BS Aerospace Engineering

Rutgers University–New Brunswick offers a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, an ABET-accredited on-campus program and the only public aerospace engineering degree in New Jersey. The curriculum provides a multidisciplinary foundation in both aircraft and spacecraft design, with courses covering spacecraft mission design, propulsion, mechanical control systems, system dynamics and controls, orbital mechanics, aerodynamics, astrodynamics, power plants, and aerospace materials and structures.

Facilities & Experiential Learning:

• Emil Buehler Aerospace Laboratory: A state-of-the-art, two-story facility dedicated to drone and aerospace projects. Students use this space for hands-on work in unmanned aerial systems, autonomous vehicles, and aerospace system prototyping.

• Buehler Supersonic Wind Tunnel: This advanced wind tunnel enables students to conduct experiments in high-speed aerodynamics, supporting both coursework and research in supersonic flow and flight technology.

• Subsonic Wind Tunnels: Both desktop and standalone subsonic wind tunnels are available for undergraduate experiments in aerodynamics, allowing students to test models and analyze airflow as part of their lab courses and design projects.

• Aerospace Modelling & Simulation: Students engage in computational simulations of aerospace structures, propulsion systems, and fluid dynamics using industry-standard software, as well as visualisation and autonomous control projects.

• Year-Long Capstone Design Project: In their senior year, students participate in a team-based capstone project where they conceptualise, design, and manufacture aerospace system prototypes, applying their classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.

• FAA-Designated Drone Test Site: Rutgers is one of six FAA-designated test sites for drone integration into national airspace, providing students with unique opportunities to work on cutting-edge UAV research and testing.

• Industry and Research Partnerships: The program has strong connections with NASA, the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Marotta Controls, facilitating internships, research projects, and career opportunities for students.

• Student Projects: Students build autonomous and wired controls, robotic systems, aerial micro vehicles, and participate in research on lunar and Martian habitats, flexible robotic mechanisms, and high-speed vehicle control.

Graduates of Rutgers University’s Bachelor's in Aerospace Engineering program are prepared for high-impact roles such as aerospace engineer, spacecraft designer, propulsion specialist, and flight systems analyst with employers like NASA, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium. You’ll be ready to innovate in aircraft, spacecraft, and drone design, as well as propulsion and control systems.

Career Preparation & Outcomes:

• University Services for Career Success: You’ll benefit from personalised academic advising, hands-on experience in the Emil Buehler Aerospace Laboratory, and involvement in student chapters like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). Rutgers Career Exploration and Success offers career fairs, resume workshops, and internship placement support.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Aerospace engineering graduates nationally earn a median salary of $130,720 (U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics, 2023), and Rutgers graduates enjoy strong placement rates with top aerospace firms and government labs.

• University–Industry Partnerships: Rutgers is an FAA-designated test site for drone integration and partners with industry leaders such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, NASA, and the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium, providing students with internships, research opportunities, and career pathways.

• Long-Term Accreditation Value: The Bachelor's in Aerospace Engineering is fully accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring your degree is globally recognised and meets the highest standards.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate with expertise in spacecraft mission design, propulsion, system dynamics and controls, and orbital mechanics, culminating in a senior capstone project that simulates real-world aerospace engineering challenges.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your Bachelor's in Aerospace Engineering at Rutgers, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s in aerospace or mechanical engineering, or to enrol in Rutgers’ BS/MS five-year dual degree program. The program also prepares you for advanced certifications and leadership roles in aerospace, defence, and technology sectors.