aerospace engineering phd thesis

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Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Theses and dissertations published by graduate students in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, College of Engineering, Old Dominion University since Fall 2016 are available in this collection. Backfiles of all dissertations (and some theses) have also been added.

In late Fall 2023 or Spring 2024, all theses will be digitized and available here. In the meantime, consult the Library Catalog to find older items in print.

Theses/Dissertations from 2024 2024

Thesis: Effect of Lunar Magnetic Field and Lunar Regolith Simulant on the Growth and Bioactive Compounds Production of Chlorella Vulgaris Microalgae , Jeries Philip Butros Abedrabbo

Dissertation: Application of the Fokker-Planck Equation for Quantifying Initial Condition Uncertainty of Reversible Dynamic Systems , Troy S. Newhart

Thesis: Structural Characterization of a TriTruss Module , Lauren M. Simmons

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Thesis: Switching Methods for Three-Dimensional Rotational Dynamics Using Modified Rodrigues Parameters , Matthew Jarrett Banks

Dissertation: Studies of Flowfields and Dynamic Stability Characteristics of a Quadrotor , Engin Baris

Thesis: Development, Experimental Validation, and Progressive Failure Modeling of an Ultra-Thin High Stiffness Deployable Composite Boom for in-Space Applications , Jimesh D. Bhagatji

Thesis: Design and Implementation of a Launching Method for Free to Oscillate Dynamic Stability Testing , Kristen M. Carey

Thesis: SeaLion CubeSat Mission Architecture Using Model Based Systems Engineering with a Docs as Code Approach , Kevin Yi-Tzu Chiu

Dissertation: RoboRetrieve --In a Dual Role as a Hand-held Surgical Robot and a Collaborative Robot End-effector to Perform Spillage-free Specimen Retrieval in Laparoscopy , Siqin Dong

Thesis: Fabrication of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Components Using Stereolithography 3D Printing , Hannah Dyer

Thesis: Fusion Bonding Behavior of 3D Printed PA6/CF Composites Via Post Fabrication Compaction , Gonzalo Fernandez Mediavilla

Dissertation: Machine Learning Approach to Activity Categorization in Young Adults Using Biomechanical Metrics , Nathan Q. C. Holland

Thesis: Study of Microphonic Effects on the C100 Cryomodule for High Energy Electron Beam Accelerators , Caleb James Hull

Dissertation: E-Cadherin Force Transmission and Stiffness Sensing , Mazen Mezher

Thesis: Experimental and Computational Aerodynamic Studies of Axially-Oriented Low-Fineness-Ratio Cylinders , Forrest Miller

Thesis: The Effect of Through Thickness Reinforcement Angle on the Disbonding Behavior in Skin-Stringer Configuration , Christopher John Morris

Dissertation: Chemical and Physical Interaction Mechanisms and Multifunctional Properties of Plant Based Graphene in Carbon Fiber Epoxy Composites , Daniel W. Mulqueen

Thesis: Data-Driven Predictive Modeling to Enhance Search Efficiency of Glowworm-Inspired Robotic Swarms in Multiple Emission Source Localization Tasks , Payal Nandi

Dissertation: Fabrication of Smooth SAC305 Thin Films via Magnetron Sputtering and Evaluations of Microstructure, Creep, and Electrical Resistivity , Manish Ojha

Dissertation: Faster, Cheaper, and Better CFD: A Case for Machine Learning to Augment Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes , John Peter Romano II

Thesis: A Comparative Study of Vinti-Based Orbit Propagation and Estimation for CubeSats in Very Low Earth Orbits , Ethan Michael Senecal

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Thesis: A Comparison of Uniaxial Compressive Response and Inelastic Deformation Mechanisms in Freeze Cast Alumina-Epoxy Composites Without and With Rigid Confinement , Tareq Aljuhari

Thesis: Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis of a Very Low Earth Orbit CubeSat Mission , Robb Christopher Borowicz

Thesis: A Study of Asymmetric Supersonic Wind Tunnel Nozzle Design , Brittany A. Davis

Thesis: Electromagnetic Modeling of a Wind Tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance System , Desiree Driver

Dissertation: Advanced Generalized Predictive Control and Its Application to Tiltrotor Aircraft for Stability Augmentation and Vibration Reduction , Thomas Glen Ivanco

Dissertation: Numerical Simulation of Electroosmotic Flow of Viscoelastic Fluid in Microchannel , Jianyu Ji

Thesis: Assembly of Ceramic Particles in Aqueous Suspensions Induced by High-Frequency AC Electric Field , James E. John IV

Dissertation: The Effect of Soft Tissue and Bone Morphology on the Stresses in the Foot and Ankle , Jinhyuk Kim

Thesis: Development of Modeling and Simulation Platform for Path-Planning and Control of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles in Three-Dimensional Spaces , Sai Krishna Abhiram Kondapalli

Thesis: Deep Learning Object-Based Detection of Manufacturing Defects in X-ray Inspection Imaging , Juan C. Parducci

Dissertation: Utilization of Finite Element Analysis Techniques for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Surgical Planning , Michael A. Polanco

Thesis: Mechanics of Preimpregnated Fiber Tow Deposition and Compaction , Virginia Meredith Rauch

Dissertation: Role of Structural Hierarchy in Multiscale Material Systems , Siavash Sattar

