- UCAS course code
- H400
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Overview
- Degree awarded
- BEng
- Duration
- 3 years
- Typical A-level offer
-
A*AA including Mathematics and Physics (Further Mathematics is acceptable in place of Physics).
- Typical contextual A-level offer
-
AAA including Mathematics and Physics (Further Mathematics is acceptable in place of Physics).
Find out more about contextual admissions. - Refugee/care-experienced offer
-
Applicants who have been in local authority care for more than three months or have refugee status may be eligible for an offer two grades below the standard requirements.
Find out more about contextual admissions. - Typical International Baccalaureate offer
-
37 points overall with 7, 6, 6 at Higher level in Mathematics, Physics and one other subject.
We also accept:
- Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
- Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
- How to apply
- Apply through UCAS .
- Sustainable Development Goals
Find out how this course aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including learning which relates to:
- Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
- Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
- Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities
- Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production
- UCAS course code
- H400
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course overview
- The first English University to offer an Engineering Degree, here you benefit from our 200 year history at the forefront of engineering innovation!
- Stand out to employers at the Number-One Most Sought-After University by Top Graduate Employers (THE Graduate Market, 2023)
- Ranked 4th in the UK, our Aerospace Engineering courses are developed alongside industrial and international engineering leaders to offer a coveted combination of practical and theory-based learning (QS World Rankings, 2022)
- Learn in our state-of-the-art Engineering and Materials Building
- An accredited course, our Aerospace courses make an excellent choice for those looking to gain Chartered Engineer Status
Open days
The University holds undergraduate open days regularly where you have the opportunity to find out more about our courses, the support we offer and see our facilities. Attending an open day is a great way to find out what studying at Manchester is like. Find out about our upcoming open days .
View the recent undergraduate virtual open week recorded sessions .
Fees
Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2024 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £32,500 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.
Policy on additional costs
All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).
Scholarships/sponsorships

UN Sustainable Development Goals
The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.
Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.
To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our courses address.
Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all
Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production
Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
Contact details
- Department
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering
- Contact name
- Undergraduate Admissions
- Telephone
- +44 (0)161 543 4015
- ug-mace@manchester.ac.uk
- Website
- https://www.mace.manchester.ac.uk/
- School/Faculty overview
-
The School of Engineering creates a world of possibilities for students pursuing skills and understanding. Through dynamic research and teaching we develop engineering solutions that make a difference to society in an ethical and sustainable way. Science-based engineering is at the heart of what we do, and through collaboration we support the engineers and scientists of tomorrow to become technically strong, analytically innovative and creative. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .
Courses in related subject areas
Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.
Compare this course
Entry requirements
A-level
A*AA including Mathematics, Physics, and one other subject.
As practical skills are a crucial part of science education, you are required to pass the practical element of any Science A-Level taken. Where applicants are applying for science and related degrees, this will likely be made explicit in the offers received.
We are willing to consider applicants without Physics if they have studied Further Mathematics; applications will be considered on a case by case basis. Please contact us to discuss your academic background.
If you do not have the required grades or subjects you may want to consider our integrated foundation year .
Contextual offer
AAA in Mathematics, Physics and one other subject.
Find out more about contextual admissions .
Duration of A-level study
Your application will still be considered against the standard selection process if you:
a) Sat your examinations early
or
b) Followed an accelerated curriculum and spent three years studying A-levels, with examinations taken over two years
Kindly note, if you are studying an advanced curriculum, where examinations are spread over three years, consideration will be at the discretion of the admissions tutor for your chosen subject.
AS-level
Unit grade information
The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application. Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.
GCSE
Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education.
Typically this is five GCSEs/iGCSEs, including acceptable levels of literacy and numeracy - equivalent to at least Grade C/4 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language and Mathematics.
Kindly note, GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.
International Baccalaureate
37 points overall with 7, 6, 6 at Higher level in Mathematics, Physics and one other subject.
We also accept:
- Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
- Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
Other international entry requirements
We accept a range of qualifications from different countries. Visit the Department website for more information.
