Aerospace Engineering (Advanced Manufacturing Engineering) - Level 3

Course Code: EC1FE0006

16-18

Next course dates

Start Date	Location	Duration
02/09/2026	Bispham Campus	2 Years	Apply

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Course Overview

The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering is a two-year, full-time programme designed to provide learners with the specialist knowledge, practical competencies, and professional behaviours required for a career in the dynamic aerospace sector. In Year 1, students complete the Certificate, which lays the essential groundwork for the full Extended Diploma delivered in Year 2.

This programme is ideal for school leavers and those progressing from a Level 2 qualification who are interested in pursuing careers in aerospace design, maintenance, manufacturing, or systems engineering. It also provides a solid foundation for those aiming to progress into higher education, aerospace apprenticeships, or employment in the aviation and defence industries.

Delivered through coursework-based assignments and hands-on projects, the programme supports continuous development and applied learning—without the pressure of formal written exams. Students engage with real-world aerospace engineering challenges and gain experience in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, and avionics.

Aligned closely with aerospace apprenticeship standards, this course ensures learners can transition smoothly into industry-based training without repeating content, making it a highly effective route into employment.

Programme Structure:

Year 1: BTEC Certificate in Aerospace Engineering
Year 2: Progression to BTEC Extended Diploma in AME - Aerospace Engineering (This course)

Entry Requirements

You must have achieved the following:

Successful completion of Year 1 (Certificate in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering)
and/or
A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 C) or above, which must include:
- Mathematics (grade 4 or above)
- Science (grade 4 or above)
- English at a minimum of grade 3, with the expectation that you will resit English GCSE alongside the main programme

These requirements ensure you are prepared for the technical demands of the course while continuing to meet essential academic standards.

All 16-18 year old applicants will be invited to attend an interview to meet a tutor and ask any questions they may have about the course.

Essential Skills – English and Maths

If you achieve a grade 3 in GCSE Maths or English you will have to work towards re-sitting these subjects as part of your main study programme. At B&FC, this won’t delay your career journey because you’re working towards these subjects at the same time as your chosen subject.

Career Options and Progression

The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering is a highly regarded qualification that prepares students for a wide range of technical and professional roles within the aerospace and aviation industries. Whether learners aim to enter the workforce, pursue a higher-level apprenticeship, or progress into university-level study, this course provides a strong and relevant foundation for future success.

This course is ideal for learners who:

Aspire to become aerospace engineers, technicians, or specialists
Plan to progress into aerospace or engineering apprenticeships at Level 4 or higher
Intend to pursue higher education in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering
Want to develop industry-relevant skills for employment in aerospace manufacturing, design, or maintenance

Potential Career Pathways:

Aerospace Engineering Technician
Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Avionics Specialist
CAD Technician or Aerospace Design Engineer
Propulsion Systems Engineer
Quality Assurance or Airworthiness Technician
Composites Manufacturing Specialist
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Technician

Industries You Could Work In:

Aerospace and Aviation (Commercial and Defence)
Satellite and Space Systems
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technologies
Advanced Manufacturing and Aero structures
Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Services
Research and Development in Aerospace Systems

Assessment Methods

Each module will be assessed through one or two assignments, which may include a combination of:

Practical workshop tasks
Project-based assignments
Research and written reports
Presentations or demonstrations of applied knowledge

Industry Placement and Field Trips

Other Costs and Equipment Needed

You will need to provide your own safety boots, safety goggles, and overalls/boiler suit for practical activities. A typical pair of safety boots should cost no more than £12, and a pair of overalls around £15.
All other personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided by the College.

All tools and equipment required for practical sessions will be supplied, and you will have access to computers and all necessary software within College facilities.

You are expected to bring your own pen, pencil, calculator, basic drawing equipment, and a notepad for theory and workshop sessions.

Please note: A small additional fee may be required to cover the cost of educational tours and site visits, where applicable.

Expert Tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of further education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver. The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.