If you are interested in becoming an aerospace engineer, you should get a degree from one of the cheapest aerospace engineering schools. Attending an affordable school will ensure you gain the knowledge and practical skills you need to work in the aerospace industry without having to spend too much money on education expenses.
This comprehensive guide was created to help you find the most affordable aerospace engineering schools and programs. This article will also detail what you can do and how much you can make with a degree in this field. Keep reading to learn more about the cheapest aerospace engineering degree programs.
What Are the Most Affordable Aerospace Engineering Schools in the US?
The three most affordable aerospace engineering schools in the US are Purdue University, New Mexico State University, and California State Polytechnic University Pomona. The cost of tuition at these schools is lower than $8,000 for in-state students per semester. Additionally, these affordable engineering schools offer plenty of financial aid options.
How Much Do the Cheapest Aerospace Engineering Schools Cost?
The cheapest aerospace engineering schools cost between $10,428 and $14,304 per year, according to the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard. This includes expenses such as tuition, fees, supplies, and room and board. This is almost half of the average annual cost of college in the US, which is $35,331 per year, according to the Education Data Initiative.
Cheapest Aerospace Engineering Schools Costs Breakdown
- Tuition and Fees. Tuition is charged based on the program, the number of credits taken, and whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student. Typical fees include activity fees and student service fees.
- Room and Board. Most colleges offer a wide range of accommodation options and meal plans for students living on campus. Out-of-state students living off-campus also have to consider these expenses.
- Books and Supplies. The average cost of books and supplies for college students is approximately $1,226 per year, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics. Common school supplies include bags, notebooks, pens, and pencils.
- Health Insurance. Many colleges require students to have health insurance. The average annual cost of health insurance is between $2,000 and $4,000 in most US states.
- Transportation. College students also need to pay for transportation, whether they live at home or on-campus. Depending on the proximity to campus these costs can add up and become expensive over time.
Why You Should Attend an Aerospace Engineering School
You should attend an aerospace engineering school because it’ll give you the opportunity to gain the knowledge and technical skills necessary for employment. Earning a degree in this field will make it easier for you to land high-paying jobs in aircraft design, development, and testing.
Best Aerospace Engineering School Career Options
Some of the best aerospace engineering school career options include becoming an aerospace engineer, flight test engineer, or aerodynamics engineer. Other promising careers are aerospace engineering technologists and aircraft engineers. These professions typically require an undergraduate degree in fields such as aerospace and mechanical engineering.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for aerospace engineers is $122,270 per year. These professionals are in high demand, with BLS reporting that employment in the field is expected to grow at least eight percent through 2030, faster than most occupations.
Aerospace Engineering Salary
The average annual wage for an aerospace engineering graduate is around $85,000, according to PayScale. Those at the higher end of the industry earn an annual salary of $132,000, while those working at the lower end earn approximately $64,000 per year.
Can You Attend Aerospace Engineering School for Free?
Yes, you can attend an aerospace engineering school for free if you qualify for sufficient financial aid. Most colleges offer merit and need-based scholarships to help students pay for their education. There are plenty of scholarships for aerospace engineering students, such as the Spaatz Association’s Aerospace Leadership Scholarship.
With scholarships and other types of federal financial aid like grants, you can get a Degree in Aerospace Engineering for free. If you can’t qualify for financial aid, there are many other alternatives to learning aerospace engineering for free. MIT OpenCourseware, for example, offers plenty of college-level courses such as Introduction to Aerospace Engineering and Design.
Cheapest Aerospace Engineering Schools That Won’t Break the Bank
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico State University | $7,301 | $23,767 | 50% |
| California State Polytechnic University Pomona | $7,439 | $19,319 | 70% |
| San Jose State University | $7,852 | $19,732 | 69% |
| San Diego State University | $8,136 | $20,016 | 76% |
| Wichita State University | $8,800 | $18,165 | 48% |
| North Carolina State University | $9,131 | $29,916 | 84% |
| Mississippi State University | $9,220 | $24,900 | 60% |
| Iowa State University | $9,634 | $25,446 | 76% |
| Purdue University | $9,992 | $28,794 | 83% |
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | $14,174 | $33,857 | 87% |
What Are the Cheapest Aerospace Engineering Schools? A Deep Dive
Paying for Aerospace Engineering School With Financial Aid
There are plenty of options to pay for aerospace engineering school with financial aid, such as federal grants, student loans, and work-study programs. Most schools offer merit and need-based scholarships, which can cover tuition, books, and accommodation expenses. Keep reading to learn more about these financial aid options.
