mit aerospace engineering phd requirements

Aeronautics and Astronautics

77 Massachusetts Avenue Building 33-202 Cambridge MA, 02139

617-258-5035 [email protected]

Website: Aeronautics and Astronautics

Application Opens: September 1

Deadline: December 1 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

Fee: $75.00

Terms of Enrollment

Interdisciplinary programs.

• Computational Science and Engineering (CSE)
• Joint Program in Oceanography/Applied Ocean Science and Engineering (WHOI)
• Leaders for Global Operations (LGO)
• System Design and Management
 (SDM)
• Technology and Policy Program (TPP)
• Transportation
• Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Statistics (IDPS)

Standardized Tests

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

• Minimum score required: 7
• Electronic scores send to: MIT Graduate Admissions

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

• Minimum score required: 100 (iBT) 600 (PBT)
• Institute code: 3514
• Department code: 63

Waivers of the TOEFL/IELTS may be available.

Areas of Research

• Aerospace Computational Engineering
• Aerospace, Energy and the Environment
• Air-Breathing Propulsion
• Aircraft Systems Engineering
• Air Transportation Systems
• Autonomous Systems
• Communications and Networks Controls
• Humans in Aerospace
• Materials and Structures
• Space Propulsion
• Space Systems

Application Requirements

• Online application
• Statement of objectives
• Three letters of recommendation
• Transcripts
• English proficiency exam scores

LGO applicants only:

• Supplemental questions (LGO only)

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What you need to know

At MIT, graduate degree requirements are determined by the individual departments or programs and approved by the Committee on Graduate Programs (CGP). Each graduate student is officially enrolled in an individual degree program. MIT graduate programs are full-time and work is done chiefly on campus in collaboration with faculty, peers, and the Institute community.

• Read more about Master’s degree requirements .
• Read more about Doctoral degree requirements .

Additional information can be found in the MIT Bulletin:

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Simultaneously lab and playground, MIT is unlike any other place on Earth.

Walking through the halls of the Institute feels like walking into the future: four-legged robots leaping over obstacles; researchers hunched over microscopes untangling the fundamental properties of graphene; makers building nanosatellites, or wearable electronics, or even a roller coaster.

Here, students hurry to class yammering about quantum computing, CRISPR gene editing, and nuclear fusion — sometimes in the same conversation.

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In this community, we believe as much in excellence and boldness as we do in humility and the value of failure. An open spirit of collaboration. A strong desire to make a positive impact. And a sense of responsibility to make the world a better place.

We encourage you to visit campus, explore Cambridge and Boston, talk to current students and faculty, and get to know our community in person.

You will find, in the words of one of our students, that “the MIT culture is very accepting.” And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

PhD Admissions

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The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is intended primarily for students who desire a career in research, advanced development, or teaching. Students in the PhD program obtain a broad education in the core areas of Aeronautics and Astronautics through coursework, while also engaging in intensive research in a specialized area, culminating in a doctoral thesis.

As of the 2021-2022 application term, an MS degree will no longer be required to apply to the PhD program in Aeronautics and Astronautics. Students with a Bachelor’s degree who ultimately intend to complete a PhD degree are strongly encouraged to apply directly to the PhD program, rather than the MS program.

Current Stanford MS students interested in adding a PhD program to their academic career should speak with the staff at the Aero/Astro Student Services Office about the necessary paperwork and relevant policies. If you are a current master's student in the Stanford Aeronautics and Astronautics Department, to apply for the PhD, you must complete paperwork prior to conferring the MS degree.

Application Deadlines

We have one PhD admission cycle. Application deadlines are final. A completed application (including letters of recommendation, transcripts and TOEFL scores) must be uploaded by the deadline. Applications will NOT be accepted after the deadline. A completed application (including letters of recommendation, transcripts and TOEFL scores) must be received by the following date:

Autumn 2024-25: December 5, 2023

Application Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the PhD program, applicants must either:

• hold, or expect to hold before enrollment at Stanford, a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university.
• Applicants from institutions outside the U.S. must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing. See minimum level of study required of international applicants .

Students who meet the above degree requirement with a strong technical background in engineering, physics, or a comparable science program are welcome to apply; a bachelor's degree in aeronautics and astronautics or mechanical engineering is not strictly required.

