Program Overview
The Doctor of Engineering (D.E.) in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Kansas is a specialized terminal degree designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in aerospace engineering practice. This program emphasizes applied research, aerospace design, and engineering leadership, equipping graduates with the skills to lead complex engineering innovations in both industry and government sectors.
This engineering doctorate is structured to develop leadership capabilities and advanced technical proficiency in aerospace systems. Unlike a traditional research-focused degree, the Doctor of Engineering emphasizes practical application and engineering practice, preparing graduates for high-level positions in aerospace management, aerospace design, and advanced engineering development.
In contrast, the Ph.D. in aerospace engineering at KU is a research-intensive degree intended for students who seek to advance the scientific and theoretical foundations of aerospace systems. The Ph.D. aerospace engineering track prepares graduates for careers in academia, national laboratories, and advanced research roles in industry through original, dissertation-based research.
Both the D.E. and aerospace engineering Ph.D. pathways require advanced coursework and substantial research, but they differ in emphasis. The Doctor of Engineering culminates in a project focused on applied engineering solutions, while the Ph.D. in aerospace engineering culminates in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.
The Ph.D. in aerospace engineering at KU encompasses comprehensive coursework and research opportunities in key areas such as:
- Aerodynamics: Study of the behavior of air as it interacts with solid objects, such as aircraft wings and high-speed vehicles.
- Computational Fluid Dynamics: Use of numerical analysis and advanced algorithms to solve and analyze complex fluid flow problems.
- Propulsion: Examination of propulsion systems that produce thrust for aircraft and spacecraft, including air-breathing and rocket systems.
- Structures and Materials: Analysis of structural integrity, aeroelasticity, and advanced aerospace materials.
- Flight Dynamics and Controls: Understanding the performance, stability, guidance, navigation, and control of vehicles in flight.
- Aircraft and Spacecraft Design: Conceptualizing and developing the overall configuration and performance characteristics of aerospace vehicles.
- Orbital Mechanics: Study of spacecraft motion under gravitational forces and mission trajectory design.
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Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Aerospace Engineering, Ph.D./D.E.KU School of Engineering
The Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering is part of the School of Engineering, where new technologies are developed to solve the problems facing the world.Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the aerospace engineering Ph.D. or Doctor of Engineering program will:
- Develop advanced expertise in aerospace design, analysis, and system optimization
- Conduct independent research that advances aerospace knowledge or engineering practice
- Demonstrate mastery of advanced computational, analytical, and experimental methods
- Communicate complex technical findings effectively to professional and academic audiences
- Lead innovative aerospace projects in government, industry, or academia
What Careers Are Possible with a Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering?
Graduates of the Ph.D. in aerospace engineering and Doctor of Engineering programs are prepared for leadership and advanced technical roles across the aerospace sector. Career paths may include:
- Aerospace Systems Engineer
- Chief Engineer in Aerospace Firms
- Research Scientist or University Faculty
- Research and Development Director
- Aerospace Project Manager
- Executive Leadership Roles in Aerospace Manufacturing and Defense Industries
According to Lightcast data, professionals holding advanced doctoral credentials in aerospace engineering see strong long-term earning potential and expanded leadership opportunities. The projected Ph.D. in aerospace engineering salary trajectory reflects demand for highly specialized expertise in propulsion, flight systems, advanced materials, and space technologies.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates for graduate students, with financial aid options available. Learn more about tuition, scholarships, and funding opportunities with KU Scholarships & Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
Prospective students of the Ph.D. in aerospace engineering must meet the following admission criteria:
- A master’s degree in aerospace engineering or a closely related field from an accredited institution
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in their bachelors program, and a minimum 3.5 GPA (out of 4.0) in their masters program
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Statement of Objectives
- Official GRE score report (optional but recommended)
For more information on the admissions process, please visit the Department of Aerospace Engineering.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Students in the Ph.D. aerospace engineering and Doctor of Engineering programs engage in advanced aerospace research while collaborating with faculty experts and industry partners. Research areas may include:
- Autonomous flight systems
- Advanced propulsion technologies
- Aerospace materials innovation
- Space mission planning and operations
- Hypersonics and high-speed aerodynamics
KU’s research laboratories and computational facilities provide hands-on experiences in both experimental and simulation-based aerospace engineering. Doctoral students benefit from close faculty mentorship and opportunities to present research at national and international conferences.
Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering Sample Courses
Students in the Ph.D. in aerospace engineering and Doctor of Engineering programs complete advanced coursework tailored to their research focus. Sample courses may include:
- Techniques of Engineering Evaluation
- Linear Algebra
- Structural Vibrations & Modal Testing
- Flight Test Engineering
- Compressible Aerodynamics
For complete degree requirements for both the Doctor of Engineering and aerospace engineering Ph.D., visit the KU Catalog.
Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Application deadlines for each term are as follows:
Fall Admission:
- Priority Deadline: December 1
- Final Deadline: April 1
Spring Admission:
- Priority Deadline: September 1
- Final Deadline: December 1
Summer Admission:
- Final Deadline: April 1
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this program in four years.