Introduction
Cranfield University, founded in 1946 as the College of Aeronautics, is a prestigious postgraduate-only public research university located in Bedfordshire and Wiltshire, United Kingdom. Renowned for its strong links with industry and government, it specializes in science, technology, engineering, management, and defence. With a unique focus on practical, applied research and professional development, Cranfield stands apart from traditional universities as it does not offer undergraduate degrees, instead providing an exclusive postgraduate learning environment.
The university is highly regarded worldwide for its programs in aerospace, automotive, energy, water, defense, manufacturing, and management, making it a hub for innovation and problem-solving at a global scale.
To learn more about Cranfield University, book a free consultation with LCI Group today!
Cranfield University Key Statistics
- International Students Population: Approximately 2,700 students
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
Cranfield University Accreditation and Affiliations
- Accredited by the UK Privy Council
- Member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)
- Cranfield School of Management: triple crown accredited (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB)
- Strong partnerships with global organizations like Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover, and the UK Ministry of Defence
Cranfield University Academic Information
Programs Offered
- Postgraduate Taught Degrees (MSc, MBA, MRes, MTech)
- Doctoral Programs (PhD, DBA, EngD)
- Professional Development and Executive Education
Academic Strengths
- Aerospace Engineering
- Automotive & Motorsport Engineering
- Defence and Security (at the Shrivenham campus)
- Water and Environmental Management
- Manufacturing and Materials
- Energy & Sustainability
- Cranfield School of Management (MBA, Executive MBA, and MSc in Management)
Cranfield University Tuition Fees (approx.)
- Master’s (Engineering/Science): £25,500 per year on average
- MBA: £45,000 on average
Cranfield University Admission Requirements
- Postgraduate Taught (MSc, MBA, etc.)
- Bachelor’s degree (UK 2:1 equivalent; some programs accept 2:2 with experience)
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 – 7.0 / TOEFL iBT 92+ / PTE 65+
- MBA: Minimum 3 years of professional/managerial experience + GMAT/GRE (recommended, not mandatory)
Cranfield University Rankings and Recognition
- QS World University Rankings 2026: N/A
- THE World University Ranking 2025: N/A
Cranfield University Campus Facilities
Cranfield Campus (Bedfordshire)
- Aerospace Integration Research Centre (AIRC) with Airbus and Rolls-Royce
- Cranfield Airport (on-site working airport used for research and training)
- Advanced Manufacturing and Materials labs
- Centre for Energy and the Environment
- Sports centre, library, and dedicated postgraduate residences
Shrivenham Campus (Wiltshire)
- Focused on Defence and Security (operated in partnership with the UK Ministry of Defence)
- Specialist laboratories, simulators, and defense training facilities
Cranfield University Support Services
International Student Support
- Pre-arrival webinars and orientation programs
- Visa and immigration advice
- English language support and academic writing workshops
- International student clubs and cultural societies
Career Services
- Career Development Service offering tailored postgraduate career advice
- Access to global employers and alumni networks
- Executive coaching and leadership development (MBA and Management programs)
- Research collaboration opportunities with 1,500+ industry partners
Cranfield University Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Cranfield International Scholarships (up to 20% tuition fee reduction)
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- Country-specific scholarships (India, Nigeria, China, etc.)
- Industry-sponsored studentships (especially for research/PhD programs)
Study at Cranfield University
Cranfield University is the UK’s leading postgraduate-only university, delivering cutting-edge education and applied research in science, technology, and management. With unrivalled industry partnerships, world-class research facilities, and strong employability outcomes, it is the destination of choice for professionals and students aiming to accelerate their careers through specialized postgraduate study.
To learn more about studying at Cranfield University, contact LCI Group today and begin your application for the upcoming intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Cranfield University is unique as it offers only postgraduate and research degrees.
It is globally renowned for Aerospace, Automotive, Defence & Security, Manufacturing, and Management.
The main campus is in Bedfordshire, and a second campus is in Shrivenham, Wiltshire.
Yes, over 1,500 global companies collaborate with Cranfield in research, placements, and sponsorship.
Yes, Cranfield offers a wide range of scholarships, including Chevening, Commonwealth, and its own international awards.