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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

92% employed or continuing education

45% employed after graduation

47% attending graduate school

$77,141 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Northrop Grumman (6), Boeing (5), SpaceX (4) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology 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

4.0 years to degree

96% first-year retention rate

62% four-year graduation rate

85% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $18,372
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $42,310

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $41,444
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $65,722

International

  • Tuition: $44,688
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $68,966

Related Majors

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.

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