Thesis: Implementation of an Extended Kalman Filter Using Inertial Sensor Data for UAVs During GPS Denied Applications , Sky Seliquini

Dissertation: Collaborative Robotics Strategies for Handling Non-Repetitive Micro-Drilling Tasks Characterized by Low Structural Mechanical Impedance , Xiangyu Wang

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Dissertation: Tunable Compressive Mechanical Behavior of Ice-Templated Materials , Sashanka Akurati

Thesis: Analysis of a Non-Equilibrium Vortex Pair as Aircraft Trailing Vortices , Manuel Ayala

Thesis: Modeling Interactions in Concentrated Ceramic Suspensions Under AC Electric Field , Naga Bharath Gundrati

Dissertation: Improved Strain Gage Instrumentation Strategies for Rotorcraft Blade Measurements , Timothy S. Davis

Thesis: A Model-Based Systems Engineering Approach to e-VTOL Aircraft and Airspace Infrastructure Design for Urban Air Mobility , Heidi Selina Glaudel

Dissertation: Development and Applications of Adjoint-Based Aerodynamic and Aeroacoustic Multidisciplinary Optimization for Rotorcraft , Ramiz Omur Icke

Thesis: A New Method for Estimating the Physical Characteristics of Martian Dust Devils , Shelly Cahoon Mann

Thesis: Post-Processing and Characterization of Additive Manufactured Carbon Fiber Reinforced Semi-Crystalline Polymers , Patricia Revolinsky

Thesis: Gradient-Based Tradeoff Design for Engineering Applications , Lena Alexis Royster

Thesis: The Effect of Through Thickness Reinforcement on Debonding Behavior of Skin/Stringer Configuration , Yogaraja Sridhar

Thesis: Empirical Modeling of Tilt-Rotor Aerodynamic Performance , Michael C. Stratton

Thesis: A Digital One Degree of Freedom Model of an Electromagnetic Position Sensor , Michelle Elizabeth Weinmann

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Thesis: Parametric Study of Residual Stresses in Wire and Arc Additive Manufactured Parts , Hisham Khaled Jamil Abusalma

Thesis: The Effect of Compaction Temperature and Pressure on Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed Short Glass Fiber Composites , Pushpashree Jain Ajith Kumar Jain

Thesis: Numerical Analysis of a Roadway Piezoelectric Harvesting System , Abdul Rahman Badawi

Dissertation: Role of Anisometric Particles in Ice-Templated Porous Ceramic Structure and Mechanical Properties , Mahesh Banda

Thesis: Mechanism of Compaction With Wrinkle Formation During Automatic Stitching of Dry Fabrics and the Size Effect of Compression Molded Discontinuous Fiber-Reinforced Composites , Anibal Benjamin Beltran Laredo

Thesis: Conical Orbital Mechanics: A Rework of Classic Orbit Transfer Mechanics , Cian Anthony Branco

Thesis: Rotorcraft Blade Angle Calibration Methods , Brian David Calvert Jr.

Dissertation: Onboard Autonomous Controllability Assessment for Fixed Wing sUAVs , Brian Edward Duvall

Thesis: A Parametric Analysis of a Turbofan Engine with an Auxiliary Bypass Combustion Chamber – The TurboAux Engine , Kaleab Fetahi

Thesis: Space-Based Countermeasure for Hypersonic Glide Vehicle , Robert Joseph Fowler IV

Thesis: Compaction and Residual Stress Modeling in Composite Manufactured with Automated Fiber Placement , Von Clyde Jamora

Thesis: Trajectory Simulation With Battery Modeling for Electric Powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicles , Ege Konuk

Thesis: Detailed Modeling of the Flash Hydrolysis of Algae for Biofuel-Production in COMSOL Multiphysics , Noah Joseph LeGrand

Thesis: Through-Thickness Reinforcement and Repair of Carbon Fiber Based Honeycomb Structures Under Flexure and Tension of Adhesively Bonded Joints , Aleric Alden Sanders

Thesis: Energy Harvesting Using Flextensional Piezoelectric Energy Harvesters in Resonance and Off-Resonance Modes , Mohamed A. Shabara

Thesis: Thermal Contact Resistance Measurement and Related Uncertainties , Amanda Elizabeth Stark

Thesis: Model Based Systems Engineering for a Venture Class Launch Facility , Walter McGee Taraila

Thesis: A Post-Impact Behavior of Platelet-Based Composites Produced by Compression Molding , Christopher Eugene Ervin Volle

Thesis: Nonlinearity Index Aircraft Spin Motion Analysis With Dynamic Inversion Spin Recovery Controller Design , Jeffry Walker

Thesis: A Study of the Aeroacoustics of Swept Propellers for Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles , Arthur David Wiedemann

Thesis: Finite Element Analysis Investigation of Hybrid Thin-Ply Composites for Improved Performance of Aerospace Structures , Alana M. Zahn

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Thesis: Characterization and Optimization of a Propeller Test Stand , Colin Bruce Leighton Benjamin

Dissertation: Endogenous Force Transmission Between Epithelial Cells and a Role for α-Catenin , Sandeep Dumbali

Dissertation: Effect of the Physical Micro-Environment on Cell Adhesion and Force Exertion , Mohamad Eftekharjoo

