How is the programme structured?

In the first year of study (propaedeutic phase), you will take a number of basic technical subjects. You will also be introduced to the field of aeronautical engineering through special projects, classes, practical assignments and excursions. Later in the programme, the emphasis will be placed more on gaining an in-depth knowledge of specialist aeronautical engineering subjects.
You will learn to use various computer, drawing and test programs. Moreover, you will learn to work in a team. You will attend training sessions and write reports and dissertations. You will go on excursions and work field trips and you will do work placements. This broad programme will turn you into a true professional.

What subjects are taught?

You will work on projects and attend lessons in subjects such as:

• aircraft systems
• mechanics
• mathematics
• measurement and control engineering 
• aerodynamics
• materials science 
• production engineering
• communication skills (Dutch/English)
• design/CAD
• measurement engineering
• wind tunnels
• materials
• workshop practice

Study load

The programme Aeronautical Engineering has a study load of approximately forty hours a week. In the first year, approximately twenty hours will be scheduled for classes, which means you will be expected to do a lot of independent study as well. You will need time to prepare well for your lessons, to attend lectures, to work up your notes and to process the teaching material. Some components take more time than others.

First year

In your first year, you will work on the basic skills needed for Technical Engineering. This means that you will spend much of your time on mathematics and mechanics. You will also develop practical skills in various projects and practical assignments.

Second year

The second year of the Aeronautical Engineering programme will start with a 10-week practical work placement. This is also called the key work placement. You will then return to your studies to focus on technical and aeronautical engineering subjects. 

Third year

The third year of study will begin with a work placement during which you will perform activities at graduate level. This work placement lasts about 20 weeks and presents an opportunity for a stay abroad. The work placement is completed with a report and presentation. You will then enter the specialisation phase of your studies. The two main specialisation tracks are:

• Design and Development
• Lightweight Structures

You will gain a more in-depth knowledge of aeronautical topics such as:

• performance and propulsion
• aircraft systems
• preliminary aircraft design
• measurement engineering
• flight mechanics
• materials, composites and composite compounds
• optimisation of structures
• scale structures

Fourth year

In addition to the final theoretical component, you will dedicate a period of approximately five months to your graduation project. You will work on this project independently. The project tends to be an assignment by a company that culminates in a report which will serve as your thesis. You will prepare and execute a plan of action. You will present your results to the Aeronautical Engineering department and to the company of your work placement. Once you have successfully defended your thesis, you will be awarded the title of Bachelor of Engineering.

Graduation and continuing education

If you successfully complete the Aeronautical Engineering programme, you will receive the title Bachelor of Engineering. You will then be able to put the letters BEng after your name. This title indicates both nationally and internationally at what level you have studied. In addition to the title of bachelor in the Netherlands, you may also carry the title of engineer (ing.). This diploma will give you access to various (master's) programmes both domestically and abroad.
Inholland University of Applied Sciences has concluded an agreement with Delft University of Technology for the Aeronautical Engineering programme. This means that you can transfer to the master's degree programme straight after you graduate.