Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Amanda Montell
Elevate your expertise from anywhere with a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering. Advance research, innovation, and leadership in the dynamic aerospace industry.
Aerospace Engineering is a field focused on the scientific principles behind the design of spacecraft, airplanes, jet engines, and more. A Ph.D. in aerospace engineering equips students with a strong background in engineering and science to conduct research and pursue coursework in various aerospace-related areas, such as aerodynamic systems and propulsion. In Ph.D. in aerospace engineering, candidates explore diverse research areas, including aeroacoustics, computational fluid dynamics, rocket propulsion, combustion, smart materials and structures, and composite materials. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% job growth in the aerospace engineering1 field, matching the average for all occupations. Major employers of aerospace engineers include engineering services, the federal government, aerospace products and parts manufacturing, and research and development in engineering and life sciences.
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Featured Online Programs
Find the Best Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Programs
Graduates can have the daunting task on how to choose the right Ph.D. program. They need to evaluate various factors, including whether the program aligns with their professional goals, the available research options, the quality of faculty, funding opportunities, the expected time to degree completion, and more. FBD teams have evaluated colleges and programs from all over the U.S. Using a proprietary methodology and have prepared a list of institutions offering the best Ph.D. in aerospace engineering programs:
Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 | $59,750 | 95% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Program
Doctoral programs in aerospace engineering provide students with the facilities, tools, and support necessary to conduct independent research and advance their knowledge in the science of spacecraft and aircraft. Students are typically required to complete at least 60 credit hours of graduate coursework, alongside 10 to 60 credit hours of research and dissertation work. They must also pass a qualifying examination in their area of concentration and other mandated subjects. It is generally required that students pass their qualifying examination before presenting their dissertation proposal. Graduates of Ph.D. aerospace engineering online can become industry leaders in aerospace engineering and related fields. They can become experts in designing and developing aircraft, spacecraft, and related structures. After graduation, opportunities are available in various roles, such as maintenance engineer, aircraft developer, spacecraft developer, operation technician, and more.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
The doctoral program in aerospace engineering requires students to take graduate-level engineering courses approved by their thesis advisor. Additionally, they must pass qualifying examinations, present their dissertation proposal, write and orally defend their thesis before a committee, and fulfill residency requirements. Through the coursework, students gain an in-depth understanding of areas such as fluid mechanics (including fundamentals, compressible flow, numerical methods, and finite element methods), solid mechanics (covering mechanics of deformable solids, composite materials, and advanced analysis), dynamics and control systems (including advanced dynamics and computational multibody dynamics), and thermal sciences, among other topics.
Most institutions also offer elective coursework in various subjects, including aerospace engineering design, applied thermodynamics, renewable energy systems, design optimization, and an introduction to nuclear engineering. Some of the common components of the online aerospace engineering program curriculum are explored below:
Coursework
The doctoral coursework gives students experience in the fundamentals of fluid mechanics, compressible fluid dynamics, finite element methods, composite methods, mechanics of deformable solids, and more. Students would also be required to take a doctoral candidacy exam after completing the coursework.
Teaching
Many Ph.D. students teach during their program as a way of funding their education and gaining experience along with it. They can work as research apprenticeships under the guidance of their academic advisors. Doctoral candidates could also work as graduate teaching assistants in their respective departments or other departments in their college.
Doctoral candidacy exam
A student must pass the doctoral candidacy exam. This exam is taken mostly after the initial doctoral coursework is completed. The exam aims to test the student’s understanding of the essential topics for completing the degree.
Dissertation
The doctoral dissertation is the most crucial aspect of obtaining a doctoral degree. It enhances a student’s skills, knowledge, and expertise in art therapy. Students engage in in-depth research and scholarship on significant art therapy issues. The culmination involves successfully defending the thesis before a dissertation committee.
Progress Review
This component is added to most aerospace engineering Ph.D. programs wherein the dissertation committee reviews the progress made by the doctoral candidate annually. Such a review aims to ensure good progress toward the program objectives. Through this annual review, made many major recommendations along with an assessment of the achievement and areas of improvements communicated.
