The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a modern and vibrant institution located in Scotland. It was formed in 2007 through the merger of the University of Paisley and Bell College. With a history dating back to 1897, UWS has a rich heritage of providing education and training to students from across Scotland and around the world. Today, UWS is one of Scotland's largest universities, with four main campuses located in Paisley, Hamilton, Ayr, and Dumfries. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as business, engineering, health, education, and the arts, and is known for its innovative and student-centered approach to learning.

Topics covered include the design of aerospace structures and systems, strength of materials, vibration theory, thermofluids, materials and manufacturing technology. The formal engineering design process and how it relates to aircraft engineering practice is introduced; as well as computer-aided design and information technology related techniques.

You’ll also study project and quality management to ensure you’re equipped with the management skills required for a demanding and rewarding engineering career.

Practical focus
This programme is delivered via laboratories and software sessions to ensure you have a sound academic underpinning and the practical skills necessary to launch a successful career in this industry.

Industrial visits to organisations such as Spirit AeroSystems and British Airways are incorporated into the course and these will allow you to see real-world applications of the subjects you’ll study throughout this course.

Study abroad
It is always possible to augment your studies and broaden your horizons by learning a new language and prepare for the best international opportunities. You can find out more on learning a language and studying abroad through on our study abroad at UWS webpage.

Year 1
Applied statics and dynamics, materials and mathematics provide a foundation to engineering design. Professional and industrial studies are introduced alongside skills development in communications and IT technology.

Year 2
Topics include design of aerospace structures and systems, strength of materials, vibration theory, materials and manufacturing technology. The formal engineering design process and how it relates to aircraft engineering practice is introduced; as well as computer-aided design and information technology related techniques.

Year 3
Skills in design and applied mechanics are enhanced. Aerodynamics and aircraft performance; intelligent systems and control technologies; aircraft design and modelling; advanced computer-based analysis and simulation techniques are introduced, along with project management skills.

Year 4 (BEng Hons)
Aerodynamic understanding is enhanced whilst design, analysis and testing of composite structures is introduced. Computer-aided engineering design is explored further through finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics is introduced. Aircraft conceptual design and a major individual project complete the learning in Year 4.

Year 5 (MEng Hons)
Aircraft Structural Analysis, Aeroelasticity, Advanced Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics and a major Group Project are amongst the modules to complete the MEng (Hons) programme of study.

Teaching & Assessment
A variety of assessment approaches are utilised throughout the course such as examination, written coursework, portfolio and presentations.

Watch videos of some of our laboratories:

Learn a language (Optional)
This course also gives you the option of taking a language module, which can count towards your degree. These modules cover multiple languages and range from absolute beginner to near-native speaker level.

Course Structure
Find out more about the structure, learning outcomes, compulsory and optional modules in this course.

BEng (Hons)Aircraft Engineering Course Structure

MEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering Course Structure

• The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a vibrant and dynamic institution located in Scotland. Founded in 2007, UWS was formed through the merger of the University of Paisley and Bell College. With a history dating back to 1897, the university has a rich heritage of providing education and training to students from across Scotland and around the world.
• UWS is one of Scotland's largest universities, with four main campuses located in Paisley, Hamilton, Ayr, and Dumfries. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as business, engineering, health, education, and the arts. UWS is also known for its innovative and student-centered approach to learning, which includes a focus on practical, real-world experiences and hands-on learning opportunities.
• UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 150 of universities worldwide under 50 years old (2022 Young University Rankings). In the recent Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, 90 percent of research at University of the West of Scotland was classed as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally. UWS was also crowned Higher Educational Institution of the Year 2022 (The Herald Higher Education Awards).
• One of the standout features of UWS is its commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing job market. The university offers a wide range of programs that are designed to meet the needs of students from all backgrounds, and its experienced faculty is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential.
• In addition to its strong academic programs, UWS also offers a wealth of extracurricular activities and student services. The university has a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs and organizations, as well as sports teams, volunteer opportunities, and cultural events. There is also a well-established student support network that provides guidance and assistance to students on a wide range of topics, from academic support to personal and financial advice.
• Another key aspect of UWS is its strong commitment to research. The university has a growing reputation as a center of research excellence, and its faculty and students are working on a wide range of cutting-edge projects in areas such as engineering, health, education, and the arts. This research is not only helping to advance knowledge in these fields, but it is also helping to create new opportunities for students and improve the lives of people around the world.
• In conclusion, the University of the West of Scotland is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that is dedicated to providing its students with the education, skills, and experiences they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing world. With its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and commitment to research, UWS is the perfect place for students who want to get the most out of their college experience.

You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it