Federal Grants
Federal grants are a form of financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. They are awarded by the US Department of Education to students with financial needs. Getting one or several federal grants can help cover all your education expenses. However, getting one of these grants is not easy, as the application process is highly competitive.
Federal Loans
Student loans let you borrow money that you must pay back with interest after graduation. Federal student loans have a fixed interest rate, which is usually lower than private loans. However, the maximum amount you can borrow is set by Congress and might not cover all expenses. Undergraduate and graduate students can borrow up to $12,500 or $20,500 per year, respectively.
Private Loans
Private student loans are issued by institutions such as banks, credit unions, and private lenders. These loans allow you to borrow money to cover the cost of aerospace engineering school expenses. However, the amount borrowed must be repaid with high interest. Private student loans can be costly and repaying them is not easy.
Work Study
Work-study jobs allow students to work part-time to earn money for their education. This financing option is only available to students enrolled in schools that are part of the Federal Work-Study Program. These part-time jobs not only help pay for your education but also help you gain professional experience.
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How to Apply for Federal Aid to Finance Your Aerospace Engineering School Program
In order to apply for federal aid to finance your aerospace engineering school program, you’ll have to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Its main purpose is to determine if a student is eligible for financial aid and will determine how much financial aid a student qualifies for. Read below to learn how to apply for federal financial aid.
- Create an FSA ID. You’ll need to create an account to be able to complete and sign your FAFSA application online. Choose a username and password with your FSA ID, then you can access your myStudentAid app where you can sign loans and contracts.
- Gather the necessary documents. In order to complete your application, you might need documents such as your social security number and driver’s license. It’s also important to have tax documents, income records, as well as the balance of your bank, savings, and checking accounts.
- Fill out the FAFSA application. You can fill out this form online, through your myStudentAid app, or by hand. In order to complete your application, you’ll have to answer a series of questions about your financial situation. Once you’re done, you’ll have to sign and submit your application.
- Review the SAR. After submitting the FAFSA form, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) that summarizes the information on your application. It includes information such as your family’s expected contribution and your estimated eligibility for financial aid. Make sure to review the STA and make corrections if necessary.
- Accept financial aid. Your school’s financial aid office will send you an aid offer and you will then choose whichever financial aid you want. It’s important to review your options carefully before making a decision. It’s better to accept grants and scholarships first and leave student loans as a last option.
Best Aerospace Engineering Scholarships
- Aerospace States Association (ASA) Scholarship | Amount: $2,000. Every year ASA awards two non-renewable scholarships to aerospace engineering sophomores or juniors. Application requirements include GPA, community service, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation. The yearly application deadline is April 30.
- Amelia Earhart Fellowship | Amount: $10,000. Zonta awards this scholarship to up to 35 women pursuing a PhD in Space Sciences or aerospace engineering. This fellowship is awarded annually and is non-renewable. To apply, students must be enrolled as full-time students and must have completed at least one year of their doctorate.
- SMART Scholarship Program | Amount: $25,000 – $38,000. Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) offers scholarships for students pursuing a degree in aerospace engineering and other 20 STEM disciplines. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, be enrolled in a regionally accredited school, complete at least one summer internship, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- VSGC Undergraduate STEM Research Scholarship Program | Amount: up to $8,500. Virginia Space Grant Consortium (VSGC) provides scholarships for juniors and seniors enrolled in STEM programs with NASA or aerospace relevance. Eligibility requirements include being enrolled as a full-time student and having a GPA of 3.0.
- VSGC Graduate Fellowship | Amount: $6,000. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in STEM graduate programs with aerospace relevance, have a GPA of 3.0, and receive matching funds of at least $6,000 from their school. Application requirements include a statement of purpose, a resume, and a research proposal.
Cheapest Undergraduate Aerospace Engineering Schools
Some of the cheapest undergraduate aerospace engineering schools are Midlands Technical College, Montgomery College, New Mexico State University, and San Jose State University. These schools offer Associate Degrees and Bachelor’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering at affordable tuition rates. Read on to learn more about the degrees offered by these schools.
