Cranfield University

MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion-Aerospace Propulsion option

Cranfield University

Course overview

The MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion (Aerospace Propulsion option) at Cranfield is a full-time, one-year master’s for engineering graduates. It centres on gas-turbine technology for aerospace, covering topics such as combustion, turbomachinery, simulation, diagnostics, mechanical design, and performance studies and emphasises air‑breathing engines, covering topics such as blade cooling, combustors and propulsion integration.

Learning combines lectures, practical exercises such as turbine “strip & build” and Saab 340B flight tests, labs, and simulations. Students are assessed through module exams and coursework count 50%, plus a research project for the remaining 50%. Projects commonly involve industry-sponsored MSc theses with oral and written assessments.

The department works closely with industries like Rolls‑Royce, EASA, EasyJet, and Uniper, ensuring course content is continually refreshed by professional input. Over 90% of graduates find work within a year in sectors like engine manufacturing, airlines, consultancies, regulation, energy and academia.

The department works closely with companies like Rolls-Royce, EASA, EasyJet, and Uniper to keep the course content up to date with real-world needs. More than 90% of students get jobs within a year after graduation, in areas like engineering, airlines, consulting, government regulation, energy, and universities.

Entry requirements

Candidates need to submit a personal statement explaining their reasons for applying and relevant details about their studies or work. An academic or employer reference is needed, and applicants can upload a CV to showcase their experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants need at least a second‑class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in engineering, mathematics, physics or applied science.
  • A different degree may be accepted if balanced by significant relevant work experience in power, aerospace, or gas‑turbine engineering

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 are prepared  for roles such as:

  • Gas turbine engine manufacturer engineer
  • Airframe systems engineer
  • Airline performance specialist
  • Regulatory authority engineer
  • Aerospace or energy consultant

Cost of study

The tuition fee for the international students of the MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion (Aerospace Propulsion option) at Cranfield University is approximately £31,775 per year.

Admission

Applicants for the MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion (Aerospace Propulsion option) from Cranfield should visit the school application portal to apply. You can speak to one of our trained counsellors for guidance.

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