What Will I Learn in an Aerospace Engineering Degree Program?

If you'd like to help produce airplanes for travel around the world or spacecraft for travel around the galaxy, a degree program in aerospace engineering is for you. Students will learn about the technology and systems that make this kind of travel possible and how to maintain them. Course work will be intensive, and students can expect to study mathematics, physics, aerodynamics, mechanics and structural design. Most students will choose to hone in on an area that is of particular interest to them, such as designing military jets or navigational equipment. Students will find that it is helpful to take on internships to gain real world experience.

What Can I Do With an Aerospace Engineering Degree?

There are many types of careers in aerospace. Although there are jobs in maintenance and aircraft repair for those with an associate's degree, most students will need at least a bachelor's degree to make headway in the field, though a master's or doctoral degree may be preferred. With a higher level degree, students can find careers in aircraft design, space exploration design, weapons design, aviation research, navigational equipment and materials science. Those with doctoral degrees may also qualify for professor positions in colleges and universities.

What Is the Career Outlook for Aerospace Engineering Degree Students?

As air travel becomes more and more of a necessity in our global economy, aerospace degree students will find a healthy job market upon graduation. Those who focus their education on military and innovative aircraft design will find some of the best career opportunities, and knowing a lot about technology today and where it's headed is an extremely important asset to finding a job in the aerospace industry. Compensation for jobs in aerospace can vary, with those who graduate with a bachelor's degree making an average of $50,000 a year and those with higher education making significantly more.