For general requirements not listed above, including English Language, see our accepted entry qualifications from your country .
Scottish requirements
Scottish Advanced Highers are usually required in one of the following two combinations:
- Three Advanced Highers with Grades AAA, including Mathematics and Physics
- Two Advanced Highers with Grades AA, including Mathematics and Physics, alongside two Highers with Grades AA in additional subjects
Where English Language and Mathematics are not taken at Higher/Advanced Higher, they must have been achieved at SCQF Level 5 (minimum National 5 Grade C/Intermediate 2 Grade C/Standard Grade Credit level Grade 3).
Welsh Baccalaureate
The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate, and consider this alongside two A-Levels or equivalent.
We require Grade A in the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate, plus A*A in A-Level Mathematics and Physics.
European Baccalaureate
The University of Manchester welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate.
Typically we require 85% overall with scores of 9.0, 8.5 and 8.5 in three written subjects, including Mathematics and Physics and 70% in English language.
AQA Baccalaureate
The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunity it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.
In making offers, The University will focus on the three A-levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate.
The A-level requirements are A*AA, including Mathematics and Physics.
The units of broader study, enrichment activities, and the Extended Project are all considered valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate. We would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.
Foundation year
The University recognises a number of Foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme.
Applicants completing the INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester International Foundation Programme are required to achieve Grades A*AA, including Mathematics, Physics, and one other subject. Plus, Grade B in English for Academic Purposes (EAP).
Applicants completing the NCUK International Foundation Programme are required to achieve A*AA, including Mathematics, Physics, and one other subject. Plus, Grade B in English for Academic Purposes (EAP).
Applicants studying other Foundation programmes should contact the Admissions Team to check their qualification is recognised for entry to this programme and for the specific entry requirements.
Pearson BTEC qualifications
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma
We consider the National Extended Diploma for entry, provided it is in a relevant subject. We require grades DDD, plus A-Level Mathematics at Grade A*.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma
We consider the National Diploma for entry, provided it is in a relevant subject. We require grades DD, plus A-Level Mathematics at Grade A*.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma
We consider the National Foundation Diploma for entry, provided it is in a relevant subject. We require Grade D plus A-Levels in Mathematics and Physics at Grade A*A.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
We consider the National Foundation Diploma for entry, provided it is in a relevant subject. We require Grade D, plus A-Levels Mathematics and Physics at Grade A*A.
Legacy BTEC qualifications
The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy BTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the BTEC Extended Diploma, BTEC Diploma, and BTEC Subsidiary Diploma when taken with suitable A-Levels.
If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification, please contact our Admissions Team.
OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Extended Diploma for entry, provided it is in Engineering. We require Grades DDD, plus A-Level Mathematics at Grade A*.
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Diploma for entry, provided it is in Engineering. We require Grades DD, plus A-Level Mathematics at Grade A*.
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Foundation Diploma for entry, provided it is in Engineering. We require Grade D plus A-Levels in Mathematics and Physics at Grade A*A.
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Extended Certificate for entry, provided it is in Engineering. We require Grade D plus A-Levels in Mathematics and Physics at Grade A*A.
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate (CTEC)
We do not consider the Technical Certificate for entry to this course.
Access to HE Diploma
We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall and at least 45 at Level 3), with a Distinction in Mathematics and Physics modules.
The specific requirements are: 45 graded credits at Level 3, with a minimum of 15 credits at Distinction and 30 at Merit.
You should also have achieved a Distinction in both Mathematics and Physics modules, which we may request a copy of.
Kindly note, we also require A-Level Mathematics at Grade A*.
Cambridge Pre-U
We require Grades D2, D3, D3 in principal subjects, including Mathematics and Physics.
We also consider applicants offering a mix of Pre-U Principal Subjects and A-Level subjects, provided a minimum of three distinct subjects overall are taken.
