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Low-Altitude Technology (LAT)

Overview

Focus: Theoretical principles and innovative design of low-altitude aerial vehicles and their safe operation. 

  • Industry Relevance: Prepares students for sectors such as drones, unmanned cargo planes, executive jets, engines, propellers, avionics, and aviation economics, supporting the low-altitude transportation network. 
  • Skills Developed: Aerial vehicle design, manufacturing processes, operational skills, and hands-on fabrication training. 
  • Mode of Study: Offered only in full-time mode over one and a half academic years. 

Curriculum Structure

The MSc(Eng) in Low-Altitude Technology curriculum is purposefully structured to provide students with a robust foundation in the theoretical principles, innovative design, and practical operation of low-altitude aerial vehicles. This programme is tailored for those aiming to excel in the rapidly evolving low-altitude economy, including sectors such as drones, unmanned cargo planes, general aviation, and related technologies. 

For LAT curriculum, please refer to https://mech.hku.hk/msclat 

Programme Requirements

To successfully complete the LAT curriculum, candidates must earn a total of 84 credits distributed as follows: 

Component 

Credit Requirement 

Discipline Core Courses 

Not less than 30 credits 

Discipline Elective Courses 

Not less than 12 credits 

Free Elective Courses 

Not more than 12 credits 

Capstone Experience 

30 credits 

Course Selection Guidelines

  • Total Courses: Candidates are required to complete 10 courses, including 6 courses from List A and at least 2 from List B. 
  • Capstone Experience: Completion of a dissertation is mandatory, offering an opportunity for in-depth research and hands-on application in low-altitude technology. 
  • Free Electives: Students may select up to 2 courses from other taught postgraduate curricula, either within or beyond the Faculty of Engineering, as free electives—encouraging interdisciplinary learning and broader academic exposure. 
  • Approval: All course selections are subject to approval by the Course Coordinators to ensure a coherent and academically rigorous study plan. 

Programme Director

Professor Huang, L.

Email: msclat[at]hku[dot]hk 

Phone: +852 3917 1507