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Aerospace engineering is a diverse field of study in aviation,
mechanics, and technology. An aerospace engineer may be involved
with designing military aircraft, conducting testing and
assessment on various aviation products, or simply providing
technical support at an airport. With the advances in technology
and computer-based systems, formal training is most appropriate
for those interested in pursuing a successful career in the
field. An aerospace engineering college can prepare candidates
with the key skills and training required in this growing
industry.
What Is Aerospace and
Aeronautical Engineering?
Aerospace and aeronautical engineering programs offer a variety of options. The study of aviation, mechanics,
machine structure, and technology can lead to a variety of careers, and many
involve working with the government. Aerospace
engineering is involved with designing and developing test aircraft, missiles,
and spacecraft, in addition to the manufacture and design of various aviation
products. Aeronautical engineers are commonly involved with working on specific
aircraft, and may be trained on just one or two models.
Job Description and
Responsibilities of an Aerospace Engineer
After completing training, an aerospace engineer is commonly
involved with projects such as:
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Developing new
technologies for aviation
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Learning and implementing
various defense systems
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Being involved with space
exploration
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Specializing in structural
design
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Implementing navigation
and control systems
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Working with commercial
aircraft
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Instrumentation and
documentation of aircraft
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Guidance and navigation of
aircraft
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Conducting statistical
analysis or assessments
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Designing shuttles and
other space exploration aircraft
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Designing missiles and
other military aircraft
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Providing maintenance or
assistance with aircraft
Aerospace and
Aeronautical Career Options
The right engineering school
provides the formal training and knowledge for a successful career in the
industry. Both aerospace and aeronautical engineering programs offer specialized
study where the candidate can learn about just one specific model or
manufacturer. This allows them to become experts on a particular set of
aircraft, and may lead to better career opportunities. The most common
specialties include:
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Aerodynamics
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Celestial Mechanics
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Commercial aircraft
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Military fighter jets
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Helicopters
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Spacecraft
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Rockets
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Structural design
These
programs allow graduates to develop technology and aviation defense systems, in
addition to understanding space exploration and aviation production.
Computer-aided design and advanced electronic optics are key areas of training
for all engineers, and courses are available with a variety of college programs. Pursuing an aerospace engineering degree online is
another alternative for students who require flexibility in their schedule.
Enrollment in an Aerospace Engineering College
Aerospace engineering school
can provide both basic and in-depth training for a variety of careers in
aviation. The skills for engineers can be carried over into a variety of
disciplines, and many graduates can pursue
positions in the manufacturing, automotive, and industrial design sector as
well. Enrollment in a bachelor's or master's degree program
provides the most benefits for a successful career in the field. It's important
that prospective students are naturally creative, detail-oriented, and have
strong mathematical backgrounds. Strength in high school courses such as
science, math, and computer technology are especially helpful in understanding
the abstract concepts and design systems.
An aerospace engineering
college may also provide internship placement. An internship provides extensive
training, including hands-on applications and simulations for projects. The
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), National Space Society (NSS),
and the National Security Agency (NSA), all provide internships for prospective
students.
Common courses in an
undergraduate curriculum include:
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Aerospace guidance systems
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Altitude material science
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Physics of high-altitude
radiation
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Computer-aided drafting
and design
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Computer science
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Calculus and other
advanced mathematics
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Advanced chemistry
An online
degree is an attractive option for students who prefer a self-paced
format of study, and for those who may be interested in pursuing a career while
still in school. Even though the practical and hands-on training elements are
not part of an online degree, students are able to focus
on the technical training and computer-aided design subjects in-depth. In most
cases, an internship is a also an important part of an online program.
Accreditation for Aerospace Engineering Schools
The Accreditation Board for
Education and Technology (ABET) is the accrediting party for aerospace
engineering school programs and colleges.
Employment Prospects and
Earning Potential in Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering
Since
the economy is heavily focused on military funding and designing innovative
aircraft, the employment prospects for a career in aerospace and aeronautical
engineering are very promising. The rapid advancement in technology and
computers for a variety of fields allows graduates to pursue a variety of
positions immediately after graduation, and internships can help with the job
placement process.
The National Association of Colleges and
Employers reports that starting offers averaged $50,003 for those with a
bachelor's degree in aerospace and aeronautical engineering in 2005. Salaries
vary depending on the skill level and experience, in addition to certifications
and specializations.
Spartan College
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