Aerospace Engineering Programs

Comprehensive Guide to Getting an Aerospace Engineering Degree

Aerospace engineering is a cutting-edge field that combines advanced technology, scientific innovation, and creative problem-solving. If you’re fascinated by aircraft, spacecraft, and the mechanics of flight, pursuing a degree in aerospace engineering could be your ticket to an exciting and rewarding career. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining an aerospace engineering degree, from educational requirements to career opportunities.

What is Aerospace Engineering?

Aerospace engineering focuses on the design, development, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment. It’s a field that pushes the boundaries of human achievement, from commercial airliners to interplanetary exploration vehicles.

Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree: Your Launch Pad

The foundation of a career in aerospace engineering typically begins with a bachelor’s degree. Most aerospace engineers hold a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field such as:

Mechanical engineering
Electrical engineering
Computer engineering
Materials science
Physics

Why Accreditation Matters

It’s crucial to choose a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). ABET accreditation ensures your program meets the quality standards set by the engineering profession and is often required for licensing.

What to Expect in Your Coursework

A typical aerospace engineering program requires 124-128 credit hours and covers a wide range of subjects. Core courses often include:

Aerodynamics
Aerospace materials
Linear system analysis
Spacecraft dynamics
Flight dynamics
Propulsion systems
Thermodynamics
Structural analysis

These courses provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of aerospace engineering, preparing you for the challenges of this innovative field.

Specialization Tracks: Aeronautical vs. Astronautical

Many programs offer two main tracks:

Aeronautical Engineering: Focuses on aircraft that fly within Earth’s atmosphere.
Astronautical Engineering: Concentrates on spacecraft and vehicles operating outside Earth’s atmosphere.

Choosing a specialization can help you tailor your education to your specific interests and career goals.

Academic Performance: Reaching for the Stars

To successfully complete an aerospace engineering program, you’ll need to:

Maintain a minimum GPA in major courses (often 2.5 or higher)
Achieve a minimum overall GPA (usually 2.0 or higher)
Successfully complete all required coursework and projects

Meeting these benchmarks demonstrates your mastery of the material and readiness for a career in aerospace engineering.

Certification and Licensing: Navigating the Requirements

Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI)

After graduating, your next step is typically to become certified as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI). This involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination.

Professional Engineer (PE) License

To become a licensed Professional Engineer, you must:

Graduate from an ABET-accredited engineering program
Pass the FE exam and obtain EIT/EI certification
Gain four years of relevant engineering experience
Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam

Remember, requirements can vary by state, so check with your local licensing board for specific details.

Continuing Education: Staying on the Cutting Edge

The aerospace industry is constantly evolving. Many states require continuing education for re-licensure, ensuring you stay current with the latest developments in your field.

Online Certifications and Training

Organizations like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) offer courses, webinars, and conferences to help you stay at the forefront of aerospace engineering.

Essential Skills for Aerospace Engineers

Successful aerospace engineers possess a combination of technical knowledge and soft skills, including:

Strong foundation in math, science, and physics
Proficiency in design and analytical thinking
Attention to detail
Familiarity with computer systems and software
Problem-solving skills
Communication skills (both written and verbal)
Teamwork and collaboration abilities

Career Opportunities: Where Can Your Degree Take You?

An aerospace engineering degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, aerospace engineers can work in various roles including:

Design and development of aircraft and spacecraft
Testing and evaluation of aerospace systems
Research and development of new technologies
Project management in aerospace companies

Advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D., can lead to roles in teaching, research, and development at universities or advanced research institutions.

Top U.S. Schools for Aerospace Engineering

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Location: Cambridge, MA
Aerospace Engineering Program
Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
Cost: Approximately $53,790 per year (tuition and fees)

MIT’s program is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, offering a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.

2. Georgia Institute of Technology

Location: Atlanta, GA
School of Aerospace Engineering
Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
Cost: In-state: $12,852 per year, Out-of-state: $33,964 per year (tuition and fees)

Georgia Tech is known for its strong industry connections and cutting-edge research facilities.

3. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Aerospace Engineering Department
Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
Cost: In-state: $15,558 per year, Out-of-state: $51,200 per year (tuition and fees)

The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive program with a strong focus on research and innovation.

Is Aerospace Engineering Right for You?

Pursuing a degree in aerospace engineering is a challenging but rewarding journey. If you’re passionate about flight, space exploration, and pushing the boundaries of technology, this field offers incredible opportunities to make a real impact on the world.

Remember, the sky’s not the limit in aerospace engineering—it’s just the beginning. Are you ready to launch your career in this exciting field?