Master of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics
Designed for aspiring aerospace engineers who aim to push the boundaries of innovation and technology, this top-ranked program is designed for working engineers and offers flexible plans of study with a format that allows you to study from where you are. Purdue’s strong industry connections provide unmatched avenues for professional growth, equipping you to succeed in the dynamic fields of aerospace engineering.
Master of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics
Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Radiopharmaceutical Manufacturing is a first-of-its-kind program that prepares professionals to lead in the fast-growing field of radiopharmaceutical manufacturing. This remote degree equips students with cutting-edge knowledge in production, regulation, quality control and facility design to help students excel in this unique industry.
Master of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics Overview
Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Radiopharmaceutical Manufacturing is designed to meet the urgent demand for professionals with radiopharmaceutical production knowledge. As the first graduate program of its kind in the United States, this innovative degree utilizes rigorous online coursework and online simulation exercises to prepare students for leadership roles in pharmaceutical production, quality assurance, compliance and operations.
Radiopharmaceuticals are transforming diagnostics and therapeutics, particularly in oncology and neurology. This specialized industry requires professionals who not only understand radiation science but also possess the technical, regulatory and management skills to oversee complex manufacturing environments. Students gain advanced knowledge in radioactive drug production combined with skills in project management, FDA and NRC compliance, environmental control and facility operations. Graduates of this program are equipped to lead cross-functional teams, ensure regulatory compliance, optimize production efficiency and contribute to the safe development of life-saving drugs.
Students are offered the flexibility to customize the learning experience across two focus areas: product development or project management. The capstone project can typically be completed at a facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, or at a radiopharmaceutical manufacturing facility closer to a student’s location. If a student is not located near a radiopharmaceutical facility, an alternative capstone project can be developed. This ensures every student gains meaningful, real-world experience — whether through direct exposure to sterile environments and quality control labs, or through a tailored project that builds relevant skills to prepare him or her for impact in the radiopharmaceutical field.
Customize your Plan of Study
Students will choose a focus area to best customize their education to meet their interests.
- Aerodynamics
- Aerospace Systems
- Astrodynamics & Space Applications
- Autonomy and Control
- Structures & Materials
- Propulsion
Each area combines theoretical, computational, and experimental methods, preparing students for the complex challenges of aerospace engineering. Purdue’s Enduring Legacy in Space Exploration Purdue is known as the Cradle of Astronauts® because of its extraordinary influence on the U.S. space program, specifically the 27 Boilermakers who have been chosen to become astronauts. Today’s generation of Boilermakers extends that proud tradition by contributing to projects that will further expand understanding of the cosmos.
For many professionals, earning a master’s degree can provide a big return-on-investment. In addition to financial benefits like salary increases and promotions, master’s degrees also help professionals learn in-demand skills, which can improve their job prospects, help them pivot to a new industry, or help them stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Many employers value the advanced skills that master’s programs teach, and research shows that job candidates with master’s degrees have average salary increases from 25% to more than 75% in select fields. Ask your enrollment counselor for details on Purdue’s online master’s programs or learn more about the benefits of earning a master’s here.
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Plan Your Path
The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
Degree Required Courses – 30 credits
- 4 courses (12 credits) in one of the six available focus areas within Aeronautics and Astronautics
- 2 courses (6 credits) in a secondary area
- 2 courses (6 credits) to meet the math requirement
- 2 technical electives (6 credits) which gives flexibility to take a wide range of courses that fit the student’s interest and goals
Math Background
We recommend a background in:
- Calculus 1, 2, and 3
- Differential Equations
- Linear Algebra
- Partial Differential Equations
- Statistics
- Physics 1 and 2
Undergraduate Degree
No formal prerequisites, but a BS in engineering or science disciplines is typical.
We prefer the following engineering disciplines: Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical/Computer, Chemical, or Materials. Degrees in Math or Physics are also well suited. Test Scores Valid GRE score unless a waiver applies.
Source: LightcastTM (2025). Unique job postings for July 2024-25. Projected growth for years 2019-2029.
Top Job Titles
Aeronautics and astronautics prepares professionals for a wide range of technical and leadership roles in the aerospace industry. These include Mechanical Engineers, Engineering Managers, and Project Engineers, each contributing essential expertise to the design, development, and testing of aircraft and spacecraft systems. Additionally, Mechanical Design Engineers and Principal Mechanical Engineers play key roles in ensuring structural integrity, performance optimization, and successful project execution.
Top Industries
Several major industries offer strong career opportunities for professionals in aeronautics and astronautics. These include Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing and Engineering Services, both of which rely on aerospace expertise to develop, test, and maintain advanced systems. Additionally, Aircraft Manufacturing depends on skilled engineers to design, optimize, and oversee the production of aircraft and spacecraft, ensuring safety and performance standards are met.
AAE alum part of ‘awesome’ team awarded Collier Trophy
Meet Collin Drake, Flight Science Engineer and MSAAE Alumni “The quality of education is off the charts. I could not have asked for a higher-quality education, especially for a distance program. Because the quality of education was so high, I felt like it was just like being on campus as a student. I really liked that part about it. You have the same professors. You have the same TAs. You take the same tests. You do the same homework. You have the exact same lectures.”
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