Most Affordable Aerospace Engineering Associate Degree Programs
- Midlands Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Aerospace Engineering | $13,536/program. This degree is ideal for students that want to transfer to a baccalaureate engineering program. The curriculum covers topics such as mechanical systems, thermodynamics, solid mechanics, and engineering principles. This five-semester program can be completed in-person, online, or in a hybrid format.
- Seminole State College of Florida| Associate of Arts in Aerospace Engineering | $3,131/semester. This aerospace engineering associate’s program is designed for students that want to transfer to a four-year university. A total of 60 credits are required for the completion of this program. Students can get their degrees in-person or fully online.
- South Seattle College | Associate of Science in Mechanical, Industrial, and Aeronautical Engineering | $116.05/credit (residents); $137.27/credit (non-residents). This program is designed to prepare students to transfer to a four-year university. The curriculum includes courses in chemistry, physics, and programming. This program can be completed in a little over two years.
- Montgomery College | Associate of Science in Engineering, Aerospace Engineering Concentration | $201/credit hour (county residents); $341/credit hour (MD state residents); $467.80/credit hour (non-residents). This program will prepare students to transfer to a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. The curriculum includes courses in engineering design, physics, thermodynamics, and statics.
- Calhoun Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Aerospace Technology | $125/credit hour (in-state students); $250/credit hour (out-of-state students). This program prepares students for employment in the aerospace and aircraft industry. There are two concentration options available which include structure assembly and welding. CCM is a SpaceTEC member and offers a wide range of certifications.
Most Affordable Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- Purdue University | Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering | $20,022/academic year (residents); $38,824/academic year (non-residents). This 130-credit offers six concentration options. It is the fourth-best undergraduate program in aerospace engineering, according to US News & World Report rankings.
- New Mexico State University | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $8,409/tuition (residents); $26,735/tuition (non-residents). This 125-credit program includes courses in physics, mechanics, aerodynamics, and aerospace structures. NMSU offers students plenty of co-ops and internship opportunities.
- California State Polytechnic University Pomona | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $3,719.11/semester. This 194-credit program includes theoretical, computational, and experimental courses. The curriculum focuses on aeronautics, dynamics, and aerosciences.
- San Jose State University | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $3,836/semester. This bachelor’s program covers areas such as design, physics, mechatronics, and astrodynamics. This program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
- San Diego State University | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $4,087/semester. The curriculum of this program focuses on aerodynamics, flight mechanics, stability, propulsion systems, and design. SDSU students can participate in a variety of design projects and competitions.
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Cheapest Graduate Schools for Aerospace Engineering
Among the cheapest undergraduate aerospace engineering schools are Wichita State University, Virginia Tech, New Mexico State University, and Iowa State University. These schools offer some of the most affordable PhDs and Master’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering. Below you’ll find more information about the degrees offered by these schools.
Most Affordable Schools for Master’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering
- California State Polytechnic University Pomona | Master of Science in Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace Engineering | $4,436.11/semester. This 46-credit program is offered at the Lancaster University Center. The curriculum covers topics such as aircraft structures, aerodynamics, and aircraft design.
- San Jose State University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $4,643/semester. This program was designed by SJSU faculty and NASA engineers. It offers specialization options in sustainable aviation, aerospace design, astrodynamics, and space systems engineering. Successful graduates will have the skills they need to work at NASA too.
- Wichita State University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $307.98/credit (residents); $756.38/credit (non-residents). This master’s program offers three-degree options. To be admitted, students must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and can choose from a thesis, non-thesis, or a directed project. A total of 33 credits are required to complete the program.
- Mississippi State University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $4,699/semester (residents); $12,722/semester (non-residents). This 30-credit master’s program focuses on areas such as dynamics composite materials, and solid mechanics. MSU offers an in-person and a fully online master’s degree in aerospace engineering.
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $783.25/credit (residents); $1,578.50/credit (non-residents). This master’s program offers specializations in aero-hydrodynamics, dynamics and control, and structural dynamics. Master’s students can graduate with or without a thesis.
Most Affordable PhDs in Aerospace Engineering Universities
- New Mexico State University | PhD in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering | $6,189/year (residents); $19,032/year (non-residents). This 48-credit doctoral program has a strong focus on research. The curriculum of this doctoral program includes courses in mathematics, mechanics, and space dynamics.
