Knowing the best aerospace engineering associate degrees is helpful for anyone interested in the aircraft and engineering industry. Associate degree programs require less of an investment of time and money than higher-level degrees and can help you decide whether or not to continue pursuing your field of interest.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about getting an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering. You will learn about the best schools offering this degree program, including their tuition rates, education requirements, graduation rates, and more. We’ll also share the best aerospace engineering associate degree jobs, as well as their salaries and job outlooks.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
You can get an aerospace engineering associate degree from Cape Cod Community College, Eastern Florida State College, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, South Seattle College, or St. Philip’s College.
What Schools Offer the Best Aerospace Engineering Associate Degrees?
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- Middle Georgia State University
- South Louisiana Community College
- Cape Cod Community College
- Eastern Florida State College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
The admission requirements for an aerospace engineering associate degree include completing the application form, which can usually be found on the school’s website, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. Some schools also require standardized test scores for admission. Other common admission requirements include submitting a personal essay and letters of recommendation from teachers or a school counselor. Minimum high school GPA requirements might also need to be met.
Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- A completed application
- Standardized test scores
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Personal essay
- Letters of recommendation
How to Get an Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree
You get an aerospace engineering associate degree by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. To successfully complete your associate degree program in aerospace engineering, you must complete the required credits. You must also maintain a certain GPA for graduation. We shall discuss the required credits and other graduation requirements below.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
You need to complete 60 to 70 credits for an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering. This is typical for semester-based programs. Others might require as many as 90 credits or more for degree completion. The program will also require students to take major-focused courses, general education classes, and electives. An internship might also be a requirement for obtaining this degree.
Aerospace Engineering Degree Requirements
- Major-focused, general education, and elective courses
- A minimum GPA score
- A short internship
- A capstone project
Best Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Cod Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Columbus State Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Eastern Florida State College | Associate of Science in Aerospace Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Associate of Science in Aeronautics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Middle Georgia State University | Associate of Applied Science in Aircraft Structural Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| San Joaquin Valley College | Associate of Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology | Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges |
| South Louisiana Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| South Seattle College | Associate of Science in Mechanical, Industrial, and Aerospace Engineering | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| St. Philip’s College | Associate of Applied Science in Aircraft Technician Airframe | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology | Associate of Applied Science in Aeronautical Engineering Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Aerospace Engineering: Top Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Programs
Below is a closer look at the best schools that offer aerospace engineering associate degrees. We’ve included their requirements for admission and their application processes. You will also find other important information on each program including the tuition and number of credits, as well as each school’s student population and overall graduation rate.
What Is an Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree?
An aerospace engineering associate degree is an educational credential that sets a student on the path to building a career in the aerospace engineering industry. The associated program covers subjects including basic electricity and electronics, aircraft engine and frame repair, and jet engine systems.
An aerospace engineering associate degree program generally takes two years to complete. Some programs take a bit longer to complete. An engineering student pursuing this associate degree will be able to seamlessly transfer to a four-year institution to gain advanced knowledge and a higher degree. Some aerospace engineering programs also prepare students for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams that provide licensure and certification.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
An Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering is very important as it can help students become eligible for high-paying jobs in the aerospace engineering industry. The average salary for aerospace engineers, according to the US Bureau of Labor of Statistics (BLS), is $122,270. Also, the US BLS reports a growth of eight percent from 2020 to 2030. This is slightly above the national average of seven percent.
Earning an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering sets you on the path to getting licensed by the FAA. You can also use this degree as a stepping stone in attaining a higher degree that will open more career opportunities for you.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Aerospace Engineering?
The two main types of associate degrees you can get in aerospace engineering are an Associate of Science in Aerospace Engineering or an Associate of Applied Science in Aerospace Engineering.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Aerospace Engineering?
An Associate of Science in Aerospace Engineering is best for you if you wish to further your education in the field. It is an easy degree to build upon. After graduation, you can apply to a four-year institution to earn a more advanced degree, such as a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Technology.
If you wish to head straight into the job market after graduating, as opposed to earning a bachelor’s degree, an Associate of Applied Science in Aerospace Engineering is probably the better choice. An Associate of Applied Science in Aerospace Engineering can also prepare students to take the FAA licensing exams in aircraft repair and other areas.