All students interested in pursuing a PhD in Aeronautics and Astronautics should use the Stanford Graduate Admissions Application . Your application must include all of the materials listed below and be received by Stanford by the application deadline. The fee for online graduate applications is $125.

Required Application Documents

• Online Application
• Application Fee

Statement of Purpose

• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Official TOEFL* Scores, if applicable

Application Fee Waiver

If you are considering Stanford graduate programs and need assistance with the application fees, consider applying for a fee waiver .

Your statement of purpose should identify personal and professional goals. It should also discuss your development to date and your intentions relative to graduate study and life beyond Stanford. The Aero/Astro Graduate Admissions Committee reads your statement of purpose with interest because, along with the letters of recommendation, it offers insight into who you are as an individual. Your statement of purpose should not exceed two pages (single-spaced).

Transcripts

Submitting transcripts when you are applying, and after you have been offered admission are two separate steps. When applying: You must upload one scanned version of your transcript(s) in the online application. Please read the Applying section of this website for important information about submitting transcripts. If offered admission: Please see this page for information on submitting final official transcripts.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required; one letter must come from an academic source, although at least two are preferred. Recommendations must be submitted online. Please see the "Recommendations" section of the online application for information. Please  do not  submit letters of recommendation through Interfolio.

TOEFL Scores

Adequate command of spoken and written English is required for admission. Applicants whose first language is not English must submit an official test score from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) . Stanford accepts only ETS (Educational Testing Service) scores. TOEFL results must be from an examination taken within the past two years. The Stanford institution code for ETS reporting is 4704. You do not need a department code. For more information on TOEFL requirements, please see the Required Exams and Frequently Asked Questions sections on the Graduate Admissions website .

*Stanford will temporarily accept the TOEFL ITP Plus test with the Vericant interview for applicants from Mainland China who are unable to sit for the TOEFL iBT. This exception is requested only for the 2020-2021 application cycle. Applicants may be asked to re-test at a later time once the Stanford TOEFL iBT becomes available, or applicants may be asked to re-test through the Stanford Language Center. Per current University policy, all international students including those from Mainland China must receive English language clearance from the English for Foreign Students program prior to becoming a teaching assistant.

Exemptions are granted to applicants who have earned (or will earn, before enrolling at Stanford) a U.S. bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association in the United States, or the international equivalent degree from a university of recognized standing in a country in which all instruction is provided in English. U.S. citizenship does not automatically exempt an applicant from taking the TOEFL if the applicant’s first language is not English.

Reapplicants must submit new supporting documents and complete the online application as outlined above, in the graduate application checklist. Only prior official test scores can be reactivated.

Application Status

You may view your application status and decision by logging into your status page . Due to the volume of applications we receive, we are not able to confirm with individual applicants when documents have been received. All applicants should monitor the online checklist to track individual documents. It is the applicant's responsibility to monitor the checklist and ensure that all documents are received by the deadline.

Admission Decisions

Completed applications are reviewed by the faculty Admissions Committee throughout the winter. A select group of applicants will be interviewed during the evaluation process. Letters are sent as decisions are made, beginning in March. The selection of graduate students admitted to the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics is based on an individualized, holistic review of each application, including (but not limited to) the applicant’s academic record, the letters of recommendation, the statement of purpose, personal qualities and characteristics, and past accomplishments.

PhD Funding

All SoE PhD students who are in good standing relative to their PhD program requirements will be funded to the department’s PhD standard. In all departments, this is at least equivalent to Stanford’s 20-hour-RA salary plus tuition to cover the department’s required enrollment (summer enrollment requirements vary by department).  Funding can include fellowships, research assistantships, training grants and teaching assistantships. PhD students are encouraged to pursue outside fellowships. Besides the prestige, fellowships give the recipient greater flexibility in determining their own research direction.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Join dozens of Stanford Engineering students who gain valuable leadership skills in a multidisciplinary, multicultural community as Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS).

KHS admits up to 100 select applicants each year from across Stanford’s seven graduate schools, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders ready to address complex global challenges. As a scholar, you join a multidisciplinary and multicultural cohort, participate in up to three years of leadership programming, and receive full funding for up to three years of your graduate studies at Stanford.

