Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering (BASc in AeroEng): Courses, Eligibility, Universities & Careers

A Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering (BASc/BSc/BS) is a 3–4 year undergraduate degree focused on the science and technology of flight within and beyond Earth’s atmosphere, preparing students to design, build, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, rockets, and drones.

The program combines advanced mathematics and physics with core engineering subjects such as aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, flight mechanics, control systems, and space systems, alongside hands-on labs, wind-tunnel testing, simulations, and capstone design projects. Admission typically requires strong high-school performance in math and physics and proof of English proficiency for international students.

Graduates develop high-level technical, analytical, and teamwork skills and can pursue careers in aviation, space, defense, and related high-tech industries, benefiting from competitive salaries, steady global demand, and emerging opportunities in sustainable aviation, autonomous systems, and the growing new-space economy.

Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering (BASc/BSc): Course, Eligibility, Fees, Careers & Salary 2026

A Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering (often titled BASc in Aerospace Engineering or BSc/BS in Aerospace Engineering) is a 3–4 year undergraduate degree that prepares you to design, build, and test aircraft, spacecraft, drones, and related systems.

It combines advanced mathematics and physics with hands‑on engineering projects, leading to highly paid, globally in‑demand careers in aviation, space, and defense.

What is a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering?

A Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering is an undergraduate engineering degree focused on the science and technology of flight within and beyond Earth’s atmosphere. You study how to design, analyze, and improve aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones).

Many universities label this degree as BASc in Aerospace Engineering, BSc/BS in Aerospace Engineering, or Applied Bachelor in Aerospace Engineering, but the core focus remains similar. The program typically blends theoretical learning with labs, wind‑tunnel testing, simulation, and large team‑based design projects.

Why study Aerospace Engineering?

• High‑impact industry: Aerospace engineers contribute to commercial aviation, defense, satellite communications, and space exploration.
• Strong salaries: In the United States, the median annual wage for aerospace engineers was about 154,260 USD in 2025, significantly above the overall occupational median.
• Stable demand: Employment of aerospace engineers is projected to grow about 9% from 2026 to 2036, faster than average for all occupations.

For international students, top‑paying locations include the USA, Switzerland, Germany, the UK, Canada, and Australia, where average aerospace engineer salaries can range roughly from 59,000 to 118,000 USD per year depending on country and experience.

Program structure and curriculum

Although each university is unique, most Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering programs follow a similar progression from fundamentals to advanced design.

Year 1: Fundamentals

You build a strong base in:

• Calculus and differential equations
• Physics (mechanics, electricity, and magnetism)
• General chemistry
• Introductory computer programming and engineering graphics

Universities like Georgia Tech emphasize foundational math, physics, and general engineering science before you specialize in aerospace topics.

Years 2–3 (and 4): Core aerospace subjects

As you progress, you move into specialized aerospace modules such as:

• Aerodynamics & fluid mechanics – airflow around wings, bodies, and turbines
• Aircraft and spacecraft structures – stress analysis, materials, lightweight design
• Flight mechanics & stability – how aircraft and spacecraft move, balance, and maneuver
• Propulsion systems – jet engines, rocket engines, and future propulsion concepts
• Control systems & avionics – guidance, navigation, and control of vehicles
• Space systems & orbital mechanics – satellite orbits, mission design, and space environment

Leading programs also integrate project‑based learning, where you design aircraft, satellites, drones, or rockets and test them in labs or wind tunnels. Many degrees include capstone design courses where teams complete a full conceptual and preliminary design of an aircraft or spacecraft.

Labs and hands‑on learning

You can expect significant lab work, including:

• Wind‑tunnel testing of wings and models
• Materials and structural testing (fatigue, fracture, composites)
• Propulsion and engine test rigs
• Flight simulators and control system experiments

Some applied bachelor programs use real aircraft as central teaching tools from the first semester, shifting gradually from theory to real‑world applications.

Eligibility and admission requirements

Entry requirements vary by country and institution, but common expectations are consistent worldwide.

Academic background

For undergraduate admission, universities typically expect:

• Completion of high school (Year 12, A‑levels, IB, or equivalent)
• Strong grades in mathematics and physics (often the most critical subjects)
• Sometimes additional preparation in computer science, engineering science, or design technology is preferred.

English language proficiency

If English is not your first language and the program is taught in English, you will usually need to provide:

• IELTS or TOEFL scores meeting the university’s minimum (for example, many schools require around IELTS 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL iBT ~79–90 or higher).
• In some programs, higher scores are needed for teaching assistantships or competitive scholarships.

Documents and additional requirements

Most universities ask international applicants for:

• Academic transcripts (with certified English translations if needed)
• Proof of financial support for visa and tuition purposes
• Passport‑size photographs and a copy of your passport (depending on country)
• Sometimes a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or a resume

For transfer or graduate‑level aerospace programs later on, you will usually need a prior degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field, often with a minimum GPA of about 3.0/4.0.

Top study destinations and universities

Aerospace engineering is widely offered in major education hubs. Typical degree names include Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering, BASc in Aerospace Engineering, or Applied Bachelor in Aerospace Engineering.

Popular destination regions include:

• United States: Home to many top‑ranked programs and major employers like NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and SpaceX.
• Europe (Netherlands, Germany, UK, etc.): Well‑established programs like the BSc in Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft and strong links to Airbus and other European aerospace players.
• Canada & Australia: Solid bachelor programs with access to regional aerospace and defense industries and global companies like Bombardier and Airbus.
• Middle East & Asia: Growing aviation hubs with applied bachelor programs focused on aircraft operations, maintenance, and engineering.

Typical tuition fees and scholarships

Tuition fees depend heavily on the country, university type (public vs private), and whether you are a domestic or international student. While exact amounts vary, aerospace engineering is often priced similarly to other engineering degrees at the same institution.

Common patterns include:

• Public universities in parts of Europe may offer lower tuition for EU/EEA students and higher but still competitive fees for non‑EU students.
• Universities in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia often charge higher annual fees, but this is balanced by stronger salary potential and generous scholarship options, especially for high‑achieving international students.

Many institutions and governments provide scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific nationality; you should always check both university and external funding options.

Core skills you will develop

A Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering develops both deep technical expertise and broad professional skills.

Key technical skills:

• Advanced mathematics and physics applied to flight and space
• Aerodynamics, structural analysis, and propulsion
• Modelling and simulation using specialized software
• Control systems, avionics, and systems integration

Transferable skills:

• Complex problem‑solving and analytical thinking
• Teamwork in large engineering projects and multidisciplinary teams
• Project management, technical writing, and presentations
• Data analysis and programming skills valued in many high‑tech industries

These skills are also highly transferable to automotive, energy, robotics, and general mechanical engineering roles.

Career opportunities and salary outlook

Job roles after BASc in AeroEng

Graduates can pursue roles such as:

• Aerospace engineer (aircraft or spacecraft)
• Aerodynamics engineer or flight performance engineer
• Propulsion or engine systems engineer
• Structures and materials engineer
• Systems engineer or integration engineer
• Avionics and control systems engineer
• Maintenance and operations engineer in airlines or MRO organizations

There are also opportunities in adjacent fields like automotive aerodynamics, wind‑turbine design, defense technology, drones, and software‑driven engineering analysis.

Salary and job outlook

• In the United States, aerospace engineers earned a median annual wage of about 134,830 USD in 2024.
• Employment is projected to grow by about 6% from 2024 to 2034, with roughly 4,500 job openings per year due to growth and replacement needs.
• Globally, the US, Switzerland, Germany, UK, Canada, and Australia are among the highest‑paying locations, with typical averages ranging roughly 59,000–118,000 USD per year.
• In India, entry‑level aerospace engineers often earn the equivalent of roughly 8 lakh INR per year on average, with higher packages in leading firms and international roles.

Industry reports and workforce analyses agree that aerospace engineering offers strong job satisfaction, competitive pay, and relatively stable long‑term demand, supported by commercial aviation growth and expanding space and defense programs.

Emerging trends in aerospace engineering

A BASc in Aerospace Engineering also positions you for fast‑growing niche areas:

• Sustainable aviation: Low‑emission engines, electric and hybrid‑electric aircraft, hydrogen fuel, and aerodynamic efficiency improvements
• New space economy: Private launch providers, small satellites (CubeSats), satellite internet constellations, and lunar/Mars missions
• Unmanned and autonomous systems: Drones for logistics, inspection, agriculture, and urban air mobility vehicles
• Advanced materials and manufacturing: Composites, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and smart structures

Universities are gradually updating curricula to reflect sustainability and new‑space priorities, making current students well‑placed for future roles.

Who should choose BASc in AeroEng?

You are a strong fit for a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering if you:

• Enjoy mathematics, physics, and problem‑solving
• Are fascinated by aircraft, rockets, satellites, or drones
• Are comfortable with rigorous, quantitative coursework
• Want a career in high‑tech industries with global mobility

Because entry requirements are math‑ and physics‑heavy, students should be prepared for demanding but rewarding studies. Many universities explicitly look for strong performance in these subjects at high‑school level.

How to apply as an international student: step‑by‑step

1. Shortlist countries and universities
   Compare program content, rankings, location, tuition fees, and visa conditions in countries like the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Australia, and the UAE.
2. Check entry requirements
   Verify required high‑school subjects, minimum grades, English‑language test scores, and any additional entrance exams.
3. Prepare documents
   Gather official transcripts with certified translations, passport copy, English test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose if needed.
4. Apply online and pay application fees
   Submit applications directly to universities or through centralized platforms where applicable and pay the required international application fees.
5. Arrange funding and scholarships
   Explore university scholarships, government schemes, and education loans; universities often require proof of financial support for visa documents.
6. Receive offer and apply for visa
   Once admitted, follow the university’s instructions for acceptance, deposit payment, and student visa application in your chosen country.