The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Cambridge Pre-U Global Perspectives and Research (GPR) and the opportunity it provides applicants to develop independent study and research skills. However, please note a GPR qualification will not form part of your offer conditions.
T Level
We do not accept T Levels as entry onto this course. The University does accept specific T Level qualifications on a number of courses please review to our T Level information page for a full list.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Core Maths
The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 Core Mathematics qualifications (e.g. AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies).
Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study, and as a result we will not usually include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a Core Mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.
We advise students to contact their academic department of interest, who will clarify whether their specific portfolio of qualifications is acceptable for entry on to the chosen course.
Kindly note, Core Mathematics will not be accepted in lieu of an A-Level.
Home-schooled applicants
If you have followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home, your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course you are applying to. You will be required to demonstrate you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course.
We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. Please refer to UCAS for further information: UCAS reference guidelines.
If you are a home-schooled student and would like further information or advice please contact the Admissions Team for the academic department for your chosen course.
Non-standard educational routes
Mature applicants returning to studies after a break from formal education will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If you require more clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the Admissions Team directly. Read our webpage for further information for mature students.
English language
All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:
- GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade 4/C
- IELTS 6.5 overall with no sub-test below 6.5
- TOEFL iBT 90 with no sub-test below 22
- Pearson PTE 70 overall with no sub-test below 70
- An acceptable equivalent qualification
Please note that if you hold English as a Second Language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalents or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above.
English language test validity
Application and selection
How to apply
Advice to applicants
Factors contributing to a successful application include:
- Past academic performance
- Predicted academic performance
- Enthusiasm for, and realistic grasp of, chosen degree programme
- Evidence of interpersonal skills and non-academic interests/achievements
Further guidance on how to apply can be found on our How to Apply webpage .
Where you have mitigating circumstances these should be reported to your education provider and relevant exam board. We cannot make further allowances.
Please note, we would normally only consider applicants who have obtained the relevant qualification within the two years prior to entry. Applicants who have left education for more than two years should contact the Admissions Team to discuss their particular circumstances.
How your application is considered
Applications are considered on the basis of each UCAS application.
Strong examination results are the main factor in admitting students to our courses, but we also consider other information to ensure we admit students with the most outstanding potential. This is assessed within a structured framework and includes both prior and predicted grades. Your referee should give realistic grade predictions for all qualifications you are currently studying at the top of their reference.
If you attend a non-UK school or college that does not provide predicted grades your referee should explain this policy within their reference.
Interview requirements
We do not hold interviews but UK-based applicants who receive an offer will be invited to a webinar or on campus visit day which generally take place on Wednesday afternoons from December - March.
Deferrals
Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation.
Deferred entry is granted at the discretion of admissions staff and for one year only. In exceptional circumstances, it may be granted for two years at the maximum.
Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.
We normally guarantee a place in the current year should an applicant's gap year plans change. However, this is subject to availability of places.
Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications
If you have re-sat individual modules to improve your grades, we will consider your application according to the standard selection process.
If you are planning to re-sit your final Year 13 examinations, or have already done so, the University will consider your application, but may require further information in order to make an informed judgment.
Policy for applicants who take their examinations in more than one sitting
We are happy to consider applicants who are taking their examinations in different sittings, provided they were taken over the standard two-year period.
Re-applications
If you applied in the previous year and were not successful you may apply again.
Your application will be considered against the standard course criteria for the current year of entry. In your new application, you should demonstrate how your application has improved.
Kindly note, we may draw upon all information from your previous applications, or any previous registrations at the University as a Student, when assessing your suitability for your chosen course.
If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through Clearing, you are required to meet the Clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and Clearing the places will be subject to availability.
Transfers
Transfers from other institutions are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Those into the second year are usually not considered. If you wish to enquire about whether you may be eligible to apply for entry into the second year, please contact the Admissions Team with full details of your qualifications and copies of your transcripts to date.
