Aviation Engineering BEng (Hons)

Why choose this course?

This is an ideal degree for anyone considering an engineering career in aviation. It will prepare you to work in aircraft maintenance, airworthiness, aviation management, logistics, systems integration, design, support, manufacturing, and air transport economics.

Studies include aerodynamics, propulsion, structures and materials science and the performance of aircraft. Through practical work in laboratories and workshops, you'll apply the engineering principles you learn.

This degree will also develop career skills such as effective communication, presentation, team-working, planning and project management.

If you are studying in Sri Lanka please go to our International partner institutions page.

Apply for this course

Attendance	UCAS code	Year of entry
3 years full time	H450	2023 (Clearing) 2024
4 years full time including sandwich year	H451	2023 (Clearing) 2024

Location

Roehampton Vale

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Reasons to choose Kingston University

This course aligns with the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC) and meets the academic requirements for Incorporated Engineering (IEng) Membership of the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAes).
You'll be able to enhance your learning through an industrial placement with an approved employer.
We have a successful history of providing graduates to the aviation industry, especially around Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

What you will study

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

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.

Core modules

Introduction to Engineering Design and Manufacture

30 credits

The principal aim of this module is to provide students with a flavour of what is involved in engineering design and to develop the good academic and professional practice needed to succeed during the course and attain professional status.

The module introduces the key aspects involved in:

planning a project from start to finish,
design processes incorporating a sustainability agenda,
building an awareness of the interactions across various disciplines,
regulatory frameworks and Health and Safety procedures.

The module develops good academic and professional practice by developing skills in self-reflection and recording professional development. The basic principles of measurement and manufacturing processes in a workshop and testing environment are also addressed in the module.

Engineering Mechanics, Structures & Materials

30 credits

The module introduces you to the fundamentals of structural analysis (statics and dynamics) and the mechanical behaviour of a broad range of engineering materials. The mechanics part provides an understanding of the behaviour of particles and rigid bodies whilst stationary and in motion. Bodies such as trusses in equilibrium are studied and the external and internal parameters such as force, moment, stress, strain, etc. are defined and calculated. The analysis of structural components will be developed with theoretical and numerical skills that are necessary in the design of real world structures. This section also introduces the dynamics of particles and rigid bodies with their engineering applications. Material test methods will be used to determine the deformations and failures of the various engineering materials. A selection of materials for engineering applications, such as metals, ceramics, polymers and composites, will be studied including their carbon footprint and their impact on the environment. The module is primarily delivered through lectures supported by tutorial sessions and laboratories.

Engineering Mathematics and Computing Applications

30 credits

The aim of this module is to provide a thorough background in engineering mathematics and equip you with the mathematical skills essential for solving engineering problems. The module also introduces the use of computing methods in engineering. The mathematics part comprises algebra, functions, logarithms, trigonometry, calculus, differential equations and vectors. The computing part covers the use of software for problem solving, visualisation and data representation. The emphasis is on using mathematical and computational tools to solve engineering problems.

Fluid Mechanics and Engineering Science

30 credits

This module introduces you to the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and engineering science. Taught to mechanical, aerospace and civil engineering students, it will use this broad audience to enhance a collaborative learning environment. The fluid mechanics section will cover the fundamental properties of fluids and the main basic conservation equations used and their engineering applications. It also introduces the concept of dimensions and the SI units of measurement. The engineering science section will consider subject areas relevant to each discipline. For mechanical and aerospace engineering students it will introduce thermodynamics and electrical engineering and for civil engineering students it will consider soil mechanics. The thermodynamics topic covers the key concepts of system, work, heat and the main thermodynamics laws with special reference to their engineering applications. The electrical engineering section covers the basic concepts and electrical quantities such as charge, current, resistance, voltage, power and energy before looking at fundamental electrical components and how they can be incorporated into both AC and DC circuits. The soil mechanics topic will introduce the fundamental properties of soils and their essential aspects.

In year 2, 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.

Core modules

Operations Research and Aviation Safety

30 credits

The purpose of this module is to introduce you to the applied mathematical techniques that enable operational organisations to achieve efficiency and productivity. The focus of the teaching is on airline operations but the techniques taught are equally applicable to other transport industries which share similar operational challenges. The topic of flight safety is used to reinforce the applied statistics that has been taught earlier in the module. The module aims to familiarise you with the knowledge of basic theories and methodologies for safety analysis and risk assessment in different aviation environments and with the concept and practicality of a ‘Safety Management System'.

