BS in Aeronautical Engineering Degree

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BS in Aeronautical Engineering Degree

Q: Is an aeronautical engineering degree worth it?

An aeronautical engineering degree may be worth it if you are interested in applying engineering principles to the innovation and development of aircraft and related systems. This bachelor’s degree can help you build technical knowledge and problem-solving skills relevant to roles such as aerospace engineer and other opportunities within engineering-focused industries.

Q: What skills will I develop in an aeronautical engineering degree?

In a BS in Aeronautical Engineering, you can develop skills in problem-solving, mathematical analysis and the application of engineering principles to aircraft systems and performance. You may also build experience in areas such as programming, computer-aided drafting, data analysis and technical communication, which can support work on complex engineering projects.

Q: Is a bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering math-heavy?

A bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering is math-heavy, as it relies on advanced mathematics to understand and solve engineering problems. You will work with concepts such as algebra, trigonometry, calculus and differential equations, as well as apply mathematical models to areas like aerodynamics, fluid flow, structures and system dynamics.

Q: What types of aircraft will I study in the aeronautical engineering program?

In an aeronautical engineering program, you will study aircraft that operate within Earth’s atmosphere, such as fixed-wing airplanes and other atmospheric flight vehicles. Coursework may also explore how different aircraft designs and systems perform under various flight conditions.

Q: What role does computer programming play in an aeronautical engineering degree?

Computer programming plays an important role in an aeronautical engineering degree. It supports the analysis, modeling and simulation of engineering systems. You will study programming languages and tools that help you solve complex problems, analyze data and develop models used in areas such as aerodynamics, structures and system performance.

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Bachelor's

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Area of Study

Engineering

Program

BS in Aeronautical Engineering

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Overview

What Is Aeronautical Engineering?

Aeronautical engineering is the field of engineering focused on the design, development, testing and production of aircraft. It applies physics, mathematics and materials science to create and improve atmospheric flight on Earth.

Grand Canyon University developed this Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering with industry guidance to provide a broad, foundational knowledge base and skill set for the aeronautical engineering field. This program explores key areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics, stability and control, aircraft structures, materials and experimental techniques.

Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering

Offered By

College of Engineering and Technology

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 128

Campus: 15 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Why Choose GCU for Your BS in Aeronautical Engineering Degree?

The program integrates a Christian worldview, encouraging you to apply principles of stewardship and discipline while upholding professional and ethical standards. As an aeronautical engineering student, you can also explore engineering labs, collaborative learning spaces and student organizations that support hands-on practice and networking opportunities.

On-Campus Facilities

Explore GCU’s campus facilities, including engineering labs and learning spaces that support hands-on practice and collaboration as you study aeronautical engineering.

Student Resources

Affordable Tuition

Learn about GCU’s on-campus tuition and explore financial aid and scholarship opportunities that can help make earning your aeronautical engineering degree more affordable.

On-Campus Tuition

Engineering Community

Engage in campus life through engineering clubs, student organizations and events that help you connect with peers and enhance your academic experience.

Campus Life

Coursework

Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering Curriculum

Throughout the program, coursework integrates math, natural sciences and computer programming, and emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving and practical project management experience. You have the opportunity to build technical skills in areas like computational modeling and systems engineering while preparing to contribute to advances in aviation, satellite technology and emerging flight systems.

Some of the topics you will explore in this BS in Aeronautical Engineering include:

Engineering math

You will study foundational mathematics used in engineering, such as algebra, trigonometry, matrices, calculus and differential equations. You will also have opportunities to apply these concepts to engineering problems, helping you build analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to the field.

Project management and economics

You will explore the fundamentals of managing engineering projects, including planning, initiation, implementation and completion. You will also examine engineering economics and build skills in presenting ideas through written proposals and other forms of clear communication.

Engineering programming

This degree teaches the programming concepts used to solve engineering problems, including algorithm development and coding in languages such as C and MATLAB. You will also explore topics like real-time programming and embedded systems while gaining hands-on experience working with code and microcontrollers.

Computer-aided design

You will explore the fundamentals of computer-aided design, including creating 2-D and 3-D models and understanding mechanical tolerances. You will also have opportunities to work on applied projects that integrate electrical and mechanical components, helping you develop practical, hands-on technical skills.

Circuits and dynamics

You will have opportunities to examine fundamental concepts in electrical systems and mechanical motion, including circuit analysis, power transfer and system behavior. You will also practice principles of kinematics and kinetics, using tools like simulation and experimentation to analyze and solve engineering problems.

Aerodynamics and fluid mechanics

You will study the principles of fluid flow and how they apply to aircraft performance, including lift, drag and airflow over wings. You will also explore topics such as compressible and incompressible flow, fluid behavior in different conditions and methods used to analyze and measure aerodynamic systems.

Careers

What Can You Do With an Aeronautical Engineering Degree?

A degree in aeronautical engineering can help prepare you to pursue opportunities as an aerospace engineer, where you may contribute to the design, testing and improvement of aircraft and related systems. Professionals in engineering careers apply technical principles to support advances in flight and performance across a range of industries and settings.

Aerospace engineers may work across a variety of environments, including:^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Manufacturing of aerospace products and parts

Engineering services

Federal government

Research and development

Manufacturing of navigational, measuring, electromedical and control instruments

$134,830

Median annual wage for aerospace engineers in May 2024^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Projected job growth for aerospace engineers from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 3)}

FAQ

Aeronautical Engineering FAQ

Explore these commonly asked questions to learn more about aeronautical engineering degrees and decide if this field is a good fit for your career goals.

Is an aeronautical engineering degree worth it?

What is the difference between aerospace and aeronautical engineering?

