Aerospace Engineering

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What is Aerospace Engineering?

Aerospace Engineering focuses on the research, development, integration, and production of aerospace systems. This major may interest you if you enjoy working in teams to create systems that include many types of engineering. You may learn about aerodynamics, design, and performance of air and spacecraft and their propulsion systems. Aerospace engineers will gain experience in mechanical, electrical, computer, material, and aerospace applications.

Career Options

Aerospace
Automotive work
Defense
Engines
Government work
Manufacturing
Security

Post-Graduation Success¹

97% employed or continuing education

57% employed after graduation

40% attending graduate school

$83,768 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: SpaceX, Northrop Grumman, Boeing, Collins Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Blue Origin, United Airlines, Scaled Composites, General Dynamics, Electric Boat View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, SUNY at Albany, Marquette University, Saint Louis University, Stanford University, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, Lewis University, University of Southern California View All

Program Resources

Grainger College of Engineering Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

Strong math and science coursework and performance
Calculus preferred and physics expected (if available at high school)
Strong teamwork and interpersonal communication skills
Interest in improving society through engineering
Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the engineering major selected

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention²

3.9 years to degree

97% first-year retention rate

62% four-year graduation rate

83% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs³

Illinois Resident

Tuition: $18,740
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,558
Total: $43,480

Non-Resident

Tuition: $44,340
Fees: $5,182
Expenses:$19,898
Total: $69,420

International

Tuition: $47,800
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,898
Total: $72,880

Related Majors

Electrical Engineering - ENG

Engineering Mechanics - ENG

Industrial Engineering - ENG

Mechanical Engineering - ENG

¹ Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

² Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

³ "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.