- San Diego State University | PhD in Engineering, Aerospace Engineering Concentration | $4,804/semester (residents); $386/unit (non-residents). The curriculum of this doctoral program includes courses in aerodynamics, flight dynamics, propulsion systems, and aircraft design. This degree is offered by SDSU in collaboration with the University of California, San Diego.
- North Carolina State University | PhD in Aerospace Engineering | $30,181/year (residents); $49,723/year (non-residents). This 72-credit doctoral degree focuses on areas such as aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, structural mechanics, and aircraft design. NC State offers a four-year bachelor’s-to-PhD dual program.
- Iowa State University | PhD in Aerospace Engineering | $7,253.95/semester (residents); $15,252.95/semester (non-residents). This 72-credit doctoral program includes general education and aerospace engineering courses. Graduating requirements include a dissertation and a final examination.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | PhD in Aerospace Engineering | $1,624/credit. This 42-credit doctoral program focuses on areas such as aeroacoustics, fluid dynamics, rocket propulsion, and space mission design. There are three concentration options available, including aerodynamics and propulsion, and structures and materials.
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How to Choose a Good and Affordable Aerospace Engineering School
To choose between the cheapest aerospace engineering schools, you should consider factors such as the school’s accreditation, employment outcomes, the program’s format and concentration options, and the program costs. Keep reading to learn why these factors are so important and how they can help you choose the cheapest aerospace engineering degrees.
Accreditation
Accreditations recognize a college’s credibility and quality of its academic programs. Attending an accredited college will ensure your degree is credible and respected by employees. You should make sure the program you’ve chosen is accredited by a reliable institution, such as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Format
Many schools offer in-person, hybrid, and online aerospace engineering programs. In-person and hybrid programs offer opportunities to socialize and make use of student services. Meanwhile, online programs offer plenty of flexibility during a degree program. It’s important to choose a program that best suits your learning style and fits your daily schedule.
Cost of attendance
There are many affordable aerospace engineering degree options to choose from. A school’s official cost of attendance can be useful when deciding what school to attend. The cost of attendance includes the overall program costs, room and board, and transportation expenses. To further offset costs, qualified students can apply for financial aid.
Concentration options
Concentrations give students the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge in a specialized area of study. This can help you gain the skills necessary to pursue different careers in aerospace engineering. Concentration options you can pursue when getting your aerospace engineering degree include aerodynamics, flight dynamics and control, and propulsion systems.
Employment outcomes
Schools typically list the employment outcomes prospective students can achieve by enrolling in their programs. This can help you decide whether a school for aerospace engineering will prepare you for your career goals. This is also useful when trying to decide what you want to do after college.
Tips for Saving Money While Attending Aerospace Engineering School
- Fill out FAFSA every year. Even if you don’t receive financial aid as a freshman, you can apply for federal financial aid in future years. Filling out the FAFSA application every year can help you save on costs such as tuition, books, and room and board.
- Choose cheaper transportation whenever it’s possible. Transportation to and from campus can become an expensive added cost. Choosing cheaper transportation options, such as taking the bus or carpooling, can help you save on these expenses.
- Budgeting. To cut these expenses, you’ll have to create a budget considering your monthly income, your priorities and needs, and how much money you want to save. Financial planning is a good way to limit expenses and save money.
- Live with family. The cost of room and board at four-year institutions is between $9,395 and $12,540 per year, according to Education Data Initiative. A great way to save money when attending college is by living with family. This way you’ll save on room and board fees and most food expenses.
- Get your degree online. By getting your aerospace engineering degree online, you’ll save on expenses such as on-campus fees, transportation, room and board, and food. Additionally, online degrees typically offer cheaper tuition rates.
Cheapest Online Schools for Aerospace Engineering
The cheapest online schools for aerospace engineering are North Carolina State University, Mississippi State University, Auburn University, Iowa State University, and Purdue University. These schools offer well-rounded and affordable graduate degrees in aerospace engineering. Keep reading to learn more about the different degrees you can get in these schools.
| School | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina State University | $505.28/credit hour | 84% |
| Mississippi State University | $514/credit hour | 60% |
| Auburn University | $949/credit hour | 81% |
| Iowa State University | $7,253.95/semester (residents); $15,252.95/semester (non-residents) | 76% |
| Purdue University | $1,139/credit (Indiana residents); $1,459/credit (non-residents) | 29% |
Most Affordable Online Aerospace Engineering Bachelor’s Programs
There are no schools that currently offer online aerospace engineering bachelor’s degree programs. Due to the technical and hands-on skills required for aerospace engineering bachelor’s programs, schools only offer the program on campus. However, once a bachelor’s is completed, many schools offer affordable online master’s programs in specialized areas.
