Top Aerospace Engineering Courses in USA: Must-Know Facts

Aerospace engineering courses in the USA offer a rigorous curriculum covering topics like aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft systems, preparing students for roles such as aerospace engineer, systems designer, and research scientist. 

These programs are offered by top universities, including MIT, Stanford, and Georgia Tech, which provide access to cutting-edge research and strong industry connections.

The aerospace engineering workforce in the U.S. reached 145,019 people, with an average annual growth rate of 12.1% since 2014. This growth reflects the expanding opportunities in aviation, defense, and space exploration.

This blog will cover the best universities and colleges in the US for Aerospace engineering courses, enabling your dream of studying in the US.

Aerospace Engineering Courses in the USA: Overview

Aerospace engineering in the USA is a competitive field, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees focused on the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems.

Programs emphasize technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and strong industry connections, preparing graduates for careers in aviation, defense, and space exploration.

Here's an overview of aerospace engineering courses in the USA:

Now, let's discuss why you should pursue aerospace engineering courses in the USA.

Why Pursue Aerospace Engineering Courses in the USA?

The USA leads the global aerospace industry, contributing over $955 billion to its economy and employing more than 2 million professionals across aviation, space, and defense sectors. 

With top-ranking universities, cutting-edge research labs, and direct ties to organizations like NASA, Boeing, and SpaceX, the country offers unmatched academic and career advantages to aspiring aerospace engineers.

Here's why studying aerospace engineering in the USA is a smart move:

• Top Universities : Institutions like MIT, Stanford, Caltech, and Georgia Tech consistently rank among the best globally for aerospace programs. They offer access to world-class faculty, NASA-funded projects, and cross-disciplinary research.
• Strong Industry Connections: Programs often include internships or co-ops with leading employers like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman, helping students gain early career exposure.
• Specialized Study Tracks: Students can choose from subfields such as aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, spacecraft systems, or materials engineering, allowing a deeper focus in high-demand areas.
• Scholarships & Fellowships: Opportunities like the NDSEG Fellowship, Brooke Owens Fellowship, and Zed Factor Fellowship support talented aerospace students with funding, mentorship, and hands-on experience.
• Global Recognition & Networking: A degree from a U.S. aerospace program is globally respected and often leads to job offers in both domestic and international aerospace sectors.
• Attractive Salaries: Aerospace engineers in the U.S. earn a median salary of $134,830 (INR 1.12 Cr) as of 2024, with strong projected growth in commercial space and defense technologies.

Now that you know why studying aerospace engineering in the USA is a smart choice, let's take a look at the top universities offering these programs.

Top Universities for Studying Aerospace Engineering Courses in USA

Top universities in the USA for aerospace engineering offer world-class faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and strong industry ties, preparing graduates for high-impact roles in aviation, defense, and space exploration. 

Here are the leading institutions, their flagship aerospace programs, annual tuition fees, program duration, and application deadlines for every fee and detail.

In addition to the top-ranked institutions, several other well-known universities offer strong aerospace programs suited to different academic goals. Let's take a look.

Top Aerospace Engineering Colleges in the USA

The United States leads global aerospace innovation, investing over $40 billion annually in R&D, and awarding approximately 8,671 aerospace degrees. 

With 80+ ABET‑accredited aerospace programs across the country and world‑class facilities, the USA remains a top destination for studying aerospace engineering.

Here's what sets these top colleges apart:

After exploring top universities offering Aerospace engineering courses in the USA, the next step is to understand the eligibility criteria for admission.

Eligibility Criteria for Aerospace Engineering Courses in USA

Admission to aerospace engineering programs in the US is highly selective, especially at institutions with strong ties to NASA and major aerospace firms. 

Most universities require a solid academic background in math and science, with a minimum GPA of 3.0–3.5 on a 4.0 scale for graduate programs. Standardized tests like the GRE and English proficiency exams (TOEFL/IELTS) are commonly required for international applicants.

Below is a breakdown of the key eligibility criteria.

Now, let's walk through the steps to apply for aerospace engineering programs in the USA.

Application Process for Aerospace Engineering Courses in the USA

The number of students applying to aerospace engineering programs in the U.S. has increased by 20% over the past five years, making admissions more competitive. Applicants usually apply online, submit their academic and test credentials, and proceed to apply for an F-1 visa once accepted.

Here are the steps involved in the application process:

• Step 1: Submit Your Application

Apply via each university's online portal (e.g., MIT, Purdue). Expect to include: personal details, transcripts, and program-specific forms.

