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The Aerospace Engineering curriculum at Iowa State encompasses the design, function, and testing of vehicles operating in atmospheric and space environments. Students delve into areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, flight dynamics, control systems, and structural mechanics. The program emphasises hands-on learning, with opportunities to engage in projects ranging from aircraft and spacecraft design to autonomous vehicles and underwater systems.
Curriculum Breakdown (Years 1–4)
The program spans four years, integrating foundational courses with advanced aerospace topics:
Year 1: Introduction to engineering principles, calculus, physics, chemistry, and introductory aerospace courses.
Year 2: Courses in statics, materials science, dynamics, mechanics of materials, and performance and design.
Year 3: Advanced studies in aerodynamics, propulsion, flight dynamics, control systems, and computational techniques.
Year 4: Capstone design projects, technical electives, and specialised courses in areas like rocket propulsion and spacecraft dynamics.
Students are required to complete 51 credits in eight areas of study, including aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, controls, astrodynamics, systems and design, software and numerics, and an astronautics requirement. Additionally, students select 9 credits of technical electives tailored to their interests.
Accreditation
The Aerospace Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring it meets the quality standards essential for the profession.
Program Ranking
Iowa State's Aerospace Engineering program is consistently recognised among the top programs in the U.S. for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Campus Location
Iowa State University is located in Ames, Iowa. The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories and research centers, providing students with ample opportunities for hands-on learning and research.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Iowa State emphasises hands-on learning through various avenues:
Laboratories: Students engage in experiments in aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, composites, and flight simulation labs.
Signature Research Areas: Advanced materials and manufacturing, Engineered Medicine, Engineering Education, Energy Systems, Resilient infrastructures, Secure cyberspace and autonomy
Make to Innovate: This program allows students to work on multidisciplinary projects, such as high-altitude balloons, rockets, unmanned aircraft, and lunar rovers.
Capstone Design Projects: In their senior year, students undertake comprehensive design projects, including aircraft and spacecraft design, involving design, construction, and testing.
Spaceflight Operations Workshop: Led by retired NASA astronaut Clayton Anderson, this workshop teaches students to think operationally and develop skills to overcome challenges.
Students also have access to the Student Innovation Center, which provides cutting-edge tools and collaborative spaces to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Iowa State supports students in their career development through:
Career Services: The Engineering Career Services office offers personalised advising, resume reviews, mock interviews, and workshops to prepare students for the job market.
Employment Outcomes: Graduates find opportunities in various sectors, including aerospace companies, research institutions, and government agencies. The university's strong industry connections facilitate job placements and career advancement. More than 1400 companies visit the College of Engineering each year to recruit their students, and 92 percent of their aerospace engineering students have a positive career outcome within six months of graduation with an average starting salary of nearly $74,500.
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.
10th & 12th-grade transcripts / predicted gradesEnglish test results: IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.5), TOEFL iBT 71Optional Common App personal essay (up to 650 words)Bank statement or sponsor letter confirming $47,600 USD, the equivalent of one year's expensesEquivalent to a minimum 3.0 high school GPA on a 4.0 scale. The Office of Admissions recognizes that grading systems vary worldwide, so they will calculate an equivalent GPA when neededSAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. However, students who earn at least a 1200 on the SAT (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing + Math scores) or a 25 composite score on the ACT will automatically be considered to meet the 3.00 GPA requirementAlong with the GPA requirement, students must complete these minimum high school courses: Four years of English (or your native language), three years of science (with at least two years of lab science focusing on biology, chemistry, or physics), three years of math (including algebra and geometry), and two years of social studiesInternational first-year students who have been offered admission will be automatically awarded these renewable merit scholarships based on the high school GPA and SAT or ACT scores: President's Award for International Student Excellence: $48,000 ($12,000 per year), Dean's Award for International Student Excellence: $40,000 ($10,000 per year)Highlight research experience, science competitions, or unique extracurriculars in your application or resumePortfolio, project links, or YouTube channel to enhance your application (optional)Apply via the CommonApp or Iowa State University Applicant PortalThe college provides statewide K-12 STEM outreach and training programsUniversity externally sponsored research in 2024 of $128.25MAeronautical & Aerospace EngineerAerospace Engineering TechnicianAirline Flight Control AdministratorAirport EngineerAviation InspectorElectrical EngineerEngineering ProfessorIndustrial EngineerMaterials EngineerMechanical EngineerNuclear EngineerPilotProduct Safety EngineerShip PilotStructural Engineer
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