Engineering Project Management

30 credits

The module includes principles and commercial practices for the management of engineering projects and related wider business operations. The nature of project engineering and business management is considered in the context of quality, time, risk and sustainability aspects. The module is contextualised for mechanical and automotive professionals to promote and broaden knowledge of how companies and organisations work in the project and business environment. This module continues effective team working as well as developing interpersonal skills.

Aircraft Systems

30 credits

This module is designed to give you 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.

Aerospace Engineering

30 credits

This module covers aerodynamics, propulsion, the application of advanced engineering materials in the design of aerospace components, and introduction to virtual design methods (FEM and FEA). It considers both low speed and high-speed aerodynamics of aircraft. It starts with low- speed aerodynamics, discussing the fundamental principles of fluid flow and aerofoil properties. Then it introduces the concept of basic propulsion, aerodynamic principles, boundary layer flows and high-speed compressible flows. The approach to design and materials selection are demonstrated and areas of the design process are methodically examined. Aspects of the design process that are particular to aerospace components and assemblies are emphasized, along with the terminology associated with typical engineering design tools. The module is primarily delivered through interactive lectures, tutorials, and problem-solving, flipped classes. The laboratories include a large wind tunnel, material testing, flight simulation and FEA computing laboratories.

In year 3 you will study aircraft maintenance operations, aircraft systems, airworthiness and air transport economics.

Core modules

Air Transport Economics

30 credits

Throughout the course of your studies, you will have so far 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.

In addition to looking in detail at the overall profit and loss equation:

Traffic x Yield - Output x Cost = Profit or Loss

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. The standard method of recording and reporting financial performance is also considered.

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

Individual Project (Aircraft IEng)

30 credits

The overarching aim of this individual project module is to provide each student with the opportunity to impress. Working on a topic of their own choosing, the student, with minimal guidance from their supervisor, should apply approximately 300 hours of individual effort into the analysis of a problem and determination of the best solution and/or course of action. The analysis can take a variety of forms ranging from an in-depth comparison of a number of already documented potential solutions to the collection and comparison of experimental and theoretical data. The topic investigated should ideally be of an aircraft maintenance or engineering nature, though other topics may be permitted with the agreement of the module leader.

By completing a capstone project of this type, each student is able to demonstrate that they can draw together the information from all the other teaching and learning on the course and past learning and experience; and through innovation and analysis, demonstrate that they truly are independent learners.

Aircraft Maintenance Operations

30 credits

This module is designed to encourage independent learning and develop the skills required of those holding senior posts in the aviation industry; particularly in the field of aircraft maintenance. It therefore provides an ideal opportunity for you to develop and demonstrate a number of intellectual, practical and transferable skills.

The module starts by briefly examining maintenance cost drivers, airline logistic support processes and cooperative logistic support strategies before moving onto project planning. In project planning, the basic processes of determining tasks, writing aims and objectives and estimating time are considered before looking at the planning and mapping of projects using network diagrams and finally network analysis.

The purpose of completing the preparatory studying is to prepare you for what is to follow: a significant group exercise in which you work together to produce a realistic and cost effective maintenance solution for an airline operation. The details of which (routes, flight schedule, aircraft details etc.) are provided by the course team. The project involves reviewing the "scenario" to determine the exact requirements, planning for successful completion of the project, identifying options and determining costs through research, analysing data collected and formulating an evidence-based solution and presenting the findings. As part of the project, you will produce a project plan, do a group presentation, produce a substantial written report, and maintain a project log book.

Aerospace Technology

30 credits

This module is designed for students from a range of aerospace-related programmes. It provides an understanding of how the principles of aerodynamics, propulsion, structures and materials science all determine the configuration and performance of fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

Future Skills

Embedded within every course curriculum and throughout the whole Kingston experience, Future Skills will play a role in shaping you to become a future-proof graduate, providing 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, learning to demonstrate and articulate to employers how future skills give you the edge.

At Kingston University, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it.

More about our Future Skills campaign

A female engineering student, in the engineering lab.

Entry requirements

If you would like to join us through Clearing 2023, please call our Clearing hotline on 0800 0483 334 (or +44 020 8328 1149 if you are calling from outside the UK) and speak to our friendly and knowledgeable hotliners who will be able to provide information on available courses and will guide you through your options.

Please note the entry requirements listed below are for 2024 entry only.

Typical offer 2024

112-128 UCAS points from three A-levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications. A-levels to include Mathematics and a science subject.

Alternatively, BTEC Extended Diploma in Engineering or related subject such as Aerospace/Aeronautical/Electrical/Electronic/Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering will be considered (grades DMM).

Candidates are normally required to hold five GCSE subjects at grade C/4 or above, including Mathematics and English Language.

Typical offer 2023

112-128 UCAS points from three A-levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications. A-levels to include Mathematics and a science subject.