Thesis: Reducing the Noise Impact of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles by Flight Control System Augmentation , Matthew B. Galles

Thesis: Design and Manufacture of an Inertial Cascade Impactor for Industrial Hygiene Purposes , Hector Joel Gortaire

Thesis: Off Axis Compressive Response of Ice-Templated Ceramics , Rahul Kumar Jujjavarapu

Thesis: Unsupervised-Learning Assisted Artificial Neural Network for Optimization , Varun Kote

Dissertation: Numerical Simulation of Viscoelastic Flow in Micro/Nanochannels , Lanju Mei

Thesis: Comparison of Support Methods for Static Aerodynamic Testing and Validation of a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System , Cameron K. Neill

Thesis: Extension of a Penalty Method for Numerically Solving Constrained Multibody Dynamic Problems , Troy Newhart

Dissertation: Computational Analysis and Design Optimization of Convective PCR Devices , Jung Il Shu

Thesis: Periodic Orbit Analytic Construction In The Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem , Jay Shriram Suryawanshi

Thesis: A CFD Study of Steady Fully Developed Laminar Flow Through a 90-Degree Bend Pipe with a Square Cross-Sectional Area , Subodh Sushant Toraskar

Dissertation: Estimation of Arterial Wall Parameters Via Model-Based Analysis of Noninvasively Measured Arterial Pulse Signals , Dan Wang

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Thesis: Offshore Wind Energy: Simulating Local Offshore Wind Turbine , Ian P. Aquino

Dissertation: Epithelial Sheet Response to External Stimuli , Yashar Bashirzadeh

Thesis: Anthropomorphically Inspired Design of a Tendon-Driven Robotic Prosthesis for Hand Impairments , Manali Bapurao Bhadugale

Thesis: Aerothermodynamic Analysis of a Mars Sample Return Earth-Entry Vehicle , Daniel A. Boyd

Thesis: Volterra Series Approximation for Multi-Degree of Freedom, Multi-Input, Multi-Output, Aircraft Dynamics , Alexander J. Chen

Dissertation: Simplified, Alternative Formulation of Numerical Simulation of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell , Russell L. Edwards

Thesis: Distributed Sensing and System Identification of Cantilever Beams and Plates in the Presence of Weak Nonlinearities , Patrick Sean Heaney

Thesis: Dynamic Response Modeling of High Speed Planing Craft with Enforced Acceleration , Brian K. Johnson

Dissertation: Identification and Optimal Linear Tracking Control of ODU Autonomous Surface Vehicle , Nadeem Khan

Dissertation: Design and Implementation of an Artificial Neural Network Controller for Quadrotor Flight in Confined Environment , Ahmed Mekky

Thesis: Gust Alleviation System for General Aviation Aircraft , Lucas Coleman Mills

Thesis: Human-Robot Collaborative Force-Controlled Micro-Drilling for Advanced Manufacturing and Medical Applications , Parimal Mahesh Prajapati

Thesis: Single-Stage, Venturi-Driven Desalination System , Brandon Proetto

Thesis: A Cost Effective Design for a Propeller Thrust/Torque Balance , Nicholas Barrett Sadowski

Dissertation: Understanding the Mechanical Behavior of Costal Cartilage at Their Curved Exterior Surface Via a Tactile Sensor with a Built-In Probe for Distributed-Deflection Detection , Jiayue Shen

Thesis: A Scientific Approach to Understanding the Head Trauma Endured by a Mixed Martial Arts Fighter , John William Michael Sorbello

Thesis: Robocatch: Design and Making of a Hand-Held Spillage-Free Specimen Retrieval Robot for Laparoscopic Surgery , Farid Tavakkolmoghaddam

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Department of Aerospace Engineering

• Website http://www.bristol.ac.uk/aerospace/

United Kingdom

Student theses

• 1 - 50 out of 197 results
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3d printing shape-changing double-network hydrogels.

Supervisor: Seddon, A. M. (Supervisor) & Eichhorn, S. (Supervisor)

Student thesis : Doctoral Thesis › Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A consideration of geometry in very-low Earth orbit satellites

Supervisor: Berthoud, L. (Supervisor) & Allen, C. B. (Supervisor)

Acoustic Flow Perception in Bats and Applications in Navigation

Supervisor: Windsor, S. P. (Supervisor) & Holderied, M. W. (Supervisor)

Active Thermal Management in FRP Composites via Embedded Vascular Networks

Supervisor: Bond, I. P. (Supervisor) & Lawrie, A. G. W. (Supervisor)

Adaptive Compliant Structures for Fluid Flow Control: A ‘catastrophic’ approach

Supervisor: Pirrera, A. (Supervisor), Groh, R. (Supervisor) & Theunissen, R. (Supervisor)

Adaptive Sampling in Particle Image Velocimetry

Supervisor: Poole, D. (Supervisor) & Allen, C. (Supervisor)

Additive Manufacturing of Soft, Functional Structures for Next-Generation Soft Robotics

Supervisor: Faul, C. F. (Supervisor), Rossiter, J. (Supervisor) & Richards, A. (Supervisor)

A design approach for super-efficient Wrapped Tow Reinforced Hierarchical Space Frames

Supervisor: Woods, B. K. S. (Supervisor), Macquart, T. (Supervisor), Schenk, M. (Supervisor) & Pirrera, A. (Supervisor)

