Graduate Degrees in Aerospace Engineering Sciences

Aerospace Engineering Sciences

Ranked among the top five public aerospace graduate programs in the U.S., CU Boulder’s Ann and H.J. Smead Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences is internationally recognized for its research and education leadership in aerospace engineering, and earth and space sciences.

With 56 faculty members and more than 500 graduate students, the master’s and doctoral degree programs will prepare you to meet the engineering needs of the 21st century through the understanding, conception, design and application of aerial and spacecraft systems.

Degree Types

MS ᐧ Professional MS ᐧ PhD

Take a video tour of our 180,000-square-foot Smead Aerospace Sciences Building.

Tackle challenges in aerospace technology and science in a breadth of focus areas.

Be part of what’s next. The department invests more than $15 million annually on research.

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Aerospace Engineering

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering

Can be completed in 2 years
Requires focus area
Requires master’s thesis or nonthesis coursework, which may consist of 2 semesters of graduate project or an approved certificate

Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the course catalog for the MS in aerospace engineering sciences.

Professional Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering

Must be completed in 4 years
Focus area not required
Can be completed 100% online

Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the course catalog for the professional MS in aerospace engineering sciences.

Doctor of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering

Can be completed in 4–6 years
Must pass preliminary and comprehensive departmental examinations
At least 30 dissertation credits required

Application Deadlines

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the course catalog for the PhD in aerospace engineering sciences.

Dual Graduate Degree in Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Management

Must complete 45 credits
Focus area required for traditional MS students
Must be admitted to aerospace engineering program first, then apply to engineering management program

Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the course catalog for the MS in aerospace engineering sciences and ME in engineering management.

Research Areas

Astrodynamics and Satellite Navigation Systems
Autonomous Systems
Bioastronautics
Fluids, Structures and Materials
Remote Sensing, Earth and Space Science

Learn More About Research Areas at CU Boulder

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Graduate Student Organizations