Aeronautical Engineering

A career in aeronautical engineering involves the design, construction, and testing of aircrafts, helicopters, and related technology. Aerospace engineering, on the other hand, encompasses work on rockets, missiles, spacecrafts, and space modules.

Aeronautical engineering is a good fit for someone who enjoys math, science, and working with aviation. An aeronautical engineer studies and works on the design and manufacture of vehicles involved in flight as well as ensures proper functioning and maintenance.

Aeronautical engineering professionals also perform basic and applied research to develop and recommend improvements in testing techniques.

Aeronautical Engineering Degrees

For an entry-level aeronautical engineering position, a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field may be sufficient. For those seeking to pursue a career path in research, a master’s or even doctorate degree is recommended.

Because the various fields of engineering overlap greatly, a degree in one branch doesn’t preclude its holder from working in other types of engineering. In fact, having a broad range of engineering training and skills could look favorable to employers.

Classes in engineering, physical science, design, and computers are common in aerospace engineering degree programs.

Aeronautical Engineering Salary*

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wages for aerospace engineers was $97,480.

More annual mean wages for aeronautical engineers include the following:

• Aerospace product and parts manufacturing ($89,150)
• Architectural, engineering, or related services ($100,640)
• Federal executive branch of the government ($110,780)
• Scientific research and development services ($106,840)

The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that overall job growth for aerospace engineers should be about as fast as average for all occupations.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics