Aeronautics and Astronautics / Spacecraft Engineering

Summary

Space is complex, connected and constantly evolving. Designing a spacecraft means understanding how every system works on its own and how they all work together. From propulsion and structures to onboard systems and control, aeronautics and astronautics brings these elements together to make space exploration possible.

On this integrated master’s, you will develop the knowledge and skills to design complete spacecraft systems, exploring how subsystems interact and perform in challenging environments. You will build a strong engineering foundation while specialising in space-focused design, preparing you for a career in the space industry.

In your first two years, you will study core engineering science, including aerodynamics, propulsion systems, fluid dynamics, mechanics of flight and control. These fundamentals will give you the grounding needed to understand both air and space vehicles.

In your third and fourth years, you will focus on spacecraft design, learning how to design, analyse and test systems, while considering their environmental impact. You will complete an individual project in your third year, before applying your knowledge to a real-world challenge through a group design project in your final year.

Key features of the course

Focus on spacecraft systems. Learn how subsystems are designed, integrated and tested to operate effectively in space.

Build strong engineering foundations. Study core topics that underpin both aeronautics and astronautics in your early years.

Learn through application. Individual and group projects allow you to bring together your knowledge and tackle real engineering challenges.

Access world-class facilities. These include dedicated design studios and workshops, the largest wind tunnel of any UK university, jet engine and space propulsion facilities, a flight simulator and a professional manufacturing centre.

Prepare for your future career. This course is fully accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, supporting your route to chartered status.

Student support

Your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) will support you throughout your time at Southampton, offering academic guidance, career advice and signposting to wellbeing and pastoral services when needed.

You will be part of a collaborative community, working alongside students and staff with a shared interest in aerospace and space systems engineering.

Further information

You will study in an environment designed for hands-on learning, with access to specialist facilities that support both individual and team-based design work.

The skills and experience you develop will prepare you for careers in the space sector and wider aerospace industries, including spacecraft design, systems engineering and emerging space technologies.

Course Modules

Typical modules include:

Year one: Introduction to Aeronautics and Astronautics; Engineering Design; Electrical and Electronic Systems; Mathematics; Mechanics, Structures and Materials; Thermofluids.

Year two: Aerodynamics; Astronautics; Engineering Management and Law; Materials and Structures; Mathematics; Mechanics of Flight; Propulsion; Systems Design and Computing.

Year three: Individual Project; Advanced Astronautics; Aerospace Control Design; Aerothermodynamics; Aircraft Structural Design; Spacecraft Systems Engineering and Design; plus module options.

Year four: Group Design Project; Advanced Aerospace Engneering ; plus additional module options to deepen your knowledge, such as Spacecraft Orbital Mechanics and Control or Spacecraft Propulsion.

Testing is conducted through a combination of unseen written examinations and assessed coursework in the form of problem-solving exercises, laboratory reports, design exercises, essays, and individual and group projects. Experimental, research and design skills are assessed through laboratory reports, coursework exercises and oral presentations.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Mechanical Engineers, Institution of
• Aeronautical Society, Royal