BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Space Technology

Develop your knowledge and practical experience of design and development of future aerospace systems. Learn everything you need to know about space vehicles including rocket propulsion, space flight control and satellite communication systems.

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Typical offer: 120−128
Entry requirements
Fees: £9,535 per year (UK)
Full details
UCAS code: H400
Course length: Various
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Location:
University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield
Institute code: H36
Work placement option
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Study abroad option
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Study at one of the largest engineering departments in the UK

Access fantastic facilities, from flight simulators to wind tunnels

1st in the East of England for Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering (Complete University Guide, 2024)¹

Spectra at Herts

Course overview

The BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Space Technology offers a specialised curriculum that builds upon the core elements of the BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering course. It focuses on the design of space vehicles, with an emphasis on rocket propulsion, space flight control, and satellite communication systems. A standout feature of this degree is the third/final year group design projects, where you collaborate with other aerospace students to design a complete aircraft. Additionally, you'll have the unique opportunity to work alongside to design space vehicles in partnership with a major space industry employer.

Why choose this course?

Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard facilities: You’ll have access to our flight simulators, 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.

Apply your knowledge through design and build projects: We are also members of the CDIO Initiative (Conceive Design Implement Operate), a worldwide network of academic professionals, industry representatives and engineering leaders who have a passion for engineering education and engineering leadership. The CDIO framework has been embedded into our undergraduate degree programme, ensuring you’ll put into practice what you learn through “Design and Build” projects during your studies.

Benefit from our strong links to industry: Our students have had work placements at companies such as Airbus, Virgin Atlantic Engineering and BAE Systems. Recent aerospace engineering graduates have gone on to work at organisations including The Royal Air Force, Jaguar Land Rover and BAE Systems.

Professional accreditations

This space technology engineering course is accredited by RAeS as detailed in the programme specification and satisfies, in part, the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration and in full, the academic requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration for intake years 2022 to 2026.

Your future career

Career prospects for graduates are excellent across the space, aircraft, and defence sides of the aerospace industry. Graduates of this course are strong candidates for employment on projects such as the development of missile systems, satellites and space vehicles. An impressive 93% of our students are employed or in further study (Graduate Outcome, 2021/22). Many graduates have gone on to become:

production engineer
repair engineer
aircraft engineer.

See what recent graduates are up to

What you'll study

In your first year, you will study the fundamental skills and knowledge required by a modern engineer including principles of flight and aircraft operations. In particular, you will be introduced to computer packages commonly used in aerospace industry.

In your second year, the first-year core themes are developed for application in aerospace engineering. You will learn about the design process through both group design and detail design work, and expand your knowledge of aerodynamics, with wind tunnel experiments. You will also have the opportunity to fly at a local flying school.

