The Aerospace Engineering program at UCI delivers an educational program of study that prepares its graduates to become intellectual leaders in industry, government, and academia. Graduates of our programs are grounded in scientific, mathematical, and technical knowledge through coursework that keeps pace with current relevant technologies; they have developed the ability to analyze, synthesize, and design engineering systems through their immersion in the problem-based activities of this research university; and, by means of general education courses, they have enhanced their ability to communicate and have acquired an understanding and appreciation for other areas of human intellectual achievement. Program Educational Objectives: graduates of the program will have the professional and scientific education that allows them to be successful as career engineers and in the most demanding graduate programs. Specifically, they will be able to (1) function in professional environments in industry, government, and academia applying and building upon engineering science knowledge, problem-solving skills, and communication skills; (2) function as members of teams and in leadership roles applying ethical standards including the AIAA code of ethics within and beyond traditional Aerospace Engineering disciplines; and (3) remain current with technology and contemporary scientific and societal issues, and consequently improve skills and knowledge through a lifelong process of learning. (Program educational objectives are those aspects of engineering that help shape the curriculum; achievement of these objectives is a shared responsibility between the student and UCI.) The undergraduate Aerospace Engineering curriculum includes a core of mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Engineering courses in fundamental areas constitute much of the remaining curriculum. A few technical electives allow the undergraduate student to specialize somewhat or to pursue broader understanding. A senior capstone design experience culminates the curriculum.

Career opportunities for Aerospace Engineering graduates are in the broad range of aerospace industries, including manufacturers of aircraft, spacecraft, engines, and aircraft/spacecraft components; makers of aircraft/spacecraft simulators; and government research laboratories.