Best Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Aerospace engineering is at the forefront of technological innovation. Students with Bachelor’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering can make a difference in the world. To develop the knowledge and practical skills you need to function in the aerospace industry, you should choose from only the best aerospace engineering bachelor’s degrees.  

If you’re a prospective student researching to find the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering, this comprehensive guide can help you find the best schools and programs. This article will also detail the aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree jobs and salaries available in this field. Keep reading, to learn more about aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree programs.

Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?

Some of the best schools where you can get an aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree are Arizona University, Penn State University, and Southern New Hampshire University. You may also consider the top aerospace engineering bachelor’s degrees offered by Syracuse University and University of Maryland.

What Schools Offer the Best Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees?

• Arizona University
• Penn State University
• Southern New Hampshire University
• Syracuse University
• University of Maryland

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?

The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering are a high school diploma or equivalent education and official transcripts or self-reported academic record (SRAR). Some schools have a minimum grade-point average. Others also require standardized test scores, such as Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT) scores.

Other Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering requirements include recommendation letters and a personal statement. Proof of English proficiency is required for prospective international students as well.

 Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum required GPA
• Official transcripts or SRAR
• Standardized test scores
• Personal statement or essay
• Recommendation letters

How to Get an Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree 

You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering by fulfilling all graduation requirements of a four-year program. Below, you will find details on the number of credits you need to earn for an aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree. You’ll also see the necessary degree requirements to complete the program.

How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?

You need 120 to 130 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. However, some institutions may require up to 140 credits for their program. To earn the minimum amount of credits for this program, undergraduate students must pass core, general, and elective courses.

Aerospace Engineering Degree Requirements

• Minimum required GPA
• 120 to 130 credits
• Completion of core courses, electives, and general education
• Capstone project

Best Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School	Program	Accreditation
Arizona State University	Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Higher Learning Commission
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University	Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Massachusetts Institute Of Technology	Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, New England Commission of Higher Education
North Carolina State University	Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Penn State University	Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Southern New Hampshire University	Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, New England Commission of Higher Education
Stanford University	Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics	Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
Syracuse University	Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Texas A&M University	Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Maryland	Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering	Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Best Schools for Aerospace Engineering: Top Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

If you want to enter this field, it is essential to learn about the best schools for a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. That is why, in this section, we will break down the top aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree programs. 

Below is a detailed list of the best aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree programs from which you can choose based on curriculum, location, and cost. You will also learn about admissions requirements and how to apply. 

What Is an Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

An aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate program for students who want to build a foundation in aerospace engineering. It’s for students who seek to carve a career path in the aviation industry. A Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering covers the field’s theoretical, experimental, and design aspects. It takes four years to obtain this degree.

Aerospace engineering graduates work as aerospace engineers, mechanical engineers, and CAD technicians, among other aeronautical engineering careers. This degree program also prepares you to continue your studies and obtain a graduate degree. 

How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?

A Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is very important. An aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree provides a deeper understanding of mechanical integrity, structural design, and environmental concerns that must be taken into account while constructing airplanes and spacecraft. This bachelor’s degree also guarantees job prospects in aviation and engineering disciplines.

What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Aerospace Engineering?

You can primarily get two types of Bachelor’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering, which include a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Engineering (BSE) Degree in Aerospace Engineering. Though these aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree types are quite similar, they do have their differences. 

A BS degree balances both theoretical and practical, while a BSE leans more into the practical engineering side of this discipline. You may also further your degree by getting a Master of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering.

Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering?

Both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering are great options for someone looking for this degree path. Both of these degree types will adequately prepare you for a career in the field. However, a Bachelor of Engineering degree will likely focus on more practical knowledge. 

That being said, Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering programs are much more common. As such, it may be easier to gain acceptance into a Bachelor of Science program. When deciding which is better, a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering, you should look at what programs are available to you.

What Is the Difference Between an Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree and an Aerospace Engineering Certificate?

The difference between a bachelor’s degree and a certificate in aerospace engineering is the length, specialization, and the opportunities you can get after their completion. While it takes longer to finish than a certificate program, a bachelor’s degree gives you the opportunity to later earn a graduate degree. 

On the other hand, an aerospace engineering certificate is simply a recognition of topic completion. As such, when considering an aerospace engineering certificate vs a bachelor’s degree, it is important to carefully consider your career and educational goals.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?

The cost to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is $16,647 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree costs may vary based on the institution you select. 

For example, a public university’s tuition rates will typically be lower than the cost of attendance at a private university. In addition, attending an out-of-state vs in-state college will also affect the typical Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering cost. 

How Long Does It Take to Get an Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

It takes four years to get an aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree if you’re a full-time student and you don’t take extra coursework. However, some colleges and institutions offer a five-year program. This enables students to earn a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree. In addition, your Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering program length may be longer if you choose to only take classes part time.

How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?

It’s not very hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. Though aerospace engineering degrees are challenging, if you have a knack for science, math, and engineering, you can pass the courses easily. As a future aerospace engineer, being precise, creative, and a quick thinker in solving problems are the soft skills that will come in handy as you work through the program.

Why Should You Get an Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree? 

You should get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering because the knowledge and skills you’ll gain will give you opportunities to work in one of the world’s most profitable industries.

Apart from the monetary and career rewards, you’ll also make an impact on the world. With this, the benefits of getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering include the ability to innovate communication, flight, and security systems to improve how the industry works.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Aerospace Engineering?

