Aeronautics and Astronautics

Summary

Flight pushes the boundaries of what is possible. From high-speed aircraft cutting through the atmosphere to spacecraft travelling beyond it, aeronautics and astronautics is about designing, building and understanding the vehicles that move us through air and space.

On this course, you will explore the science and engineering behind flight, developing the knowledge needed to design and operate aircraft and spacecraft. You will build a strong foundation in core engineering principles while learning how they apply to real-world challenges in aviation and space exploration.

In your first two years, you will study key areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, fluid dynamics, mechanics of flight and control. These fundamentals will give you the grounding to understand how air and space vehicles perform and how they are engineered.

In your third year, you will deepen your understanding of aircraft design, including the environmental impact of aviation. You will also complete an individual project, bringing together the concepts and skills you have developed throughout your degree.

Key features of the course

Build a strong engineering foundation. You will study the core sciences that underpin aeronautics and astronautics, preparing you for advanced study and industry.

Learn through real-world application. Your individual project allows you to explore a topic in depth and apply your knowledge to a practical challenge.

Access industry-standard 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.

Take a recognised route into the profession. This course is fully accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, supporting your path 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, learning alongside students and staff who are shaping the future of aviation and space engineering.

Further information

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

The skills and experience you gain will prepare you for careers across the aerospace sector, from aircraft design and manufacturing to space systems and emerging 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; Aerothermodynamics; Aircraft Structural Design; Aerospace Control Design; Introduction to Aircraft Design, plus additional module options.

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