Aerospace Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year BEng

2025-26 entry
Aerospace Engineering

This degree is all about maximising your employability. You’ll follow the same academic programme as our standard aerospace engineering course, but you may have the opportunity to spend a year working in a graduate-level role in an engineering company.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Launch your career with this four year exploration of aerospace engineering theory and get hands-on practice building and flying aircraft.

    From a solid base of essential theories, you’ll explore propulsion, instrumentation, the computation and design of aerodynamics and aircraft control. As you progress, you’ll tailor the degree to match your career path – choosing to focus on either avionic systems or aeromechanics, and completing an investigative project of your choice.

    By taking an industrial placement year, you'll spend a year working in a placement, in which you earn a salary and have reduced fees. While placements are not guaranteed and are your responsibility to source, you’ll receive plenty of advice and support from our dedicated Industrial Placement Year team.

    Links with companies such as Rolls-Royce, Boeing and BAE make Sheffield the right choice if you want to do a placement year – and mean we have world-famous companies joining us on campus for employability fairs and networking sessions.

    We’ll teach you how to manage a project from start to finish, and how to communicate with people from a wide range of engineering disciplines. In your final year, you'll work on a research project led by one of our world leading academics.

    Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to fly and build aircraft, take part in national and international competitions, and ultimately graduate with the hands-on experience you need to progress in the aerospace industry.

    Why study this course?

    • Top 5 for aeronautical and manufacturing engineering - as rated by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024. We're also the top Russell Group university in the National Student Survey (NSS) 2023.
    • Learn to fly - gain flying experience either through our private pilot instruction courses or through our links with the Yorkshire Universities Air Squadron.
    • State-of-the-art facility - access a high quality laboratory education in a unique and state-of-the-art facility, including the opportunity to operate and examine jet engine technologies.
    • Real industry experience - we’ll help you find opportunities to study abroad, get industry experience and take part in a full portfolio of activities in air and space systems. Extracurricular activities also include entering national and international competitions.
    • Global Engineering Challenge - join teams of students to solve engineering problems in developing countries – pushing you to develop you as a professional engineer and enhancing your career prospects.

    This course is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, the Institution of Engineering and Technology and the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Aerospace Engineering with an Industrial Placement Year BEng course structure 2023
    UCAS code: H404
    Years: 2023
    First year

    Core modules:

    Aerospace Aerodynamics and Thermodynamics

    This course provides an overview of the fundamental principles of the behaviour of liquids and gases that are essential to an aerospace engineer. Students will encounter the physical basis of important properties, their evaluation and application to practical examples. The course then teaches the interrelationship between pressure, flow and temperature and how this affects the design, performance and energy terms of aerospace engineering components and systems. Irreversibility, both from the point of friction and entropy change will be examined both qualitatively and quantitatively.

    15 credits
    Aerospace Engineering Design, Build and Test

    This module will introduce students to the basic concepts of aircraft and spacecraft design with a focus on systems engineering, interdisciplinary design and performance. Students will learn about the basic principles of flight and how performance can be calculated during a typical flight/mission including take-off, landing, climb, cruise and turning and orbital mechanics.The basic principles of systems engineering as an approach to aircraft design will be taught and the importance of considering aircraft design as an interdisciplinary design problem are covered and illustrated through the design, build and test activity. Students will undertake an exercise to design, build and test an aircraft, covering choices of materials, structures, aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics and control. Predictions of the aircraft performance will be undertaken in order to model the flight time or a similar parameter, being tested against the actual performance of the aircraft. They will also undertake a range of workshop practice elements in order to learn to operate and utilise appropriate building techniques for the aircraft, satisfying the requirements of 'Workshop Practice' as required for accreditation. Students will be introduced to computer coding as an engineering tool, taught the basics of engineering drawing and computer aided design (CAD) and develop an appreciation of basic workshop tools (engineering applications).

    20 credits
    Analysis and Modelling of Aerospace Systems

    This unit will introduce systems and control engineering and its application to aerospace engineering. Examples of aerospace systems are given and the principles of modelling and analysing simple aerospace systems are covered.

    This unit begins with system modelling and analysis in general, covering linear modelling of low-order systems. Key parameters and terms are introduced such as rise time, settling time and overshoot. The way these techniques can be applied to aerospace systems is demonstrated. The module further covers fundamental control topics such as open and closed loop control, proportional-differential compensators and block diagram manipulation. Laboratory/computer work (e.g. MATLAB) is set to give students an opportunity to apply and practise what they have learned, and to provide the foundation for practical avionics work in group and individual projects throughout the degree.

    At the end of the unit, a competent student will appreciate the value of systems analysis and modelling, and be able to apply their learning to some relatively simple practical aerospace examples.

    15 credits
    Electrical Fundamentals

    This module introduces the concepts and analytical tools for examining the behaviour of combinations of passive circuit elements including resistors, capacitors and inductors  when driven by ideal voltage and current sources. The ideas involved are important not only from the point of view of modelling avionics circuits but also because many complicated processes in aerospace engineering (as well as other disciplines) are themselves modelled by electric circuits. The passive ideas are extended to active electronic components such as diodes, transistors and operational amplifiers and the circuits in which these devices are used. Transformers, magnetics and dc motors are also covered.

