Military Aerospace and Airworthiness MSc @ Cranfield University

Why did you choose this study?

I was in doubt between the Airworthiness MSc and Military Aerospace and Airworthiness MSc (civil or military sector respectively). In the end, I chose the Military Aerospace and Airworthiness MSc as it best matched what I wanted regarding my personal/professional development. In addition, the military variant also has modules such as military avionics, guided weapons, and drones which ultimately allowed me to apply more broadly. The most attractive thing was that I could arrange the study myself:
The study is a five-year part-time MSc where you have to take five compulsory subjects and seven electives and successfully complete them through a report and/or an exam. Elective subjects include Practical Reliability, Human Factors in Aircraft Maintenance, Guided Weapons, Aircraft Accident Investigation and Reponse, and Air Transport Engineering. This made it possible to combine study with a full-time job, as well as gain new knowledge.

Could you progress directly from the Aviation Academy or did you need a premaster, for example

The BSc from the HvA was sufficient, but I had to demonstrate that my skills in the English language were sufficient. This was achieved by C1 certification (through language exams via LanguageCert). Once I had submitted my application and demonstrated that I met the minimum requirements, I had to successfully complete another interview as there is a maximum number of places available each year. Work experience is also quite important and should be specific to the course.

Are there any points that you can focus on while studying at the Aviation Academy that would be in favour of further study (e.g. take the minor in Public Administration and then you can skip your premaster).

Follow-up study is quite broad. Legal, regulatory and engineering subjects are the norm (minor emphasis on operations). Aircraft and Gas Turbine Performance are very important as well as Law and Regulation.
It is possible to continue studying right away as long as you can demonstrate/transmit your motivation to the committee. Language certification before submitting an application is a plus.

Why would you recommend this study?

This MSc programme is for those who find airworthiness and engineering interesting. In addition, it is a part-time MSc programme of five years which allows you to spread the cost. The wonderful thing about this part-time model is that whether you take five years is entirely up to you. If you schedule all the modules well then you could possibly finish in two or three years, but still have plenty of time for work and family.

What would you possibly do differently?

Overall, I am heartily satisfied with my choices and with the progress of the study. I wouldn't have wanted this any other way.

Are there any critical points on your subsequent studies?

Despite studying at Cranfield, I am hardly ever on location. This is also thanks to COVID-19 which made most of it happen virtually. But this did ensure that I had to travel less (home to Shrivenham campus is a 2.5-hour drive). In addition, all modules are standalone. This means that each module is taught independently and some topics are repeated.