Aerospace Engineering (Sandwich)

The BSc (Hons) Aerospace Engineering (Sandwich) programme at Queen’s University Belfast offers students a comprehensive and in-depth education in the principles and practices of aerospace engineering, preparing graduates for a dynamic and challenging industry. This course is designed to equip students with fundamental knowledge in aerodynamics, thermodynamics, structural analysis, propulsion systems, and avionics, alongside practical skills through industry placements and project-based learning. The Sandwich program incorporates a year of valuable work experience in the aerospace sector, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments, develop professional skills, and build industry contacts. Throughout the course, students engage with cutting-edge technologies and innovative design methods, often collaborating on projects that simulate real engineering challenges faced by aerospace companies. The curriculum emphasizes engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA), and other state-of-the-art tools essential for modern aerospace engineers. Queen’s University Belfast boasts excellent facilities, including specialized laboratories for aerodynamics testing, materials research, and propulsion experiments, providing students with hands-on experience. The programme is delivered by experienced academic staff with strong links to industry, ensuring that the content remains relevant and aligned with current technological developments. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in aircraft and spacecraft design, maintenance, testing, and research, as well as for postgraduate studies. The cohesive blend of academic study and industrial placement makes this programme an ideal choice for students aspiring to contribute to advancements in aerospace technology while gaining valuable work experience. With a focus on innovation, safety, and sustainability, the Aerospace Engineering (Sandwich) degree at Queen’s University Belfast positions students at the forefront of engineering excellence and industry readiness.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

The three-year BEng degree covers all the important technologies in Aerospace Engineering, providing students with the basic skills needed for professional practice. The four-year MEng degree consists of core aerospace topics with extended study of selected topics in aerodynamics, structures, systems, management and manufacturing, including industrially-oriented project work, with an additional aim of generating top-quality graduates for management. Major themes of study for Aerospace Engineering are as follows:

Aircraft Design: our key aim is to provide students with the necessary skills to enable them to design aircraft and this major theme runs throughout the degrees, drawing on all of the major Aerospace Engineering topics.

Aerodynamics: when air moves around an aeroplane, it generates aerodynamic forces, the main ones being lift and drag, and the principal role of the aerodynamicist is to minimise the drag produced for a given lift. This is achieved through the shape of the aircraft.

Flight Mechanics: the motion of an aircraft in flight is complicated since it operates in 3D space. The study of this motion is called flight mechanics and includes handling of the aircraft, and testing performance in flight.

Structures and Manufacturing: whatever the proposed configuration of an aircraft it must be built and keep its cargo (including people) safe. The strength and stiffness of the structure are vitally important and must be kept within safe levels during take-off, flight manoeuvres and landing. Modern materials such as carbon fibre composites require sophisticated analysis and design methods to enable performance and cost-effective manufacture.

Supporting Subjects: in order to gain skills necessary in professional practice, some key ancillary subjects are studied, eg mathematics, management, economics, law and entrepreneurship.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

MEng

• A-level AAB including Mathematics and at least one from Physics (preferred), Biology, Chemistry, Design/Technology or Further Mathematics.Note: applicants not offering Physics at A-level should have a minimum of a grade B in GCSE Physics or Double Award Science.
• BTEC Extended Diploma A relevant BTEC Extended Diploma with 16 Distinctions and 2 Merits. Distinctions will be required in stipulated relevant units.
• Irish Leaving Certificate AB2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade A and B2 in any order in Mathematics and at least one from Physics (preferred), Biology or Chemistry.

Option to Transfer

Transfers between BEng and MEng may be possible at the end of Stage 1.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Queen's University Belfast.

Funding

Although the majority of our graduates are interested in pursuing careers in Engineering, significant numbers develop careers in a wide range of other sectors. The following is a list of the major career sectors (and some starting salaries)that have attracted our graduates in recent years:

• Engineering professionals: £22, 823
• Information and Communication Technology professionals: £22, 244
• Public Service professionals: £22, 657
• Business and Finance associated professionals: £22, 217

Accreditation

Accreditation/Registration: the degrees are accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society. The BEng fulfils the educational requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and partially fulfils the educational requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). The MEng fulfils the educational requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). BEng students who perform well during Stage 1 may be invited to transfer to the MEng degree in Stage 2.