniques and theories, combined with extensive practical/tutorial sessions on CFD applications in real aerospace engineering problems. This combination of theoretical instruction and practical insight equips students with the skills necessary for effective application in real-world scenarios.
Upon completion, students will be equipped with advanced computational design and analysis skills in fluid dynamics hence enhancing their employment potential in aerospace, automotive, energy and other similar industries.
30 credits
This module is a core requirement for MSc/MEng Aerospace Engineering students and offers valuable insights for those seeking advanced knowledge in materials analysis, characterisation, and engineering. It bridges materials science with finite element analysis (FEA), providing a thorough exploration of the design, development, and evaluation of advanced engineering structures.
Key learning outcomes include mastering the synthesis and characterisation of innovative materials, understanding surface technologies, and applying methodologies for material selection used by engineering professionals. Students will develop an appreciation for the critical relationship between material properties, design considerations, and manufacturing processes, reinforced by real-world industrial case studies.
The module introduces essential FEA principles, enabling students to model stresses, deflections, and temperature effects in engineering structures. These analytical skills are crucial for ensuring safe and effective designs by anticipating potential structural challenges.
Teaching is delivered via the university’s Canvas platform, complemented by keynote lectures on advanced material development and processing. This blend of theoretical and practical instruction equips students with employability-enhancing skills such as advanced material selection, FEA modelling, and structural analysis. Graduates will be well-prepared for industrial roles or further academic pursuits, fostering a strong foundation for success in materials engineering and structural evaluation.
30 credits
The MEng Group Design Project is a module which runs throughout the final year of all of the MEng programmes in the School of Aerospace and Aircraft Engineering. It provides a capstone element to the course by providing an opportunity for students to work on a major engineering design problem in a team in a way which closely parallels a real-world project. The groups are assigned to a particular project which has an outline project description/specification/customer requirement provided by the teaching team. It is group's job to develop the specification in more detail, to convert it to a technical specification and then carry out the tasks necessary to complete the project. This module provides an opportunity for students to further develop academic skills delivered earlier in the programme. In order to successfully complete the module, the student must establish a plan and work schedule, conduct risk analysis and management, perform the technical tasks necessary to fulfil the plan, monitor progress, manage the team activities, hold and minute formal team design meetings and resolve any problems that arise. The module is delivered primarily through weekly formal design meetings and regular informal meetings.
Aerospace Engineering MEng only: core module
30 credits
This module starts by introducing fundamental concepts and methods in Machine Learning and discusses their applications in aerospace research and industry. Building on basic knowledge of programming language such as MATLAB and Python as well as Linear Algebra, you will gain both theoretical and practical understanding of AI models.
You will be firstly introduced to classical methods before being taught modern state-of-the-art AI approaches. Since the module teaching involves both structured lectures and also hands-on practical sessions, some knowledge of programming language is essential. This Machine Learning module, through its practical focus on smart systems (e.g. mechatronic systems), will empower you with digital competency and creative problem-solving skills. Engaging with both classical and state-of-the-art AI approaches cultivates a questioning mindset and adaptability.
The coursework encourages collaboration and resilience as you tackle complex real-world problems. Regular feedback promotes self-awareness, and an enterprise mindset is fostered through real-world problem solving. The module assignments will give you opportunities in designing, training and optimisation of your own AI models to specific aerospace application.
Aerospace Engineering (Space Technology) MEng only: core module
30 credits
This module further equips graduates with a good understanding of the challenges of space engineering, a set of tools and references to tackle future design problems, and a set of contacts with industry to help begin their careers.
Building on modules in Levels 4 to 6, this module provides experience at space mission and more-detailed analysis and design of space vehicles through a range of largely self-taught activities. It is assessed through seminars, design build and test, and short written assignments.
The module provides a thorough understanding of the challenges of space engineering, (b) a toolset, reference material and confidence to tackle future design problems you may face, and (c) experience in the preliminary design, trade-offs and mission element selection for space mission. A space mission in addition to space vehicle(s), comprises instruments and platforms, launch vehicles, orbits and trajectories and ground segment plus user interfaces. Application of AI and the need for cybersecurity to protect space infrastructure.
The module will be primarily delivered through self-study, supplemented by guided workshops, lectures, computing labs, online collaboration and industrial guest lectures.
My favourite module was design, because you get to build models, which is interesting. If you go and knock on their office doors and ask for help, the staff are always there and they don't turn anyone away. They are really helpful in that sense. Doing an industrial placement gives you that head start when you are searching for jobs.
Discover aerospace and aircraft engineering
Hear staff and students talk about aerospace and aircraft engineering at Kingston.
International students: direct application
Are you an international student? Have you decided Kingston is the place for you? If so, you can apply for this course directly, rather than having to go through UCAS.
What career opportunities does this course offer?
Graduates from this course have gone on to jobs with Boeing, BAE Systems, Qinetiq, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, AWE, Rolls-Royce, Thales, General Electric and British Airways. Many graduates go on to study at masters and doctoral level.
Types of graduate jobs include:
- Production engineer
- Repair engineer
- Applications engineer
- Contract loader
- Civil servant
- Telemetry and loads analysis engineer
- Bid manager
Our Aerospace Engineering BEng (Hons) course is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society for 2018 entry. It satisfies, in part, the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration and, in full, Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration.
