Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics offers a diverse range of program opportunities for graduates. Our goal is to provide innovative and high quality programs that support the many and varied interests of our students.
Applicants for graduate work in aerospace engineering and mechanics must apply for admission to UA’s Graduate School.
Graduate students can specialize in the following aerospace or mechanics areas: aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, aerospace structures, solid mechanics, aircraft flight dynamics and controls, dynamics, and space systems and propulsion. Please refer to the Graduate Catalog for specific admission requirements.
An MSAEM can be earned by coursework only or by a combination of coursework and an approved thesis. Most distance learning students elect to complete the coursework only degree option. On-campus students supported by assistantships are expected to complete an approved thesis.
A research-based degree, students are required to propose, complete and defend an approved dissertation on a research topic that contributes to the field of aerospace engineering and/or engineering science and mechanics.
| MSAEM | PhD |
|---|---|
| Fall – June 30 | Fall – April 30 |
| Spring – November 30 | Spring – September 30 |
| Summer – March 31 | |
| International students without visas will require earlier submissions. | |
For more information about aerospace engineering and mechanics graduate programs, contact Dr. James P. Hubner.
Applicants for graduate study in aerospace engineering and mechanics must apply online through the Graduate School.
AEM department standards are higher than the graduate school minimums, and all application materials are carefully considered. Meeting minimum graduate school requirements does not guarantee admission into the AEM graduate programs.
Students applying to an AEM graduate program without a bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace, mechanical or civil engineering are required to complete the following coursework from an accredited university (if not already completed) prior to applying: Calculus (12 credit hours), Ordinary Differential Equations, and 12 credit hours of engineering mechanics—Statics, Dynamics, Mechanics of Materials and Fluid Mechanics. The engineering mechanics courses must be calculus based. Students have the opportunity to enroll in the mechanics courses through the UA College of Continuing Studies as a non-degree seeking (NDS) applicant.
AEM distance programs are open to US students as well as international students residing in the US with appropriate visas. For students interested in the distance PhD program, it is highly recommended to contact faculty with similar research interests and arrange an on-campus visit or video conference prior to applying to the program. Gaining faculty interest and support is beneficial and important in the application review.
Assistantships (teaching and research) are offered by the department and individual faculty to highly-qualified applicants with preference towards those pursuing a PhD. Most assistantships start in the fall and last one academic year with consideration for renewal. An assistantship provides a competitive stipend, full tuition and health benefits. No additional application is necessary; however, if seeking an assistantship then your application should be submitted by January 31 or earlier for the ensuing fall semester. Contacting faculty with similar research interests is encouraged.
Several national, state and university fellowship programs exist that provide academic stipends. Three examples, respectively, are the National Science Foundation, the Alabama Space Grant Consortium and The University of Alabama Graduate Council.
For additional information about the graduate program or financial assistance, contact Dr. James P. Hubner.
The University of Alabama offers both research-based and professionally focused programs, at the master’s and doctoral level.
The minimum degree requirements and academic performance standards.
The general requirements for advanced degrees.
The deadlines for applying to UA’s Graduate School.
All prospective international students are welcome at The University of Alabama.
Can’t get to campus? We’ll come to you. See what distance learning graduate and doctoral degree programs the College of Engineering offers.
This program is intended for gifted and highly motivated candidates whose objectives include degrees at the master’s or doctoral level.
This calendar shows important dates for the academic year at UA.
