Students interested in aeronautical and astronautical engineering need a mechanical, scientific and mathematical aptitude. The science of designing and testing new vehicles for spaceflight or general aviation is interdisciplinary. Read on to see academic and career options in this field.

Inside Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering

Aeronautical and aerospace engineers rely on an interdisciplinary mix of mechanical, electronics and materials engineering skills. In the field, they can focus on the design of aircraft or spacecraft. Some focus on the design of missiles, probes or other unmanned devices. Both aeronautical and astronautical engineers incorporate propulsion, control systems, aerodynamics and thermodynamic considerations into their designs. They're also responsible for testing aircraft, materials or flight systems.

Astronautical and aeronautical careers are in demand. There are plenty of online and on-campus degree options to get you started. The resources fromStudy.commay help you find the right educational and career path.

Most employers look for graduates of a 4-year aerospace engineering program recognized by ABET. Undergraduate programs provide a basic education in electronics, principles of flight, physics, thermodynamics, propulsion and materials science. However, students can focus their studies in one or more of these areas.

Aeronautical and astronautical engineers need a graduate degree if they're looking for supervisory, research or teaching positions. A graduate degree might also be required to work on experimental designs. Most graduate programs will accept students with a background in mechanical, electronic, or computer engineering if they don't have an aerospace degree.

The following articles discuss some of the educational possibilities in this field.

Aeronautical Engineer Education

Aeronautical Engineer Degree Program Info

Bachelor's Degree in Aeronautical Engineering

Aeronautical Majors and Programs

Choosing an Aerospace School

Distance Learning Options

It's possible to earn your aeronautical engineering degree online. Most online programs are designed for those with an undergraduate education in mechanical or aerospace engineering. However, you may also find an online program that doesn't require an undergraduate degree for admission.

Online Aerospace Engineering Degrees

Online Aerospace Engineering Education

Aerospace Master's Degree Online

Online Astronautical Engineering Degrees

Career Options

Graduates from aerospace and astronautical degree programs may work for public and private corporations, ranging from aircraft companies to defense contractors. Here are some overviews of the career paths available.

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Structural Engineer

Aeronautical Engineer

Aerospace Defense Engineer

Employment Information

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects a seven percent increase in the number of aerospace engineering jobs between 2012-2022, which is slower than average (www.bls.gov). Many of these engineers work in manufacturing - an industry facing decline, the BLS reports. However, demand will continue for aerospace engineers for both civilian aviation and national defense projects. Data from May 2012 reveals that aerospace engineers made a mean annual wage of $104,810, according to the BLS