BS Aerospace Systems Engineering

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

The University of Akron

Program Overview

The BS in Aerospace Systems Engineering at The University of Akron is a five-year, on-campus program uniquely designed to blend aerospace, mechanical, industrial, and systems engineering with project management. This program is ideal for students who want to lead multidisciplinary teams and develop the technical and leadership skills needed for careers at top aerospace companies, including roles in design, systems integration, and program management.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1: You’ll begin your studies with a strong foundation in mathematics, science, and introductory engineering. Courses such as CHEM 151 Principles of Chemistry I, ENGL 111 English Composition I, MATH 221 Analytic Geometry-Calculus I, and AESE 165 Tools for Aerospace Systems Engineering introduce you to the analytical and communication skills essential for engineers. In the spring, you’ll continue with MATH 222 Analytic Geometry-Calculus II, PHYS 291 Elementary Classical Physics I, and AESE 166 Aerospace Systems Project Management, building your understanding of physics and the basics of managing engineering projects.
Year 2: The second year deepens your technical expertise with courses like ECON 244 Introduction to Economic Analysis, PHYS 292 Elementary Classical Physics II, and AESE 240 Aerospace Systems Engineering I, where you’ll begin to explore the fundamentals of aerospace systems. You’ll also take MECE 210 Statics and MATH 223 Analytic Geometry-Calculus III, further strengthening your engineering and mathematical background. This year concludes with your first cooperative education (co-op) work period, providing valuable real-world experience in the aerospace industry.
Year 3: In your third year, you’ll tackle advanced engineering topics such as MECE 310 Fluid Mechanics I, MECE 315 Heat Transfer, and MECE 337 Design of Mechanical Components. AESE 336 Aerospace Structures and AESE 320 Aerospace Systems Engineering II further immerse you in the design and analysis of aerospace vehicles. You’ll also continue your co-op rotations, alternating between academic semesters and paid industry placements to enhance both your technical skills and professional development.
Year 4: The fourth year focuses on specialised aerospace systems topics, including AESE 340 Avionics I, AESE 380 Aerospace Materials, and AESE 420 Model-based Systems Engineering. You’ll study MECE 411 Compressible Fluid Mechanics and MECE 413 Introduction to Aerodynamics, gaining expertise in the behaviour of fluids and air around aircraft and spacecraft. This year also includes another co-op period, ensuring you graduate with significant industry experience.
Year 5: In your final year, you’ll synthesize your learning with advanced courses and a major capstone project. Courses such as MECE 414 Introduction to Aerospace Propulsion, MECE 460 Concepts of Design, AESE 440 Avionics II, and AESE 450 Aerospace Computations prepare you for the most complex challenges in the field. The AESE 491 Aerospace Design Project I and AESE 492 Aerospace Design Project II sequence allows you to design, build, and test aerospace systems in collaboration with industry partners. MECE 402 Senior Seminar and EG 480 Engineering Ethics and Professional Practice round out your education, preparing you for leadership and ethical decision-making in your career.

Focus areas: Aerospace systems engineering, aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, aerospace materials, flight mechanics, systems integration, project management.

Learning outcomes: Graduates gain expertise in designing, analysing, and integrating aerospace systems; develop strong project management and teamwork skills; and are prepared to lead multidisciplinary engineering teams and projects.

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

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Akron’s program is nationally unique outside of the Air Force Academy, boasts a 100% co-op placement rate, and is recognised for producing graduates who work at leading employers such as NASA, SpaceX, Lockheed Martin, and Collins Aerospace.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At The University of Akron, the BS in Aerospace Systems Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experiences that are essential for success in the aerospace industry. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various projects, internships, and collaborative opportunities, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also skilled in applying their learning in practical settings.

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

- Advanced Laboratories: Students work in specialized labs equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the Aerospace Systems Engineering Lab and the Wind Tunnel Lab, where they can conduct experiments and simulations.

- Software Proficiency: The curriculum includes training in industry-standard software such as MATLAB, SolidWorks, and ANSYS, which are essential for design, analysis, and simulation in aerospace engineering.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the program, allowing students to work in teams to solve complex engineering problems, mirroring the collaborative nature of the aerospace industry.

- Internship Opportunities: The university 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 facilities and companies, giving them insight into the industry and the chance to see engineering principles in action.

- Research Institutes: The University of Akron hosts several research institutes focused on aerospace technology, where students can engage in cutting-edge research alongside faculty and industry professionals.

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

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of The University of Akron’s BS in Aerospace Systems Engineering are in high demand, launching careers as aerospace engineers, systems engineers, flight systems engineers, and mechanical design engineers at top organisations like Collins Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, NASA, and SpaceX. Many alumni also move quickly into project management and leadership roles, thanks to the program’s unique blend of engineering and management training.

Built-In Paid Co-ops: The program features a mandatory co-op component with a 100% placement rate, so you’ll gain real-world experience and earn over $45,000 in paid positions while working with leading aerospace companies before you graduate. These co-ops are a direct pathway to full-time employment and help you build a strong professional network.
Outstanding Employment Outcomes: The College of Engineering & Polymer Science boasts a 97% career outcomes rate, with most graduates employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. The median salary for aerospace engineers is $130,720 as of 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Industry & Research Partnerships: Akron’s program is developed with input from industry leaders and offers direct connections to companies like Lockheed Martin, NASA, and Collins Aerospace. You’ll participate in industry-sponsored capstone projects, student design teams (like Akronauts Rocket Design and Zips Aero Design), and have access to state-of-the-art labs, wind tunnels, and 3D printing centers.
Accreditation & Lasting Value: The BS in Aerospace Systems Engineering is fully accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring your degree meets the highest industry standards and is recognised worldwide.
Hands-On, Interdisciplinary Curriculum: You’ll study advanced topics including Avionics, Aerodynamics, Aerospace Materials, Aircraft Flight Mechanics, Model-based Systems Engineering, and Aerospace Systems Manufacturing. The curriculum is designed to equip you with both technical and project management skills, preparing you for leadership roles in aerospace, defence, and technology.
Personalised Support: Small class sizes, expert faculty, and a vibrant campus community ensure you’ll have the guidance and resources you need to succeed. More than 94% of first-year students receive financial aid, making your education affordable.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BS in Aerospace Systems Engineering at The University of Akron, you can continue your studies through an accelerated BS/MS program, earning a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering with just one additional year of study. The program’s strong industry ties and rigorous preparation also support your pursuit of advanced degrees in aerospace engineering, business, or related fields, setting you up for leadership and innovation throughout your career.