About this course
This course is full and closed to new applications. Search similar degrees in related courses or by browsing our course finder.
Our unique MSc Race Car Aerodynamics degree is recognised as a world-leading course for those wanting to enter Formula 1 as aerodynamicists and computational fluid dynamics engineers. It will enhance your knowledge of the fundamentals of aerodynamics and your skills in the analysis, modelling and measurement of turbulent flows associated with high-performance race cars.
This course is ideal if you:
- are from an engineering, scientific or maths backgrounds
- have some experience of fluid dynamics
- want to specialise in aerodynamics for high-performance vehicles
You’ll take part in individual and group practical work as well as a critical research project, developing your expertise in race car design, and learn to evaluate and apply experimental aerodynamic concepts.
You’ll also learn advanced computational fluid dynamics and numerical procedures to counteract problems that may occur in the design process.
You’ll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities including high-performance computers and the RJ Mitchell Wind Tunnel, the largest university wind tunnel in the UK.
Recent graduates have gone on to work in Formula One teams such as Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport and Racing Point Force India.
Course lead
Your course leader is Dr Zhiwei Hu, Reginald Platt Lecturer in Civil Aviation within Engineering and Physical Sciences. His research interests include turbulence simulations, computational fluid dynamics and high-speed train aerodynamics. Visit Dr Hu's staff profile to read more about his work.
Accreditations
This master's programme is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) as meeting the academic requirement for Further Learning for Chartered Engineer registration. Candidates must hold a BEng/BSc undergraduate first degree that is accredited for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration to comply with full CEng registration requirements.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2022 to 2023. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a first class degree in engineering, maths, physical sciences or a related subject.
You must have studied fluid dynamics or aerodynamics at undergraduate level.
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
Recognition of professional experience
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Learning and assessment
Learning
You’ll learn by a variety of teaching and learning methods. These include:
- lectures
- tutorials
- practical laboratory work
- individual and group projects
Your learning will be enhanced by our industry-standard facilities, including high-performance computers and the RJ Mitchell wind tunnel, which has been used by F1 teams, America's Cup yacht teams and Olympic athletes.
Assessment
Assessment depends on the modules you take, but assessment methods may include:
- unseen written exams
- problem-solving exercises
- laboratory reports
- design exercises
- essays
- individual and group projects
- presentations
Dissertation
You'll carry out a research project and complete a dissertation, focusing on any of the areas covered by the course. The project is a chance for you to demonstrate the skills and knowledge you've gained over the first 8 months.
Past topics include:
- the analysis of an aerodynamic upgrade of 2017 Formula One cars
- comparison of overtaking performance of Indycar Aero Kits
- the development of an aerodynamics package for a touring car
Projects are often linked to our current research activities or supported by industry.
Academic Support
You’ll be assigned a personal academic tutor at the start of your degree. They’ll provide you with personal support and advice during your time at the University.
One-to-one tutorials will cater for individual learning differences.
How to apply
- Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Submit your application.
Application deadlines
The deadline for applying for your course for the 2023 year of entry depends on where you’re domiciled (where your permanent home is and where you have the closest ties).
This is because:
- students from different countries tend to apply at different times of year
- we want a diverse and balanced mix of international students with exceptional academic ability
The deadline for 2023 applications may still move to:
- an earlier date if we have already received enough applications before the deadline
- a later date if there are still places available on the deadline
We receive many high-quality applications, so places for many of our courses are very competitive.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.
Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
If you're an international student you'll need approval from the UK's Academic Approval Scheme before you can study this course.
The ATAS certificate is required for certain sensitive postgraduate subjects.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to send 2 academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We'll assess your application on the strength of your:
- academic achievements
- relevant professional experience
- personal statement
- academic references
We will aim to send you a decision 6-8 weeks after you have submitted your application.
If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.
Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000