How to Get a Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering

How to Earn a Master's in Aerospace Engineering

Many schools offer online programs for the completion of a Master's in Aerospace Engineering. Those applying for one of these programs should hold a bachelor's degree and should expect it to take one to three years. These programs have very similar courses with a focus on engineering topics, such as these listed below.

Aerospace Propulsion

This course will cover both rocket and aircraft propulsion or may be separated into two classes to cover them individually. Topics covered include types of propulsion and devices used, performance and other components of propulsion. Students will develop knowledge of the physical characteristics of fueling systems, fuels used, and how aircraft may benefit from each.

Fracture and Fatigue

Fracture and fatigue courses cover metallic aircraft and the failures that they have. Strengths of structures can be overwhelmed with stresses or time. The class covers topics such as cracks, fretting, and other deformations that can occur. Students will learn about case studies involving structure failure.

Finite Element Methods

This course covers finite element methods. Learning both theory and application, students will study the stiffness matrix, elasticity, element types and more. Courses will likely consist of practice and computer implementation of methods covered.

Composite and Materials

Composite, or materials, courses cover the types of materials used in aerospace structures. The materials studied will likely include resin and fiber, and multiple-material composites. Students will learn material properties, strengths and weaknesses, and their micromechanics.

Dynamics and Control

Some programs may separate dynamics into several courses, but most have a common class featuring both dynamics and control. These classes go over different methods and theories of dynamics as well as stability derivatives. Students learn the dynamics and stability, along with the control and handling of aerospace systems.

Manufacturing of Materials

In this course, students will learn about the engineering side of material manufacturing and how it relates to material performance. Methods for improving product strength and cost will be studied. Courses will likely cover auto-material manufacturing and how it can be useful to aerospace.

Admittance Requirements for a Master's in Aerospace Engineering

Each program has different specific admittance requirements, but most share some combination of the following items.

• Bachelor's degree
• GPA requirement
• References
• Current professional resume
• Test scores (GRE or GMAT)
• Personal statement

Most schools prefer students who hold a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a similar area, although some programs will accept students with a different degree that have some engineering courses within their baccalaureate program. Most programs do require that a student holds a GPA of 3.0 in their undergraduate work. Many programs will also require several professional references and a resume, along with passing scores on either the GRE or GMAT. Lastly, programs often ask an applicant for a personal statement, or statement of objective, which describes the student's goals.

What Can You Do With a Master's in Aerospace Engineering?

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace engineers design and test prototypes and aerospace structures. To become employed, applicants require at least a bachelor's degree for an entry-level position. A master's degree allows an applicant more opportunity for employment.

Postsecondary Teacher

A master's degree in aerospace engineering qualifies one to teach at a community college level in most cases. With work experience or further education, a person could teach at a four-year college as well. The knowledge gained during the master's program enables someone to teach students in early engineering subjects.

Engineering Manager

An engineering manager plans and coordinates employees and budgets for engineering companies. Many companies prefer an applicant to have a master's degree unless they have significant experience to supplement a bachelor's degree.

Materials Engineer

Materials engineers typically require a bachelor's degree for an entry-level position, or a master's for a higher position. A materials engineer creates and tests materials that are used to create a large range of products, depending on the company that they work for.

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A master's program in aerospace engineering will allow students to learn about fuels, composition, characteristics, and weaknesses of aerospace structures. Those holding a Master's in AE can become employed as educators, managers, or even aircraft engineers for civilians or the military.