Some of the topics in which a student of an online doctoral aerospace engineering program can complete their dissertations are:
- Space Economics
- Space Politics and Policy
- Ethics in Aerospace
- General Issues in Aerospace
- Aeroacoustics
- Health Monitoring of Aerospace Structures
- Combustion
- Thermos-Fluid Science
- Unsteady Gas Dynamics
- Aerodynamic Shape Optimization
- Flight Mechanics
- Applied Aerodynamics
- Aeroelasticity
- Aerospace Design and Simulation
To understand more about Ph.D. programs, read the Guide to Ph.D. Programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The doctoral program in aerospace engineering helps students learn about fundamentals in the domain, including general engineering principles, stability and control, structures, mechanics, aerodynamics, propulsion, and other topics concerning how air interacts with objects that move. Students learn how to use the concepts of calculus, trigonometry, and other advanced topics in mathematics and aerospace engineering for analysis, troubleshooting, design, and more in their practical field of work. Those graduating from the doctoral program would have acquired multiple skills, such as:
- Identifying design components that may not meet the requirements of aerospace engineering and formulating various solutions to improve the performance of such components.
- Supervising work and ensuring it meets the federal government standards prescribed for the industry.
- Producing designs that comply with federal government standards and understanding why specific designs do not work.
- Communicating effectively with other stakeholders involved and asking the right kind of questions to find suitable answers.
- Using their education, knowledge, and experience to devise new designs and troubleshoot problems when meeting new demands for aircraft, spacecraft, etc., thereby increasing efficiency.
- Writing and explaining designs efficiently and creating documentation that can help those from non-engineering backgrounds understand concepts.
- Demonstrating knowledge of aerospace ethics and monitoring other professionals’ work through these standards.
Areas of Specialization for Aerospace Engineering Ph.D. Students
Students pursuing a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering will be able to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise by taking up specializations. Such concentrations increase their employment options in the relevant discipline. Employers prefer to hire individuals who have completed their basic curriculum along with specialization in one of the aerospace engineering fields. Here are some aerospace engineering Ph.D. specializations:
Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
---|---|---|
Aerodynamics | The specialization of aerodynamics helps students learn about properties like size, density, and shape. Students learn about the law of aerodynamics, including Bernoulli’s principles, stating pressure of moving gas decreases as the velocity increases. | • Wind Tunnel Engineer • Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer • Aerodynamics Analyst • Flight Test Engineer |
Aircraft and spacecraft guidance and control | The concentration helps individuals focus on spacecraft formation flying, proximity docking and operations, design, and analysis of orbit control and determination systems, trajectory optimization, etc. Individuals need to understand this specialization to learn about the critical components of spacecraft systems and aerospace vehicles. | • Guidance System Engineer • Control Systems Engineer • Flight Systems Engineer • Spacecraft Operations Engineer |
Structural Mechanics | The concentration of solid mechanics relates to the fundamentals of material sciences and appropriate models for the mechanical behaviors of used materials. Students learn about different kinds of solid materials that require various mathematical descriptions, such as rubbers, concrete, biological tissues, metals, etc. | • Structural Engineer • Materials Engineer • Stress Analyst • Composite Engineer |
Flight Mechanics/ Orbital Mechanics | Concentrating on flight mechanics leads to various domains, ranging from aeroelasticity to aircraft trajectory optimization. Students learn about different rotorcraft flight mechanics tools and simulations that cannot predict the dynamics of flights, the vibrations of helicopters, tilt-rotor aircraft, structural loads, and much more. | • Orbital Analyst • Flight Dynamics Engineer • Mission Planner • Trajectory Design Engineer |
Aerospace Robotics and Automation | This specialization focuses on developing and applying robotic systems for space exploration, satellite deployment, and aircraft manufacturing. It involves research in autonomous navigation, robotic manipulators, sensor integration, and machine learning algorithms tailored for aerospace environments, advancing efficiency and safety in aerospace operations. | • Aerospace Robotics Engineer • Automation Systems Engineer • Aerospace Systems Programmer • Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Engineer |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Programs
The length of a doctorate in aerospace engineering in the United States can range from about 4 to 6 years. However, some students may take up to six years to complete their program. Students must consider many factors to understand the hours it might take to complete their Ph.D. A doctoral candidate in aerospace engineering must complete their coursework and eligibility examinations, write their original academic dissertation, and defend it before the dissertation committee. Completing the coursework could only take 2-3 years, with the remaining time between writing and defending a dissertation. Therefore, those who complete the degree part-time could take up to 8 years to finish this degree, while those completing the degree full-time can do so in 4-6 years. Here is a summary of the timeline for the Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering program:
- Full-Time: Completion within four years.
