BEng Aerospace Engineering

Students acquire practical experience through extensive laboratory courses, senior design projects, and direct hands-on exposure to Carleton's world-class facilities. The program integrates hands-on experience in aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft systems with the assistance of state-of-the-art labs including the MAE Structures Lab, Gas Turbine Laboratory, UAV and Micro Aerial Vehicles Facility, and the Low Reynolds Number Tow Tank. Capstone projects with industry relevance and simulation tools form the core of the program's applied focus. Students can also be a part of the Carleton Planetary Robotics Team, building Mars rovers for international competition, and be a part of the Co-op program for industry-paid placement. Significant experiential opportunities include:

• Use of the MAE Structures Lab, Gas Turbine Laboratory, UAV and Micro Aerial Vehicles Facility, and Low Reynolds Number Tow Tank for experimental testing and research

• Use of aerospace-focused CAD and simulation software in courses like Aerospace Engineering Graphical Design

• Group design projects, including aircraft and spacecraft component design and analysis

• Capstone projects and challenges in the fourth year that are industry-related

• Membership in student teams, including the Carleton Planetary Robotics Team, building and programming Mars rovers for global competitions

• Paid work terms co-op program with leading aerospace employers

• Interdisciplinary research projects on advanced aerospace topics with the faculty

Graduates of the BEng Aerospace Engineering at Carleton University are highly sought after in Canada’s aerospace, aviation, defence, and space sectors, as well as internationally. Alumni secure roles such as aerospace engineer, aircraft or spacecraft designer, propulsion engineer, avionics systems engineer, flight test engineer, manufacturing engineer, satellite systems engineer, and project manager. Major employers include Bombardier, MDA, Pratt & Whitney Canada, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Canadian Space Agency, and government research labs. Many students complete paid co-op placements, gaining hands-on experience in areas like aircraft design, propulsion, avionics, and satellite technology.

You’ll benefit from:

• Strong industry links: Carleton’s program is Canada’s first accredited aerospace engineering degree and maintains direct partnerships with leading aerospace and space companies, providing access to co-op placements, internships, and collaborative industry projects.

• Hands-on experience: Students engage in laboratory work, design projects, and real-world engineering challenges across four speciality streams: Aerodynamics, Aerospace Structures, Aerospace Electronics and Systems, and Space Systems Design.

• Career support and alumni network: Dedicated career services and a strong alumni network help graduates access opportunities in industry, research, and entrepreneurship.

Graduate outcomes: Many graduates pursue further study (MASc, MEng, PhD) at Carleton or other top institutions, specialising in areas like aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, or space systems. Typical starting salaries for aerospace engineers in Canada are CAD $60,000–$75,000, with experienced professionals earning $90,000–$120,000+, and senior roles exceeding $120,000 annually.

Further Academic Progression: You can pursue research-intensive MASc and PhD programs or a professionally oriented MEng in Aerospace Engineering at Carleton or other leading universities. Specialisations include aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, structures and materials, and space systems design. The program’s strong technical and research foundation also prepares you for academic, R&D, and leadership careers in the aerospace and technology sectors, both in Canada and internationally.