Candidates from any country may apply. KHS applicants must have earned their first undergraduate degree within the last seven years (or nine years, if you have served in your country's military). Applicants must apply to both a Stanford graduate program and to KHS.

If you aspire to be a leader in your field, we invite you to apply. The KHS application deadline is October 11, 2023. Learn more about KHS admission .

Application Questions

email: [email protected]

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Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering

General institute requirements (girs).

The General Institute Requirements include a Communication Requirement that is integrated into both the HASS Requirement and the requirements of each major; see details below.

Departmental Program

Choose at least two subjects in the major that are designated as communication-intensive (CI-M) to fulfill the Communication Requirement.

The units for any subject that counts as one of the 17 GIR subjects cannot also be counted as units required beyond the GIRs.

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Only at MIT can you do an MBA and specialize in aerospace engineering at the same time. Students who complete the LGO program through MIT Aeronautics and Astronautics are uniquely prepared for a leadership career in the aerospace industries. During their time at MIT, LGO Aero/Astro students are paired with a faculty advisor who helps them select courses, integrates them into the faculty’s research group, and oversees their LGO internship.

Degree Requirements

LGO students completing the MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics complete:

• The required courses in the LGO summer core focused on analytics, simulation and computation
• Engineering courses (at least four): each LGO Aero/Astro student works with a faculty advisor to select courses, some of which must be within the department, to fulfill academic and career goals.
• LGO internship incorporating Aeronautics and Astronautics content, resulting in a dual-degree thesis overseen by the student’s faculty advisor.
• Each LGO Aero/Astro student is paired with a  faculty member  at the time of admission who helps select courses that fulfill the department’s requirements and the student’s academic and career goals.

Research Areas

Aero/Astro (Course 16) is organized into several research areas that students can pursue:

Autonomous Systems & Decision-Making

• Computational Science & Engineering
• Earth & Space Sciences
• Human-System Collaboration

Systems Design & Engineering

Transportation & exploration.

• Vehicle Design & Engineering

A full list of Course 16 classes can be found on the MIT Course Catalogue .

Popular research areas among LGOs:

Aero/Astro students focusing on Autonomous Systems focus on on developing embodied intelligent systems, ranging from autonomous drones to self-driving cars and robots, that can physically operate in complex environments with minimal human supervision. LGOs are exposed to foundational aspects of machine learning, control systems, and robotics.

• Key Areas of Research: Autonomy; Control; Guidance; Robotics; Navigation; Space and airborne communication networks; Estimation
• Sample of Classes: 16.413 Principles of Autonomy & Decision Making; 16.423 Aerospace Biomedical and Life Support Engineering; 16.440 Research Seminar: Human, Remote and Autonomous Systems in Air, Sea, and Space; 16.453 Human Systems Engineering; 16.485 Visual Navigation for Autonomous Vehicles

This focus in Aero/Astro provides students with a foundational understanding of systems engineering principles and the tools to build technical, economic, and societal components into an integrated space system solution. The scope of operations LGO students can study includes the design and operation of critical infrastructures such as industrial manufacturing, transportation, earth observation, defense, water, energy, and food supply systems as well as the challenges of sustained human and robotic exploration and settlement of outer space.

• Key Areas of Research: System architecture; Lifecycle costing; Safety; In-space manufacturing; Optimization; Logistics; Access to space
• Sample of Classes: 16.842 Fundamentals of Systems Engineering; 16.863 System Safety Concepts; 16.888 Multidisciplinary Design Optimization; 16.89 Space Systems Engineering; 16.895 Engineering Apollo

Students interested in careers as researchers and practitioners in the areas of airline management, air transportation infrastructure design and analysis, and air transportation systems architecting can focus on this interdisciplinary research area.

• Key Areas of Research: Aviation; Flight information systems; Space missions; Infrastructure; Aircraft operations; Air traffic control; Instrumentation; Industry analysis
• Sample of Classes: 16.71 The Airline Industry; 16.75 Airline Management; 16.736 Air Transportation Operations Research; 16.781 Planning and Design of Airport Systems; 16.886 Air Transportation Systems Architecting

Internships

Many LGO partner companies offer research projects that satisfy Aero/Astro thesis requirements. These projects often focus on airplane manufacturing, unmanned aerial vehicles, satellites and space systems, or defense systems.

