Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering

Entry requirements

A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in engineering, mathematics or science.

If you can't find an advertised project that fits your interests and experience, you can submit a research proposal to the Department of Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering to find a supervisor who will work with you on your project. You can view our list of academic staff on our School website or you can email us for guidance.

Your research proposal should include the aims of your study, a brief literature review, an outline of the proposed research methods, and your preferred member of staff to supervise the project. See further information on preparing your proposal.

You are strongly recommended to contact us before applying to discuss your topic, availability and funding.

Months of entry

January, April, July, October

Course content

Our reputation for pioneering and topical research is built on a long and successful history with aeronautical and automotive engineering. With programmes dating back to 1919, our reputation for research has been built on over 100 years of excellence.

Our mission is to deliver world-leading excellence in our research, covering a full spectrum of engineering, technology and science activity essential to the fast-paced aeronautical and automotive industry.

The department comprises of around 37 academic staff and nearly 150 postgraduate students on taught and research programmes. By choosing to study one of our research degrees, you'll not only be immersed in a vibrant research community which is supportive and nurturing, you'll also have access to a rich research network which presents the opportunity to forge lasting links with industry.

The industry-focused environment at Loughborough creates a distinctive background to undertake your research degree in aeronautical engineering or automotive engineering. As well as working closely with your academic supervisors, many of whom are leading in their area of expertise, a result of our close relationship with industry means that our research remains at the cutting-edge of the aeronautical and automotive sectors.

A PhD programme will allow you to make new discoveries, with our excellent laboratories and facilities providing a platform for world-class research. You'll gain all the knowledge, skills and expertise needed for a career in engineering, research or academia. With our support, you'll become an expert in your chosen field of study, developing research and management skills to give your career the perfect lift-off.

We have four major research working groups working across the technologies of automotive and aeronautical engineering, each working on a variety of research topics. These range from the development of new, low emissions combustion systems for gas turbine engines, through to fundamental investigations into the operation of hydrogen powered fuel cells.

Information for international students

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and funding

Please see our website for a list of research degree funding and scholarships.