Why Choose a Masters in Aerospace Engineering?
A degree in aeronautical or aerospace engineering provides the credentials that students need to go to the top of this enticing industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that aerospace and aviation engineers will earn a median salary of around $109,650 each year. Some of the highest wage earners make over $160,000 annually.
Choosing a Masters in Aerospace Engineering
It normally takes around two years to graduate from a master’s program in aerospace engineering, and students have the opportunity to specialize in propulsion, avionics, aerodynamics, structures, aerospace materials and more. Jobs in this field include becoming an aerospace engineer or scientist.
Top 5 Masters in Aerospace Engineering Programs
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Maine | Orono, Maine |
| 2 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach, Florida |
| 3 | Missouri University of Science and Technology | Rolla, Missouri |
| 4 | Auburn University | Auburn, Alabama |
| 5 | North Carolina State University | Raleigh, North Carolina |
Below are the top 15 schools for a Master’s In Aerospace Engineering in the United States. The schools have been ranked from the best to worst based on their scores in tuition and enrollment.
The Best 15 Schools for a Masters in Aerospace Engineering
University of Maine
Sitting at the top of the list is the University of Maine. The University of Maine offers a Master of Science in Engineering and Business: Aerospace Engineering. This program is technically a professional science master’s degree, but the specialization is in aerospace engineering. An internship is required before graduation.
School Overview
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University distinctly focuses on aeronautics. Its programs are available with or without a thesis and can be taken online or with a hybrid option. The master’s program is made up of 30 credit hours.
School Overview
Missouri University of Science and Technology
The Missouri University of Science and Technology offers a 30 credit hour thesis and non-thesis track for a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. Students can also select from several graduate certificates in aerospace engineering including one in engineering mechanics or manufacturing automation.
School Overview
Auburn University
At Auburn University, students can obtain a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering. The flexible degree is available and designed for those with an undergraduate degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Students are expected to pass an on-campus examination before they can obtain a master’s degree.
School Overview
North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University offers a 30-credit hour option for a Master in Aerospace Engineering. The school offers this program asynchronously, either online or on-campus. To get a Master’s Degree in Aeronautics and Aviation Engineering, there is no thesis or final exam requirement.
School Overview
University of Texas-Arlington
At the University of Texas-Arlington, students can choose from one of four specializations in the field of aeronautics. They can learn about fluid dynamics, propulsion and aerodynamics, flight mechanics and controls as well as others. Many students in this program go on to work in research and development in aerospace engineering careers.
School Overview
University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida offers a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering and is part of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. There are three tracks available and it’s offered online.
School Overview
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Technical University offers a Master in Aerospace Engineering through the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering. The program offers live-streamed courses to students who want to take it online, but it is also available in-person.
School Overview
Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University has an online Master of Science in Space Systems Engineering. The skills taught in this course also prepare students to work with aerospace systems.
School Overview
Virginia Tech
At Virginia Tech, students spend 30 credit hours studying to get a Masters in Aeronautics Engineering. There is a thesis and non-thesis program available. Unlike some other programs, this one does require a final oral examination before obtaining the degree.
School Overview
University of Colorado-Boulder
The University of Colorado Boulder offers a master’s degree in aerospace engineering through its Ann and HJ Smead School of Aerospace Engineering Sciences. Students can choose one of four specialization options including bioastronautics and remote sensing. Students can take the course online or in a blended learning format.
School Overview
University of Alabama
The University of Alabama offers a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics. The program focuses on continuum mechanics, wing theory, the dynamics of flight and other aeronautics and aviation topics. There are only two core courses in this program. One of them is in aerospace engineering, while the other is in mechanical engineering.
School Overview
University of Florida
In just 30 credit hours, students at the University of Florida can obtain a Master’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering through the school’s Electronic Delivery of Gator Engineering program (EDGE). Most students complete the program within 24 months.
School Overview
University of Southern California
The University of Southern California offers specific specialization areas in the field of aerospace engineering. Students can learn about areas such as propulsion or aerospace structures. Students need to maintain a 3.0 GPA to get their master’s degrees.
School Overview
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
With a 32 credit hour course, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a non-thesis Aeronautics and Aviation Engineering program. Students learn about aircraft flight mechanics, advanced orbital mechanics and other important topics.
School Overview
Ranking Specifications
The schools in this article have been ranked from 1 to 15, with 1 being the best and 15 being the worst based on our specifications. We calculate the score based on overall tuition and enrollment to come up with this list. Keep in mind that the information here may change, and the results are not guaranteed.
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