A few recent Aero/Astro internships were at:

• A Systems-Based Analysis Method for Safety Design in Rocket Testing Controllers
• Value Proposition Development for Mid-Sized Unmanned Air Cargo Vehicles

The Aeronautics and Astronautics department looks for:

• A bachelor’s degree in any science or engineering discipline. Previous LGO Aero/Astro students have degrees in mechanical engineering, physics, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, and systems engineering.
• All LGOs are paired with an Aero/Astro faculty advisor during the admissions process. To help in pairing, we ask Aero/Astro applicants to choose up to three graduate fields of study while applying. The fields of study you select should match your learning goals for the program.
• Previous project work in an Aero/Astro-related field is recommended. This does not need to be professional experience (successful candidates have cited undergraduate projects and internships, for example).
• The MIT Aero/Astro department strongly recommends that a former professor write the applicant’s technical recommendation.

Applicants should have a strong interest in Aero/Astro topics. Previous work experience in an aero/astro industry is nice, but any work experience is acceptable. We’ve also admitted applicants from the automotive, operations consulting, and IT services industries.

Of course, graduates from LGO finishing with a dual degree in Aero/Astro and management have interesting opportunities in the aerospace and satellites industries. Recent graduates work at Boeing and Raytheon, among other firms, and one even founded his own satellite company .

However, MIT “rocket scientists” have many career opportunities outside of aerospace. The robotics and systems optimization skills learned in Aero/Astro transfer to many industries. Recent graduates have also gone into electronics, renewable energies, healthcare services, and consulting.

Read more about LGO Careers >

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Julie Shah named head of the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Julie Shah ’04, SM ’06, PhD ’11, the H.N. Slater Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics, has been named the new head of the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AeroAstro), effective May 1.

“Julie brings an exceptional record of visionary and interdisciplinary leadership to this role. She has made substantial technical contributions in the field of robotics and AI, particularly as it relates to the future of work, and has bridged important gaps in the social, ethical, and economic implications of AI and computing,” says Anantha Chandrakasan, MIT’s chief innovation and strategy officer, dean of the School of Engineering, and the Vannevar Bush Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

In addition to her role as a faculty member in AeroAstro, Shah served as associate dean of Social and Ethical Responsibilities of Computing in the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing from 2019 to 2022, helping launch a coordinated curriculum that engages more than 2,000 students a year at the Institute. She currently directs the Interactive Robotics Group in MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab (CSAIL), and MIT’s Industrial Performance Center.

Shah and her team at the Interactive Robotics Group conduct research that aims to imagine the future of work by designing collaborative robot teammates that enhance human capability. She is expanding the use of human cognitive models for artificial intelligence and has translated her work to manufacturing assembly lines, health-care applications, transportation, and defense. In 2020, Shah co-authored the popular book “What to Expect When You’re Expecting Robots,” which explores the future of human-robot collaboration.

As an expert on how humans and robots interact in the workforce, Shah was named co-director of the Work of the Future Initiative, a successor group of MIT’s Task Force on the Work of the Future, alongside Ben Armstrong, executive director and research scientist at MIT’s Industrial Performance Center. In March of this year, Shah was named a co-leader of the Working Group on Generative AI and the Work of the Future, alongside Armstrong and Kate Kellogg, the David J. McGrath Jr. Professor of Management and Innovation. The group is examining how generative AI tools can contribute to higher-quality jobs and inclusive access to the latest technologies across sectors.

Shah’s contributions as both a researcher and educator have been recognized with many awards and honors throughout her career. She was named an associate fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) in 2017, and in 2018 she was the recipient of the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society Academic Early Career Award. Shah was also named a Bisplinghoff Faculty Fellow, was named to MIT Technology Review ’s TR35 List, and received an NSF Faculty Early Career Development Award. In 2013, her work on human-robot collaboration was included on MIT Technology Review ’s list of 10 Breakthrough Technologies.

