Aerospace Engineering Major
Aerospace Engineering is the design and analysis of aircraft, spacecraft, and propulsion systems. It is a major within Engineering & Technology.
Aerospace Engineering focuses on designing and analyzing aircraft, spacecraft, and the engines that power them. Students in this major learn how to solve problems related to flight, such as how wings generate lift, how to make vehicles stable in the air, and how to minimize fuel consumption. The work involves understanding physics and mathematics deeply—particularly how forces act on moving objects, how materials behave under stress, and how to use computers to simulate and predict performance. Aerospace engineers ask practical questions: Will this design work safely? How can we make it lighter or faster? What happens in extreme conditions like high altitude or reentry?
Students drawn to aerospace engineering typically have strong interests in physics and mathematics, combined with curiosity about how mechanical systems work. They often enjoy solving tangible problems and seeing their ideas take physical form. The major typically begins with foundational courses in mathematics, physics, and basic engineering principles, then gradually moves into specialized topics such as aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, and control systems. Coursework typically balances theory with hands-on learning, including lab work, design projects, and computer modeling, which help students apply what they learn to realistic scenarios.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Aerospace Engineering program commonly includes topics such as:
- Aerodynamics
- Flight mechanics
- Propulsion
- Structures
- Orbital mechanics
- Control systems
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Aerospace Engineering is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Aerospace Engineering background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Aerospace engineer
- Systems engineer
- Propulsion engineer
- Flight test engineer
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Aerospace Engineering major?
Aerospace Engineering is the design and analysis of aircraft, spacecraft, and propulsion systems. It is part of engineering & technology, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Aerospace Engineering majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as aerodynamics, flight mechanics, propulsion, structures, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Aerospace Engineering major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as aerospace engineer, systems engineer, propulsion engineer. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Aerospace Engineering offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.