The global market for drones and autonomous aerial vehicles is experiencing rapid growth, with increasing applications in defense and aerospace. This MSc program equips graduates with essential skills in autonomy, including dynamics and control, guidance, navigation, decision-making, sensor fusion, and communication. Students will benefit from unique facilities, such as a drone laboratory, providing hands-on experience in developing future autonomous flight systems. The curriculum is informed by an Industrial Advisory Board and covers fundamental to advanced topics in autonomous vehicle technology.
The MSc consists of taught modules and a significant individual research project. The taught component covers dynamics, control systems, and autonomous systems and technology. The course emphasizes practical application through a group design project and industry-sponsored individual research projects.
Graduates from a range of disciplines are considered if they have a keen interest in aerospace and autonomous aerial vehicles.
Information on fees and funding is available on the Cranfield University website.
Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
The programme is a full-time course lasting 1 year.
The programme has a start date in October.
Applicants typically need an undergraduate degree in engineering, science, physics, or applied mathematics. A keen interest in aerospace and autonomous aerial vehicles is also considered.
Yes, the programme is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and meets the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
International applicants for September 2026/27 have an extended deadline of 13 July 2025 to submit their application.
Graduates are well-prepared for roles in the rapidly growing autonomous vehicle industry, particularly in security, defense, marine, environmental, and aerospace sectors due to the programme's emphasis on practical skills.