Study an aerospace engineering degree in Ireland
Aerospace engineers research and develop aircraft and their associated technologies. The subject is generally divided into aeronautical engineering, which concerns atmospheric vehicles such as planes, and astronautic engineering, which focuses on aircraft and components that leave the atmosphere, such as satellites.
Aerospace Engineering modules cover several related disciplines, all necessary to create an entire engineering team. They include fluid mechanics, mathematics, software design, propulsion, and materials science. An emphasis on technical and management skills, as well as math, physics, and fluid mechanics, means that other branches of engineering and research are open to graduates.
Types of Aerospace Engineering Degree
Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering
Bachelor’s in aerospace engineering programmes in Ireland offer students a comprehensive education in aerospace technology. These courses typically cover various subjects, including aerodynamics, aircraft and spacecraft design, propulsion systems, materials science, flight mechanics, control systems, and avionics. Students can expect a mix of theoretical lectures, practical laboratory sessions, and hands-on projects.
- Course Duration: 3-4 years
- Course Fees: €15,000 to €25,000
- Entry Requirements: Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent qualification recognised by the university and show proficiency in the English language.
Master’s in Aerospace Engineering
A master’s in aerospace engineering offers an advanced and in-depth exploration of aerospace technology and engineering principles. It equips students with the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to excel in the aerospace industry, research, and development. Most of these courses often combine theoretical coursework, hands-on projects, and research opportunities to prepare graduates for various aerospace-related careers.
The curriculum at most universities offers elective courses, allowing students to specialise in areas such as satellite technology, aerospace propulsion, or unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).
- Course Duration: 1-2 years
- Course Fees: €15,000 to €25,000 per year
- Entry Requirements: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in aerospace engineering or a closely related field along with English language proficiency.
PhD in Aerospace Engineering
A PhD in aerospace engineering offers a high-level research-focused education that enables students to contribute to groundbreaking advancements. Most programmes emphasise in-depth specialisation, independent research, and the development of expertise in specific aerospace engineering areas, including aerodynamics and fluid dynamics, aircraft and spacecraft design, propulsion systems and combustion, computational fluid dynamics, and more.
- Course Duration: 3-4 years
- Course Fees: €15,000 to €25,000 per year
- Entry Requirements: Master’s degree in aerospace engineering or a closely related field and English language proficiency.
Scholarships
Aerospace engineering scholarships can financially support international students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees.
- Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships: These scholarships are open to non-EU students and offer funding for one year of study at all levels of education in Ireland. They also cover a stipend, tuition fees, and other expenses.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: These scholarships are available for citizens of commonwealth countries, including some scholarships that may be used to study aerospace engineering in Ireland.
- Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS): This professional body for the aerospace community offers scholarships and grants to students pursuing aerospace-related studies in Ireland.
- Corporate Scholarships: Aerospace and aviation companies may offer scholarships or financial support to students pursuing degrees in aerospace engineering. These opportunities might be advertised on company websites or through industry associations.
- University Scholarships: Many Irish universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, which may be based on academic excellence and can partially cover tuition fees.
Jobs and Careers
Aerospace engineering employment opportunities are available at various companies involved in designing and manufacturing aircraft and associated aspects of the industry. Huge companies such as Rolls-Royce Engines, British Airways, Airbus, BAE Systems and the Ministry of Defence constantly look at graduates when recruiting. Following are some of the potential careers that aerospace engineering graduates can pursue:
- Aerospace Engineer: This is the most direct career path involving designing, developing, testing, and maintaining aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. Aerospace engineers work in aerodynamics, propulsion systems, avionics, and materials.
- Aircraft Design Engineer: These engineers focus on creating new aircraft or modifying existing designs. Their designs consider factors like aerodynamics, stability, fuel efficiency, and safety.
- Spacecraft Design Engineer: Similar to aircraft design engineers, spacecraft design engineers create vehicles for space exploration, satellite deployment, and other space missions.
- Avionics Engineer: Avionics engineers design and develop electronic systems used in aircraft, including communication, navigation, and control systems.
- Propulsion Engineer: Propulsion engineers work on designing and improving engines for aircraft and spacecraft, focusing on efficiency, performance, and emissions reduction.
- Aeronautical Researcher: Research positions in academia or industry involve conducting advanced research in aerospace-related fields and contributing to developing new technologies and innovations.
- Aerospace Systems Analyst: These professionals analyse complex aerospace systems, assess their performance, and optimise their design for efficiency and safety.
- Aerospace Project Manager: Project managers lead teams working on aerospace projects, coordinating various aspects such as design, manufacturing, testing, and budgeting.
These are just a few examples, and the aerospace industry offers a vast array of opportunities for aerospace companies, research organisations, government agencies, airlines, space agencies, defence contractors, and more.
Salary
Salaries in the aerospace engineering field can vary widely based on factors such as location, level of education, years of experience, specialisation, employer type, and the industry’s specific role. Here’s an approximate salary range for various aerospace engineering careers that students can pursue in Ireland:
- Aerospace Engineer: $60,000 to $80,000 per year
- Aircraft Design Engineer: $80,000 to $120,000 per year
- Spacecraft Design Engineer: $80,000 to $120,000 per year
- Avionics Engineer: $70,000 and $100,000 per year
- Propulsion Engineer: $80,000 to $120,000 per year
Where can I study Aerospace Engineering in Ireland?
Learn more about Ireland universities that offer aerospace engineering courses below:
Study Aerospace Engineering in Ireland
If you are interested in studying aerospace engineering in Ireland, arrange your free consultation with SI-Ireland today.