Alternatively, BTEC Extended Diploma in Engineering or related subject such as Aerospace/Aeronautical/Electrical/Electronic/Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering will be considered (grades DMM).

Candidates are normally required to hold five GCSE subjects at grade C/4 or above, including Mathematics and English Language.

Additional requirements

Entry on to this course does not require an interview, entrance test, audition or portfolio.

Alternative routes

We will consider a range of alternative Level 3 qualifications such as an Access Course in a relevant engineering subject which has been passed with 112 UCAS points and all mathematics and physics units have been undertaken at level 3 and Distinction grades achieved.

Applications from those that have undertaken an Engineering foundation year will also be considered.

International

We welcome applications from International Applicants. View our standard entry requirements from your country.

All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.0, with no element below 5.5.

Country-specific information

You will find more information on country specific entry requirements in the International section of our website.

Find your country:

Typical offer and UCAS points explained

Like most universities, we use the UCAS Tariff point system for our course entry requirements.

Find out more about UCAS Tariff points and see how A-level, AS level, BTEC Diploma and T-level qualifications translate to the points system.

Teaching and assessment

Guided independent study (self-managed time)

When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for final assignments. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.

Academic support

Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.

Dedicated personal tutor

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.

Your workload

Type of learning and teaching

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1

Scheduled learning and teaching: 382 hours
Guided independent study (self-managed time): 818 hours

Year 2

Scheduled learning and teaching: 410 hours
Guided independent study (self-managed time): 790 hours

Year 3

Scheduled learning and teaching: 252 hours
Guided independent study (self-managed time): 948 hours

How you will be assessed

Type of assessment

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1

Coursework: 50%
Practical: 5%
Exams: 45%

Year 2

Coursework: 50%
Practical: 10%
Exams: 40%

Year 3

Coursework: 60%
Practical: 10%
Exams: 30%

Feedback summary

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.

Your timetable

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.

Class sizes

To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 15 students and lecture sizes are normally 15–140. However this can vary by module and academic year.

Who teaches this course?

The course is taught by the Department of Aerospace and Aircraft Engineering. Staff have a wide range of experience across research and industry and continue to practise and research at the cutting edge of their discipline. This ensures that our courses are current and industry informed ensuring you get the most relevant and up to date education possible.

We have a dedicated campus for engineering students at Roehampton Vale, a short journey from Kingston town centre and close to Richmond Park.

We offer a wide range of specialist facilities on site, supported with software technology and laboratory technicians.

Renowned companies are involved in course delivery, placements, final year projects and industry talks. These companies range from global leaders KLM Engineering, Marshall Aerospace and the Defence Group, Airbus UK, Astrium Eads, GE Aircraft, and Lockheed, to small and medium enterprises such as Aero Optimal, Aircraft Research Associates, and Aim Aviation.

Postgraduate students may run or assist in lab sessions and may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.

Dr Sing Lo

Course leader

Dr Odeh Dababneh

Dr Doni Daniel

Sharon Sharif Moghadam

Facilities

There is a wide range of facilities for practical work at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. You will have access to a modern environment with the latest technology and industry-standard equipment, including:

extensive materials and structures facility for concrete, masonry, steel and timber;
geotechnical and hydraulics testing facilities; and
surveying equipment, such as satellite global-positioning systems.

Dedicated computer-aided design facilities include:

a range of CAD/CAM packages, such as Ideas, SolidWorks and AutoCad;
finite element analysis
computational fluid dynamics; and
virtual instrumentation.

Take a look inside our engineering labs at Roehampton Vale campus

Course fees and funding

2024/25 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2024/25 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250*
International	Year 1 (2024/25): £17,800 Year 2 (2025/26): £18,500 Year 3 (2026/27): £19,200

For courses with a sandwich year, 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 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.

2023/24 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2023/24 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250* Foundation Year: £9,250
International	Year 1 (2023/24): £15,800 Year 2 (2024/25): £16,200 Year 3 (2025/26): £16,600

For courses with a sandwich year, 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 £9,250 in 2023/24. The fees shown above apply for year 1 of the degree from 2023/24 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.

Note for EU students: UK withdrawal from the European Union

The Government has recently announced that new students from the European Union and Swiss Nationals starting their course after August 2021 will no longer be eligible for a student loan in England for Undergraduate or Postgraduate studies from the 2021/22 academic year. This decision only applies to new EU students starting after 2021/22. If you are an existing/continuing EU student, you will continue to be funded until you graduate or withdraw from your course.

Need to know more?

Our undergraduate fees and funding section provides information and advice on money matters.

Additional costs

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.

Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.

