Aerospace Engineering with Space Technology BEng (Hons)

About the course

This new BEng degree course in aerospace engineering with space technology specialises in the design of space vehicles with a particular emphasis on rocket propulsion, space flight control, and satellite communication systems.

You will become familiar with CATIA, which is a computer-aided design package popular in the aerospace industry.

Design of a modern aerospace system requires a team of engineers, each with their own specialisation. Development of the systems often transcends national boundaries to international flight, worldwide satellite communications and deep space exploration and is a truly international industry. The University has projects in both Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs) and rocketry, with student projects, research and other activities already running. We have established the UK's premier UAV competition, in conjunction with the Royal Aeronautical Society, for universities across the UK and Europe. We also have a link with two space tourism organisations, and this year we are building a scale prototype of a space-plane, which will be powered by jet engines and a rocket motor.

This degree programme includes a module on rocket performance and propulsion. You will have opportunities to gain flying experience at a local flying school. You will also benefit from use of our flight simulator which will enhance your understanding of aircraft performance, stability and control.

Why choose this course?

• This is a new BEng degree course in aerospace engineering with a focus on space technology;
• The University of Hertfordshire has produced aerospace engineers with practical experience of design and development for future aerospace systems;
• You will have access to the best equipment: flight simulator, wind tunnels, specialist laboratories and CAE software;
• You will be offered a flying course at a local flying school with one-to-one instruction on both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters Our aerospace staff have a wealth of industrial experience which gives an applied approach to their teaching and their contacts prove invaluable to graduates seeking employment;
• If you would like more detailed information about what you will be studying on each year of this course, then go to 'Course structure' via the tab at the top of the page, and then click on the '- full details' link for each year of study. You will then see a description for each module.

Study routes

• Sandwich, 4 Years
• Sandwich,
• Full Time,
• Full Time, 3 Years

Locations

• University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Careers

Career prospects for graduates are excellent within the space, aircraft and defence industries.

Work Placement

You have the opportunity to spend a year working either in a professional research environment or within industry. The practical experience you gain will be of tremendous benefit both when you resume your studies and when you embark on a career.

Professional Accreditations

Accredited for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Structure

Year 1

Core Modules

• Introduction to Design

  This module introduces students to the process of engineering design, and to CAD tools for creating and documenting design solutions. The principles and standard practices of technical drawing and tolerancing are taught. The role and use of CAD in design is taught and practiced, both 3D solid modelling and 2D drafting. The nature of design as a structured process is considered, and demonstrated by students undertaking a variety of design exercise and assignments. The design activities are mostly done in small teams, thereby developing skills in teamwork, communication and leadership. There are staged assessments that require the students to present their work using a variety of methods and communication tools.

• Aerospace Technology & Industry

  This module introduces students to the basic design of an aircraft to achieve its functional and performance aims, civil and military aircraft operations. This module includes elements required for PPL Ground School Training.

• Career Skills Development

  This module will ensure students are able to utilise the University system for PDP (Personal Development Planning using MAPS (My Active Planning System). Using the PDP processes each student will be able to record and update their own records which will aid monitoring their progress personally and academically. Support will be provided on tools, techniques and good practices through a Study Skills programme, MAPS and relating this to future professional development. The student will be assisted using the support detailed above through the first weeks of the academic year by academic staff. There will be further sessions in the second semester.

• Introduction to Manufacturing Technology

  This module introduces the student to a range of production processes and practice used commonly in the manufacture of products. Students develop a hands-on appreciation of production techniques including turning, milling, fabrication and assembly using manual and computer controlled plant and machinery. Transferable skills are developed in the application of the processes used to the manufacture of a range of products and sub-assemblies taking into account design and supply requirements.

• Materials and Electrical Science

  This module encompasses (i) electrical science (fundamental concepts of electrical units and relationships, basic AC & DC circuit theory, digital systems and electro-mechanical machines) and (ii) engineering materials (classification of materials, mechanical and physical properties, structure of materials, testing, materials selection for metals, polymers and ceramics. Please refer to the teaching plan for a more detailed description.