You may take a placement year if you wish, where you will gain excellent work experience, and this will be followed by your final year where for many, the Aerospace Design group project is the climax of your course where they can use your engineering skills and ingenuity to design a complete aircraft in a competitive environment. For others the self-confidence developed during the Individual Major Project that challenges them to research an aerospace relevant topic entirely by themselves using either the University or industrial facilities is the most rewarding part of your degree and can lead to future employment. There is also the opportunity for flying lessons.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Introduction to Aerospace Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will explore the fundamental principles of aerospace engineering, focusing on aircraft design, performance, and operations. Key topics include aerodynamics, propulsion, structural components, and systems integration. You will examine the ethical, environmental, and societal impacts of aerospace technologies and learn strategies to address these challenges responsibly. Through practical examples and case studies, you will develop essential skills and knowledge, preparing you for further studies in aerospace engineering.
Engineering Mathematics for Aerospace	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will equip you with essential mathematical techniques for engineering problem-solving. You will develop robust analytical and logical reasoning skills, focusing on applying mathematical methods to practical engineering challenges. By mastering these techniques, you will build technical proficiency and develop transferable skills in problem-solving and critical thinking, establishing a strong foundation for further studies and your future career in engineering.
Fundamentals of Aerospace Projects	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will focus on hands-on learning, allowing you to apply engineering design principles and processes. You will collaborate in teams to design, build, and test engineering models, experiencing the full design process from concept to manufacture. Key areas will include project management techniques, materials and manufacturing methods, and professional skills like teamwork, leadership, and health and safety. This module will prepare you for practical engineering challenges by emphasising problem-solving and effective project execution.
Aerospace Mechanical Science	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will explore the core principles of statics and dynamics in engineering. You will learn how forces and motion affect structures and systems, gaining skills in analysing equilibrium, stress, and motion. Through hands-on problem-solving and laboratory work, you will apply energy principles and momentum to real-world engineering challenges. This module will build a strong foundation in mechanical analysis, preparing you for more advanced engineering applications.
Fundamentals of Autonomous Systems Design	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will design, build, and operate autonomous electromechanical devices, such as miniature Mars rovers, bringing your ideas to life. Working in teams, you will use tools such as 3D printing, laser cutting, sensors, and actuators while learning programming and technical validation processes. This hands-on approach will encourage creativity and problem-solving, providing you with practical experience in developing real-world engineering systems. The module will also enhance your project management, leadership, and teamwork skills, preparing you for future challenges in the engineering field.
Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce you to key concepts in computer-aided design (CAD) using CATIA v5, an industry-standard software widely employed by leading aerospace companies. You will develop fundamental skills in 3D modelling, 2D drafting, and technical drawing. Additionally, you will learn to generate CNC machining codes and simulate part manufacturing using appropriate tools. By integrating design and manufacturing concepts, this module will equip you with the skills required to create and evaluate engineering components for real-world applications.
Programming for Aerospace Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce you to fundamental programming skills and their applications in aerospace engineering. You will learn how to use industry-standard software, typically MATLAB, to solve technical problems, exploring core concepts such as variables, functions, and data structures. With a focus on practical problem-solving, this module will develop your essential skills in coding, debugging, and data analysis. Through hands-on exercises and real-world examples, you will build a solid foundation in programming, preparing you for the challenges of engineering computation in aerospace applications.
Electronics for Aerospace Engineering	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will be introduced to fundamental electronic principles and components used in aerospace engineering. Through practical application, you will explore essential topics such as circuit design, the operation of passive components under different conditions, and motor control systems. By solving circuit problems and designing typical aircraft circuits, you will develop key skills necessary for analysing, designing, and troubleshooting electronics in aerospace systems.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Applied Aerodynamics	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will gain hands-on experience in applied aerodynamics, focusing on designing and manufacturing aerodynamic components, such as aircraft wings. You will develop practical skills by testing your design in a wind tunnel and performing flight tests on model aircraft equipped with your wing. Working in teams, you will strengthen your understanding of aerodynamics and manufacturing processes. Additionally, an assessment centre away day will help you build professional and teamwork skills, preparing you to navigate advanced challenges in the aerospace engineering industry.
Fluid Mechanics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will equip you with a strong theoretical foundation in fluid mechanics and aerodynamics, preparing you to analyse and solve engineering problems related to fluid flow and aerodynamic forces. Through hands-on laboratory experiments, you will develop practical skills in data analysis and the application of theoretical principles. The module will also develop your critical thinking and analytical skills, essential for a career in aerospace engineering.
Thermodynamics for Aerospace	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics, providing you with a strong theoretical foundation for engineering applications. You will explore the first and second laws of thermodynamics and their role in energy transfer and thermodynamic cycles. By understanding the practical implications of these principles, you will develop the ability to apply thermodynamic concepts to real-world engineering problems, laying the groundwork for advanced studies in energy systems and heat transfer.
Aerospace Materials	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will be introduced to key concepts in material science, focusing on their applications in the aerospace sector. You will explore materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, and learn about processing, microstructure, property relationships and performance. Topics such as corrosion, fatigue, and non-destructive testing will be covered, with an emphasis on real-world aerospace applications. Through hands-on laboratory exercises, you will apply theory in practice and develop essential skills for solving engineering problems related to material selection, behaviour, and performance.
