How to become an aerospace engineer

Do you want to know how to become an aerospace engineer? Read our step-by-step guide.

What is an aerospace engineer?

An aerospace engineer will design, develop and build aerospace technology. This can include aeroplanes, drones, rockets, satellites and even missiles. Normally, an aerospace engineer will specialise in one of these areas.

How much do aerospace engineers earn?

An aerospace engineering salary can start at around £27,000. As you progress and specialise in your career, you could earn up to £80,000. This is because it is a highly skilled job, which requires years of training and expertise.

What skills do you need?

What does an aerospace engineer do?

How to become an aerospace engineer

You will normally need a degree to become an aerospace engineer. This is because it is a highly technical job which requires knowledge of physics, aerodynamics and other engineering concepts. Here at the University of Lancashire, we offer various aerospace engineering degrees to suit your chosen interests.

You could study our Aerospace Engineering BEng degree. This covers all the knowledge you need to become an aerospace engineer - including aerodynamics, propulsion, flight dynamics, mechanical engineering and computer-aided design. You'll have access to our amazing facilities, including aerospace workshop, fabrication workshop, wind tunnel and even flight simulator. You will also have the option to complete a year in industry, giving you valuable practical skills and experience. This course is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and Institution of Engineering Designers. It partially meets the requirements to become a Chartered Engineer.

Alternatively, you could study our Aerospace Engineering MEng degree. This includes an extra year of study which converts it to a masters degree. This course is also accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and Institution of Engineering Designers, and fully meets the requirements to become a Chartered Engineer.

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Take to the skies in our flight simulator.
Take to the skies in our flight simulator.

Where you could work

Aerospace engineers are in demand, so you will have a choice of places to work. You could work in civil aviation or the military. You could even join a space agency! Take a look at some of the places you could work below:

  • RAF
  • UK Space Agency
  • BAE Systems
  • Lockheed Martins
  • Boeing
  • Airbus

The University of Central Lancashire have an excellent relationship with BAE Systems, which has a site based in Samlesbury. A lot of our students undertake their year in industry here and go on to secure graduate roles.

We hope this has helped you understand how to become an aerospace engineer, from the skills you'll need to future employers. Find out more about our courses below.