BS Aerospace Engineering

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Rutgers University

Program Overview

The BS in Aerospace Engineering at Rutgers University–New Brunswick is a four-year, on-campus program that prepares students for careers in the aerospace industry or for graduate study. The curriculum emphasises the design, analysis, and operation of aircraft and spacecraft, with a strong foundation in engineering fundamentals and specialised aerospace courses.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1: You’ll begin with foundational courses in mathematics and science, including Calculus I & II (01:640:151, 152), Analytical Physics IA/IB with labs (01:750:123/124, 133/134), General Chemistry for Engineers (01:160:159/160), and Introduction to Engineering (14:440:127). General education requirements in writing and humanities are also completed.
Year 2: You’ll take core engineering and aerospace subjects such as Engineering Mechanics: Dynamics (14:440:222), Multivariable Calculus (01:640:251), Introduction to Aerospace Engineering (14:650:210), Analytical Physics IIA & Lab (01:750:227, 229), Mechanics of Materials (14:650:291), Engineering Economics (14:540:343), Differential Equations (01:640:244), Thermodynamics (14:650:351), Introduction to Mechatronics (14:650:361), and Computer-Aided Design in MAE (14:650:388).
Year 3: You’ll advance into specialized aerospace topics, including Advanced Calculus for Engineering (01:640:421), Fluid Mechanics (14:650:312), Design of Mechanical Components (14:650:342), MAE Measurements with Lab (14:650:350), Dynamic Systems and Controls (14:650:401), Aerospace Materials (14:650:449), Aerospace Structures (14:650:458), Aerodynamics (14:650:460), Aircraft Flight Dynamics (14:650:471), and a Humanities/Social Sciences elective.
Year 4: The final year includes Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Laboratory I (14:650:431), Multiphysics Simulations (14:650:439), Spacecraft and Mission Design (14:650:457), Orbital Mechanics (14:650:465), Aerospace Engineering Design I & II (14:650:487, 488), Aerospace Engineering Laboratory (14:650:433), Aerospace Propulsion (14:650:459), Compressible Fluid Dynamics (14:650:463), technical electives, and additional humanities/social sciences electives.

Focus areas: Aerodynamics, propulsion, aerospace structures, flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, spacecraft and mission design, dynamic systems and controls, aerospace materials.

Learning outcomes: Graduates will be able to analyse and design aerospace vehicles and systems, apply advanced engineering principles, conduct laboratory experiments, and solve complex aerospace engineering problems.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Reputation (employability rankings): Rutgers University–New Brunswick’s Aerospace Engineering program is ranked among the top 50 in the US and is recognised for its rigorous curriculum and strong industry preparation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Rutgers University, the BS in Aerospace Engineering program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for real-world challenges in the aerospace industry. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students can immerse themselves in projects that enhance their understanding and application of aerospace concepts.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the Aerospace Engineering program at Rutgers:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students have access to specialized labs, including the Aerospace Engineering Laboratory and the Wind Tunnel Laboratory, where they can conduct experiments and simulations.

- Software Tools: The program utilizes industry-standard software such as MATLAB, SolidWorks, and ANSYS for design, analysis, and simulation, allowing students to gain proficiency in tools that are widely used in the field.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills as students work together to design and build aerospace systems.

- Internships and Co-ops: Rutgers has strong connections with leading aerospace companies, providing students with internship opportunities that offer valuable industry experience and networking.

- Field Trips: Students often participate in field trips to aerospace companies and research facilities, giving them insight into the industry and the chance to see theoretical concepts in action.

- Research Institutes: The Rutgers Institute of Advanced Materials and the Rutgers Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation provide additional research opportunities and resources for students interested in aerospace applications.

- Libraries and Resources: The university's libraries offer extensive resources, including access to aerospace engineering journals, databases, and technical reports that support student research and learning.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your education but also make you a competitive candidate in the aerospace job market. If you're ready to take the next step in your aerospace engineering journey, consider applying to Rutgers University. For more information on the facilities available, you can check out the full list here: [Rutgers Facilities](https://facilities.rutgers.edu).

Progression & Future Opportunities

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.