Course details
Course description
The BEng Aerospace Engineering will provide you with a broad, well-balanced preparation for a professional career in the aerospace industry.
As a graduate from The University of Manchester, you'll be prepared for leadership positions in a successful career in industry. You'll also gain skills useful for work in other areas, such as research, management, technical development and finance. Perhaps you'd prefer to work in areas such as design or development? Or you could end up working in the testing and operation of vehicles and systems.
We'll give you a theoretical knowledge of engineering science, in addition to a solid base of practical skills, an understanding of design, comprehension of the commercial world and competence in transferable skills (problem solving, team working, creativity, adaptability and IT). You'll be taught using interactive learning approaches and using cutting-edge and industry-standard tools.
The degree also provides an excellent route for individuals wishing to proceed to further postgraduate research.
The sky really is the limit!
Aims
The course will give you the skills necessary for a successful career in industry. In addition, you will gain a route into postgraduate study that is tailored to individual areas of interest, so that, for example, if you have a BEng qualification, you can go on to apply for an MSc course in a more specialised area of Aerospace Engineering or move into a different engineering or technical discipline.
When you complete the course, you will have:
- A comprehensive knowledge of engineering science and a strong base of practical skills
- The skills to begin a successful career in industry
- Transferable skills, particularly team working, creativity and adaptability
- A route into more specialised postgraduate study
Special features
Additional course information
Teaching and learning
The course is taught via a combination of lectures, tutorial classes, practical laboratory sessions and computer-based sessions. There is a design project each year, which involves teamwork in small groups, and allows students to apply and develop their problem-solving and project management skills. In the third year each student undertakes an individual project, allowing them to pursue a particular subject or application area in greater depth.
Coursework and assessment
Course unit details
The first year establishes a strategic overview of the main areas of aerospace engineering and introduces the underlying science and mathematics. Our students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of aerospace vehicles and systems as well as developing basic knowledge and skills applicable to all areas of engineering such as mechanics, structures, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and engineering design.
The second and third years develop the key knowledge and understanding necessary to enter industry, or postgraduate study. Students will cover key aspects of aircraft and spacecraft systems, performance and design and will also develop further knowledge and skills in the key engineering disciplines of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, structures, dynamics and control.
In the final year students will also have the opportunity to undertake an individual project linking with and supporting industrial or academic research within the university
Course content for year 1
The first year establishes a strategic overview of the main areas of aerospace engineering and introduces the underlying science and mathematics. Our students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of aerospace vehicles and systems as well as developing basic knowledge and skills applicable to all areas of engineering such as mechanics, structures, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and engineering design.
Course units for year 1
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Aerospace Design | AERO10301 | 10 | Mandatory |
Fluid Mechanics for Aerospace and Mechanical Engineers | AERO10421 | 10 | Mandatory |
Introduction to Aerospace Engineering | AERO12001 | 10 | Mandatory |
Tools for Engineers (Aerospace) | AERO12101 | 10 | Mandatory |
Structures 1 (Aero) | CIVL11001 | 10 | Mandatory |
Electrical Engineering Fundamentals | EEEN10492 | 10 | Mandatory |
Materials 1 (Aerospace) | MECH10002 | 10 | Mandatory |
Workshop Practice | MECH10020 | 0 | Mandatory |
Manufacturing Engineering 1 (Aerospace) | MECH11122 | 10 | Mandatory |
Mechanics (Aerospace) | MECH11622 | 10 | Mandatory |
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Course content for year 2
The second and third years develop the key knowledge and understanding necessary to enter industry, or postgraduate study. Students will cover key aspects of aircraft and spacecraft systems, performance and design and will also develop further knowledge and skills in the key engineering disciplines of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, structures, dynamics and control.