What Is the Difference Between an Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree and an Aerospace Engineering Certificate?
The difference between an aerospace engineering associate degree and an aerospace engineering certificate is that an associate degree provides a more comprehensive education while a certificate focuses on a single subject area.
An associate degree will usually take longer to complete than a certificate program. In many cases, a certificate program is obtained to complement an associate degree. It requires some sort of educational or professional experience, while an aerospace engineering associate degree generally requires a high school diploma or an equivalent to get started.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the annual cost of an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering is $11,391. This cost includes fees and tuition, as well as room and board.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering, in most cases. It could take a little bit longer than this, even up to three years. For most schools, 60 credits are required to complete this degree program.
Divided across four semesters over two years, 15 credits need to be taken per semester. Schools that have programs requiring more credits will usually allow more time to complete the program as 15 credits per semester is considered full-time and is difficult to exceed.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
It is hard to get an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering. The field directly affects the safety of human lives, so the coursework demands a high level of technicality and accuracy from students. Students must be creative and quick-thinking so that they can find solutions to complex and challenging problems.
For those who enjoy learning via hands-on experiences, the program will be easier. Most schools don’t offer online degrees in aerospace engineering because of the high level of technicality involved.
Why Should You Get an Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree?
Getting an aerospace engineering associate degree is important because very specific skills are required for entering the field of aerospace engineering, which the degree provides. Aerospace engineers are often looking for defects and offering solutions, making skills in critical thinking, math, and problem-solving necessary.
Graduates will become knowledge specialists in areas including aerodynamics, aircraft maintenance, and design. This will make it easier for them to get high-paying jobs in aircraft design, development, and testing.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Aerospace Engineering?
Courses you need to take in an associate degree program in aerospace engineering include engineering mechanics, aviation law, and thermodynamics. Each of these essential courses is briefly discussed below, along with other core courses.
Engineering Mechanics
This course provides students with a solid foundation in the principles of engineering mechanics. It helps students develop their problem-solving skills through a wide range of engaging problems that relate to engineering design.
Thermodynamics
This course enables students to use the first law of thermodynamics to provide an estimate of the potential for thermo-mechanical energy conversion, especially in relation to aerospace power and propulsion systems. After taking this course, students will be able to identify and describe energy-exchange processes in aerospace systems.
Fluid Mechanics
This course teaches students the physical properties of fluids and how these properties can affect inflow. Students will learn about the relationship between Mach and Reynolds numbers, and will also learn the conservation principles of properties such as momentum, mass, and energy required for fluid flow.
Introduction to Aeronautical Engineering
This course explores how the history of flight has made an impact on today’s aircraft design. Students will learn how to model Earth’s atmosphere for aircraft design. The course covers the stability, structures, and navigation of an aircraft and aircraft propulsion. Students will also learn the fundamental aerodynamic concepts for flying an aircraft and how the wings and airfoils of an aircraft generate lift.
Aviation Law
This course gives students an overview of aviation law, with a focus on why it is important and how it came about. Students will study the nine freedoms of air, the Warsaw System, and the Chicago Convention. Students will be able to identify the difference between security and safety and know the measures to take in supporting each of them.
Continuing Education Paths for Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Graduates
After graduating with an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering, students can choose to continue their education at a four-year institution, where they can earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. Some institutions make this transition easier by making arrangements with colleges or universities to ease the transfer of credits.
Upon graduating with a bachelor’s degree, students can go on to get a master’s degree in the field. There are also certificate programs that associate degree holders can enroll in to advance their education.
Related Aerospace Engineering Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best aerospace engineering associate degree programs are the reputation of the school, the employment outcomes of graduates, flexibility, costs, and accreditation. Let’s take a closer look at these factors below.
School’s Reputation
The school’s reputation reflects what prospective students can expect from that school. Research things like the overall graduation rate and any awards or honors given to the school. Most schools include the names of highly respected alumni on their websites, as well.
Employment Outcomes
Employment outcomes for graduates are important because they indicate whether the school succeeded in providing a good, viable education. Most people choose to complete a college degree so that they will have access to more and better jobs. Previous graduates’ employment rates are a good indicator that the degree was worth the investment.
