Soaring to New Heights: A Guide to Aeronautical Engineering Programs in Florida
Florida, with its prominent role in aerospace history and its continued presence as a hub for the industry, offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring aeronautical engineers. From hands-on training to cutting-edge research, the state's colleges and universities provide comprehensive programs designed to launch graduates into successful careers.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: A Legacy of Excellence
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University stands as a leading institution for aerospace education. Founded in 1926 by T. Higbee Embry and John Paul Riddle, the university boasts a long and storied history, achieving university status in 1970. With a global presence, Embry-Riddle's Worldwide Campus began in Fort Rucker, AL, in the same year.
Hands-on Experience and Industry Connections
Embry-Riddle emphasizes practical experience, allowing students to engage in hands-on projects from the moment they arrive on campus. Students have the opportunity to explore the skies, develop rocket launch systems, and participate in simulated conflict scenarios. This focus on real-world application prepares graduates to land jobs quickly and become leaders in the industry.
A Diverse and Driven Student Body
Embry-Riddle students come from all 50 states and 148 countries, united by a shared determination to succeed. The bonds forged during their time at the university often last a lifetime, creating a strong network of professionals.
Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (MAE)
The Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (MAE) at Embry-Riddle has a rich history, with the Mechanical Engineering program celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2009. The Aeronautical Engineering program, initially an aeronautical option within mechanical engineering, was founded in 1946 and later evolved into the Aerospace Engineering program.
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Comprehensive Curriculum
The undergraduate curriculum in Aerospace Engineering is a fully accredited baccalaureate program providing a broad education with a strong foundation in mathematics, science, and basic engineering sciences. Advanced courses in aeronautics and astronautics complete the degree. Recognizing the value of advanced studies, the MAE department actively participates in a combination BS/MS degree program, allowing students to double-count graduate courses toward both degrees.
Academic Probation
An Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering student whose cumulative, upper-division or department grade point average falls below a 2.0 or whose critical-tracking grades do not meet department requirements will be placed on academic probation and required to complete a probation contract with an MAE academic advisor. Students normally are allowed a maximum of two terms (consecutive or non-consecutive) on academic probation.
Dual Degree Options
Due to the significant overlap between the aerospace engineering and mechanical engineering curricula, students can earn dual mechanical engineering/aerospace engineering BS degrees with one semester of additional work through proper selection of electives.
Research Opportunities
The department's active research programs are sponsored by private industry, the National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, NASA, National Institutes of Health and other agencies.
Eastern Florida State College (EFSC): A Pathway to Aerospace Careers
Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) offers an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Aerospace Technology, designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs in the aerospace, aeronautics, and manufacturing fields.
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Hands-on Training
The program includes a 43-credit Aerospace Technician Certificate, which provides hands-on training in structural, mechanical, electrical, and composite systems. The curriculum focuses on practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable in the workforce and can be used to test for industry certifications.
Program Structure
The Aerospace Technology A.S. program starts each Fall Term with day classes or evening classes starting each Spring Term. Due to limited space, prospective students are encouraged to apply early.
Application Process
To begin the application process, students must complete and submit the online application for general admission to EFSC. Returning/readmit students will need to reapply online. Essential to closely collaborate with the main EFSC Admissions Office. Receive will include a list of requirements that you need to fulfill. Be sure to clear any holds that might interfere with course registration. Reach out to the program advisor with any questions.
Cost and Financial Aid
The estimated cost for in-state students pursuing the Aerospace Technology A.S. degree is approximately $6,660. However, students may be eligible for scholarships, Veterans Educational Benefits, or other forms of financial aid.
Curriculum Highlights
The program covers a range of topics, including:
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- Fluids power, and mechanical/structural systems
- Circuits
- Testing hydraulic and pneumatic systems
- Aerospace industry terms and acronyms
- Regulations, and good practices
- Lacing
- QA engineering, including computer-based analysis tools
- Professional writing skills for business, industry, and tech
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Aerospace Technology program secure job placements either before or upon graduation. The A.S. degree also provides a pathway to further education, with opportunities to pursue a bachelor's degree, such as EFSC's business-focused Organizational Management BAS degree options.
Student Success
Students express excitement about the hands-on nature of the program and the opportunity to work with rockets and other aerospace technologies.
Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech): Innovation on the Space Coast
Located in the heart of the Space Coast, near NASA-Kennedy Space Center, Florida Tech offers a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering that combines a strong foundation in engineering principles with hands-on experience.
Experienced Faculty and High-Tech Tools
Florida Tech's aerospace engineering faculty are highly experienced in aerospace systems and leaders in innovative aerospace research. Students have access to high-tech tools and resources to support their learning.
Capstone Senior Design Project
A key component of the Florida Tech program is the comprehensive capstone senior design project. Students tackle real-world issues and create innovative solutions through the design, development, prototyping, and presentation of a complex engineering system. The showcase allows students to present their work at the Northrop Grumman Engineering and Science Student Design Showcase, a popular event held on campus each spring.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum emphasizes mathematics and physics in the freshman and sophomore years, with an introduction to aerospace engineering concepts. In the sophomore and junior years, students delve into engineering sciences, including materials science, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
Career Preparation
Graduates are prepared for exciting careers in aeronautical or astronautical engineering, designing and developing aircraft and spacecraft, including missiles, rockets, and satellites. They learn to test prototypes, evaluate designs and proposals, conduct research, and ensure that their products meet quality standards.
University of Central Florida (UCF): A Broad Foundation for Aerospace Careers
The University of Central Florida (UCF) Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering offers a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering that provides a broad education in the fundamental principles of the field.
Curriculum Focus
The curriculum covers aerodynamics, aerospace materials, structures, propulsion, stability and control, and flight mechanics. Students develop an awareness of ethical, environmental, economic, safety, and quality issues. The program also offers an accelerated B.S. to M.S.
Research Opportunities
As an undergraduate student at UCF, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in research, from projects in our faculty laboratories to Student Research Week events.
Career Opportunities
With a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from UCF, graduates can prepare to work for a variety of aerospace and defense organizations including NASA, Lockheed Martin, and Boeing. Our graduates work for these organizations and more, including Pratt & Whitney, Northrop Grumman, Siemens, Embraer, Dynetics, and Abacus Technology Corporation.
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