Program Overview

University Foundation in Engineering and Technology Stage1 at Hertfordshire International College (HIC) is designed to prepare you for entry to university-level program. During Stage 1 you will complete a range of modules relevant to your chosen degree, as well as modules concentrating on the skills that are vital for University level education such as Critical Thinking.

A Foundation pathway is available for students who:

• Don’t meet the entry requirements to enter university level study directly (but hold GCSE level qualifications)
• Feel that additional support at the start of university studies will help them stand a better chance of success
• Have been away from studies for a period of time
• Come from a different academic environment to that of the UK
• Require additional English language training

If you fall into any of the above categories, choosing an undergraduate pathway at Hertfordshire International College (HIC) is the right decision. Depending on your academic needs here at Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

Progressing from Foundation

Stage 1 will be the first stage in the 4 stage process. Meaning that on successful completion of stage 1 you will seamlessly progress to stage 2, which is the first year of a bachelor’s degree. There is no need to reapply, you will simply just progress between each stage until you reach the final stage and graduate with a degree from Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Space Technology

• This is a BEng degree course in aerospace engineering with a focus on space technology
• The University of Hertfordshire has produced aerospace engineers with practical experience of design and development for future aerospace systems
• Aerospace students from the University of Hertfordshire have previously completed work placement years at companies including: Airbus, Virgin Atlantic Engineering, and BAE Systems
• You will have access to the best equipment: flight simulator, wind tunnels, specialist laboratories and CAE software
• You will be offered a flying course at a local flying school with one-to-one instruction on both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters Our aerospace staff have a wealth of industrial experience which gives an applied approach to their teaching and their contacts prove invaluable to graduates seeking employment
• Recent Aerospace Engineering graduates have gone on to work at organisations including Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group, Martin-Baker Aircraft Company, and BAE Systems

What's the course about?

• While much of this course is common with BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering, this degree specialises in the design of space vehicles, with a particular emphasis on rocket propulsion, space flight control and satellite communication systems. For many of our students, the highlights of the course are the group design projects in the Third / Final Year, where you join with other aerospace students to design a complete aircraft. You’ll also work with astrophysicists to design a space vehicle in conjunction with a major space industry employer.

What will I study?

• The School has a reputation for innovation in teaching and learning with most modules delivered through a combination of traditional face to face teaching and distance learning through the university's StudyNet web based facility.
• StudyNet allows students to access electronic learning resources, electronic discussion with staff and other students, and, for some modules, submit coursework 24/7 from anywhere in the world.
• With a heavy emphasis on Computer-Aided Engineering, the School has a policy of using industrial standard software wherever possible and operates an open-access laboratory policy of when possible students doing experiments in their own time.

What you will learn

• In your first year, you will study the fundamental skills and knowledge required by a modern engineer including principles of flight and aircraft operations. In particular, you will be introduced to computer packages commonly used in aerospace industry.
• In your second year, the first year core themes are developed for application in aerospace engineering. You will learn about the design process through both group design and detail design work, and expand your knowledge of aerodynamics, with wind tunnel experiments. You will also have the opportunity to fly at a local flying school.
• You may take a placement year if you wish, where you will gain excellent work experience, and this will be followed by your fourth year where for many, the Aerospace Design group project is the climax of your course where they can use your engineering skills and ingenuity to design a complete aircraft in a competitive environment. For others the self-confidence developed during the Individual Major Project that challenges them to research an aerospace relevant topic entirely by themselves using either the University or industrial facilities is the most rewarding part of your degree and can lead to future employment. There is also the opportunity for flying lessons.