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School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering

BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies

BEng (Hons) Full-time 3 years

Design aircraft by day, understand how they fly by training on them. This degree combines a full aerospace engineering education with pilot-centred study, built around the University's own training aircraft and flight school partners at Wolverhampton Airport.

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Design aircraft by day, understand how they fly by training on them. This degree combines a full aerospace engineering education with pilot-centred study, built around the University's own training aircraft and flight school partners at Wolverhampton Airport.

Award
BEng (Hons)
Start date(s)
14 September 2026
UCAS Code
H405
Course specifications
View course spec
Course length
Full-time (3 years)
Campus location
University: Springfield Campus
School
School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering
UCAS points calculator
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Why choose this course?

Rated #1 in the UK for Aerospace Engineering (NSS 2026).

9th in the UK for Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering (Daily Mail University Guide 2027)

Most aerospace-and-pilot-studies degrees treat the pilot side as an optional extra: a set number of flying hours you have to arrange and fund yourself, often abroad, with your 'Pilot Studies' award at risk if you don't complete them in time. This course takes a different approach. Your Private Pilot Licence theory is aligned directly with your engineering modules from the start, so the two strands genuinely reinforce each other rather than competing for your time and budget.

You'll get hands-on with real aircraft systems and cockpit layout using the University's own training aircraft, use professional flight simulation environments that mirror real cockpit operations, and benefit from our partnership with flight schools based at Wolverhampton Airport, with the opportunity for real flying hours as part of that relationship. Being based at Springfield site puts you inside an active aviation operating environment few university locations can match.

The academic core is just as strong as our standard aerospace degree: you'll use industry-standard CFD and FEA tools for airframe design, aerodynamic optimisation and structural analysis, in labs backed by over £7m of investment at our Springfield Campus. Our relationships with RAF Cosford, MOOG and Collins Aerospace bring live industry projects into your degree, and you'll have access to Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) engagement and student membership opportunities.

This is genuinely a two-pathway degree: aerospace engineering graduates have gone on to aerospace engineering roles with employers including Airbus, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Leonardo, or continue toward commercial pilot training — you don't have to choose between the two options at eighteen.

What's unique about this course?

What sets this course apart from other aerospace-with-pilot-studies degrees:

  • PPL theory built into the degree, not bolted on. PPL theoretical content is aligned directly with your engineering modules, rather than sitting alongside them as a separate, self-funded add-on you have to arrange yourself.
  • Access to our own training aircraft. Explore real aircraft systems, cockpit layout and operational considerations using the University's own training aircraft — most competitor courses rely entirely on external flight schools.
  • An active airport environment on your doorstep. Springfield sits close to Wolverhampton Airport, giving you visits, networking and observational learning inside an active aviation environment, plus a flight school partnership with the opportunity for real flying hours.
  • Professional flight simulation. Get practical insight into cockpit workload, situational awareness and operational decision-making using flight simulation environments that mirror real-world scenarios.
  • A pilot-informed curriculum. Engineering content is shaped with input from practising pilots and instructors, so what you learn reflects current operational practice, not textbook theory alone.
  • Royal Aeronautical Society engagement. Active links with the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), including student membership opportunities and engagement with the wider professional aviation community.
  • Genuinely accessible routes into aviation. Access to the RAeS Women in Aviation and Aerospace network, plus external schemes such as Aviation Inspires and Air League scholarships, supporting students from a wide range of backgrounds into a sector that hasn't always been easy to break into.
  • Two career pathways from one degree. Graduate ready for aerospace engineering roles with employers including Airbus, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Leonardo, or progress toward commercial pilot training — the choice stays open.

What happens on the course?

Across three years, you'll build a full aerospace engineering foundation while your pilot-centred knowledge develops alongside it — not as a separate track, but as part of how you're taught to think about design.

Year One: Building your foundations

You'll get to grips with core engineering topics including solid and fluid mechanics, alongside industry-led projects tackling real-world challenges such as sustainable fuels and alternative propulsion. You'll also get your first introduction to the core analytical tools used across aerospace and aviation for airframe design, aerodynamic optimisation and structural analysis:

  • Work with Computer Aided Design (CAD), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) from your first year.
  • Collaborate on industry-led projects addressing genuine aerospace and aviation challenges.
  • Study alongside students from across our engineering disciplines, widening your network from day one.

Year Two: Where engineering meets the cockpit

This is where the two strands of the course come together directly. You'll deepen your understanding of aircraft systems and control, apply CFD and FEA to aerospace-specific problems, and work in multidisciplinary teams on a Design Project that integrates engineering principles with pilot-centred considerations such as workload, situational awareness and operational safety.

