Expert: Ray Wilkinson - 1/13/2007

Question
Thank you for answering my question. But you didn't say anything about the difference between Aerospace Engineering and Aeronautical Engineering. If they are not similar which one has more scope and job opportunities. I'm waiting for your answer, because I want to select my course only after your advice.
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Sir,

I'm Jojo Joy from India. I completed my Mechanical Engineering.
I'd like to do masters in Aeronautical engineering. I found in University of Hertfordshire and University of Bristol there is only Aerospace Engineering. Sir, I'd like to know is there any difference between Aerospace Engineering and Aeronautical Engineering. If yes please tell me about these courses and which course is better.
Sir, I also like to know whether the degree in U.K is considered in all countries.

-----Answer-----
Hi Jojo

I've checked with my colleague, and he tells me that British Masters degrees are highly regarded around the world. Although they are one year, whereas Masters take two years in some countries, ours is a three-semester year for Masters, and it is an intensive programme. So you can be reassured that your qualification would be credible and valuable wherever you want to work.

Regards

Ray Wilkinson

Answer
Sorry Jojo, I didn't answer that part. There's no difference at all - it's just fashion. The modern name is aerospace engineering, reflecting both aircraft and other areas such as astronautics and missiles. However, the 'old' aeronautical degrees tended to include these anyway. Over the last 20 years, most aeronautical degrees have had the name changed to aerospace. in fact, I don't think there's a single degree programme here in the UK that is still called by the old version of the name/

A major difference, though, is aerospace systems engineering, which tend to focus more on the systems side - treating an aircraft as a set of integrated systems. These frequently include more on the control and electronics (avionics) and less on the mechanically based subjects.

I hope this now answers your question fully.

Regards

Ray