Most Affordable Online Aerospace Engineering Master’s Programs
- North Carolina State University | Online Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $505.28/credit hour. This distance education program offers courses in thermodynamics, manufacturing, fluid dynamics, and mechanical design. Graduation requirements include completing 30 credit hours and a 3.0 GPA.
- Mississippi State University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $514/credit hour. This online master’s program requires 30 credits for its completion. The curriculum includes courses in dynamics and controls, fluid mechanics, and solid mechanics.
- Auburn University | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | $949/credit hour. The curriculum of this 30-credit program includes courses in rocket propulsion, aerodynamics, aerospace computational structural analysis, and aeroelasticity. Students can choose between a thesis and a non-thesis option for this program.
- Iowa State University | Online Master of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering | $7,253.95/semester (residents); $15,252.95/semester (non-residents). This online degree requires at least 30 credits of graduate coursework and a thesis. The curriculum focuses on areas such as aerodynamics, aviation biofuels, and astrodynamics.
- Purdue University | Master of Engineering in Aeronautics and Astronautics | $1,139/credit (Indiana residents); $1,459/credit (non-residents). The curriculum of this program focuses on areas such as aerodynamics, aerospace propulsion, and structures and materials. It is one of the best online graduate engineering programs, according to US News & World Report.
Will Attending an Online Aerospace Engineering School Save Me Money?
Yes, attending an online aerospace engineering school will save you on expenses. Firstly, you’ll save on tuition, as most online schools offer cheaper tuition rates to online students. Secondly, you won’t have to pay additional fees such as housing, transportation, and meals. Lastly, you won’t have to relocate or pay for accommodation on campus.
Benefits of Online Aerospace Engineering Programs
- Lower costs. The tuition for online aerospace programs is generally cheaper than the cost of in-person programs. By getting your degree online, you won’t have to pay for housing, transportation, and on-campus meals expenses.
- Flexibility. Getting an online degree in aerospace engineering will allow you to learn at any time and place. This flexibility is great for incorporating your studies into your daily life however it suits you best.
- Development of time management skills. In order to keep up with the coursework and homework, you’ll need to establish specific times to focus entirely on your studies. Online learning helps develop good time management skills to work more efficiently.
- More free time. Not having to commute for classes and being able to set your own schedule will give you more free time. This is great for students who want to work while studying or have other personal commitments.
- Networking opportunities. While earning your online degree you’ll have the opportunity to meet and socialize with other students who want to work in the aerospace engineering field. All the connections you make can lead to professional opportunities in the future.
Highest-Paying Aerospace Engineering Careers
| Aerospace Engineering Job | Aerospace Engineering Degree | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $122,270 |
| Flight Test Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $87,840 |
| Aerodynamics Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $82,958 |
| Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologist | Bachelor’s degree | $73,580 |
| Aircraft Engineer | Associate degree | $63,500 |
Best Aerospace Engineering Jobs Explained
The five best aerospace engineering jobs are aerospace engineer, flight test engineer, aerodynamics engineer, aerospace engineering technologist, and aircraft engineer. These occupations offer high annual salaries as well as a promising future, with plenty of growth opportunities.
Aerospace Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Aerospace Engineering Schools
We chose the most affordable aerospace engineering colleges based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
Additional Reading About Aerospace Engineering
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Cheapest Aerospace Engineering Schools FAQ
There are many jobs you can do with an aerospace engineering degree. Most aerospace engineering occupations require at least an undergraduate degree. Many of the cheapest aerospace engineering schools can provide you with a program that will lead to a successful and lucrative career path.
Yes, aerospace engineers can become astronauts. Plenty of astronauts, such as Neil Armstrong, have a degree in aerospace engineering. However, if you want to pursue this career, it’s important to know that the selection process is highly competitive.
According to the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the average cost to attend one of the most affordable aerospace engineering schools starts at $13,377 per year. However, the overall cost of an aerospace engineering degree varies depending on the school you attend, whether you live at home or on-campus, and whether you qualify for financial aid.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Purdue University offer the five best aerospace engineering programs, according to US News & World Report. Purdue University offers well-rounded and affordable undergraduate and graduate aerospace engineering degree programs.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