Our Aerospace Engineering MEng course is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society for 2018 entry. It satisfies, in full, the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) and Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration.
Find out more about the full criteria and validity for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.
This degree has been accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society under licence from the UK regulator, the Engineering Council. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC).
An accredited degree will provide you with some or all of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng). Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.
Please check the Engineering Council website for more information.
Future Skills
Our Future Skills programme is embedded within all our undergraduate courses and throughout the whole Kingston experience. These skills will help you to become a future-proof graduate by equipping you with the skills most valued by employers, such as problem-solving, digital competency and adaptability.
As you progress through your degree, you'll learn to navigate, explore and apply these graduate skills. You’ll also understand how to demonstrate and articulate to employers how these future skills give you the edge.
Teaching and assessment
Scheduled learning and teaching on this course includes timetabled activities including lectures, seminars and small group tutorials.
It may also include placements, project work, workshops, workshops in computer labs, and laboratory workshops.
Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.
Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.
When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 120 credits across a year (typical for an undergraduate course) would equate to 1,200 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below for each year of study. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- Year 1: 28% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 2: 26% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 3: 18% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded. comprise 115-140 students. However, this can vary by module and academic year.
Types of assessment
- Year 1: Coursework 50%; exams 45%; practical 5%
- Year 2: Coursework 45%; exams 42%; practical 13%
- Year 3: Coursework 50%; exams 50%
Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. If your course includes optional modules, this breakdown may change to reflect the modules chosen.
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled learning and teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £10,050* | |
| Foundation Year: | £10,050 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2027/28): | £To be confirmed |
| Year 2 (2028/29): | £To be confirmed |
| Year 3 (2029/30): | £To be confirmed |
| Year 4 (2030/31): | £To be confirmed |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
*For full-time programmes lasting more than one academic year, a tuition fee is payable for each academic year of the course.
Your annual tuition fee covers your first attempt at all modules required for that academic year. Any re-study or repeat of modules will incur additional charges, calculated according to the number of credits taken.
Home students (UK): Tuition fees are subject to inflation-linked increases in line with government policy. Updated fees will be confirmed in line with the maximum fee cap set by the Government or the Office for Students (OfS) for each academic year. This means your fee may increase for each academic year of study, but only up to the maximum amount permitted for that year.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
International students: Full-time taught international student fees are subject to an annual increase, which is published in advance for the full duration of your programme.
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £9,790* | |
| Foundation Year: | £9,790 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2026/27): | £19,600 |
| Year 2 (2027/28): | £20,400 |
| Year 3 (2028/29): | £21,200 |
| Year 4 (2029/30): | £22,100 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
*For full-time programmes lasting more than one academic year, a tuition fee is payable for each academic year of the course.
Your annual tuition fee covers your first attempt at all modules required for that academic year. Any re-study or repeat of modules will incur additional charges, calculated according to the number of credits taken.
Home students (UK): Tuition fees are subject to inflation-linked increases in line with government policy. Updated fees will be confirmed in line with the maximum fee cap set by the Government or the Office for Students (OfS) for each academic year. This means your fee may increase for each academic year of study, but only up to the maximum amount permitted for that year.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
International students: Full-time taught international student fees are subject to an annual increase, which is published in advance for the full duration of your programme.
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £9,535* | |
| Foundation Year: | £9,535 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2025/26): | £18,500 |
| Year 2 (2026/27): | £19,200 |
| Year 3 (2027/28): | £19,900 |
| Year 4 (2028/29): | £20,700 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2025/26 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
* If your course involves a foundation year, the fee for that year for Home (UK) students will be £9,535 in 2025/26. The fees shown above apply for Year 1 of the degree from 2025/26 onwards (fees may rise in line with inflation for future academic years). For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying this course at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations, Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
Courses involving placements or direct work with vulnerable groups may require a DBS check or other security checks.
Specific courses may require uniforms, specialty clothing, or specific equipment like lab coats and safety shoes. Kingston University will supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
The placement year gave me an insight into industry and made me want to become an engineer even more. The University has such excellent connections that many students get very good placements. My time management skills have improved by working in a real life environment. I feel it has made me a much better student.
I'm just going into my final year of the MEng. I chose the option to do a professional placement year and did a placement at Airbus. Kingston University stood out for me because of its state-of-the-art facilities. They have a hands-on approach coupled with the theory that engineers must learn to be successful. With flexible machine labs and experienced technicians, I was able to spend all the time I needed working on my dissertation. My project was to design, develop and build a micro jet engine using design by analysis techniques. This meant I had to produce a preliminary design using turbine cycle analysis and from there produce a detailed CAD (computer aided design) model. Air flow simulations were then performed using the CFD (computational fluid dynamics) package, ANSYS CFX. The airflow characteristics were observed and from the results each main component was redesigned and optimised before manufacture to ensure the engine would work. The idea of using design by analysis came from my placement year at Airbus, where I worked within the simulation and modelling team for landing gear systems. Testing of the engine is planned for early next month.
Key information
The scrolling banner below displays some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
