Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering – Aerospace Degree
Students interested in aerospace engineering who want broadly applicable skills sought after in numerous industries can pursue a degree in mechanical engineering with an emphasis in aerospace. Unlike a BS in Mechanical Engineering, the BS in Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace degree includes courses in aerodynamics, propulsion, flight control systems and aerospace design. Prepare for an exciting career with this degree from Grand Canyon University (GCU).
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace program is accredited by Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Earn Your Mechanical Engineering BS With Emphasis in Aerospace Degree From GCU
GCU’s mechanical engineering – aerospace degree is a thorough learning experience, designed to develop well-rounded students and adept professionals. As a GCU student, you will have access to state-of-the-art technology and laboratory equipment. The combination of lecture-based and labbased courses promote academic knowledge paired with laboratory implementation.
Throughout the Bachelor of Science program, you will explore a wide range of math and science courses. Chemistry, physics, calculus, circuits and programming all serve a pivotal role in the career of an engineer. In addition to these foundational courses, you will take courses specific to the aerospace emphasis. The program is designed to give you training as a mechanical engineer while taking a specialized set of classes in your junior and senior years, allowing you to learn the skills to be successful in the aerospace industry.
The BS in Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace courses include:
- Aerospace propulsion operation and design (lab)
- Composite materials for aircraft and aerospace structures
- Various aerodynamic concepts (lab)
- Theory, dynamic stability and controls of flight (lab)
- Key skills of aerospace design principles (lab)
In this aerospace engineering degree emphasis, you will also gain insight into advanced concepts such as dynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics and engineering economics. A commitment to understanding advanced concepts and adopting a growth mindset are essential in this program. GCU’s expert faculty support an encouraging learning environment and your success as a student.
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“Coming out of GCU, I will have had two to three years of actual work experience. When SpaceX saw that on my resume, they were impressed. To help with my interview process, our dean connected me to a professor who had experience with NASA, which is very similar to SpaceX. Our dean is awesome. I talk to him on LinkedIn — and he's the dean! They gave me an offer letter after the second interview. I was able to skip the third interview. They said, ‘We’d like to have you over at SpaceX.’”
Advance Space Exploration and Improve Aircraft Design as an Aerospace Engineer
As an aerospace engineer, you will be able to design aircrafts as well as other aerospace technology such as missiles or satellites. Aerospace engineers also propose suggestions for efficiency and improvement and may be involved in projects for national security. Typically, aerospace engineers are involved from the research phase all the way through manufacturing and the testing of the technology. Those in this role may choose to specialize in a related field such as thermodynamics, flight mechanics or control systems throughout their career.
Mechanical Engineering Aerospace Degree: Career Options
A BS in Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace is a strong foundation for a variety of careers in engineering. You are equipped with relevant industry-level skills that can be applied to mechanical engineering and aerospace engineering. As a graduate of this aerospace engineering degree, you can also pursue careers in related fields, such as:
- Aerospace engineer
- Architectural and engineering manager
- Mechanical engineer
- Cost estimator
The field of engineering is ripe with career opportunity as many specialized types of engineering careers are available. The mechanical engineering aerospace degree delivers specialization while also providing flexibility for career opportunities within other areas of engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering becoming an aerospace engineer, you may have some questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this field. If you have more questions related to GCU’s BS Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace degree, be sure to Request Info on the right and an admissions counselor will be in touch shortly.
To become an aerospace engineer, a bachelor’s in an engineering discipline with aerospace courses is preferred. This will allow you to learn specific concepts and skills related to the field. Other engineering degrees without aerospace coursework, such as mechanical engineering and electrical engineering, may be accepted by potential employers as well.
GCU’s mechanical engineering aerospace degree requires a total of 128 credits for completion. Most of the classes are 15 weeks in length. However, most undergraduate degrees are flexible and can be completed at your own pace. Fill out the form on this page to speak to an admissions counselor to better understand how long it takes to earn your bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering emphasis.
Yes, NASA hires aerospace engineers as it is an organization that focuses on the development and advancement of space exploration technology. NASA hires aerospace engineers to research, develop and test their spacecrafts and various other technologies. According to NASA, some examples of acceptable engineering degrees that are required to work at NASA include electrical, aerospace and mechanical degree programs. GCU’s mechanical engineering aerospace program is a good start to a career as an aerospace engineer.
So don’t wait! Take the first step toward your dream career in mechanical engineering aerospace by applying to GCU’s BS in Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace program today. Fill out the form at the top of this page and let our experienced faculty lead you to achieving your professional goals by offering a supportive learning community.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-112, Success in Science, Engineering and Technology & Lab: 4
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Required General Education Courses
Course Description
This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-113 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of density, classification of chemical reactions, the gas laws, determination of enthalpy change using calorimetry, and determination of empirical formula. Co-Requisite: CHM-113.
Course Description
This course is founded in the application of mathematics to engineering problems and processes. The course begins with foundations in algebraic manipulation, progresses into trigonometric models, complex numbers, signal processing, introduction to matrices and system equations, differentiation and integration, and differential equations all applied to the solution to engineering problems. Course content cannot be met by a transfer course. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162L.