In January 2024, she was appointed to the first-ever AIAA Aerospace Artificial Intelligence Advisory Group, which was founded “to advance the appropriate use of AI technology particularly in aeronautics, aerospace R&D, and space.” Shah currently serves as editor-in-chief of Foundations and Trends in Robotics , as an editorial board member of the AIAA Progress Series, and as an executive council member of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence.

A dedicated educator, Shah has been recognized for her collaborative and supportive approach as a mentor. She was honored by graduate students as “Committed to Caring” (C2C) in 2019. For the past 10 years, she has served as an advocate, community steward, and mentor for students in her role as head of house of the Sidney Pacific Graduate Community.

Shah received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aeronautical and astronautical engineering, and her PhD in autonomous systems, all from MIT. After receiving her doctoral degree, she joined Boeing as a postdoc, before returning to MIT in 2011 as a faculty member.

Shah succeeds Professor Steven Barrett, who has led AeroAstro as both interim department head and then department head since May 2023.

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Aerospace Engineer vs. Mechanical Engineer

Author: University of North Dakota April 23, 2024

Engineering intersects innovation and practicality to create the multitude of machines that drive our world forward.

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However, given the immense diversity of machines and systems, it's impractical to expect a single engineer to master them all. Therefore, engineering has branched out into various specialties, each tailored to tackle distinct challenges. 

Today, we'll be comparing aerospace vs. mechanical engineering, examining their unique characteristics and shared traits. So, keep reading and see which path better aligns with your interests and aspirations.

What is an Aerospace Engineer?

Aerospace engineering is the branch of engineering that involves the design, development, testing and production of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and related systems. The field encompasses various disciplines, including aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, materials science and structural analysis.

Aerospace engineers are crucial in conceptualizing, designing and manufacturing various aerospace vehicles and systems, ensuring they meet safety, performance and regulatory standards. They work on everything from commercial airplanes and military jets to space shuttles and satellites, pushing the boundaries of technology to explore new frontiers in air and space travel.

What is a Mechanical Engineer?

Mechanical engineering is a field of study that deals with the design, analysis and production of mechanical systems and devices. It covers a wide range of applications, including automotive engineering, robotics, HVAC systems, manufacturing processes and energy systems.

Mechanical engineers are involved in every stage of the product development process, from ideation and design to testing, production and maintenance. They use physics and mathematics principles to develop innovative solutions for various industries, driving technological advancements and improving the efficiency and performance of mechanical systems in numerous applications.

What is the Difference Between Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering?

To gain a clearer understanding of mechanical engineering vs. aerospace engineering and their respective similarities and differences, let's compare these two fields head-to-head across various categories, beginning with education and extending to job outlook and salaries.

Aerospace engineers typically begin their careers by earning a bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. These programs allow students to explore advanced topics such as orbital mechanics, space vehicle dynamics and avionics systems. Additionally, through engaging in laboratory experiments, design projects and internships, they refine their proficiency in problem-solving, critical thinking and collaborative work.

Similarly, mechanical engineers typically pursue a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or mechanical engineering technologies. These programs encompass a wide range of subjects, including mechanics of materials, heat transfer and control systems. Students learn to apply engineering principles to design and analyze mechanical systems, such as engines, power plants, robots and medical devices.

Both aerospace and mechanical engineering programs provide students with a strong understanding of engineering fundamentals, empowering them to pursue various career paths in their respective fields as well as licensure as Professional Engineers (PEs), unlocking opportunities for enhanced responsibility and leadership in their careers.

Moreover, pursuing a graduate degree enriches students' educational journey, expands their career prospects and fosters professional growth in both fields. Advanced studies in aerospace engineering, through a master's or Aerospace Sciences Ph.D. , enable students to specialize in areas like space systems engineering, aerodynamics or propulsion technology, while a master's and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering allows students to explore advanced materials, renewable energy systems or mechatronics. 

These specialized areas equip graduates for leadership roles across diverse sectors, further solidifying their impact and influence in engineering.

Skill Set Requirements

Aerospace engineers require a solid grasp of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, structural mechanics, proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and an understanding of aerospace materials and their manufacturing processes. 

Mechanical engineers, on the other hand, need a deep knowledge of mechanics, materials science and fluid dynamics, proficiency with computer-aided engineering (CAE) tools and practical experience in working with machinery and mechanical systems.

