How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You could do a degree in aerospace engineering, avionics, or a subject like:
- electrical or electronic engineering
- mechanical engineering
- manufacturing or product engineering
- physics or applied physics
- software engineering or mathematics
Postgraduate study
You may be able to do a master's degree in aeronautical or aerospace engineering if you've studied for a degree in a related subject, such as engineering.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
College
You could do A levels, a higher national certificate (HNC) or diploma (HND) in engineering before applying for a trainee technician job with an aerospace company.
Subjects include:
- maths, physics and design and technology
- mechanical engineering
- aeronautical engineering
- electrical engineering
You would then take further training to become a fully qualified engineer.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
More Information
Apprenticeship
You could do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship to begin your career in the aerospace industry. Apprenticeships include:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Aerospace Software Engineer
- Electro-Mechanical Engineer
- Materials Science Technologist
You'll combine workplace learning with study for a degree at university.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
Work
You might be able to join a company as an aerospace engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.
Direct Application
You can apply for aerospace engineering jobs if you've got relevant qualifications and experience. For example, you might have worked in mechanical, electrical or electronics engineering.
More Information
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Royal Aeronautical Society for professional development, career resources and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about working in aerospace engineering from Careers in Aerospace.