Advanced numerical methods for modelling impact in composite materials

Supervisor: Kawashita , L. F. (Supervisor), Melro, A. R. (Supervisor) & Hallett, S. R. (Supervisor)

Aerial Manipulators for Contact-based Interaction

Supervisor: Richardson, T. S. (Supervisor) & Georgilas , I. (External person) (Supervisor)

Aeroacoustic Characteristics of Static and Dynamic Stall

Supervisor: Azarpeyvand, M. (Supervisor) & Allen, C. (Supervisor)

Aerodynamic noise control using surface treatments

Supervisor: Zang, N. (Supervisor) & Azarpeyvand, M. (Supervisor)

Aeroelastic Tailoring of a Composite Wing with Adaptive Control Surfaces for Optimal Aircraft Performance

Supervisor: Pirrera, A. (Supervisor) & Cooper, J. (Supervisor)

Aeroelastic Tailoring of Composite Aircraft Wings with Uncertainty Quantification for Robust and Reliable Design

A holistic investigation of automated fibre placement’s effect on composite laminate thickness.

Supervisor: Potter, K. (Supervisor)

Student thesis : Doctoral Thesis › Engineering Doctorate (EngD)

Aircraft active inceptor dynamics under vibration loads

Supervisor: Lowenberg, M. (Supervisor), Rezgui, D. (Supervisor), Neild, S. A. (Supervisor) & Rahman, K. (External person) (Supervisor)

Alginate based composite scaffold for biomedical engineering applications

Supervisor: Hamerton, I. (Supervisor), Patil, A. (Supervisor) & Rahatekar, S. (Supervisor)

A Model-Based Framework for Early-Stage Analysis of Spacecraft

Supervisor: Berthoud, L. (Supervisor) & Tryfonas, T. (Supervisor)

A multi-scale reinforced natural composite sandwich panel concept for vibroacoustic applications

Supervisor: Scarpa, F. (Supervisor) & Ivanov, D. (Supervisor)

An adaptive shell model with variable-kinematics for the analysis of laminated structures

Supervisor: Hallett, S. (Supervisor), Kawashita, L. (Supervisor) & Pirrera, A. (Supervisor)

Analysis and Design of Buckling Resistant Thin-Walled Structures via Computationally Efficient 3D Stress Analysis

Supervisor: Pirrera, A. (Supervisor) & Weaver, P. (Supervisor)

Analysis and design of composite panels with Stringer run-outs

Supervisor: Weaver, P. (Supervisor)

Analysis and tailoring of stiffened panels with asymmetries via extended modal nudging

Supervisor: Pirrera, A. (Supervisor), Groh, R. (Supervisor) & Weaver, P. M. (Supervisor)

An Efficient Numerical Framework for Capturing Localised 3D Stress Fields in Laminated Composites

A new aerodynamic model for unsteady separated flow on high aspect ratio flexible wings.

Supervisor: Jones, D. P. (Supervisor) & Gaitonde, A. L. (Supervisor)

An experimental-modelling pitch link formulation for an induced ice damaged blade and its usage in vibration-based rotorcraft-blade health monitoring

Supervisor: Cooper, J. (Supervisor) & Titurus, B. (Supervisor)

Student thesis : Master's Thesis › Master of Science by Research (MScR)

An improved constraint stabilisation technique for Udwadia-Kalaba Formulation

Supervisor: Lowenberg , M. H. (Supervisor) & Neild, S. A. (Supervisor)

An improved description of the bonding and consolidation for overmoulded thermoplastic composite ribbed plates

Supervisor: Hallett, S. R. (Supervisor), Kawashita , L. F. (Supervisor), Gude, M. (External person) (Supervisor) & Kupfer, R. (External person) (Supervisor)

An investigation into the use of a pendulum support rig for aerodynamic modelling

Supervisor: Lowenberg, M. (Supervisor)

A numerical study of a nacre-inspired ballistic armour system

Supervisor: Hallett, S. (Supervisor)

A single camera optical system for the measurement of helicopter blade track and elastic deflection

Supervisor: Lieven, N. (Supervisor)

A spacetime framework for aerodynamics of complex motions

Supervisor: Rendall, T. (Supervisor) & Gaitonde, A. (Supervisor)

A Touchy Subject: Development and Exploration of Tactile Sensing for Perception and Manipulation

Supervisor: Lepora, N. (Supervisor) & Richards, A. (Supervisor)

Automated Dry Fibre Placement and Infusion Process Development for Complex Geometries

Supervisor: Potter, K. (Supervisor), Kim, B. C. (Supervisor) & Giddings, P. (Supervisor)

Automating “design for manufacture” of aerospace composite components

Supervisor: Kratz, J. (Supervisor), Rendall, T. (Supervisor) & Visrolia, A. (External person) (Supervisor)

Autonomous and objective characterisation of composite precursors in manufacturing

Supervisor: Ivanov, D. (Supervisor), Belnoue, J. P. (Supervisor), Hallett, S. R. (Supervisor) & Georgilas, I. (External person) (Supervisor)

Bayesian learning for control in multimodal dynamical systems

Supervisor: Richards, A. (Supervisor) & Ek, C. H. (Supervisor)

Behaviour of pseudo-ductile thin-ply angle-ply laminates under different loading conditions

Supervisor: Wisnom, M. (Supervisor), Bond, I. (Supervisor) & Fuller, J. (Supervisor)

Bifurcation analysis of a semiconductor laser subject to phase conjugate feedback

Supervisor: Krauskopf, B. (Supervisor)

Bioinspired Nonlinear Structures: Elastic Instabilities and Sound Production

Supervisor: Groh, R. (Supervisor), Holderied, M. W. (Supervisor) & Pirrera, A. (Supervisor)

Bio-inspired path planning for unmanned air vehicles in urban environments

Supervisor: Windsor, S. P. (Supervisor) & Richards, A. G. (Supervisor)

Bistable Structures for Morphing Applications Using Anisotropic Shells

Cactus based solids.

