Aerospace Engineering — MS

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Auburn University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering at Auburn University is designed for students who want to advance their technical knowledge and prepare for careers in the aerospace industry, government laboratories, research, and academia. The program provides flexibility through thesis and non-thesis pathways, allowing students to choose between research-intensive study and a coursework-focused degree.

The degree requires 30 semester credit hours of graduate-level coursework. At least 21 credits must be in aerospace engineering, with the remaining credits available from approved technical courses in engineering, science, or mathematics. The thesis option includes six credit hours of research and thesis work, while the non-thesis option can be completed on campus or entirely online.

Curriculum Structure

Auburn's curriculum emphasizes advanced aerospace engineering knowledge and allows students to tailor their studies to their professional interests. Students develop specialized expertise through graduate-level aerospace courses and technical electives, with a research thesis available for those who want to investigate an engineering problem in greater depth.

Year 1

Students can begin by developing advanced knowledge in areas such as orbital mechanics, propulsion, and aerospace systems. Relevant course options include AERO 6330 – Applied Orbital Mechanics, which focuses on orbital motion and spacecraft applications, and AERO 6520 – Rocket Propulsion, which examines rocket propulsion principles. AERO 6620 – Dynamic Simulation is another option for exploring the simulation of dynamic systems.

Year 2

Students can deepen their specialization through advanced technical electives or thesis research, depending on their chosen pathway. Courses such as AERO 7100 – Advanced Supersonic Aerodynamics, AERO 7220 – Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics and Control, and AERO 7620 – Aerospace Computational Structural Analysis: Static Structures offer opportunities to explore high-speed aerodynamics, spacecraft control, and structural analysis. Thesis students complete AERO 7990 – Research and Thesis and defend their work in a final oral examination. These are illustrative course options rather than a prescribed two-year sequence.

Focus Areas

Auburn University's aerospace engineering graduate program supports advanced study and research in several specialized areas:

Aerodynamics and Fluid Dynamics: Study airflow, high-speed aerodynamics, and computational fluid dynamics.
Propulsion: Explore rocket propulsion, aircraft propulsion, and thrust-generation technologies.
Space Sciences and Orbital Mechanics: Examine spacecraft trajectories, orbital dynamics, and space mission applications.
Materials and Structures: Investigate aerospace materials, composite structures, structural reliability, and computational structural analysis.
Vehicle Systems, Dynamics, and Design: Develop expertise in flight dynamics, control systems, vehicle behavior, and aerospace system design.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates can develop the ability to:

Apply advanced engineering principles to complex aerospace problems.
Analyze aerodynamic performance, propulsion systems, and spacecraft motion.
Use computational and analytical methods to evaluate aerospace designs and structures.
Develop technical solutions for aerospace system design, development, manufacturing, and operation.
Conduct independent research, interpret engineering results, and communicate findings effectively.

The thesis pathway provides additional experience in research planning, technical writing, and defending engineering findings, while the non-thesis pathway emphasizes advanced coursework.

Professional Alignment and Accreditation

The program is designed to support professional development for students pursuing advanced technical roles in aerospace engineering and related engineering fields. Its combination of specialized coursework and an optional research thesis is suitable for students interested in industry, government laboratories, or further academic study.

The official program information does not specify a separate program-specific accreditation for the M.S. degree. Applicants who need confirmation of accreditation should consult Auburn University's Department of Aerospace Engineering or Graduate School.

Reputation and Employability

Auburn University offers graduate study within an established engineering department, with faculty research covering areas such as materials and structures, fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion, space sciences, and vehicle systems. Students can align their studies with these research areas and develop technical expertise relevant to aerospace and related industries.

Potential career paths include aerospace engineer, propulsion engineer, aerodynamics engineer, spacecraft systems engineer, structural analysis engineer, flight dynamics engineer, and research and development engineer. Graduates may pursue opportunities in aerospace manufacturing, aircraft and spacecraft development, defense, government research laboratories, and engineering research. Employment outcomes depend on each graduate's specialization, experience, and qualifications.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Auburn University, the Master’s in Aerospace Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are crucial for developing practical skills in the field. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning through collaborative projects, internships, and research opportunities, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to excel in the aerospace industry.

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

- Aerospace Engineering Laboratories: Students can work in specialized labs such as the Wind Tunnel Laboratory and the Propulsion Laboratory, where they can conduct experiments and simulations relevant to aerospace applications.

- Group Projects: The curriculum includes team-based projects that encourage collaboration and innovation, allowing students to tackle complex engineering problems together.

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

- Software Tools: Students gain proficiency in industry-standard software such as MATLAB, ANSYS, and CATIA, which are essential for design, analysis, and simulation in aerospace engineering.

- Field Trips: The program often organizes visits to aerospace facilities and companies, giving students firsthand insight into the industry and its operations.

- Research Opportunities: Students can engage in cutting-edge research projects under the guidance of faculty members, contributing to advancements in aerospace technology.

- Libraries and Resources: The Auburn University Libraries provide extensive resources, including access to aerospace engineering journals, databases, and technical reports that support student research.

- Aerospace Institute: The Auburn University Aviation Center and the National Center for Additive Manufacturing Excellence (NCAME) offer additional resources and expertise in aerospace engineering.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also significantly boost your employability in the aerospace sector. If you're ready to take the next step in your education and career, consider applying to Auburn University’s Master’s in Aerospace Engineering program.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Auburn University's Master’s in Aerospace Engineering equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a rapidly evolving industry. Alumni often find themselves in rewarding roles such as Aerospace Engineer, Systems Engineer, and Research Scientist, contributing to innovative projects that shape the future of aviation and space exploration. The program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also opens doors to advanced opportunities in academia and specialized research.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Auburn offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry leaders, ensuring you are well-prepared for the job market.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from the aerospace engineering program have a strong employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for aerospace engineers is around $80,000, with experienced professionals earning significantly more.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Auburn has established partnerships with leading aerospace companies such as Boeing, NASA, and Lockheed Martin, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest educational standards and is recognized globally.
- Graduation Outcomes: Over 90% of graduates report satisfaction with their education and career placement, highlighting the program's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s in Aerospace Engineering, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. This advanced study can lead to careers in research, academia, or specialized industry roles, allowing you to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in aerospace technology. Additionally, you could explore certifications in specialized areas such as systems engineering or project management to further enhance your qualifications and career prospects.

Auburn University is committed to your success, and the opportunities available through this program are designed to help you thrive in the aerospace industry.