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The 4 Best Doctor of Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D. AE) Degree Programs

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Career advancement in this field often requires a Doctor of Aerospace Engineering degree. Becoming part of the massive aerospace industry promises to be an exciting and fulfilling career experience.

If an online Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering interests you, there are a few educational institutions that can provide you with the opportunity.

Some programs are offered by schools entirely online, allowing for flexibility and convenience for those who plan to pursue a Ph.D. degree in the field without compromising their professional and personal lives.

______________________________

4 BEST DOCTOR OF AEROSPACE ENGINEERING DEGREE PROGRAMS

University of alabama.

UA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

School Highlights: The University of Alabama is a highly respected online school that provides a prestigious Ph.D. program in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics.

The curriculum is 72 credit hours and is completed primarily online with some brief visits to campus required each semester. It is an incredibly affordable doctoral degree with a tuition rate for online students of $440 per credit hour: one of the lowest for this program level.

Students work through online coursework, lectures, and projects, and also write and defend a dissertation on specific aerospace engineering topics. Students at this fabulous distance education institution earn an esteemed doctorate from a high-quality state school replete with remarkable resources.

Coursework Sample:

• Experimental Aerodynamics
• Micro-Aerial Vehicles
• Helicopter Theory

Campus Location: Tuscaloosa, AL

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
• Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology

Acceptance Rate: 79% Retention Rate: 89% Graduation Rate: 71%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA’S PH.D. IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING AND MECHANICS

MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY

BAGLEY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

School Highlights: Mississippi State University provides an exciting opportunity to earn a doctoral degree in Aerospace Engineering that includes eleven unique concentrations.

There are excellent online and on-campus options available at this outstanding institution of higher education. Yet, all students take advantage of start-of-the-art facilities and resources such as the low-speed wind tunnel and the two-stage light gas gun, both of which are fully operational on the Mississippi State University campus.

The curriculum is designed, implemented, and instructed by industry experts and is kept up-to-date to reflect all changes in the aerospace engineering field. There is also an accelerated program option for students who qualify!

Concentration Options:

• Aeroacoustics
• Aerodynamics
• Aeroelasticity
• Autonomous systems
• Structures and composites
• Computational fluid dynamics
• Design optimization
• Fatigue and fracture
• Fluid-structure interaction
• Guidance and Control
• Nondestructive evaluation

Campus Location: Mississippi State, MS

Acceptance Rate: 76% Retention Rate: 81% Graduation Rate: 61%

LEARN MORE ABOUT MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY’S DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

ODEGARD SCHOOL OF AEROSPACE SCIENCES

School Highlights: At the University of North Dakota, doctoral students in the aerospace degree take classes in policy, business, law, engineering, and science.

This curriculum emphasizes an understanding of all the discipline’s most crucial areas. It is a flexible 90-credit program offered both on-campus and online, which can be completed in 4-7 years, depending on individual students’ paces of learning and scheduling conflicts.

UND maintains national acclaim for its achievements in aviation education, space studies, and atmospheric research. As an interdisciplinary degree, this Ph.D. in Aerospace Sciences is an excellent fit for future managers, researchers, policymakers, and professors.

• Human Performance in Extreme Environments
• Strategic Airport Planning

Campus Location: Grand Forks, ND

Acceptance Rate: 83% Retention Rate: 81% Graduation Rate: 60%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA’S AEROSPACE SCIENCES PHD

AUBURN UNIVERSITY

GINN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

School Highlights: Auburn University provides online and on-campus options for students pursuing a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering. There are also excellent master’s degrees in this field that can be completed 100% online before continuing education in the doctor of philosophy.

The master’s to doctoral degree transition is quite flexible and perfect for students with a bachelor’s in an applicable discipline. The Ph.D. includes extensive coursework in astrodynamics and aerodynamics, control theory, flight dynamics, propulsion, and much more.

Auburn University is a fabulous choice for international students, as well, because there are no language requirements.

• Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics and Control
• Flight Dynamics and Hypervelocity Vehicles
• Orbit Determination

Campus Location: Auburn, AL

• Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 Chicago, Illinois 60604 www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 44% Retention Rate: 81% Graduation Rate: 60%

LEARN MORE ABOUT AUBURN UNIVERSITY’S PH.D. IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why earn a ph.d. ae degree.

There is an increasing growth in the number of people who fly for commercial or military reasons such as tourism, migration, or even national defense. Whatever the reason may be, flying has contributed to the continuously growing aerospace or aviation industry.

Also, there are several technological triumphs, including the latest news on Opportunity, the robot that extended her life to 15 years instead of 90 days roving around the planet Mars.

An online doctorate program in Aerospace Engineering has the same quality as the traditional doctorate program offered on campus.

In this setting, students will not worry about getting an online degree since they have the accessibility to their online courses through the school’s online learning platform, attend classes live and collaborate with their instructors and classmates. If their schedule permits, students can attend lectures and seminars on campus; however, it is not mandatory.

What are the duties of Aerospace Engineers?

Aerospace Engineers have two major specializations in engineering namely astronomical engineering, and aeronautical engineering. Aerospace engineers work with several branches of science and technology in dealing with spacecraft.

