University of San Diego

What you'll study

This master’s programme provides advanced coursework and hands‑on project work across the core disciplines of aerospace engineering. Typical modules cover:

• Aerodynamics and Fluid Dynamics — theory and computational methods for subsonic and supersonic flows, wind‑tunnel testing and CFD fundamentals.
• Flight Dynamics and Control — aircraft and spacecraft stability, guidance, navigation and control systems, simulation and control design techniques.
• Propulsion Systems — principles of jet, rocket and electric propulsion, performance analysis and system integration.
• Structures and Materials — load analysis, lightweight structural design, composite materials and fatigue assessment.
• Systems Engineering and Integration — multidisciplinary design optimisation, model‑based systems engineering and payload integration.
• Computational Methods and Simulation — numerical methods, multi‑physics simulation and software tools used in industry.
• Laboratory and Project Work — experimental aerodynamics, propulsion testbeds, avionics labs and a capstone design or research project applying concepts to practical aerospace problems.

Students typically choose between a thesis/research track and a project/coursework track. Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS), space mission design, advanced materials, or avionics and embedded systems. The programme emphasises both fundamental theory and practical skills, including software proficiency, experimental techniques and systems‑level design.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics or a closely related technical discipline. Typical entry expectations include:

• A recognised undergraduate degree with a competitive academic record.
• Strong preparation in mathematics (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra) and core engineering fundamentals (mechanics, thermodynamics, basic electronics or programming).
• Transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and career goals, and at least two academic or professional references.
• A résumé/CV detailing relevant project, internship or work experience in engineering or technical roles.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.

Some applicants without a directly related undergraduate degree may be considered but could be required to take prerequisite undergraduate-level courses to build necessary foundations. The programme may optionally consider standardised test scores where submitted; check the department for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for technical and engineering roles in the aerospace and related industries. Common career paths include:

• Aerospace design and development engineer working on airframes, propulsion or avionics.
• Systems engineer or integration specialist for aircraft, satellites or unmanned systems.
• Flight dynamics, guidance, navigation and control engineer in civil or defence sectors.
• Structures, materials or fatigue analyst for lightweight and composite systems.
• Test engineer in wind‑tunnel, propulsion or flight test programmes.
• Roles in robotics, autonomous systems, space mission analysis, or research and development labs.

Graduates may also progress to doctoral study or move into managerial and technical leadership positions after gaining industry experience. The San Diego region’s concentration of defence, aerospace and technology companies provides broad local employment opportunities for internships and graduate roles.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego’s engineering school emphasises small class sizes, personalised mentoring and a hands‑on approach to learning. Students benefit from access to engineering laboratories and project spaces where they can build, test and iterate designs under faculty supervision. The programme integrates multidisciplinary perspectives, encouraging collaboration across mechanical, electrical and systems engineering.

Located in the San Diego region, the university offers proximity to a strong aerospace and defence ecosystem—supporting industry partnerships, internships and applied research opportunities. Faculty bring a mix of academic and industry experience, and the university’s campus resources support career development, entrepreneurship and ethical leadership in engineering practice.