- Part-Time: Completion within four to six years.
Accelerated Aerospace Engineering Ph.D. Programs
Doctoral degrees typically take 4 to 6 years to complete when pursued full-time. However, some students opt for accelerated Ph.D. options, which can be completed in less than four years. They can fast-track their Ph.D. degrees by condensing their coursework, which remains similar to traditional Ph.D. programs, though the course density and timeline differ. Those wishing to graduate earlier or have other commitments may accelerate their degrees. Graduates can complete a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering in less than four years through an accelerated format. Not all colleges offer this option, so students should collaborate with their college advisors to determine if they can accelerate their curriculum.
Requirements for Getting into a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Program
Admission requirements for colleges offering a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering may vary nationwide. Typically, applicants admitted to an aerospace engineering program hold a minimum of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in either aerospace or mechanical engineering. However, some of the common admission requirements for Ph.D. in aerospace engineering programs are:
- A master’s degree or its equivalent degree from an ABET-recognized institute
- Completed application
- Two to three letters of recommendation (should contain both professional and academic recommendations)
- Official transcripts from all previous universities and colleges attended
- Cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher in the graduate degree program
- Statement of purpose highlighting why the candidate wants to join a particular college
- Preliminary or in-person interview (this might be conducted online)
- Graduate resume
- Published scholarly academic writing (could include master’s thesis)
No GRE Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a widely recognized admission test for graduate programs, including some Ph.D. programs in the United States. While many institutions commonly require the GRE, it’s important to note that some colleges waive this requirement in favor of other application materials such as a statement of purpose, transcripts, essays, and more. Each institution sets its admission criteria, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific programs students are interested in to understand their requirements fully. Here are a few colleges that provide Ph.D. in aerospace engineering no GRE programs:
How to Ensure a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Program is Accredited
Accreditation is a crucial process conducted by non-governmental bodies to ensure the quality and standards of academic programs in the United States. For students seeking to enroll in aerospace engineering Ph.D. programs, it is highly recommended to choose accredited programs. Accreditation serves as a validation of the program’s quality and adherence to established educational standards. Students can also refer to reputable accreditation agencies such as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)4 to verify the accreditation status of the programs they are interested in. This can help them make informed decisions about their academic pursuits and ensure they receive a high-quality education.
Accreditation is a process carried out by non-governmental bodies. The process is a thorough quality check for programs across the United States. Students need to enroll in accredited online aerospace engineering Ph.D. programs, as this will assure them of the quality of such programs. They can also refer to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation 5 guidelines to understand accredited institutions’ standards. Students can also check the Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs 6 to find authorized aerospace engineering programs.
Most institutions providing engineering degrees acquire ABET accreditation. However, most doctoral programs generally acquire regional accreditation.
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To understand more, read the guide to college accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Aerospace Engineering Ph.D. Students
Many free aerospace engineering courses are available to students. These free courses will help them explore different topics for dissertations and understand which field they are more comfortable working in. Students will be able to understand the different specifications in aerospace engineering and their integration into aerospace and related industries. Here are a few online courses students can explore:
Course | Provided by | Description |
---|---|---|
Fundamentals of Flight Mechanics7 | Coursera | This course teaches the fundamentals of atmospheric physics and the consequences of altitude and speed measurements. Students also understand the influence of speed on lift and angle of attack, and focus on limitations and hazards. |
Introduction to Aerospace Engineering and Design8 | Alison | This course offers a foundational exploration of aircraft design procedures and mechanisms. This free online course covers aerospace science and engineering principles, detailing the layout and configuration of aircraft. Students examine aircraft components, airworthiness regulations, and other crucial technical considerations for effective design. |
AS9100D Quality Management System (QMS) for Aerospace Industry9 | Alison | This course offers an in-depth look at various clauses and requirements essential for organizations that develop, design, or supply aerospace and defense industry components. Students will learn to distinguish between different versions of AS standards and gain a clear understanding of the specific requirements of the AS9100D standard. |
Ways to Pay for a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Program
Financial aid comprises various monetary benefits that assist students in paying for college. Assistance can come from diverse sources such as colleges, high schools, governmental and state agencies, foundations, non-profit organizations, etc. The amount of aid depends on factors like the student’s eligibility and financial need. Below are some financial aid options individuals pursuing a doctorate degree in aerospace engineering can explore:
Federal Direct Loans
These loans are available to students pursuing undergraduate and advanced degrees with the option of low interest rates. The federal government provides them. Students only need to begin repaying the loan once they graduate from their programs or remain unemployed.
