University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme offers a blend of core and elective courses covering the fundamentals and advanced topics of aeronautics and astronautics. Students pursue either a thesis-based research path or a coursework/project option, allowing focus on theoretical development, experimental methods or applied design.

• Core subject areas: aerodynamics, compressible flow, flight dynamics and control, aircraft/spacecraft structures and materials, propulsion systems, and systems engineering.
• Advanced and elective topics: computational fluid dynamics (CFD), aeroelasticity, hypersonics, spacecraft design and orbital mechanics, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), advanced composites, and multidisciplinary design optimisation.
• Laboratory and practical work: wind tunnel testing, propulsion test stands, structural testing facilities, flight simulation and data acquisition labs, and hands-on design-build-test projects.
• Research: thesis students work with faculty on original research in areas such as aerodynamic modelling, propulsion, structural health monitoring, flight control algorithms, and space systems technology.
• Structure: the programme typically combines required graduate-level courses with electives selected to match the student’s emphasis; thesis students allocate time to supervised research while non-thesis students complete a capstone project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics or a closely related field. Strong preparation in mathematics (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra) and fundamentals of mechanics, thermodynamics and fluid dynamics is desirable.

• Academic record: a competitive undergraduate GPA in a technical discipline and transcripts demonstrating relevant coursework.
• Supporting materials: statement of purpose outlining objectives and research or career interests, curriculum vitae or résumé, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Standardised tests: check the department’s current policy; some applicants may submit GRE scores where requested, and international applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through acceptable exams unless exempt.
• Additional considerations: applicants with substantial professional experience in aerospace or related industries may be considered even if their undergraduate major is not strictly aerospace; bridging coursework can be required.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and research roles across the aerospace sector as well as for continued academic study. The programme emphasises both analytical skills and practical experience valued by employers.

• Aircraft and spacecraft design engineer
• Propulsion and propulsion test engineer
• Flight dynamics, control and avionics engineer
• Structures and materials engineer, including composites and fatigue testing
• Systems engineer and integration specialist
• Flight test engineer and experimental aerodynamics tester
• Research scientist or doctoral study in aerospace engineering or related fields
• Roles in adjacent industries such as defence, automotive, energy and advanced manufacturing

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas provides a focused aerospace engineering environment with faculty-led research and experimental facilities that support hands-on learning and innovation. Small to medium-sized classes enable close interaction with faculty and opportunities to join active research groups.

• Access to specialised laboratories and experimental facilities for aerodynamics, propulsion and structures testing.
• Faculty research spanning aeronautics and astronautics that allows students to engage in applied and fundamental projects.
• Opportunities for internships and collaborations with regional aerospace companies, research centres and government agencies, supporting professional experience during the degree.
• Academic support services and career development resources to help students transition into industry or further graduate study.