Flexibility
Programs that are flexible give students options for attending class, submitting assignments, taking exams, and otherwise completing courses. Flexibility in class scheduling might include offering night or weekend classes. Some students prefer an online format for their courses. Be sure that the programs you consider meet your scheduling needs.
Cost
Cost is a limiting factor for most students. Be sure to consider not just tuition costs, but all associated fees. Ask about any possible discounts, scholarships, or financial aid that could reduce some of the financial burden, as well as payment plans for managing your costs.
Accreditation
Accreditation means that the school has been evaluated by an accrediting body and has met all the recognized educational standards. It is important to choose a school and program that is accredited, as this tells any future employers that the education provided is credible and of a good standard.
What Is the Most Affordable Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree?
The most affordable aerospace engineering associate degree is offered by Eastern Florida State College, with a tuition of $104 per credit. For the full, two-year academic program, the total cost will be $6,565.
Salary and Job Outlook for Aerospace Engineering Association Degree Graduates
After graduating with an aerospace engineering associate degree, you may choose to get a job right away. See if your school offers help with crafting a professional resume and cover letter, preparing for interviews, or even securing an internship or job placement. Another option is to further your education by earning a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree, opening the door to higher-paying jobs after graduation.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with an aerospace engineering associate degree. This is because students are given excellent, specified training to succeed. Some schools prepare students for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams as well, which offer licensure in specific areas related to the field of aerospace engineering. While job opportunities can sometimes be hard to come by in this competitive field, earning an associate degree and getting licensed can vastly improve your odds of landing the job you want.
What’s the Average Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for an aerospace engineering associate degree holder is $52,000, according to PayScale. Specifically, an aircraft maintenance engineer earns about $69,055 on average, while the average salary for an aircraft design engineer is $70,647.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree?
The jobs you can do with an aerospace engineering associate degree are listed below and can be found with private engineering services or government agencies within the aircraft/space industry, manufacturing industry, and travel industry.
Aerospace Engineering Degree Jobs
- Aerospace structural design engineers
- Aerospace defense test engineers
- Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
- Aircraft manufacturers
- Aircraft maintenance specialists
Potential Careers With an Aerospace Engineering Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
You can make upward of $90,000 a year with an aerospace engineering associate degree. Flight test engineers are among the highest earners in this field, earning as much as $88,127 on average, per year, according to PayScale. Aeronautical engineers are also top earners in this field, earning an average salary of $82,327.
Highest-Paying Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Flight Test Engineer | $88,127 |
| Aeronautical Engineer | $82,327 |
| Aerodynamics Engineer | $82,022 |
| Aerospace Stress Engineer | $79,105 |
| Aircraft Design Engineer | $70,647 |
Best Jobs for Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Grads
Some of the best aerospace engineering degree jobs include working as a flight test engineer, aeronautical engineer, aerodynamics engineer, aircraft design engineer, and aerospace stress engineer. Each of these jobs is briefly discussed below.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering is worth it. You can get certified by the FAA immediately after graduation to further bolster your odds of success. The curricula of most schools are streamlined to prepare students for this career-defining exam.
An Associate Degree in Aerospace Engineering will equip you with hands-on engineering experience and quick-thinking, problem-solving technical skills. These employable skills will help you handle any issues that might come up in this dynamic field. The degree also serves as a perfect stepping stone to getting a higher degree from a four-year university.
Additional Reading About Aerospace Engineering
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Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree FAQ
You can choose to further your education with your aerospace engineering associate degree by pursuing a bachelor’s degree. You can also pursue a career immediately after you graduate.
Yes, you can get this associate degree online. If you are skeptical about attending a physical campus due to a busy schedule, fear of COVID, or any other reason, look into an online aerospace engineering associate degree program. Be sure to check the school’s accreditation status and other critical factors.
One disadvantage of working as an aerospace engineer is that you may not be able to reside where you wish to because jobs in this field are available in just a few areas. Also, aerospace engineers often don’t have a standard, nine-to-five work schedule, and often have to work evenings to complete critical projects.
Some majors that are closely related to aerospace engineering include mechanical engineering or technician, mining technology, and petroleum technology.
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