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Bachelor of Science in

Aerospace Engineering

What is Aerospace Engineering?

Aerospace engineers design, build, and test the aircraft, spacecraft, and propulsion systems that push the boundaries of flight and exploration. The field sits at the forefront of science and technology, offering graduates the chance to solve complex problems in aeronautics and astronautics while working across defense, commercial aviation, space, and emerging autonomous systems.

The Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering degree program provides a solid foundation in aerodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics, structures, materials, and control systems. Students can tailor their studies through upper-level technical electives in areas such as Aerodynamics, Propulsion and Combustion Systems, Finite Element Analysis, Control System Design, and Computational Fluid Dynamics.

A defining feature of the program is its hallmark design sequence, which immerses students in project-based learning from early coursework through a yearlong senior capstone experience with real industry sponsors. These experiences develop technical competence, teamwork, and innovation skills that prepare graduates for diverse aerospace careers or advanced study.

Format

On-Campus

Department

Mechanical & Industrial Engineering

Credit Hours

120

Program Start

Every Fall and Spring Semester

Distinctions

ABET Accreditation

Reach Higher

The Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering offers a comprehensive curriculum grounded in foundational mathematics and physics that prepares you for professional work or graduate study. You will gain hands-on experience with engineering software, materials testing and characterization, wind tunnel and structural testing, and a range of laboratory tools as you progress toward upper-level coursework and a yearlong senior capstone project.

Careers in Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineers work at the continuously changing forefront of science, technology, and systems management. Demand spans commercial aviation, space systems, defense, and a growing field of unmanned and autonomous vehicles, offering both job security and professional challenge.

Potential Careers

  • Aerodynamics Engineer
  • Aircraft Design Engineer
  • Propulsion Engineer
  • Flight Test Engineer
  • Structural Analysis Engineer
  • Systems Engineer
  • Spacecraft Engineer
  • Avionics Engineer

Job Growth

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, employment of aerospace engineers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. About 3,800 openings for aerospace engineers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Salary Ranges

The median annual wage for aerospace engineers was $130,720 in May 2024. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $83,180, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $185,140.

Why Florida Poly?

At Florida Poly, our small campus environment fosters a unique approach to STEM education.

Through a curriculum that progresses from freshman to senior year, emphasizing project-based learning, individualized mentorship with faculty, required internships in high-tech industries, and culminating in a senior capstone design project, students are equipped with comprehensive skills and experiences, uniquely preparing them for success in the rapidly advancing tech landscape.

The Internship Experience

At Florida Poly, internships aren’t just encouraged—they’re a fundamental part of the educational experience. Mandatory for all students, these internships provide direct engagement with high-tech industry leaders. This immersive experience not only provides practical skills but also fosters crucial connections within the industry, frequently paving the way to future employment opportunities for our graduates.

Capstone Design

Florida Poly’s capstone design course is the pinnacle of each students’ academic journey, consolidating their four years of learning into a single project. During their senior year, students in this course collaborate with peers from various fields to tackle real-world challenges supported by industry sponsors. Through this interdisciplinary approach, students not only apply theoretical concepts but also gain practical experience, preparing them for successful careers in their respective fields.

Alumni Making an Impact

Armed with the knowledge and skills gained at Florida Poly, especially through internships and capstone projects, our alumni smoothly entered thriving careers in high-tech industries. These hands-on experiences offered invaluable insights and practical expertise, enabling our alumni to innovate and excel in dynamic, leading-edge settings, influencing the trajectory of technology.

Program Educational Objectives

Graduates should demonstrate:

  1. Problem-solving: an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
  2. Design: an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
  3. Communication: an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
  4. Professional Responsibilities: an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
  5. Teamwork: an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
  6. Experimentation: an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
  7. Knowledge Growth: an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Student Outcomes

Meet the Faculty

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