Aerospace Systems Modelling and Control	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will provide you with the knowledge and skills to build and analyse mathematical models of aerospace systems and control systems, enabling you to simulate and control dynamic performance. You will explore feedback control, performance prediction using step responses and analysis techniques such as root locus and state-space models. You will also use industry-standard software, such as MATLAB and Simulink, to develop simulations for real-world aerospace applications.
Aerospace Structural Mechanics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will equip you with the skills to analyse the statics and dynamics of structures in an aerospace engineering context. Core topics include shear force and bending moment diagrams, torsion, beam theory, and vibration analysis. Emphasising real-world industrial applications, the module will demonstrate how these concepts are critical to aerospace design and structural analysis. You will apply theoretical knowledge through laboratory activities, gaining practical insights into the mechanical behaviour of materials and structures used in the aerospace industry.
Aircraft Systems Integration	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module focuses on the design, manufacture, and integration of mechanical and electronic components. You will apply systems integration principles by combining airframe design with control systems to design, build and fly a fully functional multicopter. The module places emphasis on real-world industrial applications, with a strong focus on teamwork, leadership and professionalism. Through hands-on group work, you will gain practical experience in designing, building and testing integrated systems, preparing you for complex aerospace projects and professional environments.
Space Systems	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will explore the core concepts of space systems, including spacecraft subsystems, mission planning and environmental challenges such as radiation, microgravity and extreme temperatures. You will learn how to integrate propulsion, power and communication systems into spacecraft designs while managing mission constraints. The module also introduces emerging technologies, strategies for mitigating space debris and the ethical considerations of space exploration, preparing you for the complexities of a career in space engineering.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
BEng Individual Project (Aerospace)	30 Credits	Compulsory
The major individual project occurs in either third or fourth (sandwich awards) year of study can take several forms ranging from design-oriented work to investigative work and research projects and placing their findings in the context of the application of real world engineering. Students are highly encouraged to propose their own topics for investigation. The project title and topic are chosen and moderated to provide an intellectual challenge appropriate to an honours programme of study in a specific engineering field. The student is expected to firstly identify and elucidate the problems through a critical review of a subject area and then plan, organise, and execute a significant individual programme of work related to a chosen field of study through the analysis and synthesis of results. Students should demonstrate initiative and creativity in applying skills, knowledge and experience gained from previous work in an individual practical, problem solving project. Student will be subjected to both end-point assessments and a continuous progress assessment that will assess the learning outcomes.
Computational Analysis of Fluids and Structures	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will equip you with essential skills in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), both widely used in aerospace engineering. You will learn to model, simulate, and analyse complex fluid and structural problems using industry-standard software, typically Star CCM+, Ansys, and CATIA v5. Key topics include mesh generation, turbulence modelling, structural analysis, and result validation. These advanced techniques will prepare you for real-world engineering challenges and the technical demands of the aerospace industry.
Flight Testing	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module explores the critical role of flight testing in ensuring aircraft performance and safety. You will gain expertise in flight test planning, techniques, and instrumentation, with a focus on aircraft performance, handling qualities, and data analysis. Using advanced flight simulators, you will apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, developing the essential skills required for flight testing and evaluation. This module prepares you to solve complex engineering challenges, equipping you to excel in flight test engineering and related careers.
Aircraft Propulsion	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module offers an in-depth study of aircraft propulsion systems, focusing on both air-breathing and electric technologies. You will explore how thermal, mechanical, and environmental factors influence propulsion design and how these systems are integrated into aircraft. Through real-world case studies and practical applications, you will develop the skills to critically evaluate and optimise propulsion systems, preparing you to meet the technical challenges of modern aircraft propulsion design.
Professional Engineering and Quality Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module examines professional engineering practice and quality management within the aerospace industry. You will explore the application of quality management systems, risk management, Safety Management Systems (SMS), and the critical assessment and mitigation of security risks in aerospace systems as mandated by aviation authorities. Emphasis is placed on your responsibilities as a professional engineer, including ethics and legislation. Through real-world examples, you will develop transferable skills in management, compliance, and professional development, preparing you for industry practice or further study.
Rocket Performance and Propulsion	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module explores the principles of rocket propulsion and performance, focusing on the dynamics of propulsion systems for both atmospheric and space applications. You will study propellant composition, combustion processes and the design of propulsion systems. Key topics include rocket staging, flight dynamics under gravitational and aerodynamic forces and the optimisation of propulsion systems for various missions. You will develop the knowledge and skills required to address complex challenges in aerospace engineering and rocket propulsion.
Space Dynamics	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module, you will examine the motion of spacecraft, focusing on orbital and rotational dynamics, mission analysis and spacecraft stability. You will apply mathematical modelling and computational techniques to understand spacecraft trajectories and spin. Through real-world applications, such as satellite missions and interplanetary exploration, you will develop the skills to solve complex aerospace challenges using industry-relevant tools. This hands-on, problem-solving approach equips you with essential skills for the rapidly evolving space industry.