    15 credits
    Engineering Statics and Dynamics

    The course provides the fundamental concepts and techniques used in Engineering Statics and Dynamics. Two-dimensional statics are covered including force and moment systems, free body diagrams, equilibrium, friction, and the application to typical structures encountered in aerospace engineering applications (such as beams, frames and trusses). Two-dimensional kinematics and kinetics of particles and rigid bodies are covered. An introduction to the use of the Work-Energy methods in dynamics is given. No prior knowledge of statics or dynamics is assumed; the treatment concentrates on physical understanding and applications in aerospace engineering, rather than using advanced mathematical treatments

    15 credits
    Global Engineering Challenge Week

    The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.

    *The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.

    Introduction to Aerospace Materials

    This module examines how the macroscopic properties of materials are determined by the arrangement of, and bonding between atoms. How processing can affect these atomic arrangements and thus the microstructure and properties of a material is considered. Finally materials selection for aerospace applications taking into account multiple criteria is introduced.

    20 credits
    Mathematics (Electrical and Aerospace)

    This module aims to reinforce students' previous knowledge and to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at Levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the Level 2 mathematics courses in the appropriate engineering department. The module is delivered via online lectures, reinforced with weekly interactive problem classes..

    20 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    The following are the main learning and teaching methods implemented within the programme:

    • lectures
    • tutorials
    • practical activities
    • coursework assignments (including oral, video and poster presentations)
    • individual investigative project (final year)
    • design projects
    • online resources

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Assessment

    Students are assessed via a mix of the following:

    • examinations
    • coursework assignments
    • lab work
    • online tests
    • reports
    • group projects
    • presentations
    • design projects
    • dissertations

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB
    including Maths and a science

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB including Maths and a science + B in a relevant EPQ; ABB including Maths and a science + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34 with 6,5 (in any order) in Higher Level Maths and a science
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in Engineering or Applied Science + A in A Level Maths
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in Engineering or Applied Science + A in A Level Maths
    T Level
    Distinction in the Maintenance, Installation & Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing T Level, including grade A in the core component + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers
    AABBB + AB in Maths and a science
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA in Maths and a science
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include 15 Maths and 15 science units), and 9 at Merit + B in A Level Maths
    Other requirements
    • Science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Further Maths, Physics, or Statistics

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    ABB
    including Maths and a science

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB including Maths and a science + B in a relevant EPQ; ABB including Maths and a science + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    33 with 5 in Higher Level Maths and a science
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
    T Level
    Distinction in the Maintenance, Installation & Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing T Level, including grade A in the core component + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers
    ABBBB + AB in Maths and a science
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AB in Maths and a science
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction (to include 15 Maths and 15 science units), and 15 at Merit + B in A Level Maths
    Other requirements
    • Science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Further Maths, Physics, or Statistics

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    Aerospace Engineering

    Our graduates are in demand internationally and go onto success in some of the world's leading engineering companies. They work in aerospace design, aviation, transport, manufacturing, finance, energy and power, and the armed forces. Employers include Airbus, BAE Systems, BP, Ernst & Young, Jaguar Land Rover, Ministry of Defence, Nissan, Rolls-Royce, PwC, Royal Air Force and Shell. Some students continue onto further study or research.

    There's a focus on employability throughout your studies and you'll get all the support you need to help you achieve your career aspirations.

    Aerospace Engineering

    We work with the biggest names in industry to shape the future of aerospace engineering. We have strong partnerships with the likes of Airbus UK, BAE Systems, Boeing, EADS, Qinetiq and Rolls-Royce. Our work with them will introduce you to developments and techniques that are still new to industry. You'll gain both breadth and depth of engineering knowledge, as well as the transferable skills employers demand.

    Like the industry, Aerospace Engineering at Sheffield is interdisciplinary. You'll be taught by experts in aerospace materials, aerodynamics, flight control systems, avionics, aircraft design, aero propulsion, management and applied mathematics. Our unique approach will give you the competitive advantage when you graduate.

    Our courses will give you both academic knowledge and practical experience. Analyse flight performance and stability on our unique flying day, solve real-world engineering problems on the Global Engineering Challenge, or design, build and fly your own unmanned air vehicle as part of the MEng group design project.

    The Diamond features some of the best engineering teaching spaces in the UK. You'll be taught in state-of-the art teaching and lab facilities, using cutting edge, industry standard equipment.

    Facilities

    The Diamond features some of the best engineering teaching spaces in the UK. You’ll be taught in state-of-the-art teaching and lab facilities, using industry standard equipment. We have four Merlin static flight simulators for aircraft design and six X-Plane based flight simulators for flight control and navigation purposes. There are seven commercial drones with a netted area for flight testing and to learn basic flying skills. We also have a Turbine Solutions jet engine test bench, along with 20 associated jet engines to take apart and analyse. You’ll get to use these facilities throughout your course.

    Aerospace Engineering

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    Aerospace Engineering

    92% overall satisfaction

    National Student Survey 2022

    Ranked No.1 in the Russell Group for overall satisfaction

    National Student Survey 2022

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Flying experience

    You can gain flying experience either through our Private Pilot Instruction courses or through our links with the Yorkshire Universities Air Squadron, provided you fulfil the appropriate medical requirements.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2025-2026

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    This degree is all about maximising your employability. You’ll follow the same academic programme as our standard aerospace engineering course, but you may have the opportunity to spend a year working in a graduate-level role in an engineering company.