Graduate

Graduate Degrees

  • Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) in Aerospace Engineering
  • Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Space Engineering
  • Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Global Aerospace Leadership
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering

M.S.E. in Aerospace Engineering

This degree is designed for students who desire a curriculum focused on the scientific aspects of aerospace engineering. A total of 30 credit hours is required, including: five, 500-level or higher classes in aerospace engineering – which includes graduate-level engineering courses that have been cross listed with aerospace engineering courses, and two approved courses in mathematics. Students are encouraged to take advantage of directed study and become involved in research as part of their M.S.E. experience although it is not required to graduate. The M.S.E. program does not include an option for a thesis per se; however, through AEROSP 590, students can perform research work under the close supervision of a faculty member and investigate a problem of common interest.

Admission requirements include a strong performance in an undergraduate program in engineering or science, and competitive Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores. Learn more about the Academic Background of Applicants.

Details of the M.S.E. degree requirements may be found at: Master of Science in Engineering

M.Eng in Space Engineering

The M.Eng. in Space Engineering degree provides a comprehensive set of courses and training in space-related science and engineering, and the systems approach to design and management of complex space systems. It develops both the theoretical and applied aspects of space engineering. The M.Eng. in Space Engineering is a professional program managed by the Climate and Space Sciences and Engineering (CLaSP) department.  

Details of the M.Eng. degree requirements may be found at: The Master of Engineering Degree in Space Engineering

M.Eng in Global Aerospace Leadership

This unique and accelerated 27-credit online program provides: 

  • An advanced technical education for strategic decision-making and essential business skills to manage technical delivery
  • Skills in project leadership, ethics, collaboration, communication, sustainability, and systems integration in technical acumen
  • Rigorous, hands-on integration and application of educational materials in a simulated industrial environment

The program is completed on a part-time basis for six semesters over the course of two years. As most students will be working as full-time professionals, with 3-7+ years of experience, this program is designed to accommodate personal and professional commitments while also providing meaningful and consistent curricular experiences. To foster important industry-wide connections, students will progress through the program as a cohort, regularly interacting and taking courses with a consistent group of peers – from the program’s initial in-person orientation experience to the culminating capstone project and graduation!

Details on the application process, curriculum, and degree requirements can be found at: Global Aerospace Leadership Master of Engineering

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering

The Ph.D. degree requires a strong academic foundation and an ability to carry out independent research. Students must complete:

  1. Coursework & Training
  2. Preliminary Examinations
  3. Research & Dissertation

Doctoral Degree Requirements

  1. Coursework & Training

A student must take five core doctoral courses selected by the student and approved by the student’s research advisor. In addition, a student must take at least one graduate-level course outside the student’s field of study, but still related or connected with an aspect of their field.

A student must complete training for the College of Engineering’s Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship (RCRS) program. Training consists of four workshops which engage students to be able to recognize, address, and resolve ethical issues in classroom, professional and research settings.

  1. Preliminary Examination

There are two mandatory preliminary examinations. The first is an oral coursework examination covering material taught in the five selected core courses administered by the preliminary examination committee. This examination is offered twice a year. The second is an oral research examination, which takes place some months after the coursework examination. A student must pass both preliminary examinations to earn their degree. 

  1. Research and the Dissertation

The student must initiate research activity with their advisor in the first year of graduate study. 

To demonstrate their ability to pursue and solve an original research problem the student must present the research results in a written dissertation and defend the dissertation at a final oral defense. The research is done under the supervision of a faculty advisor in the Aerospace Engineering Department and a dissertation committee.

The Ph.D. degree is awarded upon successful completion of a Ph.D. dissertation, a Ph.D. defense, and other academic credit requirements.

Details of the Ph.D. degree requirements may be found at: Doctor of Philosophy