Getting into Aerospace when university doesn't offer program

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on how individuals with backgrounds in civil or computer engineering can transition into the aerospace field, particularly when their universities do not offer aerospace programs. Participants explore various educational pathways, relevant coursework, and the feasibility of pursuing aerospace-related careers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to enter the aerospace industry despite studying civil engineering, noting similarities with mechanical engineering and seeking advice on relevant classes.
  • Another participant highlights the broad nature of the aerospace industry, questioning the specific area of interest to provide tailored advice.
  • A participant suggests that a mechanical engineering degree would be advantageous for entering aerospace, recommending coursework in materials and structures.
  • Interest in aerodynamics and propulsion is noted by a participant, who seeks guidance on classes that would be beneficial.
  • A junior in aerospace engineering shares insights on essential classes, including multi-variable calculus, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, emphasizing their relevance to aerodynamics.
  • Another participant recommends advanced classes such as combustion, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer for those interested in aerospace applications.
  • A computer engineering graduate inquires about pursuing a master's in aerospace, with some participants suggesting limitations based on their background.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the ability of a computer engineering graduate to engage in aircraft design without the necessary foundational knowledge, with suggestions for focusing on aerospace software or simulators instead.
  • Some participants note that pursuing a master's in aerospace may require completing prerequisite courses, particularly for design-oriented programs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the pathways into aerospace, with some suggesting that a mechanical engineering background is preferable, while others believe that computer engineering graduates can still find roles in aerospace, albeit in different capacities. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach for transitioning into aerospace engineering.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various prerequisites and the need for specific coursework, but there is no consensus on the exact requirements or pathways for transitioning into aerospace from other engineering disciplines.

spiq
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
Hey guys, I'm sure this topic has come up but I feel I have a little different case than most. So, I am currently about to enter my third year as a civil engineering student, but I've recently been very attracted to a career in the aerospace industry. My university doesn't offer such a program, but, through reading this forum, I've noticed that there are some similarities between it and Mechanical Engineering. My question is, how can I get into the aerospace field given my circumstances. A great deal of my gen ed's have been satisfied, so it won't be that hard of a switch to go to mechanical. Also, we would be required to take a certain amount of electives toward the mechanical degree. What classes should I focus on? Any advice would help a lot and thanks in advance.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
This type of question is so hard to answer because 'aerospace industry' is so so broad. There is really no way we can tell you what to take. Is there any area that specifically want to work in regarding aerospace?
 
spiq said:
Hey guys, I'm sure this topic has come up but I feel I have a little different case than most. So, I am currently about to enter my third year as a civil engineering student, but I've recently been very attracted to a career in the aerospace industry. My university doesn't offer such a program, but, through reading this forum, I've noticed that there are some similarities between it and Mechanical Engineering. My question is, how can I get into the aerospace field given my circumstances. A great deal of my gen ed's have been satisfied, so it won't be that hard of a switch to go to mechanical. Also, we would be required to take a certain amount of electives toward the mechanical degree. What classes should I focus on? Any advice would help a lot and thanks in advance.
Civil engineers build airports and runways, but perhaps you have in mind to do something more along the lines of aircraft or propulsion.

A mechanical engineering degree would be better for someone wanting to do aerospace, if an aerospace engineering program is not possible. One could also do coursework in materials/structures.

In propulsion, one would want to look into gas turbine/turbomachinery, which in addition to use a jet propulsion, also have application to electrical generation.

In what particular aspects of aerospace engineering is one interested?
 
After looking over the specializations, I'm really interested in all of it. I guess I like the aerodynamics (dynamics in general) and propulsion aspects the most, though.
 
spiq said:
After looking over the specializations, I'm really interested in all of it. I guess I like the aerodynamics (dynamics in general) and propulsion aspects the most, though.

Well, this is a thread I can help you with.

I am going to be a junior @ RPI in Aero Eng. I can give you a rundown.

Aerodynamics (the class) is essentially Multi-Variable Calculus. You use Gradient Vectors, integrate, differentiate and reconcile partials, you use "curls." etc. etc.

It is also Thermodynamics when you start talking about sonic and supersonic flight.

So I guess if I had to tell you what classes are good ideas... I would say

Multi-Variable Calculus and Linear Algebra (these usually get grouped together)
Thermo and Fluids Eng. 1 (and you may want to take 2 if there's not much offered)
and then work your way to Num. Comp. as CFD and computers have kinda taken over.


You can also check this out and see what types of classes you need. http://catalog.rpi.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=5&poid=1056&bc=1


Another thing also. I am looking at maybe even switching to an applied physics major. RPI doesn't officially offer an aero concentration, but I talked to the head of the physics dept. and he said he would allow it if I met the criteria for a concentration.
You may want to do the like. Ask around and see if they'll let you do something where you can say, "with a concentration in aeronautics." That may help if you're really into Aeronautics.

Anyways, let me know if this helps.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I would suggest a graduate composites class, combustion, fluid dynamics (or aerodynamics) a higher level of thermodynamics or compressible flow.

other classes that could be of use are heat transfer ( or smart material systems if you are interested in the future of design!)
 
Hey guys I have completed my graduation in computer engineering.I have interest to build a career into Aerospace field.Is it possible for to pursue Masters in Aerospace?
 
sam_dj said:
Hey guys I have completed my graduation in computer engineering.I have interest to build a career into Aerospace field.Is it possible for to pursue Masters in Aerospace?
You can only work on aerospace software or simulators.You can't work on aircraft design stuff(cfd,propulsion,flight dynamics etc) because you don't have the knowledge.You can work on the development of aerospace programs and design simulators.Search for a course in Cranfield university.
 
lantirn said:
You can only work on aerospace software or simulators.You can't work on aircraft design stuff(cfd,propulsion,flight dynamics etc) because you don't have the knowledge.You can work on the development of aerospace programs and design simulators.Search for a course in Cranfield university.

He can work in other areas, but it will require taking the proper pre-req courses.
 
  • #10
Cyrus said:
He can work in other areas, but it will require taking the proper pre-req courses.
Yes but this will take some time and it won't be that easy.I don't think he could follow a master in aircraft design,dunamics or propulsion.For example most universities in aerospace engineering master courses require from candidates a first degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering.
 

Similar threads

Mechanical Eng. Undergrad then Aerospace Eng. Graduate?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Finding Your Path to the Aerospace Engineering Industry
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Summer 2024 Internship in Aerospace Engineering in Europe
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Engineering Is it possible for me to go into Aerospace Engineering at 37?
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
5K
Career in aerospace engineering with a mechanical eng. background
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Other Finding a research topic in the Aerospace field
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Most Fundamental or Important Class for Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Physics Undergraduate Mechanical vs Aerospace Engineering
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
Aerospace Engineering Contest Site
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Tips on getting into the Aerospace Industry
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
6K