They work on small satellites and traditional big satellites regarding how they perform inside and outside the Earth’s atmosphere. On the other aspect, aeronautical engineers work with the design, development, maintenance, and aerodynamic performance of the aircraft

Additionally, aerospace engineers play a variety of roles in several industries. They develop new technologies for the aviation industry, defense systems, and spacecraft. Aerospace engineers assess proposals for the project’s feasibility in terms of financial and technical aspects.

They facilitate acceptance criteria for design methodologies, the standard of quality, maintenance after delivery, and dates of completion.

They ensure that projects meet those standards, and carefully inspect damaged products to identify problems and possible solutions.

They have the option to choose to design different types of aerospace products such as remotely piloted aircraft; spacecraft which includes satellites and launching vehicles; helicopters, commercial and military aircraft; and rockets or missiles for combat.

What are the essential qualities of Aerospace Engineers?

Aerospace Engineers are employed as workers who design and build aircraft, spacecraft, or even missile systems for national defense. They work in industries that engage in manufacturing, analyzing, designing, research, and development, or in the federal government.

A set of skills is needed to become an efficient Aerospace Engineer:

• Analytical skills – Aerospace Engineers must be able to distinguish factors that do not meet their requirements and find ways or alternatives to improve the performance of those factors.
• Writing skills – Considering some aerospace engineers work in the research and development field, they must be able to work on white or research papers that explain their proposals or designs clearly and create documentation for future use.
• Business skills – One of the significant roles of aerospace engineers is meeting federal government standards. They must know standard business principles and practices including commercial law and ISO standards. Also, they must have a background in project management which will provide benefits for them as they progress in their careers.
• Mathematical skills – Aerospace Engineers deal with a lot of measurements in their field of work. They apply their learnings in trigonometry, calculus, and other mathematical principles in the analysis, development, designing, and troubleshooting of their careers.
• Critical-thinking skills – Aerospace Engineers must know how to ask the right type of questions, and find answers. They must ensure that the products they developed meet regulatory standards, and identify why a specific product does not work.
• Problem-solving skills – Aerospace engineers use their education and professional experience to innovate and improve products such as enhanced safety measures and increased fuel efficiency as well as reduce the impact on the environment.

What does the coursework of the Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering degree program typically consist of?

The Ph.D. AE program is a rigorous and highly technical degree that involves complex areas of study and systems operating from within the Earth’s atmosphere to in-depth space explorations.

The Ph.D. AE degree gives students a solid background in engineering, science and technology, law, and business. It is designed to help individuals who are already established in the field and want to pursue an advanced level of knowledge and expertise in the aerospace engineering field.

Coursework under this online aerospace engineering program includes:

• the theory of elasticity,
• orbital mechanics,
• intermediate dynamics,
• space systems,
• intermediate fluid mechanics,
• advanced dynamics of flight
• ethics in aerospace,
• life support systems,
• extraterrestrial resources,
• and human performance in extreme environments.

In addition to the set of coursework, a dissertation research requirement on a topic that contributes to the field of aerospace engineering and mechanics must be fulfilled by the students for graduation.

What are the job prospects I can get from earning a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering degree program?

A graduate with an online Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering can land jobs as an operations technician or as an aerospace engineer who maintains and operates equipment in developing, testing, and producing new spacecraft or aircraft.

They utilized computer-based applications and tools in the processes of their work as well as innovating and automation products.

Graduates can work as computer hardware engineers who research, develop, design, and test components such as circuit boards, routers, networks, and processors found in aircraft/spacecraft.

Another job position includes electrical and electronics engineer responsible for the design, development, testing, and supervision of electrical equipment manufacturers such as communication systems, radar and navigation systems, and electric motors.

Mechanical Engineers, Industrial Engineers, Architectural and Engineering Managers, or Material Engineers are some of the rewarding careers you can land as graduates of the online Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering degree program.

Aerospace Engineers typically spend their time in an office environment since their work requires the use of advanced computer equipment and software applications in modeling, evaluating, developing, testing, and conducting research and development.

The average annual pay of aerospace engineers is $126,880. The top industries that hire aerospace engineering graduates are the federal government with a median yearly wage of $127,150; research and development with a $141,730 annual median salary; engineering services with $122,480; and navigational and control instruments manufacturing with a $129,880 yearly median wage.

The largest employers of the aerospace engineering field are in aerospace products and parts manufacturing which comprises 34% of the population of aerospace engineers.

Can I earn a Doctor of Aerospace Engineering degree through an online program?

Yes, some universities offer online Doctor of Aerospace Engineering programs. However, the majority of these programs require some amount of on-campus instruction or laboratory work. Make sure to check individual program requirements to determine what type of instruction is required.

What schools offer an online Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering degree program?

Luckily, there are a few schools that provide a completely online program for earning a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering. The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama offers a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics through the Bama By Distance that requires 72 credit hours for completion.

The Ph.D. AE program offered by the University of Colorado Boulder equips students with advanced knowledge and prepares them through exceptional training and research and land careers in the academic institution, commercial, and governmental sectors.

Mississippi State University encourages highly qualified individuals to take advantage of the accelerated Ph.D. AE program offered by the Bagley College of Engineering. Students can take graduate-level coursework and at the same time earn their graduate credits and undergraduate credits simultaneously.