While technical skills between the two fields differ, both prioritize similar essential soft skills. This emphasis underlines the interdisciplinary essence of engineering and highlights the importance of adaptability.

Key among these soft skills is problem-solving. Engineers, whether focusing on aerospace or mechanical disciplines, use this skill to navigate complex challenges. This might involve crafting an innovative aircraft wing or refining a manufacturing process.

Analytical thinking follows closely. It equips both mechanical and aerospace engineers with the tools to parse data, scrutinize design alternatives and execute informed decisions.

Creativity rounds out these core competencies. It's the engine of innovation, enabling engineers to conceive novel solutions to a broad spectrum of engineering problems. This trio of soft skills—problem-solving, analytical thinking and creativity—collectively underscores the collaborative, innovative spirit essential to the engineering field.

Job Responsibilities

Aerospace engineers oversee the journey of aircraft and aerospace products from conception to testing. They assess project proposals for technical and financial viability, ensuring they meet safety standards and goals. Part of their role involves reviewing designs for compliance with engineering principles, customer needs and environmental regulations.

In a similar vein, mechanical engineers manage the manufacturing process of their designs, focusing on quality and efficiency. They use their expertise to solve problems, incorporating computer-aided design (CAD) tools to refine their solutions.

Both fields require a keen eye for detail in diagnosing issues. Aerospace engineers inspect and address faults in aerospace products, while mechanical engineers analyze equipment failures to recommend fixes. This investigative work underpins their shared commitment to innovation and safety.

Moreover, the development and testing of prototypes is a critical step for both. They analyze test results and adjust designs or systems accordingly, ensuring the final product meets all specifications and standards. This process highlights the iterative nature of engineering work, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and precision.

Work Environment

Aerospace engineers typically work in aerospace product and parts manufacturing, engineering services and government agencies. Similarly, mechanical engineers are employed in various sectors, including architectural engineering, machinery manufacturing and transportation equipment manufacturing. 

Both types of engineers usually work in office settings, using computers for design, analysis and project management tasks. Occasionally, they may have to travel to meet with clients or partners, especially during project development stages or visit worksites to oversee manufacturing processes, address specific issues or inspect equipment firsthand.

Job Outlook and Salary

Both aerospace and mechanical engineering fields show promising growth prospects. Employment of aerospace engineers is projected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. On the other hand, employment of mechanical engineers is expected to grow by 10% during the same period, indicating a much faster growth rate than the average.

Regarding job openings, about 3,800 openings for aerospace engineers and 19,200 openings for mechanical engineers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. 

Aerospace engineers usually earn a higher median annual wage in comparison to mechanical engineers. The median annual aerospace engineer salary is $126,880, while for mechanical engineers it is $96,310 . 

Factors including industry, experience, location and level of education can affect earnings in both professions. Specialized areas or advanced degrees can offer opportunities for higher salaries.

Mechanical Engineering vs. Aerospace Engineering: Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between mechanical and aerospace engineering hinges on your interests, career aspirations and personal preferences. It's crucial to take the time to evaluate your options carefully and select a path that aligns with your goals for a fulfilling and rewarding engineering career. Here are some tips to guide you in making an informed decision:

• Explore the job prospects and growth trends in both fields. Consider factors such as the demand for professionals, the industry outlook and the potential for career advancement.
• Reflect on your interests, passions and strengths. Are you more drawn to the design and analysis of mechanical systems and devices or do you have a keen interest in aircraft, spacecraft and aerospace technology? Choose the field that resonates with your interests and inspires you to excel.
• Keep in mind that both mechanical engineering and aerospace engineering offer diverse specializations and career paths. Think about which industry sectors excite you the most and align with your career aspirations.
• Review the educational requirements and curriculum for mechanical and aerospace engineering programs. Assess the coursework, research opportunities and hands-on experiences different universities offer to ensure they match your academic and career objectives.
• Seek guidance from professionals, mentors or career counselors in both fields. Their perspectives and advice can provide valuable guidance in your decision-making process.
• Stay informed about emerging technologies, industry trends and future mechanical and aerospace engineering developments. Consider which field offers greater opportunities for growth, innovation and long-term impact.