Supervisor: Scarpa, F. (Supervisor) & Perriman, A. W. (Supervisor)

Cellulose Composite Fibres for Potential Engineering and Bio-medical Applications

Supervisor: Rahatekar, S. (Supervisor) & Wisnom, M. (Supervisor)

Cellulose Nanocrystal Reinforced Electrospun Composite Nanofibres

Supervisor: Eichhorn, S. (Supervisor) & Trask, R. (Supervisor)

Cellulose nanocrystals-based nanomaterials with aligned microstructures for sustainable energy storage technologies

Supervisor: Eichhorn, S. (Supervisor) & Kim, B. C. (Supervisor)

Characterisation and Selection of Sustainable Discontinuous Natural Fibre Reinforced Polymer Constituents and Their Composites

Supervisor: Eichhorn, S. (Supervisor), Hamerton, I. (Supervisor) & Longana, M. L. (Supervisor)

Characterisation and understanding of viscoelastic leading edge protection solutions used on offshore wind turbines

Supervisor: Ward, C. (Supervisor), Hamerton, I. (Supervisor) & Dyer, K. P. (Supervisor)

Chemo-driven soft pneumatic actuation: from catalysts to neutralisation reactions for oscillating pneumatic systems

Supervisor: Faul, C. F. (Supervisor), Trask, R. (Supervisor) & Dicker, M. (Supervisor)

Composite compliant shell mechanisms: tailoring and characterisation

Supervisor: Ward, C. (Supervisor), O'Donnell, M. (Supervisor) & Schenk, M. (Supervisor)

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Aerospace engineering: dissertations & theses.

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Kresge Engineering Library closed until 2025

The Kresge Engineering Library is temporarily closed due to the Bechtel Engineering Center renovation. We plan to re-open in 2025 when the new Engineering Student Center opens its doors.

Read about the closure here .

Questions? Send us a message and one of our engineering librarians will reach out. 

UC Berkeley Dissertations & Theses

UC Berkeley PhD Dissertations

Dissertations and Theses (Dissertation Abstracts)     UCB access only  1861-present 

Index and full text of graduate dissertations and theses from North American and European schools and universities, including the University of California, with full text of most doctoral dissertations from UC Berkeley and elsewhere from 1996 forward. Dissertations published prior to 2009 may not include information about the department from which the degree was granted. 

UC Berkeley Master's Theses

UC Berkeley Digital Collections   2011-present

Selected UC Berkeley master's theses freely available online. For theses published prior to 2020, check UC Library Search for print availability (see "At the Library" below). 

UC Berkeley dissertations may also be found in eScholarship , UC's online open access repository.

Please note that it may take time for a dissertation to appear in one of the above online resources. Embargoes and other issues affect the release timing.

At the Library:

Dissertations: From 2012 onwards, dissertations are only available online. See above links.

Master's theses : From 2020 onwards, theses are only available online. See above links. 

To locate older dissertations, master's theses, and master's projects in print, search UC Library Search by keyword, title or author. For publications prior to 2009 you may also include a specific UC Berkeley department in your search:  berkeley dissertations <department name> . 

Examples:  berkeley dissertations electrical engineering computer sciences  berkeley dissertations mechanical engineering

University of California Dissertations

Index and full text of graduate dissertations and theses from North American and European schools and universities, including the University of California.

Dissertations Worldwide

WorldCatDissertations     UCB access only 

Covers all dissertations and theses cataloged in WorldCat, a catalog of materials owned by libraries worldwide. UC Berkeley faculty, staff, and students may use the interlibrary loan request form  for dissertations found in WorldCatDissertations. 

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• Next: Materials Properties & Selection >>
• Last Updated: Aug 19, 2024 1:30 PM
• URL: https://guides.lib.berkeley.edu/aerospace-engineering

Doctor of Philosophy

Our PhD program requires a commitment of typically five years and consists of graduate coursework, an oral preliminary coursework examination, an oral preliminary research examination, and original research guided by one or more faculty advisors that culminates with an oral defense and published dissertation.

Fully Funded

The program is fully-funded, which means that subject to satisfactory progress, the student receives full coverage of tuition and mandatory student fees, as well as a yearlong monthly stipend for living expenses. These funds come from a combination of faculty research funds, departmental fellowships, and instructional funds if the student assists in teaching during certain terms. Students are encouraged to apply for outside funding, particularly merit-based fellowships, as having external support will typically provide the student with more flexibility in projects.

PhD Advisor

Regardless of the ultimate source of funding, the student is advised by a faculty member who supervises and guides the research. These faculty advisors participate in the admissions process by selecting students who are appropriate to work on available projects. Therefore, every student admitted into the PhD program has already been selected by one or more faculty members at the time they are admitted.

