BS Aeronautical Engineering

Southern New Hampshire University’s BS in Aeronautical Engineering is a four-year, ABET-accredited, on-campus program designed for students who want to bring aircraft designs from concept to reality through hands-on, project-based learning. The program blends rigorous engineering theory with extensive practical experience, preparing you for roles in aircraft design, analysis, manufacturing, and testing.

• CETA Facility: The new 67,000-square-foot College of Engineering, Technology and Aeronautics (CETA) building houses flexible teaching labs, a drone flying arena, unmanned aerial vehicle prep space, a wood shop, robotics lab, wind tunnel, and a 3D printing lab. The facility also includes CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate) hubs for end-to-end project work, from ideation to operation.

• Flight Test Experience: Students participate in flight test classes using an instrumented light aircraft flown by professional pilots. You’ll act as a flight test engineer, collect real flight data, and perform post-flight analysis, gaining direct exposure to industry-standard testing and evaluation.

• Wind Tunnel and Aerodynamics Labs: The wind tunnel supports aerodynamic experiments and design validation, allowing you to test models and prototypes as part of your coursework and team projects.

• Drone and UAV Labs: Dedicated spaces for drone operation and unmanned aerial vehicle preparation allow you to design, build, and fly UAVs, supported by a drone-flying arena for safe and controlled testing.

• Prototyping and Manufacturing: Access to a 3D printing lab, wood shop, and robotics lab enables you to fabricate prototypes, test components, and work on multidisciplinary engineering projects.

• Team-Based Design Sequence: The multi-semester design sequence has you working in teams to solve complex engineering problems, transforming classroom theory into functioning designs that are built, tested, and operated.

• Student Organizations: Join the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Sigma Gamma Tau (aerospace honor society), and other engineering clubs to expand your hands-on experience, leadership, and networking opportunities.

• Small Class Sizes and Mentorship: With average class sizes of 15–25, you’ll receive close attention from faculty with real-world experience, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

Graduates of Southern New Hampshire University’s BS in Aeronautical Engineering are ready to take flight in exciting roles like aerospace engineer, aircraft design specialist, flight test engineer, and systems engineer for leading aviation and aerospace companies. Many SNHU alumni also pursue careers in military aviation, aircraft manufacturing, and advanced research, thanks to the program’s strong industry connections and hands-on training.

Here’s how SNHU sets you up for a successful future:

• Personalised Career Support: You’ll benefit from a supportive campus community, expert faculty with diverse backgrounds, and access to more than 50 student clubs—including the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and Sigma Gamma Tau honour society. SNHU’s strong employer network and alumni connections help you land internships and job opportunities.

• Outstanding Employment Outcomes: The program prepares you for careers in civilian and military aviation, aircraft design, flight testing, jet engine testing, and guidance/control systems. Recent program data shows strong placement for graduates in both public and private sectors, with roles in aircraft design, systems engineering, and project management.

• Industry & Research Partnerships: SNHU’s College of Engineering, Technology and Aeronautics (CETA) maintains an instrumented light aircraft for in-flight experience, allowing you to participate as a flight test engineer and analyse real flight data. The curriculum is built on the international CDIO initiative, emphasising Conceiving, Designing, Implementing, and Operating real-world systems, and is guided by industry professionals and partnerships.

• Accreditation & Lasting Value: The BS in Aeronautical Engineering is fully accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET and the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), ensuring your degree is respected worldwide and meets the highest standards for engineering education.

• Graduate Outcomes: You’ll master skills in engineering design, aerodynamics, propulsion, structural analysis, and flight testing. The program emphasises teamwork, leadership, ethical decision-making, and continuous industry awareness, preparing you for rapid advancement in the field.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Aeronautical Engineering at SNHU, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s or PhD in aeronautical or aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields. The program’s rigorous, ABET-accredited curriculum and strong faculty mentorship also support your growth into specialised certifications or research roles, helping you reach new heights in your career.