Aerospace Engineering Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Getting an Aerospace Engineering Degree in Des Moines, Iowa

Are you considering earning an Aerospace Engineering degree in Des Moines, Iowa? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pursuing this exciting and challenging career path. Aerospace Engineering focuses on the design, development, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment. With a degree in Aerospace Engineering, you can contribute to groundbreaking advancements in aviation and space exploration.

In Des Moines, prospective students have access to educational pathways and resources to help them launch a successful career in Aerospace Engineering. Whether you’re looking for a bachelor’s degree, advanced studies, or transfer programs, this article outlines your options.

About Des Moines, Iowa

Located in the heart of Iowa, Des Moines is the state capital and a vibrant hub for culture, business, and education. Known for its historic landmarks like the Iowa State Capitol and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Des Moines is also home to a growing network of industries, including technology and advanced manufacturing. For more information about the city, visit the official Des Moines website.

Aerospace Engineering Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

While Des Moines itself does not currently host universities offering full Aerospace Engineering degree programs, nearby institutions provide excellent opportunities for students in this field. Here are the top programs available:

1. Iowa State University (Ames, Iowa)

• Distance from Des Moines: Approximately 35 miles (45 minutes by car)
• Program Details: Iowa State University offers Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Master of Science (M.S.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Aerospace Engineering. The program is accredited by ABET and features hands-on initiatives like the Make To Innovate (M:2:I) program, where students engage in real-world aerospace projects.
• Website: Iowa State University Aerospace Engineering Department

2. University of Iowa (Iowa City, Iowa)

• Distance from Des Moines: Approximately 115 miles (2 hours by car)
• Program Details: The University of Iowa offers Aerospace Engineering courses through its Mechanical Engineering Department, with opportunities to specialize in aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural mechanics.
• Website: University of Iowa Engineering Programs

3. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Aerospace Engineering Transfer Program

• Location: Des Moines, Iowa
• Program Details: DMACC offers a transfer program that allows students to complete foundational coursework in engineering before transferring to a four-year institution like Iowa State University to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering.
• Website: DMACC Aerospace Engineering Transfer Program

Aerospace Engineering Employment Opportunities in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to a variety of employers and organizations that support careers in Aerospace Engineering. While the city itself is not a major aerospace hub, nearby opportunities exist, including at Iowa State University’s research facilities and regional aerospace companies.

1. Collins Aerospace (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)

• Distance from Des Moines: Approximately 115 miles
• Overview: Collins Aerospace is a global leader in aerospace system design and manufacturing, specializing in avionics and aircraft systems. They frequently hire engineers for roles in development, testing, and systems integration.
• Website: Collins Aerospace Careers

2. Rockwell Collins Research Facilities

• Location: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
• Overview: Part of Collins Aerospace, this facility focuses on advanced research and development in avionics and communications systems.
• Website: Rockwell Collins Research

Prerequisites for Aerospace Engineering Programs

Before enrolling in an Aerospace Engineering program, students must meet the following general prerequisites:

• Educational Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Coursework: Completion of advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus), physics, and chemistry
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admission; GRE scores for graduate programs
• GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA varies by institution, typically ranging from 3.0 to 3.5

Specific requirements may vary by school, so it’s essential to check directly with the institution.

Aerospace Engineering Degree Requirements in Iowa

To earn an Aerospace Engineering degree in Iowa, students must complete a combination of core coursework, electives, and hands-on projects. Here’s an overview of typical degree requirements:

Core Courses

• Aerospace Design
• Incompressible Flow
• Aerospace Control Systems
• Mechanics of Materials
• Engineering Thermodynamics
• Computational Techniques for Aerospace Design

Additional Requirements

• Internships or Co-ops: While not mandatory, these provide valuable industry experience.
• Capstone Project: A comprehensive project that integrates knowledge and skills learned throughout the program.

Accreditation

• Programs in Iowa are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring quality and relevance in education.

Regulatory Oversight

• The Iowa Board of Regents oversees public universities in Iowa, including Iowa State University.
• For national standards, consult the U.S. Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Get Started Today

Pursuing an Aerospace Engineering degree in the Des Moines area opens the door to a rewarding career in a dynamic and innovative field. Whether you’re interested in designing aircraft, exploring space technologies, or contributing to cutting-edge research, Iowa offers excellent educational and professional opportunities. Take the first step by contacting a school today and exploring how you can make your dream of becoming an aerospace engineer a reality.