All in all, both aerospace and mechanical engineering present opportunities to design, develop and improve the machines and devices that propel our society forward. So, whatever path you decide to take, know that you are choosing a field with immense potential to drive innovation and make a meaningful impact. 

Ready to begin your engineering journey? Start with our engineering degrees today and soar to new heights in both knowledge and earnings.

Can aerospace engineers work in the mechanical engineering field and vice versa? ( Open this section)

Yes, aerospace engineers can transition to mechanical engineering roles and vice versa, although adapting to specific job requirements and industry standards may require additional training or education.

What are some common misconceptions about aerospace and mechanical engineering? ( Open this section)

A common misconception is that aerospace engineering only involves space-related projects, while mechanical engineering is limited to machinery. In reality, both fields encompass a wide range of industries and applications beyond these stereotypes.

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• Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering >
• Master's Programs >
• Advanced Certificates and Trainings >

Advanced Certificate in Advanced Manufacturing

There is an increased international, national, and statewide interest in the field of advanced manufacturing – from new methods in additive manufacturing, to co-robotics, and digital manufacturing. 

Students in this Advanced Manufacturing certificate program will take courses with graduate faculty members in Industrial and Systems Engineering or Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and interaction with  UB’s Community of Excellence in Sustainable Manufacturing and Advanced Robotic Technologies (SMART) .

Who Should Apply

This advanced certificate program is designed as a stand-alone credential for local professionals seeking to enhance their background in cutting-edge manufacturing technologies at the graduate level, as well as for currently enrolled MS or PhD students to gain a credential that will complement their degree program.

Program Requirements

Four graduate level courses (12 cr. total) as follows:

Core Courses (Students must CHOOSE 2) 

• IE 505 Production Planning and Control – 3 cr. 
• MAE 564 Manufacturing Automation – 3 cr. 
• MAE 577 Computer-Aided Design Applications – 3 cr. 

Elective Courses (Students must CHOOSE 2) 

• IE 506 Computer Integrated Manufacturing - 3cr. 
• IE/MAE 528 Decision-based System Design - 3 cr. 
• IE/MAE 521 Sustainable Manufacturing – 3cr. 
• IE 620 Agile Manufacturing – 3 cr. 
• MAE 550 Optimization in Engineering Design – 3cr. 
• MAE 555 Continuum Mechanics – 3 cr. 

Note: Other elective courses (e.g., special topics courses in related areas) may be substituted with prior approval.

Courses can be applied to the certificate program as well as an MS or PhD degree program.

Admission Requirements

All students who are currently enrolled in the MS or PhD programs in ISE or MAE, and are in good standing, can apply for admission to this certificate program. 

All other applicants (e.g., applicants who wish to earn the advanced certificate without enrolling one of the related graduate degree programs or applicants from other departments) must meet the following admission requirements: 

• A baccalaureate degree in engineering or a related technical field.
• A minimum grade point average of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0) for all undergraduate work undertaken during the last two years of the applicant's studies.
• In addition to holding a bachelor's degree, entering students are expected to be skilled in a number of specific areas (see Prerequisites below). 

Prerequisites: Proficiency is required in mathematics through the level of multivariate calculus, mechanics, dynamics, statistics, and computer programming. These requirements must be satisfied prior to admission. 

How to Apply

Students should apply for the program using the online graduate application form .

Prospective students who just want to pursue this certificate (e.g., are not currently enrolled in or applying to another SEAS graduate program at UB)  should provide transcripts from all prior institutions, along with a personal statement, resume, and one letter of recommendation. GRE scores are not required.

Current ISE and MAE students should attach a current transcript but do not need to submit letters of recommendation, personal statements, or GRE scores.

Other current SEAS graduate students should provide a personal statement relevant to this certificate program and copies of their current transcript and transcripts from previous institutions including their bachelor’s institution. Recommendation letters and GRE scores are not required.

Prospective graduate students  who are applying to other UB graduate programs may additionally apply to this certificate program. Complete a separate GradMIT application in addition to the primary degree application. Provide a personal statement relevant to this certificate program and indicate the primary degree program in the statement. No additional documents (letters, GRE scores, transcripts) are required for the certificate application.