• Offered for Year: 2026/27

• Module Leader(s): Dr Glynn Atkinson
• Lecturer: Dr Andrew Smith, Miss Katie Wray, Dr Sarah Dunn, Dr Domenico Balsamo, Dr Aidan Bowes, Dr Maryam Haroutunian

• Owning School: Engineering
• Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus

Semesters

Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.

Aims

This interdisciplinary module aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of aerospace engineering and the principles of engineering design. It integrates core scientific and mathematical concepts—such as aerodynamics, mechanics, materials science, and orbital dynamics—with practical applications in aerospace systems. Students will develop analytical and technical skills through simulation, design-build activities, and software development, while gaining experience in electrical and mechanical engineering practice. Emphasis is placed on communication, teamwork, ethical awareness, and reflective learning. By the end of the module, students will be equipped to apply engineering knowledge in multidisciplinary contexts and demonstrate readiness for progression into Stage 2 of their degree.

Outline Of Syllabus

Aerospace Engineering Fundamentals
•       History of Aeronautics and Astronautics
•       Basics of Aircraft and Spacecraft Flight, aerodynamics, propulsion and Energy Systems
•       Systems engineering principles applied to Spacecraft and Aircraft
•       Introduction to the Aerospace Industry and research tools
Engineering Design and Systems Integration
•       Problem definition, design process and Innovation
•       Multi-disciplinary engineering skills combining electronics, mechanics, aerodynamics, programming, and creativity
Visualisation and Communication
•       Sketching and annotating design concepts and an introduction to commercial CAD and simulation tools
Electrical and Software Engineering Skills
•       Use of lab equipment: electronics identification, circuit design and construction
•       Software design, programming and implementation
Professional Practice and Reflection
•       Safe lab practices, equipment use, manufacturing and model testing
•       Introduction to ethics in engineering, responsibilities and societal impact
•       Residential activity, group working strategies and critique
•       Reflective application of Stage 1 learning and insights into skills and career development

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities

Jointly Taught With

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures convey the underlying engineering principles and the approaches required to apply this to the discipline-specific problems identified. Tutorial sessions support the students’ self-study in applying the lecture material and learning to solve the practical engineering problems posed by the tutorial questions. Practical sessions will support the students’ learning and allow for hands-on demonstration and exploration of key concepts and principles covered in lectures.

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Exams

Exam Pairings

Other Assessment

Formative Assessments

Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The two digital examinations provides an opportunity to assess both theoretical understanding and problem-solving skills under time-constrain as required in industry. A single A4 sheet (two-sided) may be prepared in advance and taken into the exam as study support.

The Practical skills portfolio allows students to demonstrate their capabilities across the multi-disciplinary skills required in engineering including CAD, Computer programming, use of hand tools, Electronic construction, use of micro-processors, 3D printers, laser cutters and CNC machines (C3, C12, C13, C18). These skills will be applied in the design and build project in semester 2 where the ability to work in a group and apply various knowledge and methods to solve a “real life” challenge in a design, build, and test scenario will be assessed. This will give students more confidence in presenting and communicating their work. This will also assess critical thinking and problem solving skills. The medium also allows students to demonstrate intended learning outcomes across a wide range of topics within a syllabus. (C1, C3, C16, C12, C18).
Due to the significant use of CAD designs, computer programming and practical skills in the laboratories throughout the degree program as well as in the workplace, it is justified to assess these elements in stage 1 to assure students are ready to use them in future years. (C3, C12, C13, C18)’

The oral examination assesses students’ ability to understand aircraft terminology, systems and avionics. Understanding will be assessed in a simulated flight including system checks, taxiing, take-off, short pattern, landing, taxying and shutdown.

Reading Lists

• ENG1010's Reading List

Timetable

• Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
• ENG1010's Timetable