• Step 2: Upload Required Documents

Submit the following documents:

• Academic transcripts & GPA
• Standardized test scores: GRE (300+ for M.S.), SAT/ACT for B.S.
• English proficiency: IELTS (6.5–7.0) / TOEFL (90–100) 
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation (2–3)
• Resume/CV and optionally research papers or projects
• Step 3: Attend Video/Phone Interviews

Some programs (e.g., Stanford) may request interviews to discuss research interests and fit.

• Step 4: Track Your Application Status

Monitor updates via the university portal; respond promptly to requests for additional information.

• Step 5: Secure an F‑1 Student Visa

After receiving your admission letter and Form I-20:

• Pay the SEVIS fee ($350 or approx. INR 30K)
• Fill out the DS-160 visa application form
• Pay the visa application fee ($185 or approx. INR 16K)
• Schedule and attend the U.S. visa interview
• Prepare all required documents: I-20, passport, visa fee receipts, financial proof, SOP, and academic records.

Now that you're familiar with the application steps, let's look at the core subjects and specializations typically offered in aerospace engineering programs in the USA.

Curriculum Details for Aerospace Engineering Courses in USA

Aerospace Engineering programs in the USA combine theory with hands-on learning. Students start with core subjects like physics and math, then advance to design projects, industry software, and lab work such as wind tunnel or propulsion experiments.

Here’s what a typical Aerospace Engineering curriculum includes in the USA:

Now, let's check out how much it costs to study Aerospace engineering courses in USA.

Cost of Pursuing Aerospace Engineering Courses in USA

When planning to study aerospace engineering in the USA, it’s important to factor in both academic and everyday costs. 

While tuition rates depend on the university and program type, students also need to cover essential living expenses such as accommodation, meals, insurance, travel, and educational supplies.

Below is an estimate of the total cost of living in the USA:

To help manage expenses, Indian students can apply for scholarships and other financial aid options in the USA. Let's break down the available opportunities.

Scholarships for Aerospace Engineering Courses in the USA

Studying aerospace engineering in the USA can be financially demanding, with tuition fees ranging from $28,000 to $60,000 (INR 23L–50L) per year depending on the program and university. 

To help manage these costs, both internal university scholarships and external fellowships are available to eligible students. 

Let's explore the scholarship options for Indian students to study in USA:

Internal Scholarships

U.S. universities offer internal scholarships to support enrolled aerospace engineering students. These awards are usually merit-based, but some also consider financial need, research involvement, or leadership. Many aerospace departments have their own funding to recognize academic excellence or student contributions.

For example, Embry–Riddle’s Boeing Scholars Program offers up to $5,000 (INR 4.2L)/year to top-performing students with financial need, while Texas A&M and UIUC provide scholarships to students maintaining high GPAs and engaging in departmental activities.

Here are a few internal scholarships you can explore:

Students can also seek financial support through government-backed and independent external scholarships. Here's a closer look at the available options.

External Scholarships 

External scholarships in aerospace engineering are funded by prestigious organizations, including Zonta International, the U.S. Department of Defense, and private space industry initiatives. 

These awards often target high-achieving or underrepresented students and offer substantial benefits such as full tuition, living stipends, paid internships, and access to elite mentorship networks.

Here is a list of fully-funded external scholarship options.

Now, let’s explore some of the top career options available after completing an aerospace engineering program in the USA.

Job Opportunities After Aerospace Engineering Courses in USA

Aerospace engineering opens doors to varied and highest-paying jobs in the USA, ranging from aircraft design and materials research to spacecraft testing and systems analysis. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for U.S. aerospace engineers was $126,880 (around INR 1.06 crore), with top earners reaching nearly $168,370 (approximately INR 1.41 crore).

Here are key roles in the field, with salary insights sourced from industry data:

Source: Indeed
Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Next, let’s explore the top recruiters hiring graduates after Aerospace Engineering courses in USA.

Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates After Aerospace Engineering Courses in the USA 

The aerospace sector in the United States presents strong career opportunities, fueled by ongoing advancements in aircraft design, propulsion systems, drone development, and space missions.

Aerospace engineering graduates can work across sectors such as defense, commercial aviation, research, and manufacturing. Employers range from federal agencies like NASA and the FAA to private players like SpaceX, Boeing, and Rolls-Royce.

Below is a list of leading aerospace recruiters, their common job roles, and average annual salaries:

Source: Indeed
Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Let’s explore how upGrad can support your journey toward pursuing an Aerospace Engineering course in the USA.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Aerospace Engineering Courses in the USA?

Studying Aerospace Engineering in the U.S. involves important steps like selecting the right university, meeting technical requirements, and handling visa procedures. upGrad provides expert support at every stage, from writing strong SOPs and LORs to finding scholarships and preparing for visa interviews, helping you apply with confidence.

Get started today. Book a 1:1 session with upGrad expert’s to receive customized support for your aerospace engineering journey in the USA.