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2025-2026 University Catalog
Aeronautics and Astronautics, MSAAE
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About the Program
The Gambaro Graduate Program in Aeronautics and Astronautics at Purdue University is designed for aspiring aerospace engineers who aim to push the boundaries of innovation and technology. Students can choose from several graduate-level courses, tailoring their studies to their career goals. The curriculum covers six key areas of interest: Aerodynamics, Aerospace Systems, Astrodynamics and Space Applications, Autonomy and Control, Propulsion, and Structures and Materials. Each area combines theoretical, computational, and experimental methods, preparing students for the complex challenges of aerospace engineering. Purdue AAE graduates are equipped to lead and excel in the aerospace industry, contributing to advancements in human space missions, autonomous aerial systems, propulsion technologies, and more. Purdue’s strong industry connections and extensive research opportunities provide unmatched avenues for professional growth, equipping you to succeed in the dynamic fields of aerospace engineering. Join us and become part of a community that is shaping the future of aerospace engineering. Master’s can pursue a thesis or non-thesis (with residential or online options). See below for each set of requirements. Program Website: Residential Option Program Website: Online Option Program Requirements - Thesis & Non-thesis
30 Credits RequiredRequired Courses (21-24 credits)
Primary Area Courses (9-12 credits)
All students should choose a primary area, listed below. Students pursuing a thesis MS should take 9 credits from their primary area. Students pursing a non-thesis MS should take 12 credits in their primary area. Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics research is directed toward a better understanding of the fundamental laws governing the flow of fluids. Research topics of recent interest include: numerical methods in aerodynamics; computational fluid mechanics; separated flow around wings and bodies at high angles of attack; aerodynamics of rotors and propellers; boundary layers, wakes and jets in V/STOL applications and aerodynamic noise; experimental measurements using laser systems; laminar-turbulent transition in high-speed boundary layers. Aerospace Systems
Aerospace systems are complex and highly interdisciplinary. The Aerospace Systems area teaches and develops methods and techniques to help address the challenges of designing, managing, and operating these systems. Students in this area learn about different design methods and gain systems design experience through individual and team projects. The topics addressed in course and research work include requirements definition, functional decomposition, concept synthesis, application of design-oriented analysis methods, insight into external drivers and constraints, design for X, optimization, and robust design. Astrodynamics & Space Applications
The Astrodynamics and Space Applications group conducts research spanning orbital and interplanetary trajectory design, trajectory optimization, multi-body orbital dynamics, relative motion, planetary entry, remote sensing, and spacecraft guidance, navigation and control. Astrodynamics is the analysis of the motion of natural and artificial objects in space, subject to environmental and artificial forces. Space applications broadly encompass the practical utilization of space, including development of spacecraft, instruments, and software, testing and validation of space systems, space situational awareness, space science and technology mission design, orbital infrastructure to support human exploration, and planetary defense. The discipline group also has advanced visualization and virtual reality capability that they apply to complex trajectory designs and mission applications. Autonomy & Control
The Autonomy and Control group is involved in fundamental research and the development of algorithms and experiments for the modelling, simulation and control of aerospace systems. Example applications include aircraft, spacecraft and UASs (unmanned aerospace systems), especially networks of these systems. Other applications include control of multi-agent networks, air traffic and transportation, and cyberphysical systems. The research combines expertise in control theory, robotics, optimization, nonlinear systems, hybrid systems, stochastic systems, and system of systems. Propulsion
Propulsion involves the study of the basic operation and design of aerospace propulsion devices, including both air-breathing engines and rocket powerplants. The gas dynamics of internal flows, thermodynamics, and combustion processes associated with those devices are discussed in detail. Engine components such as inlets, pumps, and/or compressors, combustion chambers, turbines, and nozzles are investigated. Various air-breathing engines such as turbojets, turbofans, ramjets, turboprops, and scramjets are treated. Rocket propulsion systems, including solid rocket motors; liquid rocket engines; hybrid rockets; and nuclear, electric, and advanced nonchemical systems are also covered. Structures & Materials
Structures and Materials emphasizes the study of structural analysis, structural dynamics, structural design and behavior of aerospace materials. This includes courses that deal with the principles of mechanics and the theoretical, computational and experimental techniques necessary to ensure the structural integrity of aerospace vehicles. Response to, and failure of, both materials and structures subjected to static and dynamic loads and thermal corrosive and radiation environments are investigated theoretically and observed experimentally. Secondary Area Courses (6 credits)
All students should take 6 credits in a secondary area (choosing from the Primary Area list) to complement their primary area. Math Courses (3-6 credits)
Along with the courses listed below, any 500/600-level MA or STAT course can fulfill this requirement. MA 59800 and STAT 59XXX “Topics,” “Seminar,” “Reading,” “Independent Study” or similar courses must be approved on a case by case basis. Only 3 credits of math courses are required if students take the Engineering Leadership concentration. Otherwise, students will take 6 credits. Thesis Research (9 credits)
Only required for thesis MS students. Technical Electives (6 credits)
Only required for non-thesis MS students. Students should choose electives in Engineering (excluding ENE), Science, additional MA/STAT courses, or independent studies (AAE 597). Concentrations
Departmental concentrations: Interdisciplinary concentrations: GPA Requirements
GPA must be 3.0 or higher at all times and no primary or secondary course has less than B-. Graduate Programs Disclaimer
- The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Students should consult with their advisor/department for more information.
- Not all graduate programs may be actively recruiting students and course modality availability may vary.
- Please refer to the Explore Graduate Programs website for a list of currently available graduate programs.
- Transfer credit policy: Credits earned for graduate study at other universities (both domestic and international) may be applied toward an advanced degree. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Any additional conditions under which credit transfers may be made are determined by the various departments.
- Comparative information about Purdue University and other U.S. educational institutions is also available through the College Navigator tool, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, and through the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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