What if I need support?

We’re here for you. Our school is a warm, welcoming community where you’ll find plenty of people to encourage you through your studies. You’ll have your own Academic Support Tutor for the whole time you’re here, and our friendly course and cohort leaders are always happy to talk things through. If you need some personal support, we’ve also got our own wellbeing leader, and the majority of our academics are trained and accredited in mental health first aid.

For additional help with study skills, including referencing, essay writing and presentations, you’ll have access to our academic support services. You can attend workshops, 1-to-1 sessions and online tutorials. Both our LRCs (Learning Resources Centres) run drop-in study skills sessions. And the best thing is, it’s all free.

Hertfordshire Law School have partnered with Neurodiversity in Law to promote and support neurodiversity within the legal professions and develop a supportive network. We encourage students to disclose any learning difference and offer personalised support, for example the opportunity to have a tour of the lecture/seminar rooms before you start, share seminars online ahead of class, or offer suitable adjustments during exams.

Optional sandwich year

Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd. This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a year in industry, typically between your second and third years of study. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.

Research shows that over 70% of employers prefer students with work experience, which is why we believe work placements are career gold. Our Careers and Employment service are here to support you explore your options and make valuable contacts for your future career.

You’ll pay no tuition fee for this year and won’t need to worry about the details of your placement until your second year of study.

Find out more about work placements

Study Abroad offers the opportunity for an amazing experience, which will help make you stand out from the crowd. With more and more companies working internationally, experience of living in another country can make a great impression on future employers.

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a sandwich year abroad. The University has partnerships with over 150 universities around the world, including the USA, Canada, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and closer to home in Europe.

If you study abroad between your second and third year of study, you’ll pay no tuition fee to the partner university and no tuition fee to us either. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it.

Find out more about study abroad options

You’ll pay no tuition fee for this year and won’t need to worry about the details of your placement until your second year of study.

Find out more about work placements

Find out more about study abroad options

Where you'll study

Your main campus is College Lane. This is where the creative arts, science and health-related subjects are based. This means you’ll share the campus with future nurses, scientists, artists and more. You can use the common rooms to relax with friends, work out in the 24-hour gym or have a drink in our on-campus bar or cafes. We also have restaurants for you to eat in or grab something on the go. Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.

A train to central London takes just over 20 minutes, and you are also conveniently located on the A1(M) with access to the road network, making travel quick and convenient.

New School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building now open

Learn in our new state-of-the-art building called Spectra, where you’ll experience a range of experiential learning zones. You will have access to modelling, simulation and research labs, our Merlin Flight Simulator and automotive workshop (complete with electric vehicle facility), wind tunnel, welding bay and controls testing suite.

You will also benefit from our Academic Support Hub, which is aimed at helping you build your employability and academic skills. Plus, have access to industry mentors who will provide you with pastoral support, vocational guidance, and career progression opportunities.

Spectra also provides space to collaborate, with plenty of workshops, social and meeting spaces available. Even better, the building has been designed with the University’s net zero carbon target in mind, and forms part of our plan to replace or upgrade older sites that are energy inefficient.

Check out our student blogs

How we support our students

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible.

We offer a range of support services, from childcare to counselling, ensuring that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying, having fun, and have the support you need.

Find out more about support and wellbeing

Entry requirements

The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.

Typical offer (UCAS points)	(enter tariff range)
Typical A Level offer	(enter range)
Typical IB offer	(enter range)
Typical BTEC offer	(enter range)
Typical T Level offer	(enter range)
GCSE	EG: Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/D Mathematics
Access courses	EG: An overall merit profile in 45 credits at Level 3.
Additional information	Find out more about our standard and contextual Undergraduate Entry Requirements.

