Aeronautical engineering programs can vary both in scope and depth, not to mention cost. Some schools have fewer requirements for admission than others, while some are so expensive that nearly ninety percent of the student body requires financial aid to attend. How is the potential student to choose between potential programs?
A Variety of Aeronautical Engineering Programs
According to most recent reports by popular college search engines the most selective aeronautical engineering program is Stanford University. This is partly due to the fact that it is a privately owned university. Additionally, this school requires that average SAT scores be at least 2010 and the ACT scores around 30 or higher. Only 8% of those who apply are accepted. The program of study is all inclusive, focusing on all elements of aeronautical engineering. Both propulsion and aerodynamics tracks of study are offered as well as interdisciplinary options. Students who graduate from these programs generally find upper level jobs right away.
Compare that with the less selective aeronautical engineering program at Missouri University of Science and Technology. This school is publically funded and thus the tuition is priced reasonably. The program of study includes both propulsion and aerodynamics, but is limited in its ability to offer on campus research opportunities. Most who gain their undergraduate degree through this program of study apply to other universities to continue their advanced program work.
The largest aeronautical engineering university would be Arizona State University. 90 percent of the students that apply for admittance to this school are accepted. Engineering students that leave this school either continue their advanced degrees with ASU, or have created an outstanding academic portfolio for themselves and are able to garner attention from the more selective colleges. With a campus as large as ASU, the opportunities to study a diverse and broad spectrum of aeronautical engineering principles, research, and developmental interdisciplinary projects is great. Many of the courses are taught by professors that have been in the field of aeronautical engineering and have returned to the academic environment after brilliant careers in aviation. Most who take the programs of study at ASU rate it as an excellent experience.
Embry Riddle University is one of the top names that come up when aviation education is mentioned. Founded 22 years after the Wright Brothers' flight, this school has focused ONLY on aviation and aerospace education. The programs of study rival those in any of the other universities, though as it is privately owned, the price tag is also high. Financial aid is available for those going into various programs. Aeronautical engineering majors have opportunities to gain firsthand experience by working through internships with various partner companies. One such company is NASA. Additionally, ERAU offers many online opportunities for those who need to take a non-traditional route to their degree. ERAU has satellite universities around the world, making it truly a global university.
Programs of study in aeronautical engineering often follow a comparable course. Most offer the same types of concepts, practical applications of concepts learned in the classroom, as well as basic engineering courses. The student that is trying to make a decision between one school or another should go to the university's website and compare course catalogs. A visit to the school to take a tour in person and to speak to those involved in the program is also highly advisable.