Santa Clara University - School of Engineering

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE)

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What makes SCU Engineering's
Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) Different!

Specialized Concentrations in Aeronautics and Astronautics

The MSAE program offers two focused tracks: Aeronautics and Astronautics, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific aerospace domains. The Aeronautics concentration emphasizes flight mechanics, materials science, structural design, and stability/control systems, while the Astronautics track covers orbital mechanics, space structures, attitude determination, and guidance/navigation technologies. This specialization ensures graduates develop expertise aligned with industry demands, whether in aircraft design, satellite systems, or space exploration. The curriculum’s depth is reflected in core courses such as Modern Control Systems and Computational Fluid Mechanics, which provide foundational and advanced knowledge in aerospace systems.

Proximity to Silicon Valley’s Aerospace Innovation Hub

Situated in Silicon Valley, the program leverages partnerships with leading aerospace companies, government agencies like NASA, and startups pioneering technologies such as reusable rockets and satellite constellations. Students gain access to internships, collaborative projects, and industry lectures through the university’s connections, bridging academic theory with real-world applications. For example, the program’s emphasis on smart grid integration in power systems (though not directly part of aerospace) reflects the broader technological ecosystem of the region, fostering interdisciplinary innovation.

Integration of Advanced Technical Courses with Research Projects

The 46-unit curriculum balances theoretical coursework with hands-on research. Core technical subjects include Gas Dynamics, Viscous Flow, and Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C), while electives enable exploration of emerging areas like propulsion optimization and space vehicle design. Students undertake capstone projects or thesis work, often collaborating with faculty on cutting-edge research. For instance, projects might involve computational simulations of hypersonic flows or experimental testing of lightweight aerospace materials, preparing graduates for roles in R&D and systems engineering.

Emphasis on Ethical Leadership and Societal Impact

Rooted in Santa Clara University’s Jesuit mission, the program emphasizes engineering with “competence, conscience, and compassion.” Courses integrate discussions on the ethical implications of aerospace technologies, such as sustainability in propulsion systems or equitable access to space exploration. This focus aligns with global priorities, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring graduates approach challenges with a commitment to societal benefit—a distinguishing feature compared to purely technical programs.

Flexible Enrolment Options for Diverse Learners

The program accommodates both full-time students and working professionals through its Open University pathway, which allows non-degree enrollment for up to 16 units before formal admission. Additionally, the modular 2-unit course structure enables part-time learners to balance studies with industry engagements. For international students, the program offers clear pathways for visa compliance and post-graduation employment, with career services supporting placements in roles ranging from aerospace design engineers to systems analysts.

Know More about the SCU Engineering Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) Program

Santa Clara Universitys Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) provides advanced knowledge in aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft design. Located in Silicon Valley, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and industry collaboration. Graduates are prepared for careers in aerospace innovation, working with leading companies in aviation, defense, and space exploration. ..... Read More

Duration

24 Months

How does the Class Profile of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) Program look like?

Average Class Size

23

Average Age

23.0

Average Work Experience

3.0

Want to See Who You'll Be Learning With?

Explore detailed class demographics, academic backgrounds, and industry experiences that define your future classmates.

Where do graduates of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) program land? Discover More!

Median Earnings after Graduation

USD 91,000/- year

Graduation Rate

88.50 %

Recruiters

NASA Boeing Lockheed Martin Raytheon Technologies SpaceX Blue Origin Northrop Grumman Virgin Galactic General Atomics Sierra Nevada Corporation GE Aviation Airbus Collins Aerospace Textron Aviation Rocket Lab

Prospective Job Roles

Aerospace Engineer Flight Systems Engineer Avionics Engineer Propulsion Engineer Aircraft Design Engineer Spacecraft Systems Engineer Thermal Systems Engineer Aeroacoustics Engineer UAV Systems Engineer Guidance & Navigation Engineer Aerodynamics Analyst Launch Systems Engineer Orbital Mechanics Specialist Flight Test Engineer Satellite Communications Engineer Structural Dynamics Engineer Missile Systems Engineer Payload Integration Engineer CFD Engineer Aerospace Research Scientist

Eligibility Criteria for SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) in Management program ?

Credential Evaluation Requirement

Mandatory English Proficiency Test

Mandatory GRE / GMAT Requirement

4 Year Bachelor’s Degree Requirement

Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities!

Tuition Fees

USD 43416/- PER YEAR

Application Fee

USD 95/-

Scholarship Opportunities upto

USD 6 Million

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On Demand Events

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Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage: The Ohlone AR Tour at Santa Clara University

Bridging History, Technology, and Career Paths: An Immersive Exploration of Ohlone Culture and Alumni Insights on Navigating the U.S. Job Market""
Register to access the video

Know More about the SCU Engineering Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) Program

Santa Clara Universitys Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) provides advanced knowledge in aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft design. Located in Silicon Valley, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and industry collaboration. Graduates are prepared for careers in aerospace innovation, working with leading companies in aviation, defense, and space exploration. ..... Read More

Duration

24 Months

How does the Class Profile of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) Program look like?

Average Class Size

23

Average Age

23.0

Average Work Experience

3.0

Want to See Who You'll Be Learning With?

Explore detailed class demographics, academic backgrounds, and industry experiences that define your future classmates.

Where do graduates of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) program land? Discover More!

Median Earnings after Graduation

USD 91,000/- year

Graduation Rate

88.50 %

Recruiters

NASA Boeing Lockheed Martin Raytheon Technologies SpaceX Blue Origin Northrop Grumman Virgin Galactic General Atomics Sierra Nevada Corporation GE Aviation Airbus Collins Aerospace Textron Aviation Rocket Lab

Prospective Job Roles

Aerospace Engineer Flight Systems Engineer Avionics Engineer Propulsion Engineer Aircraft Design Engineer Spacecraft Systems Engineer Thermal Systems Engineer Aeroacoustics Engineer UAV Systems Engineer Guidance & Navigation Engineer Aerodynamics Analyst Launch Systems Engineer Orbital Mechanics Specialist Flight Test Engineer Satellite Communications Engineer Structural Dynamics Engineer Missile Systems Engineer Payload Integration Engineer CFD Engineer Aerospace Research Scientist

Eligibility Criteria for SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) in Management program ?

Credential Evaluation Requirement

Mandatory English Proficiency Test

Mandatory GRE / GMAT Requirement

4 Year Bachelor’s Degree Requirement

Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities!

Tuition Fees

USD 43416/- PER YEAR

Application Fee

USD 95/-

Scholarship Opportunities upto

USD 6 Million

What makes SCU Engineering's
Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) Different!

Specialized Concentrations in Aeronautics and Astronautics

The MSAE program offers two focused tracks: Aeronautics and Astronautics, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific aerospace domains. The Aeronautics concentration emphasizes flight mechanics, materials science, structural design, and stability/control systems, while the Astronautics track covers orbital mechanics, space structures, attitude determination, and guidance/navigation technologies. This specialization ensures graduates develop expertise aligned with industry demands, whether in aircraft design, satellite systems, or space exploration. The curriculum’s depth is reflected in core courses such as Modern Control Systems and Computational Fluid Mechanics, which provide foundational and advanced knowledge in aerospace systems.

Proximity to Silicon Valley’s Aerospace Innovation Hub

Situated in Silicon Valley, the program leverages partnerships with leading aerospace companies, government agencies like NASA, and startups pioneering technologies such as reusable rockets and satellite constellations. Students gain access to internships, collaborative projects, and industry lectures through the university’s connections, bridging academic theory with real-world applications. For example, the program’s emphasis on smart grid integration in power systems (though not directly part of aerospace) reflects the broader technological ecosystem of the region, fostering interdisciplinary innovation.

Integration of Advanced Technical Courses with Research Projects

The 46-unit curriculum balances theoretical coursework with hands-on research. Core technical subjects include Gas Dynamics, Viscous Flow, and Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C), while electives enable exploration of emerging areas like propulsion optimization and space vehicle design. Students undertake capstone projects or thesis work, often collaborating with faculty on cutting-edge research. For instance, projects might involve computational simulations of hypersonic flows or experimental testing of lightweight aerospace materials, preparing graduates for roles in R&D and systems engineering.

Emphasis on Ethical Leadership and Societal Impact

Rooted in Santa Clara University’s Jesuit mission, the program emphasizes engineering with “competence, conscience, and compassion.” Courses integrate discussions on the ethical implications of aerospace technologies, such as sustainability in propulsion systems or equitable access to space exploration. This focus aligns with global priorities, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring graduates approach challenges with a commitment to societal benefit—a distinguishing feature compared to purely technical programs.

Flexible Enrolment Options for Diverse Learners

The program accommodates both full-time students and working professionals through its Open University pathway, which allows non-degree enrollment for up to 16 units before formal admission. Additionally, the modular 2-unit course structure enables part-time learners to balance studies with industry engagements. For international students, the program offers clear pathways for visa compliance and post-graduation employment, with career services supporting placements in roles ranging from aerospace design engineers to systems analysts.

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE)'s Current Students

Want the Inside Scoop from Students?

Discover real experiences, day-in-the-life stories, and tips from students currently enrolled in the program.

Upcoming SCU Engineering Events

We will be back Soon with Upcoming Events

On Demand Events

img-blur-shadow

Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage: The Ohlone AR Tour at Santa Clara University

Bridging History, Technology, and Career Paths: An Immersive Exploration of Ohlone Culture and Alumni Insights on Navigating the U.S. Job Market""
Register to access the video

Explore other SCU Engineering programs

Master of Science in Applied Mathematics

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Bioengineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Civil Engineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Engineering Management and Leadership

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Power Systems and Sustainable Energy

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Robotics and Automation

Duration
24 MONTHS
View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Get all your questions answered about Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) by SCU Engineering

Santa Clara University's MSAE program covers areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, spacecraft design, and aerospace materials, combining theory with hands-on applications.
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, or a related engineering field. Strong academic records, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and optionally GRE scores are required.
Graduates often pursue careers as aerospace engineers, systems engineers, propulsion analysts, or spacecraft designers at organizations such as NASA, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and SpaceX.
Yes, students can participate in research projects and collaborate with industry leaders through Santa Clara University’s strong ties with Silicon Valley aerospace and tech firms.
Yes, the MSAE program is STEM-designated, allowing international students to apply for an additional 24-month OPT extension post-graduation.

Contact us

For any queries, please feel free to reach out to us!

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Email

admission@scu.edu

call
Phone

+408-554-4600