BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering (with Foundation Year)

What you will study

Year 0 (Foundation Year)

The Foundation year of study ensures that students from all subject backgrounds and life experiences get a foundational course of study that both prepares for subject specific and wider, university skills at an undergraduate level. You will spend time with a subject specific teaching team and a wider support network to ensure you get the support for a wide range of skills.

Modules:

• Study skills for success: This module will provide a solid foundation in academic conventions and time management skills to help you to progress through your degree.  
• Collaborative practice: You will learn how to work effectively in teams by completing structured tasks and creative challenges. You’ll practise communication, planning and problem‑solving which are essential skills for later modules.
• A day in the life: You will explore your potential career options on completion of your chosen degree. You will look at the professions linked to your degree and start preparing your graduate portfolio for employers.  
• Engineering principles: Equipping students to use key engineering principles to solve real world engineering problems will be part of this module. Through lectures and laboratory sessions, you will understand engineering in a broader context
• Engineering practice: Explore engineering principles through a structured blend of personal skills, core science, and collaborative practice

Year 1 (Level 4)

In year two, you will build a solid foundation in aerospace and mechanical engineering through key modules. Practical understanding is developed, with hands-on workshops and digital tools supporting applied learning.

Modules:

• Engineering maths: To provide a foundation of mathematical knowledge and develop the application of mathematical principles in the solution of engineering problems, including use of computer modelling software.
• Core engineering skills and application: This module combines conceptual teaching with guided practical work to strengthen your understanding of fundamental principles. You will explore how theoretical knowledge connects with real-world practice through structured experimentation and applied tasks. It provides the core skills and knowledge for a foundation in engineering. 
• Fundamentals of aerospace engineering: You will develop technical awareness, and the ability to apply knowledge effectively within authentic learning contexts. This module introduces the principles of aerospace engineering, and explores how aerodynamics, structures, propulsion and space flight combine as an integrated system to enable the design and operation of aircraft and spacecraft.
• Engineering design and CAD: You will be encouraged to experiment, reflect, and draw connections between observed results and underlying principles. This module develops your ability to apply engineering design principles using industry-standard CAD tools and engineering design methodologies, to help create precise 2D drawings and 3D models while integrating theory with practical design applications.
• Engineering materials and processes: You will learn the principles of engineering materials and manufacturing processes by introducing different types of materials, their properties and manufacturing processes, to enable informed and sustainable material selection for real world engineering solutions.
• Practical engineering skills: You will get involved in applied investigations that show the relationship between ideas and outcomes, developing observational, measurement, and evaluative skills. Through practical exploration, you will learn core concepts and their relevance to professional environments. This module develops essential practical engineering skills through hands-on workshop and laboratory activities.

Year 2 (Level 5)

In year three, the focus shifts towards the application of knowledge in industry-relevant contexts. Skills in design and digital manufacturing are developed further and you will collaborate with fellow students on complex, multi-disciplinary challenges.  

Modules:

• Mechanical design and analysis: You will learn through a balance of theory and practice and undertake both classroom study and supervised practical activity to explore design, implementation, and evaluation processes. Collaborative work and enquiry-based learning will give you the confidence to apply problem-solving techniques. 
• Aerospace design and performance: You will undertake both classroom study and supervised practical activity to explore design, implementation, and evaluation processes.  You will develop your understanding of aerospace design and performance, and the scientific factors that underpin differing aerospace types, their structures, systems, powerplant and operation.
• Design to manufacture (CAD/CAM): A practice-driven learning experience where you will apply theoretical understanding through continuous experimentation and reflection. This module develops practical and theoretical understanding of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) within an industrial engineering context, where you will design, manufacture, and reverse-engineer components using industry-standard CAD/CAM workflows. There will be hands-on experience with CNC machining, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and 3D scanning technologies.
• Applied thermofluids and propulsion: To learn about non-flow and flow processes, liquids, vapours and two-phase substances, polytropic processes using gases and vapours, the first and second laws of thermodynamics pressure and flow measurement. 
• Engineering design project: You will enhance your technical proficiency and analytical reasoning by carrying out investigations, recording data, and interpreting outcomes. The emphasis on active exploration is preparation for independent and specialised study at the next level. This module enables you to design, develop, and implement a solution to a partially defined engineering problem. 

