Cranfield University

MSc Thermal Power and Propulsion

Cranfield University

Course overview

MSc Thermal Power and Propulsion at Cranfield University is a one-year master’s course for students who want to work with aircraft engines, power systems, and energy technologies. The course is backed by strong industry links and gives students the chance to work with real equipment. It’s ideal for people with engineering or science backgrounds who want to boost their careers in energy or aerospace.

This MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion at Cranfield University focuses on gas turbines and how they work. Students will study areas such as gas turbine performance and design, heat transfer, combustion, engine control, and propulsion systems used in planes.  There are also guest speakers and visits to industrial sites.

You will also work on a group project and an individual research project. Both help you apply what you learn to real-world problems.

Students have access to test rigs, wind tunnels, and engine labs.  Teaching also includes simulator-based training and practical-based learning, where you will be assessed using coursework, presentations, and a final project. No formal exams are written for most modules, but technical tasks and reports are required.

Entry requirements

Applicants must upload transcripts, submit a personal statement, and provide 2 references. 

Grade Requirement:

Applicants must hold a UK 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent in engineering, mathematics, physics or an applied science discipline.

Applicants who do not fulfil the standard entry requirements can apply for the Pre-master's course, successful completion of which will qualify them for entry to this course for a second year of study.

English Proficiency:

Applicants must show proof of English proficiency by submitting an IELTS score of 6.5 and 5.5 in all skill components. Other equivalent English test scores are also accepted. 

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 from the work in fields such as:

  • Aerospace and aviation firms
  • Gas and power generation companies
  • Research labs
  • Engine design and testing
  • Consultancy and government agencies

Cost of study

The tuition fee to study the MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion at Cranfield University for the 2025/2026 academic year is £31,775.

Admission

To apply for the Cranfield University MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion, applicants should submit their application through the university’s official website. If you need help with the application, you can get in touch with our counsellors for detailed guidance.

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