Course Description
The engineering math labs are the hands on applications of the foundational mathematics concepts applied to engineering problems in the engineering math course. The labs will apply algebra, trigonometry, matrices, differential and integral calculus, and differential equations to various engineering problems. Course content cannot be met by a transfer course. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162.
Course Description
This course is a calculus-based study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.
Course Description
This calculus-based course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-121 lecture course. Students are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.
Course Description
This course introduces the fundamentals of the engineering design methodology and the product development process.. Students will learn the importance of listening to the voice of the customer and how to incorporate those desires into a product using design for X principles. Students will develop verification and validation tests and learn how those become formalized qualification or acceptance processes. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course introduces students to engineering documentation, tolerances, and standards. Typical fabrication tools common in a machine shop and the impact those tools have on design details will be covered. The students will work on several multi-disciplined projects through the semester. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L. Co-Requisites: ESG-210 and ESG-251.
Course Description
This course provides an insight into professional communications and conduct associated with careers in science, engineering and technology. Students learn about the changing modes of communication in these disciplines recognizing the advances in digital communications. They gain practical experience developing and supporting a thesis or position through written, oral, and visual presentations prepared and delivered individually and in groups. Students will explore concepts and issues in professional ethics and conduct such as privacy, discrimination, workplace etiquette, cyber-ethics, network and data security, identity theft, ownership rights and intellectual property. This is a writing intensive course.
Core Courses
Course Description
This is the second course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing fundamentals and applications of nuclear chemistry and organic chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of elementary calculus and its application to real-world problems. Topics include differentiation, optimization, and integration. Software is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-261 or ESG-162/162L.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the basics of computer programming. Students will learn to develop algorithms to solve engineering problems, and the implementation of those algorithms in the C language. This course will include using C program for embedded devices for interacting with the world around them. Topics include assembly language, C programming language, and real time programming. MATLAB will be taught in the course to introduce students to rapid development tools and allow for flexibility in prototyping. Concepts of Object Oriented (OO) programming will be included in the MATLAB section of this course. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts discussed in lecture and on gaining initial exposure to common microcontrollers. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-261.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of integral, multivariable, and vector calculus and its application to real-world problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the basics of computer-aided design. Students will learn to produce great designs using computer-aided design software. Topics include 2-D and 3-D design and modeling, mechanical tolerances, and electrical and mechanical design integration. Hands-on activities focus on the design and integration of different subsystems, electrical and mechanical. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L.
Course Description
This class will introduce statistical process control and teach proper engineering experimental design and analysis techniques. Concepts introduced will include process variability, statistical controls, factorial, blocking and confounding as applied to engineering problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.
Course Description
This calculus-based course is the second in a 1-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. The sequence of topics includes an introduction to electric and magnetic fields. This is followed by the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave and topics associated with geometric optics. The final topic discussed in the course is quantum mechanics. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-122 lecture course. Some of the topics students understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.
Course Description
This course focuses on solutions and qualitative study of linear systems of ordinary differential equations, and on the analysis of classical partial differential equations. Topics include first- and second-order equations; series solutions; Laplace transform solutions; higher order equations; Fourier series; second-order partial differential equations. Boundary value problems, electrostatics, and quantum mechanics provide the main context in this course. Prerequisite: MAT-253 or MAT-264.
Course Description
This course focus is on the analysis of two- and three-dimensional forces on a system in an equilibrium (static) state. Further, it discusses real world applications for static analyses via simple trusses, frames, machines, and beams. Additional topics covered include properties of areas, second moments, internal forces in beams, laws of friction, and static simulation in Solidworks. Prerequisite: PHY-121, PHY-121L, ESG-251.
Course Description
This course provides students with a strong foundation in core areas of electrical engineering. Students will learn the main ideas of circuits and their enabling role in electrical engineering components, devices, and systems. The course offers in-depth coverage of AC & DC circuits, circuit analysis, filters, impedance, power transfer, applications of Laplace transforms, and op-amps. Prerequisites: MAT-262, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122, PHY-122L, EEE-202L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of EEE-202 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities focus problem solving using scientific computation tools, simulations, and various programming languages. Prerequisites: MAT-262, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122, PHY-122L, EEE-202.
Course Description
This course covers the principles of thermodynamics, including properties of ideal gases and water vapors, and the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Additional topics include closed systems and control volume, basic gas and vapor cycles, basic refrigeration, entropy, and an introduction to thermodynamics of reacting mixtures. Students will analyze simple to complex thermodynamic problems. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121 and PHY-121L.
Course Description
This course covers concepts and theories of internal force, stress, strain, and strength of structural elements under static loading conditions. The course also examines constitutive behavior for linear elastic structures and deflection and stress analysis procedures for bars, beams, and shafts. Students will examine and analyze various modes of failure of solid materials. Prerequisites: ESG-250 or ESG-251, ESG-260 or ESG-360, and MAT-364.