Year 3 (Level 6)

In year four, you will specialise in advanced aerospace topics. The year ends in an individual project, where you will apply your technical and professional knowledge to a substantial research or design problem, showcasing your readiness for graduate employment or further study.

Modules:

• Mechanical modelling and simulation: In this module, knowledge is demonstrated through independent investigation and experimentation. You will plan, implement, and analyse practical work to address defined challenges, showing mastery of specialist techniques which drives confidence in leading complex projects. It equips you with the advanced knowledge and practical skills required to apply sophisticated modelling techniques to analyse, evaluate, and solve complex engineering problems.
• Advanced aerodynamics and CFD: You will evaluate techniques, interpret data, and justify design within a professional context. The combination of theory and practice develops independent learning, innovation, and readiness for individual project or dissertation work. You will also gain advanced understanding of aerodynamics through the integrated application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), wind tunnel experimentation, and theoretical analysis, equipping you with industry-relevant skills to analyse and solve complex aerodynamic problems.
• Lightweight structures and composites: This module develops your understanding of composite materials and lightweight structural systems through the study of structure, properties, processing methods, and engineering applications. It prepares you to design and evaluate high-performance and sustainable solutions within an aerospace engineering context.
• Professional practice: This module is delivered through a complex engineering project that fosters creativity, innovation, and the development of business awareness. You will learn to understand their impact and position within industry and society
• Project: You will design and execute experiments or technical tasks that test and refine complex theories. This module will teach you to apply and extend the knowledge acquired in taught modules through the completion of a professional engineering project. In doing so, it develops practical engineering skills, research capability, and industry-relevant experience, preparing students for progression into professional practice.

NOTE: Please note that this programme is currently subject to validation. Course content, structure, and module titles may be subject to change prior to final approval.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

1. Our general requirement for the foundation year is UCAS tariff points of 48-72 but all applications are considered individually and we consider work experience, vocational training/qualifications, as well as motivation and potential to succeed.

Teaching & Assessment

Our teaching approach is designed to be flexible, engaging, and focused on your success. Learning is delivered through Wrexham University’s Active Learning Framework, blending on-campus sessions with online activities to give you the best of both worlds. You’ll develop key employability skills throughout your studies, with teaching that adapts to your needs and prepares you for the demands of your future career.

• Face-to-Face Learning: You will engage in lectures, seminars, and workshops in various settings, incorporating case studies and problem-based learning. In some instances, sessions maybe be recorded for later access via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
• Virtual Learning: Delivered through the VLE and Microsoft Teams, virtual learning includes asynchronous tasks (videos, quizzes, readings, virtual visits) and synchronous activities (discussions, case studies, simulations). Sessions will be recorded where appropriate
• Tutorials: Delivered both in person and online, tutorials promote active participation through individual and group engagement. They are designed to encourage critical thinking, reflective practice, and student-led learning, supporting creativity, independence, and a deeper understanding of subject knowledge and professional practice
• Assessment Strategy: The degree has an innovative assessment strategy with no formal exams, replacing them with coursework, practical work, and project-based assessments that mirror industry practice. This approach, combined with access to modern facilities and strong employer input, ensures graduates are well-prepared for employment or further study in the sector

Teaching and Learning

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments.

Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.

Career prospects

Our dedicated Careers and Employability team is committed to helping you achieve your professional goals. They provide personalised advice, useful resources, and extracurricular employability events to prepare you for the job market.

Graduates of this course can pursue careers in: 

• Aerospace Engineer
• Aerodynamics Specialist
• Propulsion Engineer
• Aircraft Design Engineer
• Flight Test Engineer
• Structural and Composites Engineer
• Avionics or Systems Integration Engineer
• Defence and Security Engineer
• Research and Development Engineer
• Manufacturing and Production Engineer (Aerospace/Advanced Engineering)

Additionally, you may choose to further your expertise through postgraduate studies. Explore our postgraduate courses for more information.

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our undergraduate fees.

Accommodation

At Wrexham University, we offer on-campus en-suite rooms within our Wrexham Student Village. These private, fully furnished spaces are conveniently located, providing easy access to campus facilities, study areas, and social spaces. Plus, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the city centre!

With all bills included, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and large social areas, you’ll find everything you need for a great student experience.

Explore our student accommodation options to find your perfect home away from home.