Typical offer (UCAS points)	120–128
Typical A Level offer	BBB–ABB Mandatory subjects: Mathematics and either Physics or Technology or engineering-based subjects, excluding General Studies/Critical Thinking.
Typical IB offer	120–128 UCAS points, from a minimum of two HL subjects at grade 4 or above, to include HL Mathematics and Physics
Typical BTEC offer	DDM Mandatory subjects: Extended Diploma in Engineering (DDM) to include Distinction in a Mathematics unit.
Accepted T Levels	None
Access courses	Engineering diploma with 30 Level 3 credits at distinction, to include Maths or Science or Principles units, with the remaining 15 L3 credits at merit.
GCSE	Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/C Mathematics.
Additional information	Find out more about our standard and contextual Undergraduate Entry Requirements.

Ready to apply?

UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Start date	Study type	Apply
September 2025	Full time	Apply via UCAS
	Full time with placement year	Apply via UCAS
	Full time with study abroad year	Apply via UCAS
	Part time	Apply with Herts

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Make sure you've got your UCAS number, if you've got one (you can find this on your UCAS Hub), your results (including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs or equivalent) and the course(s) you'd like to apply for.

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Click to call or dial 0300 303 6300

Find out more before you apply

Our Clearing hotline is open Monday – Thursday, 09:00 – 16:45, and Friday 09:00 – 15:45. To apply you will need your UCAS number, if you've got one (you can find this on your UCAS Hub), your results (including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs or equivalent) and the course(s) you'd like to apply for.

Fees and funding

At Herts, we’re dedicated to providing world-class teaching supported by industry-level facilities and incredible social spaces. We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to higher education, and we strive to keep both our standard and additional costs as low as possible.

	Study type	Fees
UK students	Full time	£9,535 for the 2025/2026 academic year
UK students	Part time	£1,190 per 15 credits for the 2025/2026 academic year
EU students	Full time	£15,965 for the 2025/2026 academic year
EU students	Part time	£1,995 per 15 credits for the 2025/2026 academic year
International students	Full time	£15,965 for the 2025/2026 academic year
International students	Part time	£1,995 per 15 credits for the 2025/2026 academic year

Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries	Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship, grant or bursary to support your studies.
Disabled Students' Allowance	The Disabled Students’ Allowance can cover any study-related costs you have because of a mental health problem, long term illness or any other disability.
Student loans	Find out about securing a student loan, from how much you could be eligible for to when you need to start making repayments.
Accommodation costs	We offer a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.
Additional course fees	Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet.

More about the course

Course fact sheets
PEBENGAE BEng Aerospace Engineering with Space Technology Course Fact Sheet	Download PDF

Programme specifications
ENENGA MEng BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering Programme Spec 2025-26	Download PDF

Additional information
Applications open to international and EU students	No
Course length	Full Time, 3 Years Part Time, 6 Years Sandwich, 4 Years Sandwich Placement, 4 Years

BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Space Technology

Develop your knowledge and practical experience of design and development of future aerospace systems. Learn everything you need to know about space vehicles including rocket propulsion, space flight control and satellite communication systems.

What type of applicant are you?

Sign up for Clearing VIP Access

Get info and updates

Sign up for updates

Typical offer: 120−128

Fees: £9,535 per year (UK)

UCAS code: H400

Course length: Various

Location: University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Institute code: H36

Work placement option

Study abroad option

Course overview

Why choose this course?

Professional accreditations

Your future career

See what recent graduates are up to

Temitayo Adedipe

Kennedy Ameh

Temitayo Adedipe

Meeting challenges

The key to success

Why Herts

The future

Kennedy Ameh

University experience and opportunities

Diverse community

Aspirations for the future

What you'll study

What if I need support?

Optional sandwich year

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Where you'll study

New School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building now open

Check out our student blogs

Pratham - A day in the life on my aerospace engineering course

Pratham - About the aerospace learning facilities and how I use them on my course

Godson - Things you should know

How we support our students

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible.

Student Blogs

A typical Monday

After hours

Student Blogs

Simulators

Labs

Machinery

Wind tunnels

Student Blogs

Things to know before studying Aerospace Engineering at Herts

Lectures, tutorials, and labs

Learning Resources

Extracurricular activities

Entry requirements

UK applicants

UK applicants

Ready to apply?

UK applicants

UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply through Clearing

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Additional information

More about the course

Further information

Not ready to apply?

Undergraduate courses and degrees

Student Life at Herts

Chat with students and staff

Location:
University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield