Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering at Purdue University offers a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of designing, analyzing, and manufacturing aircraft and spacecraft. This program prepares students for leadership roles in the aeronautical and astronautical industries by providing a strong foundation in engineering fundamentals, advanced aerodynamics, propulsion systems, structures, and materials. Students will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects, research initiatives, and internships that enhance their practical skills and industry readiness. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with laboratory work and collaborative team projects, fostering critical thinking and innovative problem-solving abilities. Purdue's state-of-the-art facilities, including wind tunnels, flight simulators, and specialized laboratories, support students' experiential learning. The program also emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary understanding, covering topics such as control systems, avionics, and space systems engineering. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue employment in aerospace companies, government agencies like NASA and the Department of Defense, or to continue their education through graduate studies. The program encourages students to develop communication skills and ethical perspectives essential for a successful engineering career. With a rich history of aerospace innovation and research, Purdue University provides an ideal environment for aspiring aerospace engineers to thrive and contribute to advancements in aviation and space exploration.

Fall 1st Year

• MA 16500 - Analytic Geometry And Calculus I
• CHM 11500 - General Chemistry *
• ENGL 10600 - First-Year Composition * or
• ENGL 10800 - Accelerated First-Year Composition *
• ENGR 13100 - Transforming Ideas To Innovation I *
• CGT 16300 - Graphical Communication And Spatial Analysis **

15 Credits

Spring 1st Year

• MA 16600 - Analytic Geometry And Calculus II
• PHYS 17200 - Modern Mechanics *
• CS 15900 - Programming Applications For Engineers **
• ENGR 13200 - Transforming Ideas To Innovation II *
• COM 11400 - Fundamentals Of Speech Communication *

16 Credits

Fall 2nd Year

• AAE 20300 - Aeromechanics I ++
• AAE 25100 - Introduction To Aerospace Design
• MA 26100 - Multivariate Calculus
• Gen Elective I - Credit Hours: 3.00
• MA 26500 - Linear Algebra *
• AAE 20000 - Undergraduate Sophomore Seminar

16 Credits

Spring 2nd Year

• AAE 20400 - Aeromechanics II ++
• AAE 20401 - Aeromechanics II Laboratory
• PHYS 24100 - Electricity And Optics **
• MA 26600 - Ordinary Differential Equations
• ME 20000 - Thermodynamics I **
• Gen Elective II - Credit Hours: 3.00

16 Credits

Fall 3rd Year

• AAE 33300 - Fluid Mechanics
• AAE 33301 - Fluid Mechanics Laboratory
• AAE 35200 - Structural Analysis I
• MA 30400 - Differential Equations And Analysis Of Nonlinear Systems For Engineering And The Sciences
• AAE 30100 - Signal Analysis For Aerospace Engineering
• AAE 30000 - Undergraduate Junior Seminar
• Gen Elective III - Credit Hours: 3.00

16 Credits

Spring 3rd Year

• AAE 33400 - Aerodynamics
• AAE 33401 - Aerodynamics Laboratory or
• AAE 35201 - Structural Analysis I Laboratory
• AAE 33800 - Thermal Sciences or
• AAE 33900 - Aerospace Propulsion
• AAE 34000 - Dynamics And Vibrations
• AAE 36400 - Control System Analysis
• Gen Elective IV - Credit Hours: 3.00

16 Credits

Fall 4th Year

• AAE 36401 - Control Systems Laboratory
• Major/Minor Electives - Credit Hours: 6.00
• Gen Elective V - Credit Hours: 3.00
• Tech Elective - Credit Hours: 3.00
• AAE 40000 - Undergraduate Senior Seminar
• AAE 42100 - Flight Dynamics And Control or Tech Elective

17 Credits

Spring 4th Year

• AAE 44000 - Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics or Tech Elective
• Major/Minor Electives - Credit Hours: 9.00
• Gen Elective VI - Credit Hours: 3.00
• AAE 45000 - Spacecraft Design or
• AAE 45100 - Aircraft Design

18 Credits

• All applicants must graduate from high school or have successfully completed their state’s high school equivalency requirements and Indiana residents are given preference.
• $60 Application Fee
• Original or attested copies of all transcripts, diplomas, mark sheets and certificates from all secondary and post-secondary schools attended. 
• SAT or ACT scores with writing is strongly encouraged for international citizens. International citizens who submit an exceptional SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing(new), SAT Critical Reading(old), or ACT English score may be exempt from submitting additional scores. Generally, an exceptional score is within the top 15 percentile
• Proof of English Proficiency
• Though not required, a letter of recommendation is strongly encouraged, especially for students eligible to be considered for scholarships, for the Honors College or for those who are applying to highly competitive programs.

Scholarships

• Need-Based Scholarships
• Merit-Based Scholarships

The Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering at Purdue University offers students a comprehensive education in the design, development, and analysis of aircraft and spacecraft. The program combines core engineering principles with specialized knowledge in aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, structures, and control systems, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in the aerospace industry. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, enabling hands-on learning and innovative project work. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical experience, including opportunities for internships and collaboration with industry partners. Purdue's strong ties to aerospace organizations and research institutions provide students with networking opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge advancements in the field. The program also fosters skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication, which are essential for leadership roles in aerospace engineering. Graduates of this program have pursued careers in aircraft design, spacecraft development, aviation safety, and aerospace research, working for major corporations, government agencies such as NASA, and academic institutions. The program's rigorous coursework and research opportunities ensure that students are well-prepared to contribute to the advancement of aerospace technology and to address the complex challenges faced by the industry. Overall, Purdue's Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering program aims to develop innovative engineers capable of shaping the future of aerospace travel and exploration, in alignment with Purdue's reputation as a leading institution in engineering education.