Alongside this, your Pilot Operations Studies module explores flight operations from a pilot's perspective — aircraft general knowledge, navigation and flight planning using the CRP-5 flight computer, flight performance calculations, and air law, weather and pilot responsibilities — all aligned with PPL theory and informed by our flight school partners at Wolverhampton Airport. Aviation case studies, on-campus flight simulator time, and guidance from our airport partners connect the theory directly to real cockpit procedure, with the opportunity for actual flight time through this partnership.

Year Three: Specialising and showcasing your work

You'll further specialise and develop the skills that set you apart in the job market, working on new models and parts for our industrial partners. Two major projects define the year:

  • Group Aircraft Design and Enterprise: Design and build a complete aircraft system with your team, taking on the responsibilities of a professional design environment, and present your work at our annual Innovations Unleashed event alongside industry leaders.
  • Individual Innovation Project: Plan, execute and report on an original engineering project of your own choosing, working with academic or industry supervisors wherever possible, and put both your engineering and pilot-centred knowledge to work on a genuine problem.

Employability on the course

This course is built to give you a competitive edge that pure engineering graduates can't offer: a strong technical foundation combined with pilot-centred operational awareness — an understanding of how engineering decisions actually affect pilots, aircraft performance and flight safety.

You'll build practical skills through flight simulation, real aircraft systems and industry-aligned engineering tools, and strengthen the problem-solving, teamwork, communication and situational awareness that both engineering and aviation employers consistently look for. Our relationships with RAF Cosford, MOOG and Collins Aerospace bring live projects and networking into your degree from year one, alongside access to professional aviation networks including the RAeS Women in Aviation and Aerospace network, Aviation Inspires and Air League scholarships.

This course prepares you for:

  • Industry-shaped curriculum. A curriculum shaped by aircraft manufacturers, operators and approved flight training organisations, so it reflects what employers in the sector actually need.
  • Dual-relevant technical skills. Confidence using professional tools including CFD, FEA and flight simulation platforms — skills valued by engineers and aspiring pilots alike.
  • Real industry and aviation contact. Regular engagement with aviation specialists, aerospace engineers and flight-operations professionals throughout your degree, not just in your final year.

Where graduates go:

  • Aerospace engineering roles with employers including Airbus, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Leonardo.
  • Progression toward professional pilot training.
  • Aircraft design and manufacturing.
  • Aircraft maintenance and operational analysis.
  • Flight operations and aviation support roles.
  • Aerospace systems engineering.
  • High-performance technical consultancy, research and development.

Course Modules

Module: 4MA032
Credits: 40
Period: 1
Type: Core

Engineering analysis is the cornerstone of understanding and solving complex real-world problems. You will be introduced to industrial-leading engineering analysis software packages in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) offering insights into numerical methods used in engineering design and analysis. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, you will develop the mathematical and analytical skills necessary to tackle complex engineering problems and gain valuable insights into computer-aided engineering techniques.

Module: 4MA033
Credits: 40
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module aims to develop your practical skillset practical on various engineering aspects in our state-of-the-art laboratories. You will build your expertise in computer aided design and practice this in an industry-linked group activity offered by our partners . This group activity will offer you the opportunity to interact with industrial partners and build highly sought skills including risk, stakeholder and security analysis, communication, teamwork and project management skills. At the end of the module, you will be versed in the entire engineering process of analysing a brief, designing a solution, testing and reporting, all key milestones in the engineering profession.

Module: 4MA031
Credits: 40
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to key engineering principles essential for understanding engineering systems. You will explore a range of topics such as statics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, kinematics, electronics, and materials science. You will develop a solid foundation in fundamental engineering concepts, which will allow you to achieve broad understanding.

Module: 5MA046
Credits: 40
Period: 2
Type: Core

Applied computational analysis provides students with a comprehensive understanding of structural and fluid behaviour. This module applies cutting-edge engineering knowledge to advanced topics such as deformation, failure analysis, and fluid flow. Through practical application using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), students will develop applied computational skills essential for engineering design, analysis and validation employed in mechanical engineering industries from automotive, to motorsport and aerospace.

Module: 5MA047
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

In this module, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of control systems. You will focus on the control principles including components, circuit design, and system control. You will gain hands-on experience in designing, operating, and troubleshooting control and instrumentation systems via rigorous hands-on laboratory activities, which will prepare you for a career in various engineering sectors, from automotive to aviation and signal analysis to name a few.

