MSc Aircraft Electronics and Control

Aircraft, perhaps even more than other vehicles, are increasingly dependent on computer-based automatic systems. In aircraft, the avionics, communications and control systems fly the aircraft automatically more and more often. This course is an opportunity to combine a knowledge of electronics with an interest in aircraft and to develop, model and test in-flight control systems by ‘flying’ our 3-axis flight simulator

Key facts

• Excellent student support available within a learning/research environment
• Gain exposure to cutting-edge technological development in electrical and electronic technology
• State-of-the-art IT facilities and analytical tools support the taught and research elements of the course
• The University has excellent facilities for this course including its own state-of-the-art engineering flight simulator and its joint facility with Airbus UK in connection with composites
• Strong links have been developed within the aircraft industry including Airbus who have the largest wing manufacturing site in Europe nearby in Broughton

The subject of ‘avionics’ generally covers two specialist areas, namely (i) radio, microwave and radar-based technologies and (ii) aircraft automatic control.

In-depth study is provided in aircraft control systems, particularly in the use of airborne computer networks aimed at flight control (fly-by-wire and automatic flight control).

To do this your understanding of the flight characteristics of the aircraft being studied will be developed.

This course is centred around using the full three-axis engineering flight simulator to characterise a given aircraft performance and to design control systems for it.

This is supported by other studies in control theory and electronics selected from a range of option modules.

The dissertation (one-third of the course time) allows you to develop a specialist interest you may have in order to become an expert in that subject.

Career opportunities

If you’re a graduate already working in electronics and looking to update your skills, or gain further career opportunities, the MSc is ideal. It’s also suitable if you’re a recent graduate wanting to gain higher skills, or if you’re a graduate from another related discipline but looking to change the direction of your career.

Successfully complete the MSc Aircraft Electronics and Control and you should be in a position to gain a senior position as an avionics or flight systems design engineer. Other future progression may involve academic research, including study at doctoral level.

Course content

• Research Methods
• Sustainable Design and Innovation
• Aircraft Avionics Systems
• Flight Dynamics and Control
• Advanced Control Systems Options
• Digital Communication Systems
• Advanced Electronic Design and Testing
• Radio Frequency Electronics
• Dissertation

Entry requirements

A good honours degree or equivalent in an appropriate engineering discipline or relevant professional experience.

Assessment

You will be assessed throughout your course by a variety of methods including practical work, portfolios, presentations
and, for certain subjects, examinations.