

The Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering at University of Stanford equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the design, development, and operation of aircraft and spacecraft. In the first year, students build a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, mechanics, and basic engineering principles. These courses develop analytical thinking, technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and quantitative reasoning, enabling students to understand fundamental aerospace concepts and prepare for advanced studies. Through lectures, laboratory exercises, and hands-on design projects, learners gain practical experience in flight mechanics, aerodynamics, and propulsion systems.
As students advance, the curriculum emphasizes aerodynamics, propulsion, structural analysis, spacecraft design, control systems, and avionics. Independent research, advanced laboratory projects, and seminars refine students’ engineering expertise, research methodology, critical evaluation, and project management skills. The honors curriculum encourages students to work on innovative aerospace solutions, simulations, and real-world engineering challenges. By graduation, students are prepared for careers in aerospace engineering, aviation, space exploration, defense, or graduate study in aeronautics, astronautics, or related engineering fields.
Year 1 – Foundations in Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering
• Introduction to Aerospace Engineering
• Calculus and Linear Algebra
• Physics for Engineers
• Mechanics and Materials Science
• Writing and Research in Engineering
Year 2 – Core Aerospace Engineering Studies
• Aerodynamics and Fluid Mechanics
• Propulsion Systems
• Structural Analysis and Mechanics
• Control Systems and Dynamics
• Seminar: Engineering Methods
Year 3 – Advanced Applications
• Spacecraft Design and Orbital Mechanics
• Avionics and Flight Control
• Aerospace Materials and Manufacturing
• Independent Research Projects
• Electives in Aerospace Engineering or Related Fields
Year 4 – Capstone and Honors Project
• Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
• Advanced Seminar in Aerospace Engineering
• Applied Design and Simulation Projects
• Systems Integration and Performance Evaluation
• Specialized Electives in Aeronautics and Astronautics
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in aerospace engineering, aviation, space exploration, defense, and research. The curriculum develops technical proficiency, analytical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and research expertise, enabling students to pursue roles as aerospace engineers, flight systems designers, spacecraft engineers, propulsion specialists, or research scientists. Independent projects, laboratory work, and applied design challenges provide hands-on experience, while the honors track strengthens preparation for graduate study or professional specialization. Graduates leave ready to innovate and contribute to advancements in aerospace technologies and engineering solutions.
This program is ideal for students who wish to design and analyze aircraft and spacecraft systems within a rigorous, research-focused, and application-oriented curriculum. Its structure emphasizes critical thinking, technical competence, problem-solving skills, and research proficiency, providing students with both theoretical understanding and practical experience. Through seminars, independent research, laboratory projects, and design challenges, learners develop the skills to design, simulate, and optimize aerospace systems while tackling real-world engineering problems. Graduates leave with the knowledge, confidence, and professional readiness to pursue careers in aerospace engineering, aviation, space exploration, or advanced academic study.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States