The University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota offers a Ph.D. in Aerospace Sciences that is housed by the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences which is recognized as a world-class renowned institution for aerospace studies.

Another school that provides aerospace studies in Alabama is Auburn University which offers several opportunities for students to strengthen their expertise and knowledge through their advanced set of coursework and training.

If you can juggle between your professional life and personal life by integrating a Ph.D. AE, is fulfilling and rewarding. It is a challenging endeavor, but you will undoubtedly thank yourself for not giving up on your aviation or space exploration dreams.

With the rising demand for aviation and aerospace services, you are assured of a successful career at the same time reap the benefits while being employed in the company. Are you ready to soar high with a rewarding career in the aerospace engineering field? Enroll in a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering.

Additional Information:

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Aerospace Sciences Ph.D.

Become part of the next generation of aerospace leaders to oversee cutting-edge advancements in aviation and space.

Successful aerospace professionals possess broad backgrounds linking science, engineering, policy, business and law. Get your doctoral education from a world-renowned center for aerospace learning, the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences at UND.

Why earn a Ph.D. in aerospace science?

Application opens on August 1. Completed applications and all required materials must be received by February 1.

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

UND's Aerospace Sciences Ph.D. program provides interdisciplinary teaching and research at the highest academic level. Our goal is to graduate highly educated aerospace scholars and leaders. You'll learn skills to mix technology and science with an understanding of the politics and economics of the aerospace fields. You'll enhance your analytical, technical, research and communication skills through classroom and research activities. The result will be capabilities to carry out independent, original and applied aerospace research at a high level.

You'll experience outstanding faculty focus while in the program. Leverage faculty expertise drawn from disciplines such as:

• Aerodynamics
• Aerospace engineering
• Aviation management
• Computer science
• Machine learning and artificial intelligence
• Orbital mechanics
• Planetary science
• Public policy and law
• Remote sensing
• Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)

Aerospace Science Ph.D. at UND

Gain the extensive technical knowledge needed to be a successful leader in the industry by applying solutions gained through theory and applied research.

Be part of a program nationally acclaimed for achievements in aviation education, atmospheric research, space studies, and earth system science and policy research.

Get a unique perspective and training that integrates and combines traditional disciplines related to space.

Access an extensive and involved alumni network that provides real-time industry feedback to research and development work by dissertation candidates.

Pursue the doctorate from anywhere in the world with our online synchronous curriculum, while still receiving real time faculty and student interaction.

Conduct research in the Space Studies department's Human Spaceflight Lab or Observatory .

Careers with a Ph.D. in Aerospace Science

Median salary for an aerospace program manager

Payscale.com

Median salary for aerospace engineers, 2023

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A doctoral degree in Aerospace Sciences from UND lets you further develop the critical skills needed to fill leadership roles. These opportunities span government and research agencies, educational institutions and private aerospace and aviation companies.

UND bearers of doctoral degrees have gone onto careers in top space exploration enterprises and aerospace technology companies. Some opportunities graduates can expect include:

• Aerospace Defense Managers develop and implement strategies to ensure national security through the application of cutting-edge aerospace technologies. They oversee and coordinate defense-related aerospace projects.
• Aerospace Laboratory Directors lead research and development initiatives in specialized laboratories. They design and execute experiments, manage research teams, and collaborate with industry partners to drive innovation in aerospace technology.
• Aerospace Program Directors play a crucial role in overseeing the planning, execution, and success of aerospace programs within private companies or government agencies. They are responsible for managing resources and ensuring the timely delivery of aerospace products and services.
• Aerospace Science Researchers conduct in-depth research, publish scholarly articles, and explore emerging trends to contribute to the theoretical foundations and practical applications of aerospace sciences.
• Federal Agency Policymakers influence and shape policies related to aerospace and aviation at the national level. They work with government agencies to develop regulations, standards, and guidelines that govern the aerospace industry.
• Higher Education Professors teach courses, mentor students, and engage in research to advance the aerospace industry.
• Senior Aerospace Engineers are integral members of aerospace technology companies. They lead engineering teams, contribute to the design and development of aerospace systems, and execute complex projects.
• Senior Aircraft Engineers lead initiatives related to aircraft design, maintenance, and improvement, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies.

Aerospace Sciences Ph.D. Courses

AVIT 521. Ethics in Aerospace. 3 Credits.

The course will introduce ethical concepts and frameworks used in professional decision-making. Students will engage with faculty and outside speakers to weigh decisions in the applicable ethical frameworks. Students participation will include graded elements of formal case presentations, class discussion sessions, essay examinations and review of scholarly and trade journal articles. The course will have a strong emphasis on research project design to assess dynamics of ethical decision-making in different populations, as well as exploring educational opportunities in the aerospace industry.

SPST 565. Space Law. 3 Credits.

This course serves as a graduate-level introduction to the field of Law as applied to Space Law. The course examines the origins and evolution of the laws of outer space from the beginnings of the space age to the present. International laws governing access and use of space, and national laws regulating governmental and commercial activities in space are reviewed and analyzed. On demand.

SPST 410. Life Support Systems. 3 Credits.

A review of the physiological effects of living in space including a discussion of current and near-term life support systems equipment for the provision of oxygen, water, food, and radiation protection. In addition, a review will be made of the issues associated with the development of fully closed ecological life-support systems that will be essential to the long-term development of space. On demand.

SPST 512. Human Performance in Extreme Environments. 3 Credits.

This course identifies the impact that the stressors of extreme environments have on human performance. The course objectives are to highlight the differences and similarities among extreme environments and to demonstrate that, despite the differences lessons learned from operations in a given extreme environment can be effectively applied to other environments. Although settings such as space, mountains, or deep sea exhibit unique characteristics, the human physiological and psychological reactions and adaptations to these extreme settings stay similar. On demand.

AVIT 520. Strategic Airport Planning. 3 Credits.

This course will explore the elements of airport planning within the public administration domain. Emphasis will be placed on individual airport's strategic plans, how airports operate efficiently and effectively with changing regulations and economic fluctuations in the global marketplace.

AVIT 513. Aviation Safety Management Systems. 3 Credits.

An in-depth study of aviation safety management concepts and principles as they relate to effective safety programs within the airlines, corporate aviation, general aviation and airports.

Online Aerospace Sciences Ph.D. Degree

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best online college in North Dakota

Intelligent

Live Online Aerospace Ph.D. Courses

Synchronous classes are held in real-time. If you’re the kind of learner who likes active discussion and immediate feedback through live interaction, you’ll enjoy this online course format.

Every class is different, but generally, you’ll log into a virtual classroom at scheduled times to:

• Listen to a lecture.
• Ask questions.
• Participate in class discussions.
• Conduct group activities.
• Participate in video-sharing.
• Have chat conversations.
• Use interactive whiteboards.
• Take live polls.

You should prepare for your classes by finishing any assigned readings, compiling questions for your instructor, and thinking about how to contribute to the next live class.

Campus Visits

Ph.D. students may be expected to come to campus for research as the discretion of their Committee. Traditionally, this results in minimally one-week on campus per year, but individual students will need to consult with their Committee to determine how much on campus, if any, is needed. Additionally, a Ph.D. candidate should be present for the Ph.D. dissertation defense.

Leading Online Aerospace Sciences Ph.D.

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs. No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

• Same degree:  All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) . Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
• Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
• Real interaction:  You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
• Your own academic advisor:  As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
• Free online tutoring:  We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
• Unlimited academic coaching:  Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
• Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
• 24/7 technical support:  UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
• Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

• Affordability
• Student satisfaction (retention rate)
• Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
• Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

First in Space

Sara Sabryy, the first Egyptian to reach space, is pursuing a doctorate in Aerospace Sciences at UND.

Read Sara's Story

Connect with the space studies and aviation faculty you'll work with at UND's world-renowned center for aerospace learning.

• Department of Space Studies
• Department of Aviation
• John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences

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Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace Engineering

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Aerospace Engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the design, development, testing and production of aircraft and related systems that fly within the Earth’s atmosphere (Aeronautics) and of spacecraft, missiles, rocket propulsion systems and other equipment operating beyond the Earth’s atmosphere (Astronautics)

The Department of Aerospace Engineering awarded the Bagley College of Engineering’s first master’s degree in 1951 and its first doctoral degree in 1960. We have awarded degrees to men and women who are now leaders in government, industry, and education around the world.

The strength of the graduate program, as it has been for more than five decades, resides in its excellent faculty who have a keen interest in the advancement of students and a hands-on approach to education, further enhanced by the outstanding facilities of the Department of Aerospace Engineering and the Bagley College of Engineering.

Tuition and fees listed are subject to change and do not include all possible charges. Additional fees may apply. Please refer to the master class schedule for individual course charges.

What are some potential careers?

Program structure.

The Doctor of Philosophy with an emphasis on Aerospace Engineering degree typically consists of a minimum of 50 hours of coursework beyond the master’s degree, of which at least 20 hours is devoted toward dissertation research. The program of study is determined in consultation with the student’s major professor and committee.

The student must choose a committee consisting of a major professor, who is a member of the graduate faculty in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, and a minimum of three other members. At least fifty percent of the committee must be members of the graduate faculty in the Department of Aerospace Engineering.

Admissions Requirements

Students seeking full admission into this program should apply as a classified student. Non-degree seeking students wishing to take classes offered through the online program should apply as an Unclassified student.

Applications for the degree programs are reviewed three times a year. The application deadlines for those semesters are as follows:

• Fall Semester – June 1
• Spring Semester – November 1
• Summer Semester – May 1

An applicant for admission to graduate study must hold a bachelor's degree from a fully recognized four-year educational institution that has unconditional accreditation with appropriate regional accrediting agencies. They must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate School and the Aerospace Engineering program.

Regular admission to graduate study in the program requires a minimum grade point average (last four semesters of undergraduate work) of 3.00/4.00. When a student is deficient in one of the criteria cited, the student's application, nevertheless, may be considered for admission based on the strength of other materials contained in the student's application.

Bagley College of Engineering programs may accept transfer work previously completed by the student. Transcript reviews to determine transfer or prerequisite work will be evaluated AFTER students are granted full admission. Once admitted an academic coordinator can review those transcripts for more information.

To meet admission requirements, submit a separate official final transcript from each college or university attended; faxed transcripts will not be accepted. An applicant may not ignore previous college attendance and must list all colleges attended on the application for admission. You must be in good standing at the last college or university attended

Attention International Students

International students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and score greater than 550. Detailed information regarding international applications can be found in the Graduate Catalog . Questions regarding international applications can be addressed to the Office of the Graduate School at [email protected] .

• ETS is providing home testing for the TOEFL iBT test, and MSU is encouraging students to take advantage of this testing option. For those students applying who have taken the TOEFL within five years of the semester they plan to enroll and are unable to access the TOEFL iBT test from home, we will accept your previous test scores.

Admission Options

Domestic/international classified admissions, domestic unclassified admissions, international unclassified admissions, provisional admissions, readmission, transfer credit.

• Submit online application . You will choose Aerospace Engineering as your Program of Study and Online Education as your campus.
• Statement of Purpose
• You will be asked to submit three names and three email addresses of individuals you are using as references. Once you click submit, these individuals will be sent an email from MSU, which will provide a link to an online form for completing their recommendations.
• TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for international students
• One official transcript showing bachelor’s degree or progress toward degree. (For international students, please submit a copy in native language along with translated copies, if appropriate.)
• Electronic transcripts should be sent to: [email protected] Mississippi State University, Graduate School. Only one copy of an electronic transcript is required.
• Paper Transcripts Address (USPS): Mississippi State University The Office of the Graduate School P.O. Box G Mississippi State, MS 39762
• Physical Street Address (for DHL, Fed Ex, UPS, DHS, etc.): Mississippi State University The Office of the Graduate School 175 President Circle 116 Allen Hall Mississippi State, MS 39762
• Payment of $60 non-refundable application processing fee for domestic students. Payment of $80 non-refundable application processing fee for international students.
• Once you are admitted, you will receive an email with complete instructions on registering for classes and contacting your advisor

Only NINE (9) hours of course work taken as an "Unclassified Student" can be applied toward a degree program. All Unclassified students should submit a classified application once they have reached the maximum of nine hours. Full admission into the Aerospace Engineering online program will be based upon successful completion of all classified admissions requirements.

If you are applying unclassified, select "Graduate School - Unclassified" as the college.

• Submit online application
• Pay $60 non-refundable application processing fee

PLEASE NOTE In general, students who are not admitted into a degree program are not eligible for student financial aid funds. For more information please visit Student Financial Aid to see if you will be eligible or not while taking courses as an Unclassified graduate student.

• TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for international students.
• One copy of academic records showing degree(s) (in native language along with translated copies if appropriate)
• Must obtain application approval from the Dean of the Graduate School
• Payment of $80 non-refundable application processing fee for international students.

A student who has not fully met the requirements stipulated by the University and the department for admission to graduate study may be granted admission as a degree-seeking graduate student with provisional status. Such student must have as his/her initial objective advancement to regular status. A provisional student must receive a 3.00 GPA on the first nine hours of graduate level courses on the program of study taken at Mississippi State University (transfer hours or unclassified graduate hours will not apply) in order to achieve regular status. If a 3.00 is not attained, the provisional student will be dismissed from graduate study.

Once enrolled in graduate study, a student who fails to meet the continuous enrollment requirement must complete an Application for Readmission to register for classes. Continuous enrollment is defined as enrollment in two of three semester terms (Fall, Spring, or Summer) with Fall enrollment required. Students who have not been enrolled for a period of three years or longer and are in good academic standing, are eligible to reapply to through the Lapsed Student Program. Readmission is not guaranteed and must be approved by the Department Head, Academic Dean, and Dean of the Graduate School. Interested students or academic departments should contact the Graduate School for more information.

Students may transfer up to twelve (12) hours of graduate level credits from regionally accredited institutions. The decision to grant transfer credit is made by the advisor and the student’s graduate committee. If you wish to transfer credits, contact your advisor. You will need to provide an official transcript showing the courses you wish to transfer.

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Videos recorded during our on campus class sessions are uploaded for online students to view within our online course repository.  Online students will have access to course videos within 24 hours of the on campus course completion. Students should visit Engage to access the course videos. Instructions for viewing the recordings and downloading the recordings are offered below.

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Instructions for viewing classes live or downloading videos, use our video download instructions.

If you experience technical difficulties or have any questions regarding the recording or format of our lecture capture, please contact:

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Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering

Candidates in this program do classwork and research in aerospace structures, propulsion and aerodynamic systems, and have access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities.

Aerospace Engineering deals with the scientific principles that govern the design of airplanes, spacecraft, and jet engines. The Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering degree program allows highly motivated students with a strong science and engineering background to conduct research and coursework in the areas of aerospace structures, propulsion, and aerodynamic systems, while earning their doctoral degree.

Admission to the program is reserved for candidates at the bachelor and masters levels, with high academic achievement and a desire to advance their career through scientific inquiry and knowledge discovery in areas related to aerospace engineering.

Program coursework focuses on cutting-edge research and development. Students have access to state-of-the-art labs designed specifically for instruction and research in aerodynamics, propulsion, dynamics, control, structures, and materials. 

About Aerospace Engineering at the Daytona Beach, FL Campus

The Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering program at ERAU’s Daytona Beach Campus targets domestic and international students, as well as working professionals with bachelor’s or master's degrees in aerospace engineering (or closely related engineering disciplines), who have exemplary track records of academic achievement in their course work, and demonstrated keen interest and ability for engaging in research and independent inquiry.

Housed in the  Aerospace Engineering Department  of the  College of Engineering , the program features three areas of concentration: Aerodynamics and Propulsion, Structures and Materials, and Dynamics and Control.

Candidates for this degree program can expect areas of research to include:

• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
• Aeroacoustics
• Air-breathing propulsion
• Rocket propulsion
• Experimental thermo-fluid sciences
• Simulation of aerodynamics and propulsion systems
• Health monitoring of aerospace structures
• Smart materials and structures
• Adaptive structures
• Composite materials
• Functionally graded materials
• Dynamics and control of manned and unmanned aircraft
• Parameter identification of aircraft
• Space mission design
• Design and control of spacecraft
• Orbital debris remediation
• Spacecraft rendezvous and proximity operations
• Control of chaotic systems

Being adjacent to Daytona Beach International Airport and the NextGen Test Bed , and just 50 miles north of Kennedy Space Center, ERAU’s Daytona Beach Campus puts students in the middle of the aerospace industry.

Learn More about the Daytona Beach, FL Campus

View the Daytona Beach Catalog Listing

Financial aid is available in the form of teaching and research assistantships. Please contact the program coordinator for more information.

Transfer credit: Up to 2 relevant courses can be transferred from another institution upon approval of the program coordinator.

Students will:

• Analyze and solve engineering problems.
• Conduct independent study.
• Carry out research or special projects.
• Use analytical, computational and experimental techniques.
• Demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills.
• Technically communicate their research within the aerospace engineering community.
• Observe ethics in research.

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RELATED DEGREES

You may be interested in the following degrees:

Master of Science in Engineering Physics

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Master of Science in Uncrewed Systems

Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D.)

Focus: advancing knowledge and research in areas such as aerodynamics and fluid mechanics, aeroelasticity and structural dynamics, flight mechanics and control, propulsion and combustion, structural mechanics and materials behavior, and system design and optimization. Blank Space (small) (text and background only visible when logged in) Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D.) Course Description and Catalog

Doctor of Philosophy

Our PhD program requires a commitment of typically five years and consists of graduate coursework, an oral preliminary coursework examination, an oral preliminary research examination, and original research guided by one or more faculty advisors that culminates with an oral defense and published dissertation.

Fully Funded

The program is fully-funded, which means that subject to satisfactory progress, the student receives full coverage of tuition and mandatory student fees, as well as a yearlong monthly stipend for living expenses. These funds come from a combination of faculty research funds, departmental fellowships, and instructional funds if the student assists in teaching during certain terms. Students are encouraged to apply for outside funding, particularly merit-based fellowships, as having external support will typically provide the student with more flexibility in projects.

PhD Advisor

Regardless of the ultimate source of funding, the student is advised by a faculty member who supervises and guides the research. These faculty advisors participate in the admissions process by selecting students who are appropriate to work on available projects. Therefore, every student admitted into the PhD program has already been selected by one or more faculty members at the time they are admitted.

Prospective Students

Prospective PhD students seeking admission are encouraged to review the  research of the faculty  and initiate contact with them directly, via email, to assess the availability of potential research projects. This is not a required step but can be a useful means of augmenting the formal application.

Required Background

A master’s degree is not required to be admitted to the PhD program. Many PhD degree applicants apply in the final year of their undergraduate studies. However, our graduate program is very selective, admitting approximately 10% of applicants.

Learn about the  academic background of students admitted to consider whether our program is a good fit for you.

Degree Requirements

The PhD degree requires a sound background in fundamental aerospace engineering courses which is assessed by the preliminary examinations. These oral examinations are typically completed after the second or third semester in the program. The PhD dissertation requires a student to demonstrate their ability to pursue and solve an original research problem, which implies the ability to carry out independent research.

related links

Aerospace Engineering Courses Approved by Rackham

Aerospace Engineering Doctoral Graduate Student Handbook

Cognate Requirement

Rackham recognizes the value of intellectual breadth in graduate education and the importance of formal graduate study in areas beyond the student’s field of specialization. Cognate courses are those that are in a discipline or area different from a student’s field of study but are related or connected with some aspect of this field. All cognate coursework must be approved by the graduate program.

The cognate requirement may be satisfied in two ways:

• By completing three credit hours of cognate coursework in approved  graduate-level courses  with a grade of B or better. Cognate courses may be AEROSP courses as long as they are cross-listed as a course in another program.
• By completing  graduate coursework at another institution  that meets the expectation of the cognate requirement. These courses do not apply toward the minimum credit hours required for the degree, do not appear on the U-M transcript and must be completed no more than five years before admission to the current Rackham graduate program. The student must provide Rackham Academic Records and Dissertations (OARD) with an official transcript from this other institution, and the graduate program should notify OARD that the coursework fulfills the cognate requirement.

Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship Requirement

The College of Engineering’s  Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship program   is designed to engage students to be able to recognize, address, and resolve ethical issues in classroom, professional and research settings. The program consists of four mandatory two-hour workshops. Workshops are offered once in the fall and once in the winter. The student must complete all four workshops before advancing to candidacy.

Preliminary Examinations

The preliminary examinations (prelims) consist of two tests, both oral, and both administered by faculty committees: the oral coursework examination, typically taken at the end of the second or third semester; and the oral research examination, typically taken in the second or third year.

A full description of both exams is given in the  Doctoral Graduate Student Handbook.

Oral Coursework Examination

This is an oral examination that covers material taught in the five courses (noted above in “preliminary examination coursework”). It is administered by a three-member committee over 90 minutes.

The preliminary examination is scheduled twice each academic year, once in early December and once in early May. To sign up please complete the  Coursework Examination Sign-up form (PDF) and share it with the department’s graduate office.

Oral Research Examination

This is an oral examination that consists of a research presentation followed by questions from a committee, which is typically the student’s thesis committee. It is administered over one hour, at a time mutually agreeable to the student and committee. 

Scheduling the exam is the responsibility of the student and can be done at any time in the year. The student must also provide a research document to the committee at least one week in advance of the exam, in the form of a conference paper approximately 10 pages in length.

Pass, fail or retake decisions for the coursework examination are made in a faculty meeting at the conclusion of the examination period. 

Each coursework examination committee (CEC) presents a summary of the test performance and states the decision. All department faculty are invited to discuss and vote on the outcome. Students will receive written feedback about their coursework examination performance on a standardized form completed by their CEC. Students who do not pass the coursework examination may be permitted to take the exam one additional time.

For the research exam, the research examination committee makes a pass, fail or retake decision and communicates the outcome to the student with feedback on performance. If deficiencies are found, students will be encouraged to retake the exam when appropriate. There is no limit to the number of retakes of the research exam, but failing the research exam is grounds for dismissal from the PhD program.

Advancing to Candidacy

A student becomes a PhD candidate once they:

• pass the oral coursework examination;
• complete the Rackham cognate requirement;
• attend all four Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship (RCRS) workshops;
• and accumulate at least 18 credit hours of coursework at the University of Michigan.

Students should contact the graduate office once they have completed the candidacy requirements to ensure forms for advancing to candidacy are completed properly.

Dissertation

Dissertation committee.

Doctoral research is carried out under the supervision of a faculty advisor and a dissertation committee; the dissertation committee should normally be formed within one year after the student has achieved doctoral candidacy status. The student should expect to meet with their dissertation committee immediately after it is formed and at least on an annual basis up to the PhD defense.

Dissertation Defense

Each student must initiate research activity with their advisor in the first year of graduate study at U-M. In order to complete the PhD degree, the student must carry out original and publishable research, present the results in a written dissertation, defend the dissertation at a final oral defense, and complete the final post-defense (see  Rackham’s Dissertation Handbook   for additional details) tasks.

The oral defense presentation represents the culmination of the student’s research and is given to the committee and other faculty and students. The student must be able to clearly and concisely present their research and must be able to answer questions from the committee and others in attendance.

Guidelines for Dissertation Committee Formation

Rackham Committee Selection Form

Travel Grant

Rackham’s Dissertation Resources

Research Publicity Request Form

AERO PhD Defense Announcement Template

PhD candidates should download the AERO defense flyer template  and update it with their own photo, dissertation abstract and event details to spread the word to their research group and other colleagues who would like to attend.

Please save the flyer as a PDF and send it to [email protected] at least two weeks before your event to have it shared it with the department through standard department channels.

HELPFUL RESOURCE

Familiarize yourself with the department PhD handbook to understand the policies and procedures that will impact your doctoral education.

PhD in Aerospace Engineering

The PhD in Aerospace Engineering at WPI gives you the tools, facilities, and support to lead independent research and advance your professional capabilities into the technology and the science of aircraft and spacecraft. The degree program is flexible and offers both full-time and part-time options so you can earn your degree while keeping up with your current responsibilities.

Value Proposition Description

Our innovative and involved faculty contribute to aerospace research and currently have research under way in fluids and propulsion, dynamics and control, and materials and structure. You’ll work closely with faculty to find your best path and contribute to high-level research projects as well as developing your own body of work.

You can apply for the PhD in aerospace engineering with a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree, with the bachelor’s degree requiring a longer course of study to completion of the PhD degree. The course work requires several aerospace engineering courses; graduate seminars; and proposal, completion, and defense of a dissertation. Our faculty will help you match your research interests to your professional goals so you can launch right into a career upon graduation.

Students may use these academic planners to help determine their credits:

• PhD Academic Plan for Students Entering with BS Degrees
• PhD Academic Plan for Students Entering with MS Degrees
• PhD Degree Requirements and Policies

Research for Aerospace Engineering PhD

The Aerospace Engineering PhD program allows candidates the opportunity to delve deep into original research they are particularly passionate about. Our expert faculty invite collaboration and innovation in our classrooms and state-of-the-art labs to advance aerospace engineering research.

Recent research projects:

• Intelligent algorithms placed on board UAVs to assist remote military and civilian pilots and lead to improved operational safety
• Investigation of ignition and flame propagation enhancement by plasma assisted technologies to contribute to developing modern combustion-based energy conversion devices with higher efficiency and lower emissions

Aerospace engineering students work closely with faculty to gain mastery in the fundamentals of aerospace engineering and a strong technical competency in modern aerospace components and systems.