• Mechanical Science

  This module encompasses statics (fundamental concept of units, forces, force systems, free body diagrams, couples, moments, direct & shear stresses, beams, frames, shear force-bending moment relationships) and dynamics (quantities and concepts, linear & angular motion, non-constant acceleration, forces and torques, moment of inertia, application of free-body diagrams, work-energy equation, impulse-momentum equation, simple harmonic motion, dynamic mechanisms, engineering vibrations).

• Fluid Mechanics & Thermodynamics

  Properties of liquids and gases, Gauge and absolute pressure. Hydrostatic principles, manometry, forces on immersed surfaces. Definition of types of fluid flow. The mass conservation principle. The Euler-Bernoulli equation. Application of Bernoulli's equation to pipeline problems with energy losses and flow measurement. Momentum equation for steady flow. Dimensional analysis, Buckingham's method, non-dimensional coefficients. The concept of a thermodynamic system, open and closed. Thermodynamic processes. Zeroth Law and concept of temperature. Thermodynamic work and heat, their equivalence and energy transfer. First law of thermodynamics, definition of internal energy and enthalpy. The specific heat capacities of perfect gases and their relevance to isentropic processes.

• Engineering Mathematics

  The module builds on from A-Level mathematics (or equivalent qualification) to provide mathematical techniques required for engineering. The module includes the manipulation and applications of elementary functions (trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential), complex numbers, Boolean algebra and the techniques of differentiation and integration for functions of one variable. Refer to the teaching plan for a more detailed description.

• Engineering Applications of Mathematics

  The module follows on from the module 4PAM1007 Engineering Mathematics to provide further mathematical techniques required for applications in Engineering disciplines. The module includes the techniques associated with the manipulation of matrices and vectors, evaluation of eigenvalues and eigenvectors, development of power series approximations of elementary mathematical functions, techniques for the solution of ordinary differential equations and the principles of probability and data handling. The mathematics material will be supported using a suitable software package, for example MATLAB, and will also be used to solve engineering problems. Refer to the teaching plan for a more detailed description.

Optional

Year 2

Core Modules

• Career Planning

  This module will encourage students to reflect on their career aspirations and review/plan for the development of appropriate skills necessary to realise these aspirations. Many students will specifically use this module to prepare for the optional professional placement year. Students who undertake the placement will work within industry or a commercial organisation that is able to provide an appropriate learning experience within an engineering environment. This placement must be of at least 48 weeks duration. To be eligible for placement students must have passed the progression requirements to level 6

• Dynamics

  This module will further expand the students understanding of the basic dynamics principles covered in year 1 to include rotational motion in mechanical systems and the dynamic response to applied forces. Through a combination of case studies presented in lectures, experiments and tutorial activities students will develop their ability to analyse the dynamic behaviour of mechanical systems including an introduction vibrational analysis and how to dampen the effect of vibration.

• Aerothermodynamics

  Aerodynamics - International atmosphere. Speed measurement, IAS, TAS, EAS. Aerodynamic forces and moments. Viscous boundary layers, transition and separation. Wing lift generation. High lift devices. Aerodynamic drag and its estimation. Wing vortex system, downwash and vortex drag. Viscous drag. Wind tunnel testing. Simulation of Reynolds number and Mach number. Thermodynamics - Perfect, semi perfect and real gases. Enthalpy and internal energy of gases. The second law of thermodynamics and its applications. Principle of heat engines and heat pumps. Clasius and Kelvin-Planks statements of the second law. Normal and reversed Carnot cycles. Entropy and the principle of increased entropy. Introduction to compressible flows. Stagnation and static properties of flowing flows. The speed of sound and the flow Mach number. Compressible flows in variable cross sectional area ducts (nozzles and diffusers). Introduction to Compression and expansion waves. Normal and oblique shock waves. Variation of flow parameters across the waves. Waves tables. Expansion waves and flow parameters.

• Data Acquisition and Control Systems

  This module covers sensors and actuators in the context of how devices are interfaced rather than to how they are designed. Analogue circuits used for interfacing sensors and actuators are also studied, together with analogueto-digital and digital-to-analogue conversion. This module also introduces students to the concepts of linear closed loop control systems and the simulation of the dynamic performace using the Control Systems Toolbox in Matlab. Techniques include step response and frequency response methods to predict steady state and stability performance. Students will also be introduced to simple series controller design.