Course Description
This course introduces the principles of kinematics and kinetics as they apply to engineering systems and analyses. This course covers Newton’s second law, work-energy and power, impulse and momentum methods. Additional topics include vibrations and an introduction to transient responses. Simulation with Solidworks and MATLAB are also covered. Prerequisite: ESG-260. Co-Requisite: MEE-360L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation and computer simulation to further explore the concepts and principles introduced in the MEE-360 lecture course. Students will learn how to set up and perform engineering tests and simulations in the context of complex, real-world engineering problems. Prerequisite: ESG-260. Co-Requisite: MEE-360.
Course Description
This course covers basic concepts in materials structure and its relation to properties. The course will provide students with a broad overview of materials science and engineering. The goal of this course is to understand the fundamental reasons that materials have the properties they do. Students examine properties of interesting materials and try to understand them in terms of their actual atomic or molecular structure. Prerequisite: CHM-115, CHM-115L, PHY-122, PHY-122L, MAT-364. Co-Requisite: MEE-340L.
Course Description
This is the lab section of MEE-340. The course reinforces theoretical concepts covered in lecture and with hands-on activities. Students conduct lab experiments to better understand how certain properties of materials manifest themselves. Prerequisite: CHM-115, CHM-115L, PHY-122, PHY-122L, MAT-364. Co-Requisite: MEE-340.
Course Description
The course provides theories of thermodynamics of propulsion that are applied in air-breathing and rocket propulsion system. Students are given introduction to one-dimensional compressible internal flow, thermodynamics of aircraft jet engines including ramjets, turbojet, turbofan, turboprop, and turboshaft engines. Students are also provided performance analysis of main components of gas turbine engines such as inlets, compressors, combustors, turbines, and nozzles. Prerequisite: STG-330.
Course Description
This course covers the basics of managing an engineering project, including: project planning, initiating of the project, implementation of the project plan, and completion of the project. Students will learn how to pitch their idea for funding, both in written form and in oral form, as well as how to prepare a formal written funding proposal. The class will cover the basics of engineering economics and introduce how this topic is covered on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Throughout the semester, the students will use the management and economic concepts learned to develop a portfolio and proposal for a capstone project to be completed in the following year. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: ESG-210 and ESG-220.
Course Description
This course is an introduction to fluid statics, laminar and turbulent flow, pipe flow, lift and drag and measurement technics. Students will learn control volume analysis. Prerequisites: ESG-251, PHY-122, PHY-122L, STG-330, and MAT-364.
Course Description
The first capstone course provides students the opportunity to work in teams to tackle real world applied research and design projects in their chosen area of interest. Students develop a project proposal, conduct a feasibility study, learn to protect intellectual property, develop teamwork skills, budgets, and a schedule for completing the project. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revisions. Students use this course to further develop technical writing and business presentation skills. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: ESG-395.
Course Description
The course introduces mechanics of aircraft materials and structures including stress and strain analysis, torsion, bending, failure criteria, buckling, fatigue, and composite laminates analysis. Students will be introduced to aerospace standards for design, structural integrity, system safety, dynamic stresses, and case studies. Prerequisites: MEE-352 and MEE-340.
Course Description
The course provides students fundamental principles of incompressible and compressible flow, performance analysis of airfoil in subsonic and supersonic flow, and design applications. Students are introduced to theories and practical application of aerodynamics including flow over finite wings, through nozzles, diffusers, and wind tunnels. Prerequisite: ESG-345.
Course Description
Apply the stochastic process to the modeling and solution of the engineering problems. The course introduces the students to modeling, quantification, and analysis of uncertainty in engineering problems; all building into an introduction to Markov chains, random walks, and Galton-Watson tree and their applications in engineering. Prerequisite: MAT-364.
Course Description
This course covers the integration of machine elements into a system and the verification that the resulting system performs as intended in its operational environment. Areas of study include technical planning, requirements management, integration, verification, validation, and production. Prerequisites: (MEE-352 and MEE-360 and MEE-360L) or (ESG-360).
Course Description
This course is an introduction to heat transfer. Concepts of conduction, convection, and radiation will be explored. Methods for analysis of steady and unsteady conduction, laminar and turbulent convection, and radiation will be introduced. Heat exchanger design and analysis methods will be addressed. The concept of mass transfer will also be introduced. Students will use learn simulation methods using the SolidWorks software. Prerequisite: ESG-345.
Course Description
The second capstone course provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first capstone course. The capstone project is a culmination of all the learning experiences in an engineering program. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revision. Prerequisite: ESG-451.
Course Description
The course introduces fundamental theories of control system and application to flight control. Students are introduced to mathematical models of dynamics systems, transient-response analysis, and root-locus analysis. Additional topics include control systems design by frequency response, application of root-locus method and PID controls. Prerequisites: MEE-360, MEE-360L, and MEE-450.
Course Description
The course introduces fundamental principles of aircraft design. Students perform a group-based aircraft design with skills and knowledge acquired in aerospace curriculum. Aircraft design mission includes overview of design process, standards, aircraft sizing, airfoil and wing/tail geometry selection, aircraft configuration layout, propulsion and fuel system selection, analysis of aircraft performance, stability, control, flight safety, structures, and cost. Prerequisite: MEE-473.
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.