Aircraft Engineering

This Foundation Degree is a progression programme from the Extended Diploma in Engineering, A Levels or equivalent and is specifically designed to help meet the growing need for skilled aircraft engineers. Delivered at the Future Skills Centre (FSC) at Exeter International Airport, this Foundation Degree is fully-accredited by Kingston University and approved by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). As part of the programme, you will also visit aerospace-related companies and you will receive practical skills training in the purpose-built engineering workshop facilities and on the College’s Jetstream aircraft.

Successful completion of the programme provides you with the module exam certificates for the UK CAA B1.1 Aircraft Maintenance Licence required for work in aerospace engineering and recognised internationally. To complete your Licence application you will require 2 years additional experienced (opposed to 5 years for unapproved training) working in a UK CAA Part 145 approved organisation.
You can also progress to the top up to a full BEng (Hon) degree with Kingston University which has a part time (2 years) or full time (1 year) option.

The programme balances theoretical and practical training with assignments and examinations. You will undertake formal lectures and laboratory work. As a student you will complete part of your training using the College’s own aircraft and equipment in the Future Skills Centre aircraft maintenance workshop, getting hands on experience on advanced aircraft systems and technology.

Topics will include:

• Mathematics and Physics for Practitioner Engineers
• Electrical Engineering Fundamentals
• Aerodynamics and Aircraft Digital Systems
• Academic Practical Skills and Study Skills
• Aircraft Materials, Hardware and Maintenance Practices
• Aircraft and their Systems
• Aircraft Maintenance and Professional
• Practice (Aviation Legislation and Human Factors)
• Aircraft Propulsion Systems

This programme leads to careers in companies such as Exeter Aerospace, Air Atlantic Group at Brize Norton, British Airways, Ryan Air, Gulf-stream, Royal Navy or Skybus.

Click here to access the latest programme handbook: FdEng Aircraft Engineering Handbook

A minimum of 64 UCAS tariff points from A Levels in Maths and Physics at Grade C or above, a BTEC National Diploma in Engineering at Grade Profile MP or above, an Access to HE qualification in relevant Science or Engineering discipline or other qualifications deemed equivalent to the above. GCSE passes with Maths at Grade 5 and above, Grade 4 in English and a science-based subject are required.

Learning will take place at the Future Skills Centre located near to Exeter Airport. Students will have access to a wide range of specialist facilities on site, including the College’s own aircraft, software technology, other industry-specific resources and dedicated, experienced staff.

Staff have extensive experience across research and industry and continue to practice and research at the cutting edge of their discipline. This ensures that our courses are current, and industry informed ensuring you get the most relevant and up to date education possible.

Staff who will support you on this programme are:

From Kingston University:

• Waruna Masinghe – Programme Director Aircraft Engineering

From Exeter College:

• Andy Wells – Head of Faculty for Engineering, Aerospace and Automotive
• Gary Herrington – HE Lead, Faculty of Engineering, Aerospace and Automotive
• Pat Tull – Programme Leader for B1.1 Aerospace
• Mike Robinson – Programme Leader and Training Manager for Part 147
• Jono Bell – Programme Leader Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering
• Nick Tucker – Programme Leader Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering
• Jennifer Wignall – LRC Co-ordinator
• Kat Toomey – Adult Student Experience Lead