Textbooks

Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to buy your own copy of key textbooks; this can cost between £50 and £250 per year.

Computer equipment

There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan. You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residence. Free WiFi is available on each campus. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost between £100 and £3,000 depending on your course requirements.

Photocopying and printing

In the majority of cases, written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees, this may cost up to £100 per year.

Travel

Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston upon Thames train station, Norbiton train station and halls of residence.

Placements

If the placement year option is chosen, during this year travel costs will vary according to the location of the placement, and could be from £0 to £2,000.

Field trips

All field trips that are compulsory to attend to complete your course are paid for by the university. There is an optional trip to Duxfold which can cost £10-£20.

3D printing

It is not compulsory as part of your degree to print projects using the 3D printer. However if you wish to, you will need to pay for the material. Printing costs are estimated by weight (cheapest material is 3p per gram and most expensive material is 40p per gram).

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Kingston University will supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year. A £10 voucher will be supplied to help cover the cost of the safety boots when purchasing with our supplier Activity Work Wear. Safety boots can range in cost between £25 and £100.

After you graduate

Careers and progression

Career opportunities include maintenance and licensed aircraft engineering, certification, quality assurance, logistics, planning, design, technical services, production and control engineering. Employers are often the military, civil aviation and aerospace companies.

Careers and recruitment advice

The Faculty has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques. Specific advice is also available for international students about the UK job market and employers' expectations and requirements.

The team runs employer events throughout the year, including job fairs, key speakers from industry and interviews on campus. These events give you the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.

Employability preparation at Kingston University

In addition to building expertise in your own discipline, our courses will also help you to develop key transferable skills that you'll need for professional life or further study once you graduate. As well as a range of careers and employability activities at Kingston, we also offer you the chance to apply and develop your skills in live contexts as an integral part of your course. Opportunities include:

placements;
working or studying abroad;
volunteering;
peer mentoring roles; and
internship opportunities within and outside the University.

In your final year, you'll get the opportunity to complete a major 'capstone' project where you can apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired to a range of real issues in different contexts. This is a great way to learn and is a valuable bridge to employment or further research at masters level.

Courses available after you graduate

If you decide that you would like to go on to postgraduate study after your undergraduate course, we offer a 10% discount on our postgraduate course tuition fees to our alumni.

Accreditation

The proposed course can satisfy the requirements of the Royal Aeronautical Society and UK-Spec of the Engineering Council. Incorporated Engineer (IEng) accreditation for the programme will be sought from the Royal Aeronautical Society in the spring of 2019. Students who have enrolled in the course before the accreditation will be fully recognised by the PSRB.

Royal Aeronautical Society

What our students say

I decided to enrol at Kingston University as it was one of a select few universities that had a wide range of aerospace courses in both aeronautic and astronautic fields.

In my final year I was able to join the international society, getting to know individuals of different faiths, origins and interests. Aerospace engineering at Kingston University has truly contributed most significantly to where I'm currently at, where I attained a first class in my final year dissertation.

I also won a runner-up cash prize and an award on my graduation day for the individual engineering poster competition.

Soon after starting my final year, I applied and received conditional job offers from Thales UK, Airbus UK and Shell. I'm now currently working as a systems engineer within flight simulation. I write software for flight simulators which often involves travelling across the UK and the world, most notably northern England, Scotland and Dubai. Having been back at the University since leaving, I've been providing students with interview support at Thales. Two of those I supported are now working full time in the avionics division, in both apprenticeship and graduate roles.

In my spare time I fly light aircraft, after carrying out flying lessons, most notably in Cessna 152s and Piper 28s.

I've also supported Thales with flying drones during open days, and am now taking my drone licence.

William Arinz – Aviation Engineering (previously Aerospace Engineering BSc)

I come from a small town in India with big dreams to achieve. From a very young age, I wanted to go to London to further my studies. There is a profound heritage about aerospace in Kingston University and therefore I chose to study here. I will be always grateful to the support I received from Kingston University and especially to the course director, Dr Sing Lo. The University helped me to grow both academically and professionally. I started working with Starling Aerospace in 2016, before even completing my MSc and in October 2018 I joined Pall Corporation as a certification engineer. I believe that I am made in Kingston.

Samraggnee – Aviation Engineering (previously Aerospace Engineering BSc)

Changes from 1 August 2022

Up until 31 July 2022, this course was taught in the Faculty of Science Engineering and Computing. For students enrolling from September 2022, the course will be delivered by the Faculty of Engineering, Computing, and the Environment. There will be no impact on the teaching or the award of the degree.

Key information set

The scrolling banner(s) below display some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).

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. Course changes explained.

Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.

Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.