Aerospace Students: How close is thermofluids to aero?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relevance of thermofluids in preparing for a master's degree in aerospace or astronautical engineering. A participant with a mechanical engineering background emphasizes that their focus on thermal fluid sciences during their undergraduate studies was adequate for pursuing a PhD in aerospace engineering. They highlight the importance of understanding fluid dynamics, noting that the principles governing fluid behavior remain consistent across different applications, such as in pipes and over wings. Key recommendations include taking courses in viscous flow and compressible flow to enhance foundational knowledge.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermofluids concepts
  • Familiarity with fluid dynamics principles
  • Knowledge of viscous flow and compressible flow
  • Basic mechanical engineering principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum for thermofluids courses at various universities
  • Study fluid dynamics textbooks focusing on viscous and compressible flow
  • Explore aerospace engineering programs to compare prerequisites and coursework
  • Investigate the application of thermal fluid sciences in aerospace contexts
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace students, mechanical engineering undergraduates, and anyone interested in the intersection of thermofluids and aerospace engineering will benefit from this discussion.

martinlematre
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I wish I could go to a university with aerospace/astronautical engineering. At my uni, we only have mech electrical chem etc. The closest thing to aero is limited entry "thermofluids" option you can take in 3rd year mechanical engineering. I plan to get a masters in astronautical engineering/aerospace engineering and want to know how applicable what I plan to do now (thermofluids) will be to astro/aero eng masters
 
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Well that depends on what "thermofluids" entails at said university. I got a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and focused my electives on the thermal fluid sciences and then am just about finished with a PhD in aerospace engineering and it was a perfectly acceptable preparation. There are definitely areas where I am not as familiar with certain aspects of aerospace as those who did it as a four-year program, but I haven't found that limiting at all. After all, fluids behave according to the same rules whether it is in a pipe or over a wing.

Just try to make sure you get a chance to at least take viscous flow and compressible flow as an undergraduate and you ought to be able to figure it out just fine from there.
 

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