Course units for year 2
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Modelling & Simulation 2 (Aerospace) | AERO20062 | 10 | Mandatory |
Fluid Mechanics 2 | AERO20121 | 10 | Mandatory |
Aerospace Field Course | AERO20230 | 0 | Mandatory |
Aircraft Performance and Design | AERO20400 | 20 | Mandatory |
Space Systems | AERO21111 | 10 | Mandatory |
Structures 2 (Aerospace) | AERO21211 | 10 | Mandatory |
Project Management (Aero/Mech) | ENGM22491 | 10 | Mandatory |
Workshop Practice | MECH20020 | 0 | Mandatory |
Applied Thermodynamics (Aerospace) | MECH20432 | 10 | Mandatory |
Dynamics | MECH20442 | 10 | Mandatory |
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Course content for year 3
In the final year students will also have the opportunity to undertake an individual project linking with and supporting industrial or academic research within the university.
Course units for year 3
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Control Engineering (Aerospace) | AERO30481 | 10 | Mandatory |
Individual Project (Aerospace) | AERO31030 | 30 | Mandatory |
Aerospace Propulsion | AERO31212 | 10 | Mandatory |
Structures 3 (Aerospace) | AERO31302 | 10 | Mandatory |
Aircraft Aerodynamics | AERO31321 | 10 | Mandatory |
Vibrations & Aeroelasticity (Aerospace) | AERO31441 | 10 | Mandatory |
Conceptual Aerospace Systems Design | AERO31521 | 10 | Mandatory |
Flight Dynamics | AERO32202 | 10 | Mandatory |
Operations Management | ENGM30461 | 10 | Mandatory |
Modelling & Simulation 3 | AERO30052 | 10 | Optional |
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Scholarships and bursaries
For information about scholarships and bursaries please see further details on our website.
Facilities
The Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering has an incredible array of facilities, including fixed flight simulators, laser labs, wind tunnels and much more.
Our facilities allow us to conduct innovative research on real-world problems. Explore the machinery and equipment available throughout our Department .
The University of Manchester also offers extensive library and online services to help you get the most out of your studies.
Manchester's Engineering Campus Development, MECD.
Get ready to collaborate, create and innovate in a brand-new £400m purpose-built building which will allow you, our future engineers and material scientists, to come together and make your mark on the world. The Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) will officially open from September 2022 and will include hundreds of flexible teaching and learning spaces with unrivalled world-class research facilities - whatever your inspiration, with MECD the possibilities are endless.
Disability support
Careers
Career opportunities
Launch your career, with BEng Aerospace Engineering at the University of Manchester. As one of the few Universities Most Targeted by Graduate Employers in 2021 , it's our pleasure to equip you with the sought-after skills needed to journey into this sector - from design and development, to testing and operation.
Fully accredited by RAeS and IMechE, you can enjoy a new world of opportunities upon graduation.
Previous graduate employers include:
- Rolls Royce
- Jaguar Land Rover
- BAE Systems
- And many more
Overall, 90% of graduates are employed or engaged in further study within 15 months, according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey.
Example Careers:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Manufacturing Systems Engineer
- CAD Technician
- Researcher
- Higher Education Academic
- Production manager
- Financial roles
- And beyond
Accrediting organisations
Every Aerospace Engineering course at the University of Manchester is fully RAeS and IMechE accredited.
After completing your BEng (Hons), you will have almost completed the Educational Base for Chartered Engineer Status (CEng) - the internationally recognised, highest professional qualification for engineers, which renders you eligible for the European Ingenieur (EUR ING).
There are three necessary steps to achieving Chartered Engineer status:
- Your Educational Base (MEng, or BEng with MSc)
- Initial Professional Development
- Professional Review
For this route, further learning required after your BEng (Hons) is masters level equivalent, and can be obtained in one of a few ways:
- Via approved or accredited MSc
- Transfer to an MEng course
- Further learning, such as a structured learning programme in the workplace
Associated organisations
As an Aerospace Engineering student at University of Manchester, we encourage you to become a member of the Royal Aeronautical Society .
Would you like to discover more about what life is like after University of Manchester? Be inspired by our Women in Engineering page and see what our students and alumni are doing in the real world on our MACE Blog .