What is Aerospace Engineering?
Aerospace Engineering focuses on the design and building of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems, including drones, satellites, commercial airplanes, military jets, and spacecraft for space exploration. Aerospace engineers are innovative problem-solvers who work to advance technologies for transporting people and cargo, design advanced aircraft and spacecraft, and develop next-generation satellite and propulsion systems.
Awareness
First Year
- Develop attention to detail, time management skills, and the ability to meet deadlines.
- Develop good teamwork and communication skills.
- Familiarize yourself with the curriculum, including foundational courses
- MA 125 Calculus I
- MA 126 Calculus II
- CH 131 Chemistry
- PH 201 Physics.
Middle Years
- Take the core courses, such as
- EG 283 Statics
- EG 315 Mechanics of Materials
- EG 270 Thermodynamics
- For details on specific courses review the curriculum flow chart.
- Understand the importance of maintaining a C-grade or higher in "PCS" (prerequisite requires C or better) courses.
- Pursue research experience with a Mechanical Engineering faculty member or opportunities with the Office of Undergraduate Research.
Last Year
- Be aware of the requirement to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination on the last examination date prior to anticipated graduation.
- Apply to graduate.
- Apply for jobs.
- Apply for graduate school (optional).
- Apply for scholarships and/or assistantships for graduate school.
Exploration
First Year
- Explore student organizations and leadership opportunities through Involve South.
- Explore the UTeach South Program and find out if it is a good fit for you.
Middle Years
- Join professional associations such as:
- American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
- Apply for honor societies and explore their scholarship offerings.
- Explore Study Abroad opportunities.
Last Year
- Research graduate programs
- Research companies and organizations in the aerospace sector for potential employment opportunities.
Preparation
First Year
- Log into Accelerate South and build profile strength to 75%+.
- Contact Career Development. Meet with a career consultant to discuss career goals and research fields of specialization.
Middle Years
- Prepare to apply for internships, Co-op, summer jobs, or volunteer positions.
- Attend career fairs and networking events to become knowledgeable of career opportunities available.
Last Year
- Prepare for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination.
- Decide between job search or graduate school before final semester.
- Meet with Career Development to finalize resume and job search or graduate school planning.
What can I do with this major?
- Aerospace Engineer
- Aircraft Designer
- Spacecraft Designer
- Propulsion Systems Engineer
- Aerodynamics Engineer
- Structural Analysis Engineer
- Flight Test Engineer
- Systems Integration Engineer
What skills will I learn?
- Design and build aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems.
- Innovate technologies for transporting people and cargo efficiently and safely.
- Design advanced aircraft and spacecraft.
- Develop advanced materials.
- Develop next-generation satellite and propulsion systems.
- Apply principles of dynamics and statics.
- Analyze thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
- Perform aircraft structural analysis.
- Utilize numerical methods in engineering problem-solving.
- Understand control and instrumentation systems.
- Proficiency in engineering graphics.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking.
- Analytical Skills
- Business Skills
- Communication Skills
- Interpersonal Skills
- Math Skills