Module: 5MA055
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

This module gives you the chance to work on real‑world innovation challenges from across the aerospace and aviation sectors, combining core engineering knowledge with pilot‑centred thinking. Working in multidisciplinary teams, you will explore how engineering and flight operations interact, using insights from pilot studies to shape practical, operationally informed solutions. Your projects will focus on areas such as aircraft performance, flight operations, human factors, avionics, sustainability and emerging aerospace technologies, with particular attention to how engineering decisions influence pilot workload, situational awareness and overall flight safety. You will also get the opportunity to collaborate with industry partners and aviation specialists, gaining valuable insight into how aircraft systems are designed, tested and operated in practice. This collaboration will help you understand the expectations of today’s aerospace sector and the growing importance of pilot perspectives in engineering design. By the end of the module, you will have developed innovative solutions and gained experience that supports your future career across aerospace engineering, aviation operations and wider flight‑related roles.

Module: 5MA056
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

Where Engineering Meets the Cockpit This is where aerospace engineering aligns with the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) theory. Aircraft General Knowledge You’ll explore how aircraft systems operate, how they are designed, and why they behave the way they do in flight — mirroring the technical understanding assessed in PPL theory. Navigation and Flight Planning You’ll tackle the same navigation principles tested in the PPL, working hands‑on with the CRP‑5 flight computer to solve real planning and calculation tasks. Guidance from our flight school partner at Wolverhampton Airport shows how these skills are applied in real flight training. Flight Performance and Operational Decision‑Making From performance calculations to safe operating techniques, you’ll develop the analytical skills that underpin confident flying and are central to PPL performance exams. Air Law, Weather and Pilot Responsibilities Independent study in Air Law, Meteorology and pilot responsibilities helps you build the knowledge and judgement assessed throughout PPL theory. From Theory to Practice Aviation case studies, teaching from our Wolverhampton Airport partners, and time in our on‑campus flight simulator help you connect PPL theory to real cockpit procedures. Through this partnership, there may also be opportunities to experience actual flight time.

Module: 5MA051
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

In this module, you will investigate the underlying principles of thermodynamic cycles and fluids analysis exhibited by a range of aerospace engine types and fuel systems. You will conduct detailed analysis on heat transfer mechanics within propulsion systems including electrical and hydrogen powered transportation systems.

Module: 6MA055
Credits: 40
Period: 3
Type: Core

In this module students will advance their study in digital design and manufacturing, focusing on key aspects of engineering analysis and high-level understanding of how objects move through our atmosphere. Students will explore advanced topics such as stress analysis and failure, vibration, advanced finite element analysis (FEA), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for supersonic and subsonic aerodynamics. Machine Design and toolpath generation also play a part in this module as do the selection of materials such as aerospace composites. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, students will develop advanced skills using digital design tools and manufacturing processes, preparing them for the challenges of the modern engineering industry.

Module: 6MA056
Credits: 40
Period: 3
Type: Core

This module empowers students to take part in a sustained practical project centred on aircraft design to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and design sensibilities. Furthermore, students will deepen their understanding and enhance their skills to mirror professional practices in aircraft design environments and the team scenario. Moreover, you will showcase high levels of creativity, assess project management and risk mitigation, whilst considering environmental impact.

Module: 6MA054
Credits: 40
Period: 3
Type: Core

In this module you will undertake an innovative engineering project encompassing all your acquired engineering skills, knowledge and creativity. Your project can involve design, research, experimentation or computational solution. You will identify and plan your project following a rigorous assessment of project management, environmental, societal and provide an in-depth analysis of the commercial context of your solution. You will then execute the project under the supervision of academics or industrial partners, wherever possible, and provide a new solution to a real-world problem embedding risk and security management and strong communication skills. Upon completion, you will be ready for the challenges of the engineering industry or further academic pursuits.

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

Our engineering courses are built around problem- and activity-based learning and live industrial project work — not lectures alone. This course follows the Engineering Council's AHEP 4 standards, and is currently under review for re-accreditation by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), meeting the requirements in part for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and in full for Incorporated Engineering (IEng).

We've invested over £7m in engineering facilities at our Springfield Campus, giving you access to an aerospace laboratory with subsonic and supersonic wind tunnels and aircraft flight demonstrator equipment, industrial CAD design labs, thermo-fluid and propulsion labs, machine workshops and composites labs, electronics, telecommunications, mechatronics and avionics facilities, and engine test equipment and 3D printing — alongside the University's own training aircraft and flight simulation environments specific to this course.

