Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The Aerospace Engineering BS combines core engineering fundamentals with specialised aerospace topics and extensive hands-on project work. Early years emphasise calculus, differential equations, physics, mechanics of materials, thermodynamics and engineering laboratory skills. Core aerospace subjects typically include aerodynamics, compressible flow, propulsion, flight dynamics and control, structural analysis for aerospace applications, aircraft/spacecraft systems, and materials for aerospace.

Practical components are embedded throughout the programme: laboratory courses in fluids and thermodynamics, wind tunnel testing, structural testing, instrumentation and data analysis, and computer-aided design and simulation. Students undertake progressively larger design projects that culminate in a Major Qualifying Project (MQP) — an independent, team-based capstone where you design, build and test hardware or software solutions for an aerospace problem.

Electives and interdisciplinary options allow specialisation in areas such as unmanned aerial systems, space systems engineering, propulsion and combustion, aeroelasticity, control systems, or computational fluid dynamics. WPI's project-driven curriculum also encourages participation in research projects, student clubs and external internships.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school record with emphasis on mathematics and physical sciences. Typical preparation includes:

• Mathematics: completed courses in algebra, geometry and calculus (or calculus readiness); exposure to advanced mathematics is advantageous.
• Sciences: physics with laboratory experience is strongly recommended; chemistry is often required or recommended.
• Other preparation: background in computer science or engineering principles is helpful but not mandatory; experience with programming, CAD or electronics strengthens an application.

WPI considers the whole applicant, including coursework, recommendations and extracurricular involvement. Standardised tests may be optional depending on admissions policies; applicants should consult WPI admissions for current testing requirements and any additional documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical roles in the aerospace and related industries, or for further study. Common career paths include:

• Aerospace design engineer (aircraft, rotorcraft, spacecraft)
• Propulsion and propulsion test engineer
• Aerodynamics or flight test engineer
• Systems engineer, integration and verification
• Structures, materials and fatigue analyst
• Controls and guidance engineer for UAVs, satellites and launch vehicles
• Technical roles in defense, government labs, space agencies, and aerospace suppliers
• Graduate study and research in aeronautics, astronautics, mechanical engineering or related disciplines

WPI students often secure internships and co-operative placements with aerospace companies, national laboratories and defence contractors, which can lead directly to employment after graduation.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is known for its project-based curriculum that gives students early and sustained hands-on experience. The programme integrates classroom theory with laboratory work and team projects, culminating in the Major Qualifying Project which simulates professional engineering practice.

Students benefit from small-class environments, access to engineering labs and facilities suitable for aerodynamics, propulsion and flight testing, and close collaboration with faculty active in applied research. WPI's strong industry connections and emphasis on experiential learning make it straightforward to arrange internships, research placements and capstone projects with regional and national aerospace partners.

Additionally, extracurricular opportunities — including student-run aerospace clubs, unmanned aerial systems teams and research groups — let students deepen technical skills, build portfolios, and gain practical experience that employers and graduate programmes value.