Aerospace engineers looking to advance their careers through further education can do so by pursuing a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. Many schools offer this graduate degree, which can make it difficult to decide the best one for you. Our list of the best aerospace engineering master’s degrees provides key details to make your decision easier, like program overviews, admissions requirements, and tuition and fees.
We’ve also provided a general overview of what an aerospace engineering master’s degree entails so that you can decide if it is indeed the right path for you. Finally, we’ll share a list of some of the top careers in this field, with job outlooks and salaries for the best aerospace engineering master’s degree jobs.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
Some of the best schools to get a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering are Arizona State University, Pennsylvania State University, and Syracuse University. Other schools that offer this graduate degree program include Cornell University, Ohio State University, Princeton University, and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, to name a few. Most universities offer a thesis or non-thesis degree option.
What Schools Offer the Best Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Pennsylvania State University
- Syracuse University
- Princeton University
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering typically include meeting the minimum GPA in your previous college coursework and meeting the minimum score on your standardized tests, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). You also will likely be required to submit an application form, your college or university transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume, and letters of recommendation.
Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering or a related bachelor’s degree
- Official post-secondary school transcripts
- Standardized test scores, such as the GRE
- Recommendation letters
- A personal statement and resume
How to Get an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree
The best way to get an aerospace engineering master’s degree is by meeting all of the graduation basic requirements outlined by the college of engineering, such as meeting the minimum GPA and the required number of credit hours and completing a capstone project, in some cases.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
You need approximately 30 credit hours for a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, depending on the institution. These credit hours are made up of required core coursework and electives of your choosing.
Aerospace Engineering Degree Requirements
- Minimum GPA, which is typically between 3.0 and 3.6
- 30 to 33 credits, depending on the specific program
- An area of specialization
- Core coursework in topics such as aerodynamics, aircraft design, flight testing, and space systems
- A capstone project, depending on the institution
Best Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| Cornell University | Master of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Ohio State University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| Pennsylvania State University | Master of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Princeton University | Master of Engineering in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Syracuse University | Master of Science in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Arizona | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Aerospace Engineering: Top Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
The top aerospace engineering master’s degree programs can be found at high-ranking accredited schools such as Arizona State University, Cornell University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Ohio State University, and Pennsylvania State University. Even though the course structure may slightly differ from one institution to another, with a master’s degree you can pursue career advancement and qualify for top engineering positions.
What Is an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree?
An aerospace engineering master’s degree is a graduate degree that you earn at a four-year college or university. The program teaches you the mechanics and processes involved in designing aircraft and propulsion systems. At its core, aerospace engineering is concerned with the development, design, and testing of spacecraft and aircraft.
Aerospace engineering graduate programs offer degrees that can be earned either through full-time study or part-time study, depending on the institution’s flexibility. There is a wide range of options available. There are even online learning and hybrid learning options available at some schools for those who prefer an online degree to prepare them for the aerospace industry and aviation industry. Online students that work full time can really benefit from attending these programs.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
A Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is very important if you want to have more options available to you in the field of aerospace engineering than what a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering can provide. With a master’s degree, you will be more qualified and, therefore, more appealing to employers. As an aerospace engineering master’s degree holder, you will not only get more employment opportunities but also be qualified for higher salaries once you enter the workforce.
What Types of Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Aerospace Engineering?
The types of master’s degrees you can get in aerospace engineering include the Master of Science (MS or MSc) and the Master of Engineering (ME or MEng) degrees.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering?
It is better to get a Master of Science if you want to focus more on the theories and research aspects related to aerospace engineering. A Master of Engineering is considered to be more coursework-oriented.
Choosing a Master of Science degree will probably require you to submit a thesis paper, so if your goal is to continue your studies and earn a PhD, then this is an option that will be beneficial to you. A Master of Engineering degree, on the other hand, will require you to submit a project, which will help you to refine your technical skills further.
As far as employment opportunities go, an MS is considered to provide a wider range of options upon its completion than an ME. Ultimately, the best choice depends on whether you are more interested in focusing on theory and research or technical skills and their application.
What Is the Difference Between an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree and an Aerospace Engineering Certificate?
The difference between an aerospace engineering master’s degree and a certificate in aerospace engineering is that aerospace engineering certificate programs offer an in-depth analysis of the fundamentals of engineering but use a broader and more modern approach to the field. This differentiates them from a master’s degree in that they are less traditional than the degree options offered at most universities and colleges.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
A Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering costs $12,410 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This is the price of attendance for full-time graduate students and the approximate tuition and fees you can expect to pay at a college of engineering as an aerospace engineering graduate student.
Depending on whether you are attending a private or public institution, the cost will vary. For instance, through a private institution’s college of engineering, an aerospace engineering graduate degree will cost you approximately $26,597 in tuition and fees instead.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree?
It takes roughly two years to get a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering if you are studying full time. In these two years, you will be taking core classes and elective classes and possibly working on your thesis or project.
Some institutions offer accelerated programs that will allow you to complete the same program in a shorter period. Different programs have different structures and required credit hours.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
It is hard to get a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering if you struggle with mathematics and sciences. However, in order to get this master’s degree, you need to have obtained an undergraduate degree in the subject or a related subject, which likely means that you will be comfortable in that area of study. Like with any other degree, constantly committing to your studies in aerospace engineering will yield positive results.
Why Should You Get an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree?
