Bachelor of Technology - Aeronautical Edith Cowan University

Overview

The Bachelor of Technology - Aeronautical offered at Edith Cowan University is the only course of its kind in Western Australia, Aeronautical Technology deals with the science and technology of aviation, including aircraft systems, materials and manufacturing technology, and aircraft operation.  

Areas of study include a foundation in science and mathematics, along with engineering mechanics, computer-aided design, engineering materials, and thermodynamics and fluids. It also covers specific aviation science subjects such as aircraft systems and structures, aircraft propulsion and aerodynamics.  

Students will also gain an understanding of the operation and performance of aircraft from the point-of-view of an aviation technologist. 

The course focuses on the development of knowledge and skills relevant to the aviation industry, and, along with a sound theoretical base, includes strong elements of practical problem-solving, team work and project work. 

As a result, as well as having multiple technical and transferable skill competencies, students will graduate with strong analytical skills and the ability to contribute to complex projects.

Provided appropriate electives are chosen, graduating students can apply to articulate into ECU's Master of Engineering course, specialising in either Mechanical or Civil Engineering. 

This enables students to achieve professional engineer status after a further two years of study.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Adapt knowledge and skills to collaborate effectively to achieve personal and team goals in professional practice

• Apply critical thinking and judgement to problem solving and the development of innovative design solutions to aeronautical technology problems

• Communicate ideas to present a clear and coherent exposition of knowledge to peers, the aeronautical profession and the wider community

• Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of aircraft propulsion, performance and aerodynamics with specific reference to light aircraft

• Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of aircraft systems and maintenance principles

• Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of common manufacturing processes and materials used for different engineering applications

• Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of computer aided design (CAD) and its application in aeronautical and engineering contexts

• Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of electronic instrumentation and electrical systems, including problem identification and solution

• Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of the theory, technical and practical applications relevant to aeronautical technology

• Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, engineering dynamics and the mechanics of solids

• Demonstrate initiative and planning in the application of appropriate principles, tools and technologies to generate solutions to aeronautical problems

• Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for own learning in the application of research to design and test a device, component or system in aeronautical technology

• Demonstrate the requisite levels of technology, information and numeric literacy as well as technical skills to perform effectively in the aeronautical profession

• Identify sustainability issues and principles that are applicable to aeronautical technology and the wider community and integrate them into aeronautical practice

• Incorporate an awareness of cross-cultural and indigenous issues in the conduct of professional practice in aeronautical technology

• Understand and interpret international developments and global best practices in aeronautical technology

• Utilise technical skills to review, analyse, consolidate and apply knowledge to generate solutions to aeronautical technology problems

Possible future job titles

• Aeronautical Technologist, Mechanical Technologist