MAE - Aerospace Engineering Major

Two pilots sit in a cockpit.

Aerospace Engineering

Major

The Aerospace Engineering major blends the theory, technology, and practice of flight within the Earth’s atmosphere, with elective opportunities in spacecraft and launch vehicle science and technology. This dynamic field focuses on the design, development, and testing of aircraft and spacecraft, equipping future Army leaders to advance aviation technology and play a crucial role in our nation’s aerospace defense.  

Offered by the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering.

Are you fascinated by how planes fly, rockets launch, or satellites stay in orbit? Do you dream of designing high-speed jets, powerful drones, or spacecraft? If so, the Aerospace Engineering major at the United States Military Academy at West Point could be the perfect path for you.

What Is Aerospace Engineering?

Aerospace Engineering is all about how things move through the air and space. At West Point, cadets in this major dive into the science and engineering behind aircraft, helicopters, missiles, and spacecraft. They learn how to design them, test them, and improve their performance in the most demanding conditions.

Why Choose Aerospace Engineering at USMA?

  • A Nationally Recognized Program
    The major is ABET-accredited, which means it meets the highest national standards in engineering education. That gives cadets a strong foundation whether they pursue a military career or advanced studies.
  • Hands-On Projects
    Cadets won't just sit in a classroom — they work in world-class labs, build and fly drones, use wind tunnels, and even compete in national design competitions.
  • Mission-Focused Learning
    Cadets study how aerospace technologies are used in real Army operations - from unmanned aerial systems to future space-based missions - making everything they learn directly relevant to protecting and advancing national security.
  • Top-Notch Faculty and Mentorship
    USMA instructors are experienced officers and engineers who care deeply about cadets' growth, both as a scholar and as a future Army leader.
  • Career and Leadership Opportunities
    Whether the cadet becomes a helicopter pilot, an Army Space Operations Officer, or works with cutting-edge drone or missile systems, their education will set them up for a dynamic and meaningful career.

Where This Major Can Go

With an Aerospace Engineering degree from West Point, cadets can:

  • Become an Army Aviation Officer or Space Operations Officer
  • Join military research and development teams
  • Attend graduate school for aerospace or astronautical engineering
  • Work with agencies like NASA, DARPA, or top defense contractors

It’s not just about flying - it’s about soaring above expectations.

Interested Cadets

If you have ever looked up at the sky and imagined building jets, helicopters, or even spacecraft, the Aerospace Engineering major at West Point might be an academic opportunity for you. This major also includes an honors track.

This major is all about flight - how things fly, why they fly, and how to design systems that do it better, faster, and safer. In this program, you dive into the science and engineering behind aircraft and space vehicles, learning how to solve real-world problems using cutting-edge technology.

Why Consider This Major

If they enjoy math, science, solving problems, building things, and dreaming big, Aerospace Engineering is an exciting challenge. At West Point, cadets not only gain top-tier technical skills - they grow as a leader, graduate with no college debt, and serve their country in ways that push the boundaries of innovation and service. 

What Cadets Learn

Cadets in this major start with a solid foundation in math, physics, and mechanical engineering, then focus on advanced topics like:

  • Aerodynamics – how air flows over wings and bodies
  • Propulsion – how engines create thrust to power aircraft and rockets
  • Flight Mechanics – how vehicles stay stable and maneuver in the air or space
  • Structures – how to design strong but lightweight aircraft parts
  • Aircraft and Space Systems Design – where you’ll apply everything to design and build your own systems

They also get plenty of hands-on experience in labs and team projects. Think wind tunnels, computer simulations, and building small-scale aircraft.

Choice of Electives

As cadets move through the program, they can choose electives to match their interests. Some examples include:

  • Space Systems – explore satellites and orbital mechanics
  • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) – study drones and autonomous flight
  • Advanced Propulsion – dive deeper into how jet and rocket engines work
  • Rotorcraft Design – focus on helicopters and vertical lift aircraft
  • Hypersonic Flight – learn about vehicles that travel faster than five times the speed of sound

Learn More

Majors can take part in the exciting Academic Individual Advanced Development (AIAD) program, a unique USMA-led enrichment experience. In this program, cadets work side-by-side with world-class engineers and researchers, gaining hands-on experience in facilities, learning innovative methods, procedures used to design, test, and enhance Army systems. 

To learn more about enrichment for this area of study, visit the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering or the Center for Applied Engineering. 

Aeronautical Engineering is a longstanding part of the ABET-accredited and U.S. News nationally ranked USMA Mechanical Engineering Program. The new program will expand both academic courses offered and new facilities to meet ABET criteria for the Aerospace Engineering major and will continue to focus on academic excellence through experiential classrooms, laboratory, and project-based learning, and high-quality instruction.