FAQs about Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering

What is a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering?
A Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering is a 3–4 year undergraduate degree focused on designing, analyzing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, rockets, and drones, combining advanced mathematics, physics, and hands-on engineering projects.

How long does it take to complete a BASc in Aerospace Engineering?
Most bachelor programs take 3–4 years of full‑time study depending on the country and institution. Co‑op or internship options may extend the timeline but add valuable paid work experience.

Can I work abroad after a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering?
Yes. Aerospace engineering is a globally recognized discipline, and top‑paying countries such as the US, Switzerland, Germany, the UK, Canada, and Australia actively recruit aerospace graduates from reputable universities worldwide. Post‑study work rights depend on each country’s visa rules.

What is the difference between aeronautical and aerospace engineering?
Aeronautical engineering mainly focuses on aircraft operating within Earth’s atmosphere, while aerospace engineering covers both aeronautical and astronautical engineering related to spacecraft and space systems. Many bachelor programs bundle both under a single “Aerospace Engineering” degree with optional specializations.

What subjects are required to study Aerospace Engineering?
Strong background in Mathematics and Physics is essential. Some universities also prefer prior study in chemistry, computer science, or engineering-related subjects.

What are the core subjects in Aerospace Engineering?
Core subjects typically include aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, propulsion systems, flight mechanics, aircraft and spacecraft structures, control systems, avionics, and orbital mechanics.

Is Aerospace Engineering difficult?
Yes, it is considered academically challenging because it involves advanced mathematics, physics, and complex engineering concepts, but it is highly rewarding for students interested in flight and space technology.

What careers can I pursue after a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering?
Graduates can work as aerospace engineers, propulsion engineers, structures engineers, systems engineers, avionics engineers, flight test engineers, or in maintenance and operations roles.

What is the average salary of an aerospace engineer?
Salaries vary by country and experience, but globally aerospace engineers often earn between 59,000 and 118,000 USD per year, with higher salaries in countries like the US, Switzerland, and Germany.

Is Aerospace Engineering in demand?
Yes, aerospace engineering has steady global demand driven by commercial aviation growth, defense programs, satellite systems, and expanding private space industries.

Can I work abroad after completing this degree?
Yes, aerospace engineering is globally recognized, and many countries recruit skilled aerospace graduates, though visa and work permit rules vary.

What are the top countries to study Aerospace Engineering?
Popular destinations include the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Canada, and Australia due to strong universities and aerospace industries.

Do Aerospace Engineering programs include practical training?
Yes, most programs include laboratory work, wind-tunnel experiments, simulation projects, and final-year capstone design projects, with some offering internships or co-op placements.

What English language tests are required for international students?
Common requirements include IELTS or TOEFL scores, typically around IELTS 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL iBT 79–90, depending on the university.

Can I specialize within Aerospace Engineering?
Yes, many programs offer specializations such as propulsion, aerodynamics, space systems, structures, avionics, or unmanned aerial systems in later years.

Is Aerospace Engineering only about aircraft?
No, it also covers spacecraft, satellites, rockets, drones, and emerging technologies like electric aircraft and space exploration systems.

What skills will I develop during the degree?
You will develop advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, technical modeling and simulation abilities, teamwork experience, programming knowledge, and strong communication skills.

Are scholarships available for Aerospace Engineering students?
Yes, many universities and governments offer merit-based and need-based scholarships, especially for high-achieving international students.

Can Aerospace Engineering graduates work in other industries?
Yes, the skills are transferable to automotive engineering, renewable energy, robotics, defense technology, manufacturing, and data-driven engineering roles.

What software tools are commonly used in Aerospace Engineering?
Students often use CAD software, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools, finite element analysis (FEA) software, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB.

Is a master’s degree required after a bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering?
A master’s degree is not mandatory for entry-level roles, but it can improve career prospects, specialization opportunities, and salary potential.

What is the job outlook for Aerospace Engineering graduates?
The field shows steady growth globally, with consistent job openings due to technological advancements and replacement needs in aviation and space sectors.

What industries hire Aerospace Engineering graduates?
Graduates are hired in commercial aviation, defense, space exploration, satellite communications, drone technology, and research institutions.

Can I study Aerospace Engineering without physics in high school?
Most universities require physics as a core subject for admission, as it forms the foundation of aerospace principles.

Is Aerospace Engineering suitable for students who enjoy mathematics?
Yes, it is ideal for students who enjoy mathematics, physics, and solving complex technical problems.

What emerging fields are shaping the future of Aerospace Engineering?
Emerging areas include sustainable aviation, electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft, autonomous drones, advanced composite materials, additive manufacturing, and the growing private space sector.