Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering

The overall objective of the graduate program in aerospace engineering is to develop in a student the ability to define a technical problem, establish an appropriate mathematical or experimental model based on a firm understanding of the physical nature of the problem, analyze the problem by theoretical, numerical, or experimental techniques, and evaluate the results. Although this ability is developed in the context of aerospace problems, it is applicable to the engineering of any physical system.
The program is designed for a student with any of the following specific objectives:

1. A sound foundation in advanced mathematics, science, and engineering that will equip the student well for research and development work or for further advanced study toward a doctoral degree in engineering.
2. A program of advanced study that allows specialization in one of the following areas:

- Fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and propulsion (theoretical and applied aerodynamics, gas dynamics, viscous fluid mechanics, turbulence, computational and experimental fluid dynamics, bio-fluidics, hypersonic flow theory, high-temperature gas dynamics, V/STOL and rotorcraft aerodynamics, air-breathing, and rocket propulsion); - Structural mechanics and structures (solid mechanics, aerospace structures, structural dynamics, composite structures and material characterization, damage tolerance and durability, smart structures, structure optimization, sensor technology, high-temperature structures and materials, aeroelasticity); - Flight mechanics and controls (atmospheric and space flight mechanics, orbital mechanics, guidance, navigation, and control); - Vehicle design (conceptual aircraft design, atmospheric flight vehicle design, spacecraft design, computer-aided engineering).
3. A balanced but non-specialized program of advanced study in aerodynamics, astronautics, flight dynamics, structural analysis, propulsion, and fluid mechanics, with emphasis on experimental techniques and modern mathematical analysis.