California Polytechnic State University, Pomona

What you'll study

The program covers core technical areas such as aerodynamics, astrodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics, materials and structural engineering, systems engineering and aerospace vehicle design. Students gain hands‑on experience designing and building satellites, testing models in subsonic and supersonic wind tunnels, flying unmanned air vehicles and launching rockets. The department offers ten laboratories including subsonic and supersonic wind tunnel facilities and a Liquid Rocket Laboratory where students lead design, manufacture, testing and launch projects. Students can emphasize either aeronautics (aircraft‑focused topics) or astronautics (spacecraft and exploration systems).

Entry requirements

The programme page describes the B.S. degree and points applicants to the university course catalog and advising for the most current course and admission details; specific entry criteria are provided by admissions and department advisers.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly enter roles such as aerospace engineer designing and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, missiles and rockets. Related pathways include mechanical engineering roles applying thermodynamics and materials science to components, aviation management positions overseeing operations and compliance, and CAD/drafter jobs producing technical drawings. The program highlights connections to industry and competitions with organizations like NASA and JPL.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students should explore university‑level scholarships, department awards and external industry scholarships tied to aerospace, engineering societies and employers; internships and lab projects can also enhance employability and access to sponsored opportunities. For specific funding programs, contact Cal Poly Pomona advising or the Aerospace department.