BS Mechanical Engineering - Aerospace Track

The University of South Alabama offers a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with an Aerospace Track, an on-campus program that allows students to focus their mechanical engineering education on aerospace systems and applications. The program is housed in Shelby Hall, a modern 155,000 sq. ft. facility featuring state-of-the-art engineering labs and classrooms.

Facilities & Experiential Learning:

• Shelby Hall: The William B. Burnsed Jr. Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Biomedical Engineering is based in Shelby Hall, which provides advanced laboratories for fluid mechanics, materials science, instrumentation, and design projects.

• Aerodynamics and Aerospace Labs: Students take AE 361 (Fundamentals of Aerodynamics) and select approved aerospace engineering electives, gaining hands-on experience in aerodynamic testing and analysis using specialized lab equipment.

• Instrumentation & Experimental Methods Lab (ME 316): This course emphasizes experimental techniques, data acquisition, and analysis relevant to aerospace and mechanical systems, using modern instrumentation and software.

• Capstone Design Experience: In their final year, students complete a two-semester capstone design sequence (ME 414/416), where they work in teams to design, build, and test engineering solutions, often with aerospace applications.

• Proximity to Industry: The university’s location in Mobile, Alabama, offers unique opportunities for collaboration and internships with Airbus America’s Engineering Center and the Airbus assembly lines, providing students with exposure to real-world aerospace engineering environments and potential research partnerships.

• Faculty Expertise: Courses are taught by faculty with backgrounds in aerospace engineering, and students benefit from a curriculum that integrates current research and industry practices.

Graduates of the University of South Alabama’s BS in Mechanical Engineering – Aerospace Track are ready for careers as aerospace engineers, propulsion specialists, flight systems analysts, and design engineers with top employers in aviation, defense, and space technology. You’ll develop the technical and project skills to design, analyze, and test aircraft, spacecraft, and advanced mechanical systems—making you a valuable asset in the aerospace sector.

Career Preparation & Outcomes:

• University Services for Career Success: You’ll work closely with faculty advisors and benefit from the university’s Career Services, which offers engineering career fairs, resume workshops, and personalized job search support. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through advanced labs, a two-semester capstone design project (ME 414 and ME 416), and opportunities to join student organizations like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Mechanical and aerospace engineering graduates from South Alabama report strong job placement rates, with many securing positions before graduation. The national median salary for aerospace engineers is $130,720 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023).

• University–Industry Partnerships: The university maintains strong connections with regional aerospace and engineering firms, providing access to internships, co-ops, and industry-sponsored projects that give you real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.

• Long-Term Accreditation Value: The BS in Mechanical Engineering – Aerospace Track is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring your degree is recognized and respected by employers and graduate programs nationwide.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate with a robust foundation in aerodynamics (AE 361), propulsion, materials science, control systems, and engineering design, plus practical experience from your capstone project and required attempt at the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. The program requires 127 credit hours and does not require a minor, allowing you to focus on advanced technical coursework and aerospace electives.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BS in Mechanical Engineering – Aerospace Track at the University of South Alabama, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s in aerospace or mechanical engineering. You’ll also be ready for advanced certifications or research opportunities, setting you up for leadership roles and continued success in the aerospace industry.