The world is our lab. Through coursework and research, students develop technical and scientific skills to solve real-world problems.

Collaborative, hands-on project work means many great minds use their knowledge to achieve better solutions.

A degree in aerospace engineering can lead to careers in academia, industry, and business.

WPI’s aerospace engineering facilities are extensive and well funded by government partners. Researchers have access to the latest equipment and enjoy an open and encouraging atmosphere.

• Aerodynamics Test Facility
• Computational Fluid and Plasma Dynamics Laboratory
• CubeSat Ground Operations Room
• Fluid Dynamics Laboratory
• Fluid and Plasma Dynamics Laboratory
• Micro Fluid and Plasma Dynamics Laboratory
• Systems and Robot Control Laboratory
• Vacuum Test Facility

Faculty Profiles

In my teaching I bring fluid and aerodynamics experiments, including wind tunnels, into the classroom each day. Fundamental concepts are demonstrated in these experiments, and collected data is immediately compared to the theory and equations learned during lecture. Students see that they can use what they are learning in class to predict the behavior of aerospace systems. They then go on to design improved systems in MQP projects and during their careers.

Professor Demetriou is very active with the Controls and Systems research community. He served as an Associate Editor in the IEEE Tr. on Automatic Control (2004-2007), in the ASME Journal of Dynamic Systems, Measurement, and Control (2009-2011), and in SIAM J. Control and Optimization (2009-present). He is also serving in the IEEE-Control Systems Society Conference Editorial Board as an Associate Editor (1997-present). In 2003 he established the IEEE-CSS Technical Committee on Distributed Parameter Systems and served as his first chair (2003-2012).

Nikolaos A. Gatsonis received an undergraduate degree in Physics at the Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, Greece (1983), an M.S. in Atmospheric Science at the University of Michigan (1996), an M.S. (1987) and a Ph.D. (1991) in the Aeronautics and Astronautics department of MIT. From 1991 to 1993 he was a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Space Department of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. In 1994 he joined the Mechanical Engineering faculty at WPI, promoted to Associate Professor in 2000 and to Professor in 2005. He is the Founding Director of the B.S. (2005), M.S.

Autonomous vehicles – aircraft, cars, rovers, over- and underwater vehicles that can move in the real world by themselves without human pilotage – have gained immense importance not only due to the broad spectrum of their potential military and civilian applications, but also due to the concurrent development of sensor technology and embedded systems that enable the realization of true autonomy.

Prior to joining the faculty at WPI in 2001, I was a Senior Staff Engineer in the Advanced Propulsion Technology Group at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). My research at JPL included application of plasma sources for materials processing and the development of pulsed plasma and small-scale hydrazine thrusters. In the mission support area, I worked as the propulsion engineer for the Deep Space 3 Interferometer and Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) missions.

My research is aimed towards understanding fundamental aspects of reacting flows at thermodynamic conditions of relevance to aircraft, rocket, and automobile propulsion. Reacting flow phenomena occurring in engines are complicated as a result of turbulent flow, interaction with solid boundaries, and extreme thermodynamic conditions. In order to understand and simulate combustion phenomena under such conditions, there is a necessity to develop accurate chemical kinetic and molecular transport models in addition to fluid mechanics models.

Prior to joining the faculty at WPI in August 2015, I worked as a post-doctoral research associate at Graduate Aerospace Laboratories at California Institute of Technology. My research at Caltech focused on the development of a Granular Element Method (GEM) based force visualization technique for the study of 2D granular systems under impact loading. I examined of the role of granular fabric on the wave motion and formation of force chains in granular media.

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Experiential PhD: Working Full-Time While Pursuing Your PhD Degree

WPI supports individuals working full-time in industry to pursue PhD degrees either part-time or full-time on topics related to their employment. Want to learn more about this opportunity and how to obtain this industry-based PhD degree, visit the WPI Experiential PhD program page.

Explore Alternative PhD Paths

Are you intrigued by evaluating design and engineering principles, but prefer to be on land? With a PhD in mechanical engineering you can use your creative talents to produce devices closer to home, for businesses, houses, and more. As a student in our PhD program, you’ll have the opportunity to lead breakthrough research alongside world-renowned WPI faculty and work to solve problems that support real industry partners.

Pursue a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering First

Do you first need to earn your master’s degree? Here at WPI, we offer a flexible part or full time master’s in aerospace engineering perfect for students who have other obligations. Our MS covers topics like turbomachinery, spacecraft propulsion, and more to encourage students to simulate their creativity into practice. Our one-on-one faculty mentorship empowers students to gain technical expertise in modern aerospace from industry experts.

Just Starting Your Career? Reach Sky High Limits with a Bachelor's.

If you have aspirations to become an aerospace engineer, flight technician, or even a design engineer, be sure to set yourself up for success with a bachelor’s in aerospace engineering . As an undergraduate student you’ll have exposure to the technical tools to learn about aircraft design, astronautics, and more. Maybe you’re intrigued by airplanes and rockets, but aren’t sure you want to major in aerospace engineering? Consider gaining a fundamental understanding of aircraft with our minor in aerospace engineering .