Program Description
The aerospace engineer is primarily concerned with the design, analysis, testing, and overall operation of vehicles which operate in air, water, and space.
The curriculum is designed to provide the student with an education in the fundamental principles of aerodynamics, flight dynamics, propulsion, structural mechanics, flight controls, design, testing, and space technologies.
A wide variety of opportunities awaits the aerospace engineering graduate in research, development, design, production, sales, and management in the aerospace industry, and in many related industries in which fluid flow, control, structural, and transportation challenges play major roles.
In the Department of Aerospace Engineering, you will find a program committed to real-world preparation. This program includes:
- A curriculum built on basic sciences, math, and engineering skills.
- Laboratories that emphasize practical skills.
- Equipment that matches industry and research standards.
You will cap your aerospace coursework by participating in a major aircraft or spacecraft senior design project, as part of a simulated industrial design team.
Program Requirements
A Bachelors Degree is Aerospace Engineering requires a minimum of 128 credits. To find out more about program requirements and curriculum details, you will want to start here.
To help plan out your time while attending Iowa State University, students can follow the recommended 4 year plan, and schedule an appointment with your Academic Adviser.
Course Information
Are you interested in a course and want to find out more information about it. All courses and their descriptions are available through the online course catalog.
Another helpful tool is the Class Schedule Planner. The Class Schedule Planner is designed to help students prepare for class registration. This tool does NOT register you for classes, but it does help look at possible schedules.
Approved General Education Electives
Make to Innovate
The Make to Innovate (M:2:I) is an exciting new program in the Aerospace Engineering Department that engages students in hands-on-projects to enhance their understanding of engineering fundamentals which are learned in the classroom. For information regarding the sign up process, and current projects, visit the M:2:I website.
Co-ops and Internships
Having a co-op or a summer internship is not required by the Department, but it is highly recommended. The College of Engineering provides students with the Office of Career Services. The Career Services Office helps students find internships, and co-ops while in schools, and help place new graduates in careers.
For more information regarding Career Services, please visit their website or their office in room 308, Marston Hall.
