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.
Online Programs
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 Overview
Purdue University’s online Master’s in Aeronautics and Astronautics provides students with a world-class education, led by the same esteemed faculty who teach on campus. The program covers aerodynamics, aerospace systems, astrodynamics & space applications, autonomy & control, propulsion, structures & materials, and more, allowing students to specialize in key areas that align with their career goals. Purdue’s faculty are leaders in aerospace research, advancing human space missions, autonomous aerial systems, and propulsion technologies.
Graduates emerge prepared to lead and innovate in the aerospace industry, equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and skills. With strong industry connections and extensive research opportunities, students gain access to unmatched professional growth. The School of Aeronautics and Astronautics equips graduates to lead and excel in the aerospace industry. Join us and become part of a community that is shaping the future of aerospace engineering.
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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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