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Aerospace Engineering

Grainger College of 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

88% employed or continuing education

62% employed after graduation

26% attending graduate school

$65,361 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Boeing, Rockwell Collins, Northrop Grumman View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Georgia Institute of Technology, Stanford University 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 Guide

Graduation & Retention2

4.1 years to degree

93% first-year retention rate

66% four-year graduation rate

87% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $17,660
  • Fees: $4,664
  • Expenses3: $16,420
  • Total: $38,744

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $38,132
  • Fees: $4,664
  • Expenses3: $16,760
  • Total: $59,556

International

  • Tuition: $41,110
  • Fees: $4,664
  • Expenses3: $16,760
  • Total: $62,534

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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 graduating class years of: 2014-2015, 2015-2016, 2016-2017, and 2017-2018. 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.

2 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. Learn more about costs.

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