Prospective Students

Prospective PhD students seeking admission are encouraged to review the  research of the faculty  and initiate contact with them directly, via email, to assess the availability of potential research projects. This is not a required step but can be a useful means of augmenting the formal application.

Required Background

A master’s degree is not required to be admitted to the PhD program. Many PhD degree applicants apply in the final year of their undergraduate studies. However, our graduate program is very selective, admitting approximately 10% of applicants.

Learn about the  academic background of students admitted to consider whether our program is a good fit for you.

Degree Requirements

The PhD degree requires a sound background in fundamental aerospace engineering courses which is assessed by the preliminary examinations. These oral examinations are typically completed after the second or third semester in the program. The PhD dissertation requires a student to demonstrate their ability to pursue and solve an original research problem, which implies the ability to carry out independent research.

related links

Aerospace Engineering Courses Approved by Rackham

Aerospace Engineering Doctoral Graduate Student Handbook

Cognate Requirement

Rackham recognizes the value of intellectual breadth in graduate education and the importance of formal graduate study in areas beyond the student’s field of specialization. Cognate courses are those that are in a discipline or area different from a student’s field of study but are related or connected with some aspect of this field. All cognate coursework must be approved by the graduate program.

The cognate requirement may be satisfied in two ways:

• By completing three credit hours of cognate coursework in approved  graduate-level courses  with a grade of B or better. Cognate courses may be AEROSP courses as long as they are cross-listed as a course in another program.
• By completing  graduate coursework at another institution  that meets the expectation of the cognate requirement. These courses do not apply toward the minimum credit hours required for the degree, do not appear on the U-M transcript and must be completed no more than five years before admission to the current Rackham graduate program. The student must provide Rackham Academic Records and Dissertations (OARD) with an official transcript from this other institution, and the graduate program should notify OARD that the coursework fulfills the cognate requirement.

Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship Requirement

The College of Engineering’s  Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship program   is designed to engage students to be able to recognize, address, and resolve ethical issues in classroom, professional and research settings. The program consists of four mandatory two-hour workshops. Workshops are offered once in the fall and once in the winter. The student must complete all four workshops before advancing to candidacy.

Preliminary Examinations

The preliminary examinations (prelims) consist of two tests, both oral, and both administered by faculty committees: the oral coursework examination, typically taken at the end of the second or third semester; and the oral research examination, typically taken in the second or third year.

A full description of both exams is given in the  Doctoral Graduate Student Handbook.

Oral Coursework Examination

This is an oral examination that covers material taught in the five courses (noted above in “preliminary examination coursework”). It is administered by a three-member committee over 90 minutes.

The preliminary examination is scheduled twice each academic year, once in early December and once in early May. To sign up please complete the  Coursework Examination Sign-up form (PDF) and share it with the department’s graduate office.

Oral Research Examination

This is an oral examination that consists of a research presentation followed by questions from a committee, which is typically the student’s thesis committee. It is administered over one hour, at a time mutually agreeable to the student and committee. 

Scheduling the exam is the responsibility of the student and can be done at any time in the year. The student must also provide a research document to the committee at least one week in advance of the exam, in the form of a conference paper approximately 10 pages in length.

Pass, fail or retake decisions for the coursework examination are made in a faculty meeting at the conclusion of the examination period. 

Each coursework examination committee (CEC) presents a summary of the test performance and states the decision. All department faculty are invited to discuss and vote on the outcome. Students will receive written feedback about their coursework examination performance on a standardized form completed by their CEC. Students who do not pass the coursework examination may be permitted to take the exam one additional time.

For the research exam, the research examination committee makes a pass, fail or retake decision and communicates the outcome to the student with feedback on performance. If deficiencies are found, students will be encouraged to retake the exam when appropriate. There is no limit to the number of retakes of the research exam, but failing the research exam is grounds for dismissal from the PhD program.

Advancing to Candidacy

A student becomes a PhD candidate once they:

• pass the oral coursework examination;
• complete the Rackham cognate requirement;
• attend all four Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship (RCRS) workshops;
• and accumulate at least 18 credit hours of coursework at the University of Michigan.

Students should contact the graduate office once they have completed the candidacy requirements to ensure forms for advancing to candidacy are completed properly.

Dissertation

Dissertation committee.

Doctoral research is carried out under the supervision of a faculty advisor and a dissertation committee; the dissertation committee should normally be formed within one year after the student has achieved doctoral candidacy status. The student should expect to meet with their dissertation committee immediately after it is formed and at least on an annual basis up to the PhD defense.

Dissertation Defense

Each student must initiate research activity with their advisor in the first year of graduate study at U-M. In order to complete the PhD degree, the student must carry out original and publishable research, present the results in a written dissertation, defend the dissertation at a final oral defense, and complete the final post-defense (see  Rackham’s Dissertation Handbook   for additional details) tasks.

The oral defense presentation represents the culmination of the student’s research and is given to the committee and other faculty and students. The student must be able to clearly and concisely present their research and must be able to answer questions from the committee and others in attendance.