You should get a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering if you are interested in advancing your career in the aerospace industry or you want access to higher-paying positions. To find employment in the aerospace engineering professional field requires you to have had the proper education and training, as it’s such a technical line of work.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Aerospace Engineering?
Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering courses include Aircraft and Spacecraft Structures, Aerodynamics, Aerospace Computing, Aircraft and Spacecraft Propulsion, and Flight Testing. Let’s look at a brief description of each of these core courses and what they offer.
Aircraft and Spacecraft Structures
In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of solid mechanics and fluid mechanics in aerospace systems and how aerospace structures are designed.
Aerodynamics
The aerodynamics course focuses on the most critical aspects of the theories of aerodynamics. This includes learning about boundary layers and how to calculate pressure distribution effectively.
Aerospace Computing
The course on aerospace computing teaches students the fundamentals of computer science and computational science. Some of the topics covered will include numerical linear algebra, modeling, computational complexity, numerical integration, and signal decomposition.
Aircraft and Spacecraft Propulsion
This course focuses on introducing liquid and solid propellant rockets and advanced propulsion concepts. You will be taught about solid mechanics, rocket propulsions and airbreathing propulsion, and the effect that propulsion systems have on the environment.
Flight Testing
This course aims to teach students about the theory and practice of finding flight-test data on the performance and stability of airplanes from real flight tests.
Continuing Education Paths for Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is to obtain a PhD. This is a good option for those wanting to further hone their skills and increase their employability upon completion of their studies.
Related Aerospace Engineering Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best aerospace engineering master’s degree programs are accreditation, employment outcomes, cost, career services, and student-to-faculty ratio. Taking these factors into consideration will help you decide if the program is the right fit for you and your needs.
Accreditation
Earning a degree from an accredited university ensures that your degree is legitimate and recognized by other institutes and future employers. A degree from an accredited institute speaks to the quality of the education you have received, which is not only important for you but for anyone who employs you.
Employment Outcomes
The probability of gaining employment after graduation is a significant contributing factor to why people choose to attend higher learning institutions. When choosing a program, if you plan to enter the job market after your studies are complete, it is best to consider what your chances of getting a job will be within your chosen area of study.
Cost
The cost of education is undoubtedly a major component of deciding to pursue further education. Making a careful assessment of your financial situation and what is affordable and feasible for you is important in figuring out what options are and aren’t available to you.
Career Services
The assistance you receive when looking for career opportunities guidance can have a huge impact on the choices you make and your career goals. Choosing a school that offers career services gives you peace of mind that, when the time comes, you will be able to seek help and advice about what steps to take toward entering your desired career path.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Receiving individual attention from faculty members or an academic advisor can be difficult, and a high student-to-faculty ratio makes it even more difficult. Taking the student-to-faculty ratio into account when selecting your program can help you avoid those challenges.
What Is the Most Affordable Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree?
The most affordable Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is Georgia Institute of Technology’s Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering, which costs $19,338 in total for tuition fees. Tuition is $586 per credit for Georgia residents, and $1,215 per credit for non-residents. Keep in mind that this total doesn’t include associated fees.
Salary and Job Outlook for Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
Aerospace engineering is among the more difficult areas of study, so the odds of getting a job with an advanced aerospace engineering degree are higher, as the degree reflects your dedication and expertise. The employment rate for aerospace engineers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with approximately 4,000 job openings projected each year.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with an aerospace engineering master’s degree. Considering the projected growth of the professional field, which is on par with all other occupations, it is safe to say that there will be job opportunities available over the next decade. Your advanced degree will also make you more eligible for them than some other applicants.
What’s the Average Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is about $91,000 per year, according to PayScale, which is higher than the nation’s overall average of about $73,000 per year.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an aerospace engineering master’s degree include aerospace engineer, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic, electronics engineer, computer hardware engineer, and aerospace engineering and operations technologist, to name a few.
Aerospace Engineering Degree Jobs
- Aerospace Engineer
- Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic
- Electronics Engineer
- Computer Hardware Engineer
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologist
Potential Careers With an Aerospace Engineering Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering?
You can make between $65,000 to $128,170 per year with a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here is a closer look at some of the best jobs in aerospace engineering.
Highest-Paying Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Hardware Engineer | $128,170 |
| Aerospace Engineer | $122,270 |
| Electronics Engineer | $101,780 |
| Aerospace Engineer and Operations Technologist | $73,580 |
| Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic | $65,550 |
Best Jobs for Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for aerospace engineering master’s degree grads are also some of the highest-paying jobs in the professional field, such as aerospace engineer, which comes with a salary that is above the average person’s wages in the United States.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering is worth it. Aerospace engineering is a safe career path to pursue, and the average pay for some of the jobs in the field shows that there is a high possibility of earning an above-average salary when working in aerospace engineering with this degree.
Additional Reading About Aerospace Engineering
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Aerospace Engineering Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, aerospace engineers are in demand due to the fact that there are not many people who possess the qualifications, professional experience, and very specific skills needed by professionals in this field.
There are two main branches of aerospace engineering, which are aeronautics engineering and astronautical engineering.
Yes, NASA employs aerospace engineers as programmers, researchers, designers, astronautical manufacturers, and developers. With aerospace engineering degree programs, you can work in a variety of industries and professional organizations.
No, aerospace engineers do not travel to space as part of their job. Their work is done in testing facilities on the ground for independent organizations or government institutions, using computer technology.
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