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2025-2026 University Catalog
Aeronautics and Astronautics, PHD
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 Return to: College of Engineering (Graduate)
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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. Program Website Program Requirements
90 Credits Required (30 credits from a Master’s may be applied.) Required Courses (21-27 credits)*
*If not partially completed by coursework from a Master’s degree. Primary Area Courses (12 credits)
Students should take four graduate-level, technical courses in consultation with their Faculty Advisor. Suggested courses under specific topics listed below. These suggested courses can help students prepare for their qualifying exam or can be beneficial to their research. Courses are not limited to this list. 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)
In lieu of a secondary area qualifying exam, students can take 6 credits in a secondary area. Suggested courses listed below. Astrodynamics & Space Applications
Propulsion
One course must be from AAE. Math Courses (3-9 credits)*
*Up to two courses may be waived based on math coursework from an MS degree. Along with the courses listed below, any 500/600-level MA or STAT course can fulfill this requirement, excluding MA 527/528, ME 581, and STAT 511. MA 59800 and STAT 59XXX “Topics,” “Seminar,” “Reading,” “Independent Study” or similar courses must be approved on a case by case basis. Dissertation Research (33-39 credits minimum)*
*Students who waived math courses will typically take 39 dissertation research credits. Students without previous math coursework will typically delegate more credits for that requirement and take 33 dissertation research credits. Concentrations
Interdisciplinary concentrations: Additional Information
Qualifying Examination: To demonstrate to the faculty that a student is qualified to pursue the PhD program in the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, the student is required to take and pass qualifying examinations. These qualifying examinations are offered once each semester (except Summer) approximately 2-3 weeks after the start of the term. The student must take the qualifying examination during the first two to three semesters after admission to the PhD program. Students who earned their MS in AAE at Purdue must take the PhD qualifying exam within the first two semesters. Other students must take the exam within the first three semesters. A student earning their MS in AAE but switching major discipline areas for their PhD may take the qualifying exam within the first three semesters. The student shall be required to take the examination in their major area of interest and another in one of the remaining five areas (“minor” area). As an option, a student may elect, with the approval of their advisory committee, to replace the minor area qualifying examination with two graduate courses in their minor area. These substitute courses must be taken following satisfaction of the requirements for the MS degree, and the student must receive a grade of B or better (a B- is not sufficient) in both courses. GPA Requirements
GPA must be 3.0 or higher at all times and no major class 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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Return to: College of Engineering (Graduate)
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