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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Rensselaer Polytechnic InstitutePI's Aeronautical Engineering B.S. program, offered through the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering (MANE), focuses on the analysis, design, and operation of structures and vehicles that involve safe, sustained, and controlled atmospheric flight. This includes aircraft, helicopters, drones, and extends to systems like wind turbines and submarines operating in aerodynamic or hydrodynamic environments.
The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from various engineering fields to equip students with the skills necessary to tackle complex aerospace challenges.
Curriculum Breakdown (Years 1–4)
Year 1: Foundations
Introduction to Engineering Principles, Calculus and Physics, Computer Programming and General Chemistry
Year 2: Core Engineering Concepts
Statics and Dynamics, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics and Materials Science
Year 3: Specialised Aerospace Topics
Aerodynamics, Propulsion Systems, Flight Mechanics and Control Systems
Year 4: Integration and Application
Capstone Design Project, Advanced Electives in Aerospace Systems, Laboratory Work and Technical Communication
Accreditation
The Aeronautical Engineering program at RPI is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring that it meets the quality standards essential for the profession.
Program Ranking
#20 – Best Undergraduate School for Aerospace Engineering (U.S. News & World Report, 2022)
#33 – Best Undergraduate School for Engineering (U.S. News & World Report, 2023)
Campus Location
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is located in Troy, New York, offering students a vibrant campus experience in a city rich with history and innovation. The campus provides state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories and research centres, fostering an environment conducive to learning and discovery.
RPI emphasizes hands-on learning through various programs:
Multidisciplinary Design Laboratory (MDL): A hub where engineering seniors collaborate on industry-sponsored projects, addressing real-world challenges in areas like alternative energy and healthcare.
Manufacturing Innovation Learning Lab (MILL): Focuses on advanced manufacturing education, providing students with access to industry-grade equipment and fostering innovation in micro and nano-manufacturing.
Undergraduate Research: Opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research alongside faculty, enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Study Abroad Programs: Encourage global exposure, allowing students to gain international experience and broaden their cultural understanding.
The Arch Program: A unique initiative where students participate in a full-time summer semester, followed by a fall or spring semester dedicated to co-ops, internships, or research, providing practical experience in their field.
RPI's Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) offers comprehensive services to support students' career aspirations:
Career Counseling: Personalised guidance to help students identify career paths and opportunities.
Resume and Interview Workshops: Training sessions to prepare students for job applications and interviews.
Job and Internship Fairs: Events connecting students with potential employers across various industries.
Co-op and Internship Programs: Structured programs providing practical work experience, enhancing employability upon graduation.
Further Academic Progression: Students can pursue postgraduate programs such as an MS in Aerospace, Astronautics, Aeronautics, MBA in Aviation, or AI & Data Science after a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering.
These resources aim to bridge the gap between academic preparation and professional success, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce.
10th & 12th-grade transcripts / predicted gradesEnglish test results: IELTS 7.0, TOEFL iBT 88CommonApp personal essay (uo to 650 words)Request a letter of recommendation from a counselor or teacher, preferably a math or science teacher who knows you wellAny student who applies to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute as an undergraduate in the fall of 2026 will be able to choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. This is a continuation of the temporary suspension of our standardized testing requirement, and it will be re-evaluated for the fall 2027 application cycleRPI does not conduct interviews as part of the application process. International applicants can submit an InitialView interview, which offers an informal opportunity to share their background, experiences, and interestsEvidence of financial support to cover educational and living expenses is required for students who will study on a non-immigrant (F-1 or J-1) visaHighlight research experience, science competitions, or unique extracurriculars in your applicationPortfolio, project links, or YouTube channel to enhance your application (optional)Apply via the CommonApp or the Candidate's ChoiceAeronautical & Aerospace EngineerAerospace Engineering TechnicianAirline Flight Control AdministratorAirport EngineerAviation InspectorElectrical EngineerEngineering ProfessorIndustrial EngineerMaterials EngineerMechanical EngineerNuclear EngineerPilotProduct Safety EngineerShip PilotStructural Engineer
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