BS Aerospace Engineering

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

Program Overview

The BS in Aerospace Engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a four-year, on-campus program designed to prepare students for careers in aircraft, spacecraft, and propulsion system design, as well as space exploration. Students choose from Aeronautics, Astronautics, Jet Propulsion, or Rocket Propulsion options, each providing a rigorous curriculum of engineering fundamentals, hands-on laboratory experiences, and advanced technical electives.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1: You’ll begin with foundational courses in mathematics and science, including MA 241 Calculus and Analytical Geometry I, MA 242 Calculus and Analytical Geometry II, PS 150 Physics for Engineers I, and CHM 140 Chemistry for Engineers. The first year also includes general education courses and an introduction to engineering, laying the groundwork for advanced aerospace topics.
Year 2: The second year introduces core engineering mechanics and technical communication. You’ll take AE 201 Aerospace Flight Vehicles, COM 221 Technical Report Writing, ES 201 Statics, ES 202 Solid Mechanics, ES 204 Dynamics, ES 305 Thermodynamics, and continue with advanced mathematics in MA 243 Calculus and Analytical Geometry III and MA 345 Differential Equations and Matrix Methods. Physics continues with PS 160 Physics for Engineers II, PS 250 Physics for Engineers III, and PS 253 Physics Laboratory for Engineers.
Year 3: This year focuses on specialized aerospace engineering content. Courses include AE 307 Incompressible Aerodynamics, AE 308 Compressible Aerodynamics, AE 313 Space Mechanics, AE 314 Experimental Aerodynamics, AE 315 Experimental Aerodynamics Laboratory, AE 316 Aerospace Engineering Materials, AE 318 Aerospace Structures I, AE 403 Jet Propulsion, AE 413 Airplane Stability and Control, COM 219 Speech, EE 327 Electrical Engineering Fundamentals, EE 328 Electrical Engineering Fundamentals Laboratory, and MA 345 Differential Equations and Matrix Methods or MA 432 Linear Algebra, depending on your chosen option.
Year 4: In your final year, you’ll complete advanced design, analysis, and laboratory courses. Depending on your option, you may take AE 418 Aerospace Structures II, AE 420 Aircraft Preliminary Design, AE 421 Aircraft Detail Design, AE 432 Flight Dynamics and Control, AE 427 Spacecraft Preliminary Design, AE 445 Spacecraft Detail Design, AE 435 Jet Propulsion Preliminary Design, AE 440 Jet Propulsion Detail Design, AE 441 Rocket Propulsion Preliminary Design, or AE 451 Rocket Propulsion Detail Design. All students complete AE 416 Aerospace Structures and Instrumentation, AE 417 Aerospace Structures and Instrumentation Laboratory, AE 442 Experimental Dynamics and Control, and AE 443 Experimental Dynamics and Control Laboratory, alongside approved technical electives and humanities or social sciences electives.

Focus areas: Aerodynamics, aerospace structures, propulsion, flight dynamics, spacecraft systems, jet and rocket propulsion, experimental aerodynamics, engineering design.

Learning outcomes: Graduates are prepared to design and analyze aircraft and spacecraft, conduct laboratory experiments, use industry-standard engineering tools, and work in multidisciplinary teams to solve complex aerospace challenges.

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

Reputation (employability rankings): Embry-Riddle is globally recognized as a leader in aerospace education, with its Aerospace Engineering program consistently ranked among the top in the United States and producing highly employable graduates for the aerospace sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering are immersed in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes hands-on experience and practical skills. The university is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. This experiential learning approach not only enhances understanding but also prepares students for successful careers in the aerospace industry.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available to Aerospace Engineering students at Embry-Riddle:

- Advanced Laboratories: Access to specialized labs such as the Aerospace Engineering Lab, where students can conduct experiments and simulations related to aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials.

- Wind Tunnel Facilities: Utilize the university's subsonic and supersonic wind tunnels to test and analyze aerodynamic designs, providing invaluable hands-on experience.

- Flight Simulation: Engage with advanced flight simulators that replicate real-world flying conditions, allowing students to understand aircraft performance and control systems.

- Capstone Projects: Collaborate on team-based capstone projects that involve designing, building, and testing an aircraft or spacecraft, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

- Internship Opportunities: Take advantage of partnerships with leading aerospace companies, offering internships that provide practical experience and networking opportunities in the industry.

- Software Proficiency: Gain expertise in industry-standard software such as MATLAB, CATIA, and ANSYS, which are essential for design, analysis, and simulation in aerospace engineering.

- Field Trips and Industry Visits: Participate in organized field trips to aerospace companies, research facilities, and airshows, providing insights into the industry and potential career paths.

- Research Institutes: Engage with faculty-led research initiatives at the university's various institutes, such as the Center for Aerospace Structures and the Eagle Flight Research Center.

- Library Resources: Access extensive library resources, including aerospace engineering journals, databases, and technical reports, to support research and coursework.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering prepares graduates for a dynamic career in one of the most exciting fields. With a strong foundation in engineering principles, graduates often find themselves in roles such as Aerospace Engineer, Systems Engineer, and Flight Test Engineer. The demand for skilled professionals in aerospace is robust, making this degree a valuable asset in the job market.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and opportunities:

- University Services: Embry-Riddle offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs specifically tailored for engineering students. The Eagle Hire system connects students with potential employers and internship opportunities.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of aerospace engineering graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $70,000 per year, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Embry-Riddle has established partnerships with leading aerospace companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and NASA, providing students with unique internship and co-op opportunities that enhance their practical experience and employability.

- 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 from the program have gone on to work for top-tier companies and government agencies, contributing to groundbreaking projects in aviation and space exploration.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BS in Aerospace Engineering, you have the option to pursue advanced studies. Many graduates choose to enroll in master’s programs in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or related fields. Additionally, Embry-Riddle offers a range of graduate programs, including a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering and an MBA with a focus on aviation, allowing you to further specialize and enhance your career prospects.