Guidelines for Dissertation Committee Formation

Rackham Committee Selection Form

Travel Grant

Rackham’s Dissertation Resources

Research Publicity Request Form

AERO PhD Defense Announcement Template

PhD candidates should download the AERO defense flyer template  and update it with their own photo, dissertation abstract and event details to spread the word to their research group and other colleagues who would like to attend.

Please save the flyer as a PDF and send it to [email protected] at least two weeks before your event to have it shared it with the department through standard department channels.

HELPFUL RESOURCE

Familiarize yourself with the department PhD handbook to understand the policies and procedures that will impact your doctoral education.

Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering

College of engineering, ae doctoral dissertations.

Each year, the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering graduates between 30 and 40 doctoral students - each with unique contributions to make in research, academia, industry, and the evolution of the discipline itself. On this page, we provide links to their abstracts and their published dissertations. We're also introducing  Next Gen Ideas , a video series in which our doctoral candidates will have ~ 3 minutes to explain research that took them years to produce.  (No one ever said aerospace engineering was easy.)  Click on the video above to get started.

Dissertations are sorted by academic year. 

2022 - 2023 Doctoral Dissertations

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Caltech Theses

• Caltech Theses & Dissertations Includes all Caltech theses since 2002 (except for a few that are restricted) and many theses from before 2002.
• Caltech Theses All Caltech theses (print or electronic) can also be found in the library catalog.

Other Theses and Dissertations

• CRL's Foreign Doctoral Dissertations Database The collection includes doctoral dissertations submitted to institutions outside the U.S. and Canada. The range of years includes mid-19th century through the present, with the greatest concentration in the late 19th, early 20th centuries.
• TheseNet 1972+ - PhD dissertations for applied and hard sciences, social sciences, humanities and law. (Website in French)
• Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations
• EThOS UK Theses search

Aero Theses

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Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Thesis - mechanical and aerospace engineering, student thesis overview.

This overview will describe the thesis, why it is very important to your graduate study, what are the steps that you will need to do and when they should or must be done, how to find an advisor, and the resources that are available to help you along the way. In the following section, questions and answers are provided for some common questions.

A thesis is a "position or proposition that a person (as a candidate for scholastic honors) advances and offers to maintain by argument." and a document containing results of original research and especially supporting a specific view.

What is a Thesis?

The thesis is the most important part of your graduate education. While the course work lays the foundation by providing analytical methods and tools, it is the thesis that provides to you the opportunity to use this knowledge in a new, original and creative manner. During your thesis research you will be able to consolidate what you have already learned, and possibly extend this by further self-study, and to use this body of knowledge to attack a new problem. The thesis will hopefully be your crowning achievement of your graduate study, and will be your introduction to the community of scholars.

Choosing Your Topic and Advisor

The first step in the thesis process is choosing an advisor and a topic. While your formal thesis slots may be in the last 2 or 3 quarters at NPS, it is very important that you have a thesis advisor and topic chosen well before this, preferably a year or so before you plan to graduate. During the time between choosing an advisor/topic and the start of your thesis slots, you should meet regularly with your advisor and spend a few hours a week reading background material and thinking about the problem.

The method for choosing your topic and advisor is completely up to you. However, you are strongly advised to talk to every faculty member in all the areas that you have any interest before making decisions. There are several questions you might want to ask yourself, before talking to the faculty. What type of work do you most enjoy? Generally, thesis research may be categorized as analytical (e.g. using a pencil and paper for mathematical modeling and derivation of solutions), computational (e.g. using finite element technique or computational fluid mechanics to find solutions), experimental (e.g. designing, building, or modifying an existing set-up to obtain new data) or some combination of the three. It is generally advisable that you take a course from a professor before you make a commitment to work for him or her. The Mechanical Engineering Faculty periodically schedule thesis opportunity presentations, where they will discuss their current research interests and the available topics. In addition, there is a ME website which contains short written descriptions for current thesis topics of ME faculty. You may talk to fellow students, who are close to graduating to discuss what they have done and how they enjoyed their experience. However, they probably will not be as good a source of what the available research topics are as the faculty members, themselves. Finally, you may wish to review previous thesis, as well as conference and journal publications from the various faculty members.  After you find an advisor and agree on the topic, you are required to fill out a thesis approval form, which must be signed by the thesis advisor, the Academic Associate and the Chairman of the Mechanical Engineering Department.

Common Pitfalls and Advice

While your advisor will help you along the way and provide broad guidance and feedback, it is the responsibility of the student to be self-motivated and to initiate all of the steps. Do not expect your advisor to provide a detailed, step-by-step, road map for you. You should be independent and think through problems first, before asking your advisor. However, that does not in any way mean you should avoid meeting with your advisor. You should meet regularly with your advisor to discuss what you have done, what issues have arisen, how you plan to solve them, and what your next steps should be.

One common problem faced by researchers, is the failure to sufficiently limit the scope of their work. Being overly broad can lead to a lack of focus and prevent any contribution from being made. It may seem to you that your advisor has asked you to solve a problem that you consider trivial and your may be inclined to broaden the scope. Stay focused on the immediate problem. If you solve the problem then by all mean go on to a larger problem. But initially, stay focus on a narrow and well-defined problem.