The difference between aerospace and aeronautical engineering is that aeronautical engineering focuses specifically on aircraft that operate within Earth’s atmosphere, while aerospace engineering includes both aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering, which involves spacecraft and systems that operate beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

If you’re interested in applying mechanical engineering fundamentals to aerospace-focused applications, an aerospace emphasis pathway may be a strong fit.

What skills will I develop in an aeronautical engineering degree?

Is a bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering math-heavy?

What types of aircraft will I study in the aeronautical engineering program?

What role does computer programming play in an aeronautical engineering degree?

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major88 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 credits

Degree Requirements128 credits

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.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Required General Education Courses

CHM-113

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-113L

1 Total Credits

ESG-162

3 Total Credits

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.

ESG-162L

1 Total Credits

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.

ESG-210

2 Total Credits

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 or higher subsequent math course.

ESG-220

2 Total Credits

PHY-121

3 Total Credits

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 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.

PHY-121L

1 Total Credits

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 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.

ESG-395

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This is a writing-intensive course that 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. Prerequisites: ESG-210 and ESG-220 or SWE-320.

Core Courses

CHM-115

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the second course in 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 are able to 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 the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

CHM-115L

1 Total Credits

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.

MAT-262

4 Total Credits

ESG-111

4 Total Credits

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.

MAT-264

4 Total Credits

ESG-251

2 Total Credits

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.

ESG-374

2 Total Credits

ESG-260

4 Total Credits

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.

PHY-122

3 Total Credits

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: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.

PHY-122L

1 Total Credits

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: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.

MAT-364

4 Total Credits

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.

STG-330

4 Total Credits

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: ESG-260 and MAT-264.

EEE-202

3 Total Credits

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.

EEE-202L

1 Total Credits

MEE-360

3 Total Credits

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.

MEE-360L

1 Total Credits

MEE-352

4 Total Credits

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.

ESG-345

4 Total Credits

MEE-340

3 Total Credits

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.

MEE-340L

1 Total Credits

MEE-335

4 Total Credits

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.

AER-460

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an in-depth study of aircraft flight mechanics, focusing on the principles that govern aircraft performance and static stability. Students explore the fundamental aspects of aircraft performance, including takeoff, climb, cruise, and landing, as well as the influence of aerodynamic and propulsion characteristics on overall performance. The course integrates theoretical analysis with practical applications, equipping students with the analytical and computational tools needed for careers in aeronautical engineering and related fields. Prerequisite: MEE-335. Co-Requisite: MEE-450.

ESG-384

2 Total Credits

MEE-450

4 Total Credits

ESG-451

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The first capstone is a writing-intensive course that 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. Prerequisite: ESG-395.

AER-445

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines the principles of aircraft structures, addressing the interplay between aerodynamic forces and aeroelasticity. Students explore both static and dynamic issues, including control and lift effectiveness, divergence, flutter, vibration, the behavior of different materials under various loads, and how to apply this knowledge to ensure the structural integrity of aircraft components. Students use dynamic structural models and hands-on exercises to create and analyze aeroelastic models of wings and implement basic controllers to simulate their responses. Topics include fundamentals of structural analysis, stress analysis of aircraft components, calculating unsteady loads, ensuring turbine design integrity, dynamic wake/inflow models, unsteady 2D aerodynamics, rotor structures, and stability analysis. Prerequisites: MEE-340, MEE-340L, and MEE-352.

ESG-480

3 Total Credits

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. Co-Requisite: AER-465.

AER-465

1 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, students master the analysis of aircraft stability, both static and dynamic, and understand how control surface design impacts stability and controllability. By delving into principles of flight dynamics, they learn to design and evaluate stability augmentation systems such as autopilots and fly-by-wire technology. The course covers topics including longitudinal, lateral, and directional stability, aircraft equations of motion, as well as automatic control theory and its application to modern autopilot design. Emphasis is placed on the application of these principles to real-world scenarios, helping students understand the interplay between aerodynamic forces and control inputs. Additionally, students develop the practical skills necessary to analyze and design aircraft systems, ensuring stability and controllability, while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential in aerospace engineering. Prerequisite: AER-460. Co-Requisite: ESG-480.

AER-455

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course delves into the advanced concepts and methods used in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and aerodynamics, equipping students with the skills to analyze and solve complex fluid flow problems in aeronautical and aerospace applications. Students explore numerical techniques, algorithms, and software tools used for simulating and studying fluid behavior and aerodynamic performance. This course prepares students to effectively use CFD techniques and tools in analyzing and solving fluid dynamics and aerodynamics problems, which are crucial in the design and optimization of modern aerospace systems. Prerequisite: MEE-450.

ESG-452

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The second capstone is a writing intensive course that 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.

AER-470

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of flight testing, essential for evaluating the performance, stability, and control characteristics of aircraft. Students learn the methodologies and techniques used in planning, executing, and analyzing flight tests to ensure aircraft meet design specifications and safety standards. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical understanding and practical application through case studies and simulations. Course topics include aircraft and instruments, digital data acquisition techniques, flight test planning, and uncertainty analysis, as well as level flight performance and airspeed calibration. Co-Requisites: AER-445 and AER-455.

MEE-475

2 Total Credits

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. Prerequisites: MEE-450, MEE-335, and MEE-473 or AER-460.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
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

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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved April 2026.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Aerospace Engineers, as of May 2024, retrieved April 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as aerospace engineers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Aerospace Engineers, retrieved April 2026.

BS in Aeronautical Engineering Degree

Step 1: Educational Interests

What Is Aeronautical Engineering?

Why Choose GCU for Your BS in Aeronautical Engineering Degree?

Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering Curriculum

What Can You Do With an Aeronautical Engineering Degree?

Earn Your Aeronautical Engineering Degree From an Accredited University

Aeronautical Engineering FAQ

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses