Master's in Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering overview

Lehigh University has a rich history of significant contributions to aerospace engineering and space exploration. The Master of Science in Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering (MS-AERO) program is tailored for students who want to begin or advance their careers in aerospace or space systems engineering. To meet challenging mission requirements, modern aerospace engineers need a broad background in disciplines such as aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, and guidance, navigation, and control. This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide graduates with this broad technical foundation, producing the next generation of innovators for the aerospace industry.

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Master's in Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering highlights

  • The program offers a high degree of flexibility, interdisciplinarity, and customization in its curriculum.
  • All courses are taught by subject matter experts, including industry-embedded faculty from major R&D organizations and labs in the aerospace and space systems engineering industry.
  • The curriculum is designed to help students gain mastery of concepts related to Astrodynamics, Aerospace Systems, and Space Systems Engineering.

Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering salary and career outlook

The program prepares graduates for career paths in R&D, manufacturing, and operations. Our industry-embedded faculty serve as mentors and career coaches, bringing with them experience from top companies and labs including: The Aerospace Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Siemens, SpaceX, DoD, Blue Origin, Northrup Grumman, NASA, and Boeing.

Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering program format

The MS in Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering is an interdisciplinary program available in online, hybrid, or on-campus formats. Students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, including core courses chosen from among Modern Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics, Space Propulsion Systems, Guidance, Navigation, and Control, launch Vehicle Design, Data Fusion, Hypersonics, and Aerospace Vehicle Design. Concentrations are available in Aerodynmics, Aerospace Systems, and Space Systems Engineering.

Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering collaborations

The program is led by the Department of Mechanical Engineering & Mechanics and includes strong collaborations with Electrical and Computer Engineering, Industrial Systems Engineering, Material Science & Engineering, Physics, and Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering external funding

The program offers both merit-based and alumni partial tuition scholarships.

Master's in Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering admissions requirements

To be considered for admission to the master's program, candidates must hold at least a Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) degree in a related field. Complete applications must include:

  • A candidate's personal statement detailing motivation for graduate study, research experience, specific research interests, and specific faculty of interest.
  • The candidate's resume summarizing relevant background for graduate study.
  • Complete transcripts from each college and university attended. Unofficial copies may be uploaded by the candidate, but official copies must be submitted by candidates who accept an offer of admission.
  • At least two letters of recommendation from qualified individuals who can evaluate the applicant's academic achievements and potential for graduate studies.
  • For international students whose first language is not English who have not studied in the US or countries where English is an official and widely spoken language, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Cambridge English Qualification test scores are required.
  • A non-refundable application fee of $50.
  • The GRE is not required.

Frequently asked questions about a graduate degree in Aerospace and Space Systems Engineering

Q: What are the application deadlines?
A: The application deadlines are July 15 for the Fall semester and December 15 for the Spring semester. If a deadline has passed, applicants should contact the program director for assistance.

Q: Is the GRE required?
A: No, the GRE is not required for admission.