• Project Management and Product Development

  To achieve and maintain market position the manufacturing industry must develop profitable and competitive products in time, to quality and within budget. This requires the functions of the company to be organised to achieve common objectives. This module examines the organisational aspects of product development from definition through design to manufacture. The team issues and techniques of project management are addressed as applicable to the product development process and in general terms. The project management content is taught first in order to support the product development content.

• Avionics Systems

  This module includes elements required for PPL - Ground School Training as well as Avionics Systems used by commercial and military aircraft. PPL Ground School Topics - Principles of navigation, Flight Deck Instruments, Radio navigation systems, Primary and Secondary Radar, Radio telephony systems (including procedures for their use). Non-PPL Ground School Topics - Long and Short Range Navigation Systems, Aircraft Electrical Systems, Communications Theory. The module will consist of lectures on the basics principles, industrial visits and student led seminars.

• Aerospace Design

  This module introduces students to the fundamental knowledge and skills associated with aircraft design, and in particular the design of aircraft subassemblies. Typical aerospace engineering design tasks such as the design of mounting arrangements for a guided-weapon sub-assembly, hydraulic actuation mechanism layout and component design will be practiced based on common aerospace practice. Key design parameters including weight, specific functions, reliability and fitness for purpose will be addressed to reflect the themes of Innovative Design, Systems Integration Design and Sustainability. Student learning will be supported by lectures, tutorials, and assignments.

• Computer Aided Engineering

  This module introduces the students to three CAE systems, CAD solid modelling, stress analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) each with an equal weighting. The CAD component of this module enhances skills in solid modelling and shows the benefits and potential of 3D models in the design process. The stress analysis component introduces the concept of extracting the mid-surface of a solid CAD model and the various techniques to ensure that the surfaces are fully joined. Techniques for ensuring water-tightness and avoidance of initial penetration will also be introduced. The types of element to be used for any particular problem will be discussed. The effect of mesh density on the accuracy of the results will be looked at by using a classical engineering problem. Both static and modal analysis will be covered and reinforced by experimental tests. The CFD component introduces the concept of discretisation of the governing equations of fluid mechanics and covers setting up simple flow scenarios and geometries. Analysis is carried out with a view to parameters affecting result sensitivity.

• Further Engineering Mathematics

  The module follows on from the mathematics modules at Level 4 to provide further mathematical techniques required for applications in Engineering disciplines. The module includes numerical methods for ordinary differential equations, Laplace transforms, Fourier series, line and double integrals, as well as s using a suitable software applications package to solve engineering problems. Emphasis is put on techniques and applications rather than complete mathematical rigour.

Optional

Year 3

Core Modules

• Industrial Placement

  The optional professional placement year is undertaken between the second and final years of study. Students undertake the placement within a commercial organisation that is able to provide an appropriate learning experience within an engineering environment. The placement must be of at least 48 weeks duration though many students will complete a year or more at the company. To be eligible for placement students must have achieved sufficient credit at Levels 4 and 5 to be able to enter the final year upon completion of the placement. While the faculty/school actively supports the placements process ultimately it is the placement company that will select students, normally through an interview process. During the placement a member of the academic staff will be assigned to the student as a tutor and will monitor the student's progress during the placement period.

Optional

Year 4

Core Modules

• Control Systems

  This module will further the students understanding of classical control theory and give the experience of applying the theory to modify the dynamic performance of systems. The module will introduce root locus methods for the design of series controllers, in both continuous and digitally controlled systems. The module will also extend the students understanding of frequency response methods into the design of controllers and the analysis of non-linear systems using describing functions to predict limit cycles. Where possible students will be encouraged to use Matlab to check theoretical calculations and to design controllers.

• Rocket Performance and Propulsion

  This module will introduce students to flight dynamics of rockets and their propulsion systems. Typical applications under consideration will include satellite launch and insertion into orbit, sounding rockets and potential future applications such as space tourism, together with some aspects of guided weapons.

• Aerospace Performance, Propulsion and Design

  Performance 1. Atmosphere properties and air speed definitions 2. Straight and level flight 3. Range 4. Climbing flight 5. Accelerated flight 6. Standardised performance Propulsion 1. Development and variants of gas turbine engines 2. Gas turbine component design and performance characteristics. Intakes; axial & centrifugal compressors; combustion chambers; turbines; exhaust systems; engine systems 3. Gas turbine performance a. Design point b. Off-design 4. Principles of conduction, convection & radiation heat transfer Design As part of a small group, undertake the design of a complete aircraft to meet a given specification. Each member will fulfil a distinct role, and will contribute to the progress of the team. By the end of the course, the team will produce a detailed technical report and a seminar presentation.

