Georgia Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework, elective specialisation, and a choice of a thesis or non-thesis option to provide advanced training across the principal areas of aerospace engineering. Students study theoretical foundations and practical applications in aerodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics, structural mechanics and materials, dynamics and stability, guidance, navigation and control, and space systems.

• Core topics: compressible and incompressible aerodynamics, propulsion fundamentals (jet and rocket engines), aeroelasticity, structural analysis and design, and flight dynamics.
• Control and autonomy: guidance, navigation and control, control theory for aircraft and spacecraft, and autonomous systems for unmanned aerial vehicles and satellites.
• Space systems: orbital mechanics, spacecraft design and systems engineering, satellite subsystem design, and mission analysis.
• Experimental and computational methods: wind tunnel testing, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), finite element analysis (FEA), and laboratory-based measurement and instrumentation.
• Electives and specialisations: students can take advanced electives in areas such as hypersonics, rotorcraft, multidisciplinary design optimisation, materials for extreme environments, and aeroacoustics.
• Project options: thesis track focuses on original research under a faculty advisor leading to a dissertation; non-thesis track emphasises coursework plus a capstone design project or professional report.

Programme duration and credit requirements vary by track, with full-time students typically completing the degree by progressing through a structured mix of required and elective courses alongside research or design projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related engineering or physical science discipline from an accredited institution. Competitive applicants typically present a strong undergraduate record in mathematics, physics and engineering fundamentals.

• Academic background: an accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or a relevant science subject. Equivalent preparation through coursework may be considered for applicants from adjacent disciplines.
• Transcripts: official academic transcripts demonstrating performance in core subjects such as calculus, differential equations, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, dynamics, and materials/structures.
• Standardised tests: requirements for tests such as the GRE vary; check the department for current policy. International applicants may need to demonstrate English language proficiency via approved tests unless exempt.
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose outlining research or professional interests, curriculum vitae, and letters of recommendation (typically two or three) from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant’s technical ability.
• Professional experience: relevant work experience, internships or research can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants from non-traditional backgrounds.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme pursue careers across the aerospace and broader engineering sectors. The curriculum prepares students for technical roles in aircraft and spacecraft design, propulsion and systems engineering, aerodynamics and CFD, structural analysis, and control systems.

• Industry roles: design and analysis engineer, propulsion engineer, flight test engineer, systems engineer, CFD specialist, and structures/loads engineer at aerospace manufacturers, suppliers and integrators.
• Space sector: satellite systems engineer, mission analyst, payload and subsystem designer, and operations engineer with space agencies, commercial launch providers and satellite operators.
• Research and development: R&D engineer or scientist in government laboratories, defence contractors and private research organisations working on advanced air and space technologies.
• Further study and academia: graduates who pursue the thesis option often continue to PhD programmes or academic and research careers.
• Cross-sector opportunities: skills in modelling, simulation, control and systems engineering also apply to robotics, automotive, energy and high-technology sectors.

Why study at Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech’s School of Aerospace Engineering is widely recognised for its long-standing focus on aeronautics and astronautics, extensive laboratory facilities, and strong industry and government partnerships. The school offers access to specialised experimental facilities, supercomputing resources for CFD and design optimisation, and interdisciplinary centres that bridge aerospace with robotics, materials, and systems engineering.

• Research-led teaching: many courses are taught by faculty actively engaged in leading-edge research, providing opportunities for graduate students to participate in funded projects and publish work.
• Facilities and laboratories: access to wind tunnels, propulsion laboratories, vibration and structural test facilities, and high-performance computing clusters supports hands-on learning and experimental validation.
• Industry connections: strong ties with regional and national aerospace companies, government agencies and research consortia facilitate internships, collaborative projects and employment pathways.
• Collaborative environment: an interdisciplinary research climate allows collaboration with other engineering departments and institutes focused on robotics, advanced materials, and space systems.