Federal Work-Study
The Federal Work-Study option helps students fund their education by working part-time in their fields of interest while continuing their program. It is provided to those who need to cover their tuition and other college-related expenses.
Private Student Loans
Private student loans are credit-based loans offered by financial institutions, such as banks or credit unions, to students and their families to cover educational expenses not met by federal financial aid. Interest rates, terms, and eligibility criteria vary, often requiring a cosigner for students with limited credit history.
Scholarships
Scholarships are merit-based or need-based financial awards for students to support their education. Educational institutions, organizations, foundations, or individuals can award them. Scholarships do not require repayment and can cover tuition, fees, books, or other educational expenses, helping students pursue their academic goals.
Grants
Grants are monetary awards that can come from private or governmental sources. They need not be in the form of money. It can also be in the form of tuition fees, research money, and other expenses.
FAFSA
The free application for federal student aid aims to help students understand what financial aid they are qualified for. FAFSA helps students receive information about different financial aid for colleges.
Fully Funded Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering
Fully funded Ph.D. programs will allow students to further their careers without taking up more loans. Most of the fully funded Ph.D. in American Universities are very competitive programs, and admission to the same is highly regulated. Funds during Ph.D. need not be just in monetary form. It could be in the form of graduate assistantships, tuition funding, research funding, salary for working as teaching assistants, etc. Some colleges providing fully funded Ph.D. in aerospace engineering include:
University | Description |
---|---|
University of Michigan 10 | The Aerospace engineering doctorate program is fully funded. The student receives full tuition coverage that covers their mandatory fees and provides them with an additional monthly stipend. Funds can come from departmental fellowships, faculty research funds, and more. Graduates are also encouraged to apply for external funding. |
Carnegie Mellon University11 | The doctoral candidates, accepted through the standard application process, will receive fellowships covering their full tuition, stipend for living expenses for five years, and technology fees. Off-campus is also available to students within walking distance of their campus. |
Stanford University12 | Ph.D. students in good academic standing acquire funding for their doctoral program. The funding covers their tuition fee and is at least equivalent to Stanford’s 20-hour research assistant salary. Funding can also include research assistantships, training grants, teaching assistantships, and fellowships. |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating with a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineering jobs involve devising and manufacturing aircraft, satellites, missiles, and aircraft. They work to design technologies to use in defense systems, spacecraft, and aviation. These engineers may also specialize in structural design, guidance, control, navigation, instrumentation, and communication. Some aerospace engineer job roles those with a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering can consider include:
- Operations Technicians
- Computer Hardware Engineers
- Industrial Engineers
- Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Electrical and electronics engineering Technicians
- Materials Engineers
A few more occupations are highlighted below:
Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
Aerospace Engineers[1] | Analytical, business, critical-thinking, math, problem-solving, and writing skills | $130,720 | 6% (faster than average) | Aerospace engineers ensure that their projects meet quality standards and inspect damaged or malfunctioning products to identify the challenges and their possible solutions. They also develop new and advanced technologies for defense systems, spacecraft, and aviation. |
Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians13 | Detail-oriented, dexterity, strength, and observational skills | $75,400 | 4% (as fast as average) | Aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians examine aircraft parts for defects, test diagnostic equipment, and install instrument panels using power tools, soldering irons, and hand tools. These professionals ensure that airplane parts and tools are in optimal operating condition. |
Aeronautical Engineering Director14 | Critical thinking, interpersonal, resourcefulness, speaking, writing, and more skills. | $215,828 | No Data Available | The Aeronautical Engineering Director spearheads aircraft and helicopter part design and propulsion system development, prioritizing aerodynamic efficiency and safety. They establish protocols to enhance workflow and adhere to federal regulations. They foster innovation to enhance aeronautical product designs by staying abreast of technological advancements. |
Mechanical Engineers15 | Creativity, listening, math, problem-solving, and mechanical skills | $96,310 | 10% (much faster than average) | Mechanical engineers oversee the manufacturing processes for the device, analyze the test results, modify designs or systems required, and investigate failures in equipment. They are also routinely responsible for integrating controllers, machinery, and sensors. |
Certifications and Licensing for Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Graduates
Professional certifications enhance the credibility of individuals as professionals in their field of study. Students pursuing an aerospace engineering Ph.D. online can acquire professional certifications to earn designations that assure employers of their competence to perform specific jobs or tasks in aerospace engineering. Some certifications include:
Certified Professional in Aerospace Quality (CPAQ) 16
The certification of CPAQ is obtained by submitting an application form and evidence of professional experience. Applicants must pass a standard examination covering auditing, reliability engineering, corrective action, inspection, aerospace quality systems, and more. This certification assures employers that individuals meet the professional standards of excellence in aerospace quality management.