• Individual Project

  The major project in the fourth year of study can take several forms ranging from design oriented work to investigative work. The project title and topic are chosen to provide intellectual challenge appropriate to an honours programme of study. The student is expected to firstly identify and elucidate the problems, then to plan and execute a relevant programme of work. Assessment is ongoing through the project via an individual supervisor, culminating with a comprehensive report of work done. Students would normally be expected to register their interest in the area of work, but are encouraged to suggest their own projects where appropriate.

• Satellite Terrestrial Communication Systems

  This module introduces the student to the principles of terrestrial, mobile, satellite and space communication system design, including communication system building blocks, antenna properties and radio wave propagation phenomena. Treatment of some material is at systems level with some topics being treated at more in-depth, analytical level. Theoretical study is supported by practical exercises and lab experiments and where appropriate, software based simulation tools.

• Careers Portfolio

  This module will help students identify the employability skills necessary to enter their chosen profession. They will be required to develop a portfolio that evidences the following employability skills relevant for their chosen profession, from a combination of employment experience and academic modules. Skills include; Self Management and Development, Team Working, Communicating, Specialist Technologies, Professional Awareness and Problem Solving/Creativity.

• Space Dynamics

  Spacecraft dynamics is studied using core physical ideas, case studies and modelling techniques.

Optional

• Control Systems

  This module will further the students understanding of classical control theory and give the experience of applying the theory to modify the dynamic performance of systems. The module will introduce root locus methods for the design of series controllers, in both continuous and digitally controlled systems. The module will also extend the students understanding of frequency response methods into the design of controllers and the analysis of non-linear systems using describing functions to predict limit cycles. Where possible students will be encouraged to use Matlab to check theoretical calculations and to design controllers.

• Rocket Performance and Propulsion

  This module will introduce students to flight dynamics of rockets and their propulsion systems. Typical applications under consideration will include satellite launch and insertion into orbit, sounding rockets and potential future applications such as space tourism, together with some aspects of guided weapons.

• Aerospace Performance, Propulsion and Design

  Performance 1. Atmosphere properties and air speed definitions 2. Straight and level flight 3. Range 4. Climbing flight 5. Accelerated flight 6. Standardised performance Propulsion 1. Development and variants of gas turbine engines 2. Gas turbine component design and performance characteristics. Intakes; axial & centrifugal compressors; combustion chambers; turbines; exhaust systems; engine systems 3. Gas turbine performance a. Design point b. Off-design 4. Principles of conduction, convection & radiation heat transfer Design As part of a small group, undertake the design of a complete aircraft to meet a given specification. Each member will fulfil a distinct role, and will contribute to the progress of the team. By the end of the course, the team will produce a detailed technical report and a seminar presentation.

• Individual Project

  The major project in the fourth year of study can take several forms ranging from design oriented work to investigative work. The project title and topic are chosen to provide intellectual challenge appropriate to an honours programme of study. The student is expected to firstly identify and elucidate the problems, then to plan and execute a relevant programme of work. Assessment is ongoing through the project via an individual supervisor, culminating with a comprehensive report of work done. Students would normally be expected to register their interest in the area of work, but are encouraged to suggest their own projects where appropriate.

• Satellite Terrestrial Communication Systems

  This module introduces the student to the principles of terrestrial, mobile, satellite and space communication system design, including communication system building blocks, antenna properties and radio wave propagation phenomena. Treatment of some material is at systems level with some topics being treated at more in-depth, analytical level. Theoretical study is supported by practical exercises and lab experiments and where appropriate, software based simulation tools.

• Space Dynamics

  Spacecraft dynamics is studied using core physical ideas, case studies and modelling techniques.

Fees & funding

Fees 2013

UK/EU Students

Full time: £8,500 for the 2013 academic year

International Students

Full time: £10,000 for the 2013 academic year

Discounts are available for International students if payment is made in full at registration

View detailed information about tuition fees

Scholarships

• National Scholarship Programme

Find out more about scholarships for UK/EU and international students

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

How to apply