Aeronautical and astronautical engineering (AAE) focuses upon the challenges of flight. The proper aerodynamic shape, the correct engine for clean propulsion, the best materials for lightweight structures, and the safest control systems must be integrated to produce an efficient and economical flying machine. These challenges must be met across the broad spectrum of flight, from the low-speed, near-earth hovering of helicopters to the supersonic flight of our present-day aircraft, to the extreme speeds and ranges of our future aircraft and spacecraft. Our faculty bring their expertise in the varied disciplines of aerospace engineering to the classroom and laboratory and use extensive research activities to enhance their lectures.

Following graduation, AAE students are typically employed in the aerospace industry, which includes large aerospace companies, general aviation manufacturing, airlines, and government aerospace laboratories or research centers. In a large aerospace company, the initial assignment will probably be with a large design team. The assignment will likely be a technical one dealing with a problem related to an airplane, missile or spacecraft being designed. As experience is gained, more complex problems and responsibilities will be assigned. Depending on interests and competence, graduates can progress through the technical part of the company or through management. Students will also gain the same type of experience if they join a general aviation company. However, the design team will not be as large and assignments will cover broader problems associated with the design of aircraft. Students who choose to join an airline company as an engineer may work on technical problems associated with the operation and maintenance of a fleet of aircraft. In addition, graduates can participate in evaluating the needs of the airline for new airplanes as well as the different types of airplanes available that could meet these requirements. Students who choose to join a government aerospace laboratory or research center may be assigned to a laboratory and be involved in basic research in a technical area. As graduates progress, they can become more involved in research or progress through the government and monitor technical programs that have been funded to the private sector of the aerospace industry. Some employers of AAE graduates include Boeing Co., Constant Aviation, General Motors, NASA, Raytheon, Southwest Airlines, United Launch Alliance, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Department of Defense and Wolf Composite Solutions.