Some of the typical Bachelor’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering courses will include aerospace dynamics, fluid mechanics, and propulsion. Sime courses in a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering program also teach students about aerospace structures and solid mechanics. 

To learn more about what to expect, check out the Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering course list below. 

Aerospace Dynamics

This course covers the fundamentals and applications of airflows, vehicle dynamics and control, and computer modeling methods. It’ll give you hands-on experience in airflow and aerial vehicle analysis, measurement, modeling, and simulation.

Aerospace Structures

Because of the high criteria for performance and lightweight quality, aerospace structures differ from other structures. Thus, this course teaches students how to distinguish between aerospace and non-aerospace constructions. Composite materials, sophisticated multifunctional materials, and thin-walled constructions are what’s commonly observed in modern aerospace structures.

Fluid Mechanics

The study of fluid behavior (liquids, gasses, blood, and plasmas) at rest and in motion is called fluid mechanics. This field of study has numerous applications in mechanical and chemical engineering and biological and astrophysical systems.

Propulsion

Propulsion often refers to the engine technology that supplies the energy required to lift an airplane from the end of a runway into the air. This course is essential for prospective aerospace engineers to understand jet and propeller engines on small and large planes.

Solid Mechanics

Solid mechanics is a part of continuum mechanics. It examines the motion and deformation of solid materials under the influence of forces, phase changes, temperature changes, and other external or internal agents.

Continuing Education Paths for Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

The best path to take with an aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree is to continue on to a master’s degree. Some schools even provide accelerated options so that students can begin working on a master’s degree while completing their undergraduate degree. Others also allow a direct path to a doctoral degree to increase their qualifications for a wide range of aeronautical engineering careers. 

Related Aerospace Engineering Degrees

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What to Look For in the Best Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

The things to look for in the best aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree programs are accreditation, retention rate, cost, and graduation rate. It’s also a good idea to look into the reputation of the school and program. Let’s take a closer look at what you should look for in a college for a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering.

Accreditation

Accreditation indicates that a school has passed an educational quality review process of an external body. Its purpose is to distinguish reputable universities from institutions that produce subpar education. Credential experts place a high value on regional accreditation.

Retention Rate

The retention rate measures how many students will return for their next academic year. It gauges how many students are willing to stay and continue until program completion. This factor reflects whether a school is meeting the expectations it set when recruiting students. 

Cost

A bachelor’s degree can be expensive. However, you should see it as an investment in your future profession. Nonetheless, it’s a good idea to pick a program that fits your budget and gives you the most for your buck. Additionally, check if there are any financial aid alternatives.

Graduation Rate

The graduation rate informs prospective students about how many students completed their degrees on time after enrolling. It is not only a precise statistic that holds a school accountable. It can also assist a student in determining the institution’s quality and care for their students.

Reputation

A school’s reputation is essential because it represents the institution’s perceived excellence, which influences the application decisions of prospective students. It’s critical to select an aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree program from a school with a strong reputation for providing a positive learning environment.

What Is the Most Affordable Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

The most affordable aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree is the program that North Carolina State University offers. This program costs $380 per credit hour and requires students to complete 127 credits to be qualified for graduation. When you multiply the program cost per credit by the number of credits required for graduation, you get a total of $48,260.

Salary and Job Outlook for Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

A Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering prepares you for different careers in the aviation industry. In the next sections, the highest-paying aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree jobs and incomes are shown. You’ll also get a comprehensive description of each job, the number of jobs available, and the states that pay the highest for them. You can also learn about the average Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering salary below.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

It’s not hard to get a job with a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. The right qualifications and skills guarantee you job opportunities in aerospace engineering. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for aerospace engineers is high, with an eight percent increase in aerospace engineers’ job outlook in the coming years. 

What’s the Average Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

The average salary for someone with an aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree is $85,000, according to PayScale. This pay varies based on tenure, nature of the job, and skill level. Skilled aerospace engineers are often guaranteed a good income.

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

The jobs you can do with an aerospace engineering bachelor’s include working as an aerospace engineer, material engineer, and aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic. You can also be a flight engineer or aerospace technician, among other jobs.

Aerospace Engineering Degree Jobs

• Aerospace engineers
• Material engineers
• Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics
• Flight engineers
• Aerospace technicians 

Potential Careers With an Aerospace Engineering Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?

You can make between $60,500 and $200,000 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. If you meet the right job qualifications for the job and are determined to improve your technical skills, there is room for growth in your career. These qualifications could result in a much higher salary.

Highest-Paying Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs	Average Salary
Flight Engineers	$198,190
Aerospace Engineers	$122,270
Materials Engineers	$98,300
Aerospace Technicians	$73,580
Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics	$65,550

Best Jobs for Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Grads

The best jobs for aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree graduates include flight engineer, aerospace engineer, materials engineer, aerospace technician, and aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic. Below is a comprehensive description of the best jobs for a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering degree holder.

Best Jobs According to Your Major

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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering Worth It? 

Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is worth it. Engineering degrees have long been considered the most employable of all degrees, and aerospace engineering is no exception. It’s a particularly exciting moment to start a career in aerospace engineering because it may be the next cutting-edge field in the near future, with the leadership of companies such as SpaceX and Space Force.

If you enjoy science and math, a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is an excellent option. In addition, a job in aerospace engineering will keep you pleased if you enjoy working on computers or building new things. Aerospace engineering graduates have a rewarding career and a decent annual salary.

Additional Reading About Aerospace Engineering

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Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree FAQ