Springfield sits close to Wolverhampton Airport, putting you inside an active aviation operating environment that supports visits, networking and observational learning most campus locations simply can't offer. You'll also have access to the wider University of Wolverhampton Aerospace (UWA) club and its involvement in the IMechE UAS Challenge, alongside active RAeS engagement and student membership opportunities.

Beyond the course itself, we back you with a genuinely accessible learning environment: an inclusive curriculum shaped around a diverse range of engineers, pilots and aviation professionals, accessible learning materials for students with disabilities or specific learning differences, and one-to-one advice where aviation medical or licensing requirements intersect with a student's individual circumstances — so aviation-specific barriers don't become barriers to graduation. We're also within easy reach of major aerospace, automotive and supply chain employers across the UK's engineering and manufacturing heartland.

It adds up to consistently strong results: the University improved across every theme in the National Student Survey 2026, performing above sector benchmark, and has been recognised in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards among the UK's leading institutions for student experience.

By graduation, you'll have developed the skills expected of a professional aerospace engineer, mapped against the Engineering Council's AHEP 4 standards — with pilot-centred and operational awareness built into every strand:

  • Science & Maths. Apply advanced mathematics, statistics, natural science and aerospace engineering principles — including flight operations considerations — to analyse and solve complex problems in the aerospace and aviation industry.
  • Engineering Analysis. Use computational and analytical techniques, including simulation-based tools such as CFD and FEA, alongside aerospace and aviation technical literature, to model and address complex problems.
  • Design & Innovation. Design integrated aerospace solutions that consider health, safety, environmental and commercial factors, including pilot workload and operational constraints.
  • The Engineer & Society. Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of aerospace and aviation engineering solutions, and make ethical, informed decisions grounded in equality, diversity and inclusion.
  • Engineering Practice. Develop and apply practical skills, materials and technologies — including flight simulation tools — while managing risk, ensuring quality, and communicating effectively.
  • Research & Development. Conceptualise, design and solve a complex aerospace or aviation-focused project, supported by technical literature review and critical milestones, and report on it to a professional standard.

Location Mode Sep intake Fee Year
Home Full-time £9790 per year 2026-27
International Full-time £17600 per year 2026-27

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed.


If a tuition fee is not showing, we may not offer this intake for this course. Please check the start date information on the course finder for start dates.

GCSE English and Mathematics at grades 4/C+ or an acceptable equivalent qualification.

Please note we do NOT accept GCSE Short Courses

PLUS EITHER

  • 104 UCAS points including a Level 3 qualification in Mathematics and either Technology or Science-based subject
  • A Levels - grades BCC including a Mathematics and a Technology or Science-based subject (Excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking)
  • BTEC L3 Extended Diploma or OCR Cambridge L3 Technical Extended Diploma – grade DDM in a Technology or Science-based subject
  • BTEC L3 Diploma – grade D*D in a Technology or Science-based subject
  • Access to HE Diploma (60 credits) of which a minimum of 45 must be at Level 3 (104 UCAS point equivalence) in a Mathematics, Technology or Science-based subject.
  • T-Levels - overall grade of Merit in a Technology or Science-based subject

Use the UCAS Tariff calculator to check your qualifications and points

Students must usually have studied for a minimum of two years post GCSE level. However, we will consider applications from mature students who do not have two years of post-16 study, where they have relevant work experience. Please see http://wlv.ac.uk/mature for further information.

If you've got other qualifications or relevant experience, please contact The Gateway for further advice before applying.

International entry requirements and application guidance can be found at http://www.wlv.ac.uk/international/apply

English language requirements also apply

Tuition Fees Loan (Home Fee Status):

Most students will be able to apply for a loans to pay for these subject to eligibility. To find out more information please refer to the government Student Finance website.

Changes for EU students:

The UK government has confirmed that EU students starting courses from 1 August 2021 will normally be classified as having Overseas Fee status. More information about the change is available at UKCISA:

EU citizens living in the UK with 'settled' status, and Irish nationals living in the UK or Ireland, will still be classified as Home students, providing they meet the usual residency requirements, for more information about EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)


Self-funding:

If you don’t want to take out a loan to pay your fees or if you aren’t eligible to receive a loan, you might want to take advantage of the University’s scheme to pay by instalments: See How to pay.

For more information please contact the Gateway.


Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:

If your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.

We must receive notification of sponsorship in writing as soon as possible, and before enrolment, confirming that the sponsor will pay your tuition fees.


Financial Hardship:

Students can apply to the Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

for help with course related costs however this cannot be used for fees or to cover general living costs.


Bursaries and Scholarships:

In addition the University also offers a range of Bursaries and Scholarships packages

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Online

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