Aircraft Engineering HND

Information iconCourse code: 114H

Calendar iconStudy mode: You study most days of the week and complete all course units /modules in the standard time., You take fewer course units/modules per week compared to full time.

Mortar board iconCourse type: HND

Globe iconInternational: Not eligible for international students

Campus iconStudy at: Perth

Pen iconStart in: September

Computer and book iconLearning mode: You attend classes in person at your local campus or learning centre.

Clock iconDuration: Full time: 2 years; Part time: 4 years

Book and tick iconHow: You attend classes at scheduled times, shown on your timetable.

What is special about this course?

This HND is an engineering technician-level course with content similar to the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) syllabus for certifying aircraft mechanics with the aviation operations industry.

Successful completion of the course will allow you direct access to year three of a BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering.

Special features

  • You will learn all the practical training you need for an aircraft technician role
  • Individual design projects with access to: 
    • variable speed wind tunnels
    • commercial aircraft flight simulator
    • gas turbine engine

Accommodation

We offer modern student accommodation at a number of our locations.

Entry requirements

Entry to year 1, the HNC Aircraft Engineering:

  • 1 Scottish Higher at grade C or above in Maths, Physics or Engineering Science PLUS English Nat 5 pass or equivalent. Applicants with only one of Maths or Physics/Engineering Science at Higher level require the other subject at Nat 5 OR
  • 1 A level at grade C or above in Maths, Physics or Engineering Science PLUS English language at GCSE grade 4 or equivalent. Applicants with only one of Maths or Physics/Engineering Science at Advanced level require the other subject at GCSE grade 4 or equivalent
  • Alternatively, NC/NQ Engineering at level 6 or equivalent OR the completion of a Foundation Apprenticeship Engineering
  • Please note that Higher Application of Maths is not valid for entry into this course
  • Prospective students without the standard entry requirements as listed above are encouraged to apply, appropriate industry related experience will be taken into consideration

Entry to year two may be available with an HNC Aircraft Engineering (15 SQA credits).

Year 1 of this course is the HNC Aircraft Engineering.

You will study the following units:

  • Aerodynamics and flight mechanics 2
  • Aircraft engineering graded unit 2
  • Engineering maths 3
  • Human factors in aircraft engineering

Optional modules may include:

  • Aircraft avionics and electrical systems
  • Aircraft gas turbine engines
  • Aircraft hydraulic and pneumatic systems
  • Engineering maths 4
  • Engineering software applications
  • Strength of materials advanced

How will I study my course?

  • Full time
  • Part time
  • You will study by way of face-to-face lectures and tutorials in the classroom, and practical work.

How long will my course last?

  • Full time: 2 years (HNC + HND)
  • Part time: 4 years (HNC + HND)
  • Perth

Start date

  • September

Fees

For information on costs of this course please contact the campus where you wish to study.

Funding

UHI has a number of scholarships, bursaries, awards, and discretionary fund opportunities available to new and current students. Please use the A-Z of funds or use the filter to see which ones may be relevant to you. All students are welcome to apply.

Further information on funding your studies is also available, please see the attached link or contact the relevant UHI partner.

What can I do on completion of my course?

On completion of your course, you might like to consider careers in aircraft maintenance or aircraft management/operations.

Can I progress into further study?

On successful completion, you may wish to progress to a BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering.

Apply for Aircraft Engineering HND

I want to start in Aug/Sep 2026

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at the University of the Highlands and Islands. We operate a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of gender, age, disability, ethnicity and socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.