IRCA Aerospace Certification Scheme17
Through this certification, individuals learn about first articles inspection, aerospace material traceability requirements, use of customer-supplied products, acceptance authority media, nonconforming material management, and so on. Candidates must complete an IRCA-certified QMS Auditor training course to acquire the certification.
Certified Flight Test Engineer (CFTE) 18
The CFTE takes around six months to complete the credential and covers topics like operational safety, flight dynamics, instrumentation, aircraft performance, etc. Individuals need to complete a practical exam along with a rigorous written exam. They will also recognize, promote, and uphold the highest professionalism, expertise, and safety standards in flight test engineering.
Each state issues its licenses, and individuals must meet the requirements prescribed by their state licensing bodies. They typically require a passing score on the professional engineering or fundamentals of engineering exam score, an ABET-accredited engineering program, and relevant work experience[22].
Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Graduates
Aerospace engineering students can join different organizations across the United States, which will help them understand the profession much better. They can understand how to use aerospace engineering principles to support their professional goals. They also get access to different tools and resources that will help them use their skills to resolve and interpret the challenges in the field. Here are a few organizations aerospace engineering doctoral program graduates can access:
Title/Resource | Description |
---|---|
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics | The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics provides many membership opportunities, including professionals, young professionals, university students, educators, corporate, and more. They offer experiences and resources to assist individuals in their professional and personal development. |
Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) | AIA aims to enhance its advocacy work, shape policies, and impact the industry overall. Their advocacy influences effective federal investment policies, enhancing global competitiveness retention efforts, supporting a diverse, capable, and inclusive workforce, and accelerating the deployment of technologies coming up today. |
International Astronautical Federation | The International Astronautical Federation has created a global community that cooperates daily to promote new technologies, space activities, and awareness of space to society and government and illustrate the benefits of different utilization of space. They conduct many conferences and events, conducting discourses on space. |
The Vertical Flight Society | The Vertical Flight Society provides opportunities to design vertical lift aircraft that meet unique objectives and construct innovative small electrical VTOL vehicles. They provide resources on the latest developments in electrical VTOL aircraft, an online encyclopedia, data on aircraft, biographies, historical milestones, and other related resources. |
IEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems Society | AESS aims to provide a relevant and responsive professional society that engages, aids, retains, and attracts different members from various fields of interest. They accomplish many activities and resources through publications, educational and technical operations, conferences, member services, and industry relations. |
FAQs About Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Programs
Why should you do an online Ph.D. in aerospace engineering?
An online Ph.D. in aerospace engineering offers flexibility for working professionals to advance their careers while continuing to work. It provides access to top-notch faculty and research opportunities without geographical constraints. Additionally, it allows individuals to tailor their studies to their professional goals while maintaining a work-life balance.
What can you do with an online degree in aerospace engineering?
What do aeronautical engineers do?
Is a master’s degree necessary for a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering?
Is a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering worth it?
Is it hard to get into a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Aerospace Engineers
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
Coursera-Fundamentals of Flight Mechanics
Alison- Introduction to Aerospace Engineering and Design
Alison- AS9100D Quality Management System (QMS) for Aerospace Industry
Salary.com- Aeronautical Engineering Director
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Mechanical Engineers
Certified Professional in Aerospace Quality (CPAQ)
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.