BS Aerospace Engineering

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

California State University Long Beach

Program Overview

The BS in Aerospace Engineering at California State University, Long Beach is a four-year, on-campus program designed for students who want to gain both fundamental and advanced knowledge in aerospace engineering. The curriculum prepares students for careers in the aerospace industry or for graduate study, with a strong emphasis on engineering mathematics, sciences, and hands-on design, as well as essential communication and humanistic studies.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1: You’ll begin your studies with foundational courses such as MATH 122 Calculus I and MATH 123 Calculus II, building your mathematical skills for engineering analysis. You’ll also take PHYS 151 Physics for Engineers I and CHEM 111A General Chemistry, which establish your understanding of core scientific principles. Introduction to Engineering and EGCP 180 Computer Methods in Engineering round out your first year, introducing you to problem-solving and computational tools used in aerospace engineering.
Year 2: In your second year, you’ll deepen your technical foundation with courses like PHYS 152 Physics for Engineers II and CE 205 Statics, exploring the forces that act on structures. You’ll continue with MATH 224 Calculus III and MATH 247 Introduction to Linear Algebra and Differential Equations, which are essential for advanced engineering analysis. This year also includes MAE 205 Materials Engineering and MAE 272 Engineering Graphics, giving you a practical understanding of engineering materials and design communication.
Year 3: Your third year introduces specialized aerospace content, including MAE 330 Thermodynamics and MAE 336 Fluid Mechanics, which are critical for understanding propulsion and aerodynamics. You’ll take MAE 373 Mechanics of Materials and MAE 371 Analytical Mechanics, developing expertise in the behavior of aerospace structures. The curriculum also includes MAE 322 Aerospace Structural Analysis and MAE 350 Aerospace Engineering Fundamentals, providing a comprehensive overview of the field.
Year 4: In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced aerospace topics and design. Courses such as MAE 471 Aerospace Propulsion and MAE 480 Aerospace Design Project I allow you to apply your knowledge to real-world engineering problems. You’ll also study MAE 490 Avionics and MAE 483 Flight Dynamics and Control, preparing you for the complexities of modern aerospace systems. The program culminates with the MAE 481 Aerospace Design Project II capstone, where you’ll work in teams to design and present a comprehensive aerospace system.

Focus areas: Aerodynamics, propulsion, structural analysis, materials science, avionics, flight dynamics, aerospace design.

Learning outcomes: Graduates develop the ability to analyze and design aerospace systems, apply engineering principles to solve complex problems, communicate technical information effectively, and work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.

Professional alignment (accreditation): The BS in Aerospace Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Reputation (employability rankings): California State University, Long Beach is recognized for its strong engineering programs, with the BS in Aerospace Engineering consistently ranked among reputable national platforms and producing job-ready graduates for the aerospace industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

California State University Long Beach (CSULB) offers a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, a four-year, 120-unit on-campus program with emphases in both Aeronautics (flight in the atmosphere) and Astronautics (space flight). The program is structured to provide both foundational engineering education and specialized aerospace training, supported by specific facilities and experiential learning opportunities.

Facilities & Experiential Learning

Aerospace Laboratory (AE 481): In your senior year, you’ll take AE 481, a dedicated Aerospace Laboratory course where you conduct hands-on experiments in aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural analysis using specialized lab equipment.
Wind Tunnel Access: Students use wind tunnel facilities for coursework in Aerodynamics I and II (AE 351, AE 352), performing experiments to measure lift, drag, and pressure distributions on aircraft models.
Propulsion Systems Lab: In AE 440, you’ll study and test propulsion systems, gaining practical experience with engines and thrust measurement setups as part of the propulsion curriculum.
Aerospace Structures Labs: Courses like AE 374 and AE 373 include laboratory components where you analyze and test aerospace materials and structural assemblies, applying concepts from mechanics and materials science.
Senior Design Project (AE 490): The year-long capstone project involves team-based design, construction, and testing of aerospace systems—aircraft or spacecraft—often using lab and workshop facilities for prototyping and evaluation.
Computer-Aided Design & Simulation: Throughout the program, you’ll use industry-standard CAD and simulation software for structural analysis, fluid dynamics, and systems modeling, particularly in design and capstone courses.
Student Organizations: CSULB hosts a chapter of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), where students participate in national design competitions, workshops, and networking events, further enhancing practical experience.
Engineering Student Success Center (ESSC): Provides academic advising, tutoring, and support, ensuring students meet critical course benchmarks and have access to resources for academic success.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering at California State University Long Beach (CSULB) opens the door to a world of exciting career opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in roles such as aerospace engineer, systems engineer, and project manager, contributing to innovative projects in the aerospace sector. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is strong, making it a promising choice for your future:

- University Services for Employment: CSULB offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs specifically tailored for engineering students. The Engineering Career Services team connects students with industry professionals and potential employers.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of graduates from the College of Engineering secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $80,000 per year, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: CSULB has established partnerships with leading aerospace companies such as Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and SpaceX, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience that enhances their learning.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Aerospace Engineering program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest educational standards and is recognized by employers worldwide.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, with many going on to work on cutting-edge projects in areas like aircraft design, space exploration, and defense systems.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BS in Aerospace Engineering, you have the option to further your education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related fields. CSULB offers a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering, which allows you to specialize in areas such as propulsion, structures, or systems engineering. Additionally, you could consider pursuing a Ph.D. for a career in research or academia, further enhancing your expertise and career prospects in this dynamic field.