Cranfield University

MSc in Aerospace Vehicle Design-Aircraft Design option

Cranfield University

Course overview

The MSc in Aerospace Vehicle Design - Aircraft Design option at Cranfield University is designed for engineers and professionals seeking to acquire expert knowledge and skills in the design process of aerospace vehicles. It equips them with a comprehensive understanding of whole aircraft configuration design, structures, and systems, preparing them for roles within the aviation sector.

The learning areas covered are Initial aircraft design, aircraft power plant installation, aircraft stability and control, aerodynamics, propulsion integration, flight performance, stability and airworthiness, aircraft configuration, structural design, systems integration, performance analysis, and advanced systems engineering. The modules address the selection and integration of specific aircraft systems, including fuel systems.

The teaching methods involve structured lectures, industry guest lectures, and computer-based workshops, with assessments based on coursework, the group project, and the individual research project. Practical elements are a significant part of the course, which involves a six-month extensive group design project that simulates an industrial environment and a student experience flight with the National Flying Laboratory Centre.

Entry requirements

Applicants must submit a personal statement to outline their interest in the course and any academic or professional background. A reference from an academic or employer is required. Students can also upload a CV to show their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants typically require a UK upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate degree with honours, as a minimum, in a relevant engineering discipline, or equivalent international qualification.
  • Applicants holding other qualifications with significant experience may also be considered.

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds require an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
  • 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 the MSc in Aerospace Vehicle Design - Aircraft Design option programme can pursue job roles such as:

  • Aircraft Designer
  • Structural Design Engineer
  • Stress Analyst
  • Aerodynamics Engineer
  • Systems Integration Engineer
  • Aviation Project Engineer

Cost of study

The tuition fee for this course is £31,775 for international students in the 2025/26 academic year. Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may change.

Admission

Interested applicants can apply for the course directly on the university's official website. For guidance, contact AHZ's trained counsellors.

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