Cranfield University

MSc Advanced Lightweight and Composite Structures

Cranfield University

Course overview

The MSc Advanced Lightweight and Composite Structures from Cranfield University equips students with skills in analytical, numerical and experimental techniques for designing lightweight metallic and composite structures. Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and the Royal Aeronautical Society, it runs for one year full-time and is divided into taught modules (40%), a group design project (20%) and an individual research project (40%).

Taught by experts, the course covers composite analysis, crashworthiness, thin-walled structures, finite element methods and material characterisation. Projects often involve industry sponsors like Airbus, Rolls‑Royce and Jaguar Land Rover, giving students real-world experience using facilities such as the Cranfield Impact Centre and lightweight structures lab.

Entry requirements

Candidates must submit a personal statement explaining their reasons for applying, stating their relevant background. An academic or employer reference is required, with an option to upload a CV to show work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants are expected to have a minimum of a lower second‑class (2:2) degree or equivalent in engineering, science, applied science, mathematics or a related discipline.
  • Applicants with other degrees will be considered if they have relevant work experience.

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants from non‑English backgrounds should demonstrate an IELTS overall score of at least 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each section.
  • Applicants can submit equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL and PTE.

Scholarships

  • Airbus Master’s Student Bursary

    €3,000 tuition fees.

  • Alumni Discounts

    The 20% course fee discount is available to Cranfield University and Cranfield School of Management graduates.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Antony and Amanda Jenkins MBA Scholarship for Women Leaders

    Up to £10,000 towards the tuition fees (2 scholarships available).

  • Championing Diversity Bursary

    Up to £3,500

  • Changemaker Bursary

    Up to £3,500

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • Cranfield ALCS International Scholarship

    This scholarship offers a 20% fee discount to applicants holding an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Cranfield College of Aeronautics Heritage Scholarship

    £5,000 tuition fee bursary.

    Up to £5,000

  • Cranfield Excellence International Scholarships

    50 Scholarships of £10,000 and £15,000

  • Cranfield Excellence Merit Scholarships

    Funding value: up to £10,000 for international applicants and 20% for all nationals paying Home Fees.

  • Cranfield Faraday, Anderson and Parker Scholarship

    Up to £5500 towards tuition fee.

  • Delta Foundation Chevening Scholarship Taiwan

  • Frank Whittle Scholarships for the Cranfield Thermal Power MSc

    Up to 50% of the tuition fees for the MSc Thermal Power and Propulsion.

  • Global Clinical Supplies Group Scholarship

    £5,000

    Up to £5,000

  • Global Excellence Scholarship in Aerospace Dynamics

    A £10,000 contribution towards tuition fees.

    Up to £10,000

  • Mister Gees Foundation Scholarships

    £5000 towards tuition fees for a UK or international student studying a full-time Water and Wastewater Processes MSc - Environmental Science route.

    Up to £5,000

  • Norman C.T. Liu Women in Aviation Scholarship

    £10,000 towards tuition fees.

    Up to £10,000

  • Relithan (Technology) Scholarship

    £20,000 fund for both 25/26 and 26/27 starts.

    Up to £20,000

  • Sir Peter Gregson Scholarship

    Four Scholarships of £16,000 for a PhD.

    Up to £16,000

  • The Boeing Global Engagement Scholarship

    Funding value - up to £5,000 toward tuition fees.

  • The Professor Joe Nellis CBE MBA Scholarship

    Up to £10,000 towards tuition fees (one scholarship per year available).

Career opportunities

Graduates of Cranfield University MSc Advanced Lightweight and Composite Structures often work as:

  • Design engineers
  • Stress analysts
  • R&D engineers
  • Numerical simulation specialists
  • Consultants

Cost of study

The tuition fee for international students of MSc Advanced Lightweight and Composite Structures at Cranfield University is £ 27,910 per year.

Admission

Applicants for MSc Advanced Lightweight and Composite Structures at Cranfield University should visit the school application portal to apply. You can speak to one of our trained advisors for guidance.

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