Accredited Online Aerospace Engineering Degrees

From commercial airplanes to spacecraft exploring deep space, aerospace engineering is at the forefront of innovation and discovery. Professionals in this field design, build, and test advanced aerospace systems that make flight and space exploration possible.

An online aerospace engineering degree prepares you to work on cutting-edge technologies such as aircraft, satellites, rockets, and defense systems. This discipline integrates physics, mathematics, and engineering principles to solve complex engineering problems and push the boundaries of aerospace environments.

Ready to find your program? Browse over 80 aerospace engineering degree listings below.

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What Is Aerospace Engineering?

Aerospace engineering is the branch of engineering focused on designing and developing vehicles that operate both within and beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

Aerospace engineers:

• Design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missile systems
• Test and evaluate flight systems and components through flight testing and simulations
• Analyze aerodynamics, propulsion, structural integrity, and materials
• Develop innovative technologies for defense, communication, and space exploration
• Work on complex aerospace systems ranging from drones to deep-space vehicles

Typically, aerospace engineers specialize in one of two main areas:

• Aeronautical Engineering – Concentrates on aircraft operating within Earth’s atmosphere
• Astronautical Engineering – Focuses on spacecraft and systems beyond Earth’s atmosphere

Students comparing all program options across fields can also explore

• Engineering Degrees Category
• All Online Degrees

Career Opportunities with an Aerospace Engineering Degree

Earning an aerospace engineering degree opens doors to highly technical and rewarding careers in the aerospace industry.

Common career paths include:

• Aerospace engineer
• Aerospace engineering technician
• Systems engineer
• Defense or government aerospace engineer
• Satellite or spacecraft engineer

Graduates find employment in government agencies, aerospace manufacturers, defense contractors, and research institutions.

Students exploring related fields may also consider:

• Biomedical Engineering Degrees
• Civil Engineering Degrees
• Computer Engineering Degrees
• Electrical Engineering Degrees
• Engineering Management Degrees
• Environmental Engineering Degrees
• Industrial Engineering Degrees
• Manufacturing Engineering Degrees
• Mechanical Engineering Degrees
• Software Engineering Degrees
• Systems Engineering Degrees

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Specialized Career Paths in Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineering offers diverse, specialized roles with strong industry demand.

Examples include:

• Aerospace Engineers
  Responsible for designing and testing aircraft, spacecraft, and related aerospace systems. Median salaries exceed $110,000 annually.
• Aerospace Engineering Technicians
  Support testing and manufacturing processes, earning approximately $70,000 annually.
• Government and Defense Engineers
  Work for organizations such as NASA, FAA, or the U.S. Air Force, often requiring security clearance.

These positions often involve collaborative teamwork on large-scale, complex engineering projects that solve complex engineering problems.

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Aerospace engineering remains a competitive and high-paying field.

• Aerospace engineers earn average salaries over $110,000 annually
• Technicians earn around $70,000 annually
• Employment growth is driven by advancements in aviation, defense, space exploration, and aerospace sciences

The demand for aerospace engineers is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations, with approximately 3,800 job openings annually.

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Why Pursue Aerospace Engineering?

This field is ideal for those passionate about flight, space, and advanced technology.

Key benefits include:

• High earning potential
• Opportunity to work on innovative aerospace systems and technologies
• Careers in government, defense, and private aerospace industry
• Ability to contribute to space exploration and national security

Core Curriculum in Aerospace Engineering Programs

Aerospace engineering degree programs offer rigorous curricula emphasizing engineering design and technical electives.

Common coursework includes:

• Aerodynamics and fluid mechanics
• Propulsion systems and aerospace propulsion
• Flight dynamics and control systems
• Structural analysis and aerospace structures
• Advanced physics and mathematics, including orbital mechanics

Many programs allow students to specialize in areas such as heat transfer, fluid systems, computational fluid dynamics, or cost analysis.

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Is Aerospace Engineering the Right Choice for You?

This discipline suits individuals who are analytical, detail-oriented, and passionate about science and engineering.

You may thrive in aerospace engineering if you:

• Excel in mathematics and physics
• Enjoy solving complex engineering problems
• Are precise and attentive to detail
• Work effectively in collaborative, team-based environments

Aerospace engineering often demands long hours and high-stakes problem-solving skills.

Education Pathways and Degree Options

There are multiple entry points into aerospace engineering careers:

• Online associate degrees in aerospace engineering for technician roles
• Online bachelor’s degrees in aerospace engineering (required for most engineering positions)
• Master’s or doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering for advanced or specialized roles

Many professionals begin with a mechanical or aerospace engineering degree before specializing further through graduate study.

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Certifications and Career Advancement

Licensing and certifications enhance career prospects in aerospace engineering.

Common credentials include:

• Professional Engineer (PE) license for advanced engineering roles
• FAA certifications for specific technical positions
• Continuing education to maintain licensure and stay current with aerospace industry standards

While not always required for entry-level roles, certifications can support career growth and opportunities.

Visit GetEducated's Engineering Career Center.  You may also wish to read the following engineering related articles:

• Best jobs for engineers
• How to become an engineering manager
• How to become an engineer
• How to become a civil engineer
• 13 highest paying engineering jobs
• How to become a systems engineer
• Best jobs for mechanical engineers

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Choosing the Right Aerospace Engineering Program

When selecting a degree program, consider:

• Accreditation by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (ABET), essential for engineering careers
• Availability of specialization tracks and technical electives
• Hands-on experience opportunities, including labs and flight testing
• Degree level (bachelor’s vs. graduate degrees)

Programs with strong technical training, rigorous curriculum, and accreditation provide the best foundation for success.

Cost Considerations for Aerospace Engineering Degrees

Program costs vary by degree level and institution:

• Master’s degrees average around $28,000 but vary widely
• Online aerospace engineering programs often cost less than traditional on-campus options

Investing in an aerospace engineering degree often yields a strong return due to high earning potential in the aerospace industry.

Comparing Accredited Online Aerospace Engineering Programs

Online learning offers flexibility and access to top-tier aerospace programs.

You can:

• Compare accredited online aerospace engineering degree programs
• Review tuition costs, degree requirements, and application deadlines
• Explore programs offering flexible formats for working professionals and international students
• Find programs that combine online courses with hands-on experiences such as condensed summer labs or campus visits

GetEducated has the following aerospace engineering ranking report:

• Master's degree in aerospace engineering ranking report

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an aerospace engineering degree?

An aerospace engineering degree prepares you to design, build, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related aerospace systems.

What is the difference between aeronautical and astronautical engineering?

Aeronautical engineering focuses on aircraft within Earth’s atmosphere, while astronautical engineering focuses on spacecraft operating beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

Do you need a license to be an aerospace engineer?

Licensure is not required for entry-level roles, but obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license is beneficial for advanced positions.

What jobs can you get with an aerospace engineering degree?

You can work as an aerospace engineer, aerospace engineering technician, systems engineer, or in defense and space-related roles.

How much do aerospace engineers make?

Aerospace engineers earn over $110,000 annually on average, while technicians earn around $70,000.

Is aerospace engineering a good career?

Yes. It offers high salaries, opportunities to work on cutting-edge aerospace technologies, and careers in government and private sectors.

Is aerospace engineering difficult?

Yes. It requires strong skills in math, physics, and engineering, along with attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.

Do aerospace engineers work alone or in teams?

Most aerospace engineers work collaboratively on large, complex projects involving multiple engineering disciplines.