Thesis Proposals

One way that you can help yourself is to write a short Thesis Proposal. It can be useful in helping to consolidate your understanding and focusing your future work. This may be written after you have been working on the problem for several months, have read dozens of articles and it may contain the following elements:

• Introduction to the problem. This describes the problem and why it is important.
• State of the art. Literature review and what is not known.
• Objectives. Your goals for the work. What would be the desired outcome(s). Be specific. Do not say "to better understand something".
• Proposed work. Very limited and specific.

For you to make an original contribution, it generally requires that you have an understanding of what is already known, by experts in your field. Therefore, one of the primary resources on which you will depend is the NPS library and the reference staff. While the world-wide-web is becoming an increasing source of information, and you should make use of it, there are many primary sources, such as books and journals, which are not available on the web. Most of the information on the web is not archival in nature - that is, it might not exist if a certain site is closed. One of the most valuable skills you should learn during your thesis is how to obtain and process information and how to synthesize new results from that original information.

After your research is complete you will be required to write and submit a thesis document. For many of you it will be the longest document that you have written. There are several sources available to help you in writing the document, including "How to Write a Thesis" by the Mechanical Engineering Department and several guidelines and templates available on the NPS web site.

Finally you are required to make an oral presentation of your thesis research to the faculty and students of the Mechanical Engineering Department. The presentation is approximately fifteen minutes with about a 5-minute question and answer period. A document on how to prepare and deliver this presentation is available from the Mechanical Engineering Department.

Common Questions and Answers

Please visit our Thesis Q&A page  to view common questions and answers regarding your Thesis.

Home > Daytona Beach > College of Engineering > PhD Dissertations in Aerospace Engineering

PhD Dissertations in Aerospace Engineering

Dissertations - open access dissertations - open access.

A Computational Analysis of the Aerodynamics and Aeroacoustics of Jets with Fluid Injection , Marco Coderoni

Adaptive Augmentation of Non-Minimum Phase Flexible Aerospace Systems , Michael A. DuPuis

Adaptive Control for a Class of Nonlinear, Time Varying Rotational Systems , John Zelina

Adaptive Control of an Aeroelastic System for Active Flutter Suppression and Disturbance Rejection , Patrick Sterling Downs

Adaptive-Optimal Control of Spacecraft near Asteroids , Madhur Tiwari

A Data Driven Modeling Approach for Store Distributed Load and Trajectory Prediction , Nicholas Peters

Additively Manufactured Dielectric Elastomer Actuators: Development and Performance Enhancement , Stanislav Sikulskyi

Additively Manufactured Flexible Piezoelectric Wave-Based Multifunctional Sensor , Rishikesh Srinivasaraghavan Govindarajan

Aeroacoustics of Supersonic Jet Interacting with Solid Surfaces and its Suppression , Seyyed Saman Salehian

An Online Adaptive Machine Learning Framework for Autonomous Fault Detection , Nolan Coulter

A Numerical and Experimental Evaluation of the Turbulent Heat Flux in a Heated Jet in Crossflow , Michael R. Borghi Jr.

Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Inertial Geomagnetic Passive Navigation , Andrei Cuenca

Autonomous Space Surveillance for Arbitrary Domains , David Zuehlke

A Volume-Force Synthetic Disturbance Approach for High-Fidelity of Unsteady Fluid Structure Interactions , Marina Kazarina

Bi-Modal Excitation of a Supersonic Rectangular Jet , Benjamin Malczewski

Computational Model for Pedestrian Movement and Infectious Diseases Spread During Air Travel: A Molecular Dynamics-Like Numerical Approach , Pierrot Derjany

Contributions to the Understanding of Ship Airwakes Using Advanced Flow Diagnostic Techniques , Dhuree Seth

Damage Control Measures in Composites: Focus on Damage Tolerance of Aerospace Structures , Kais Jribi

Data-Driven Architecture to Increase Resilience In Multi-Agent Coordinated Missions , D. F.

Design, Analysis and Experimental Evaluation of 3D Printed Variable Stiffness Structures , Rossana R. Fernandes

Development of Fault Tolerant Adaptive Control Laws for Aerospace Systems , Andres E. Perez Rocha

Direct Adaptive Control for a Trajectory Tracking UAV , Nirmit Prabhakar

Distributed adaptive control methods for uncertain multiagent systems with coupled dynamics , Islam Aly

Durability and Damage Analysis of Hybrid Multiscale Composites , Suma Ayyagari

Investigation of Bio-Inspired Pin Geometries for Heat Transfer Applications , Anish Prasad

Investigation on the Interaction of an Impinging Jet with Cylinder Wakes , Karthik Krishna

Kinematics of Inter-Ply Interfaces In Composite Manufacturing , Sandeep Chava

Multimode Nonlinear Vibration Analysis of Stiffened Functionally Graded Double Curved Shells in a Thermal Environment , Boutros Azizi

Numerical Treatment of Schrödinger’s Equation for One-Particle and Two-Particle Systems Using Matrix Method , Spatika Dasharati Iyengar

On the Local Heat Transfer Behavior of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide , Neil Sullivan

Optimal Sizing and Control of Hybrid Rocket Vehicles , Srija Ryakam

Piezoresistive Hybrid Nanocomposites for Strain and Damage Sensing: Experimental and Numerical Analysis , Audrey Jean-Miche Gbaguidi

Prediction & Active Control of Multi-Rotor Noise , Samuel O. Afari

Rigid Body Constrained Motion Optimization and Control on Lie Groups and Their Tangent Bundles , Brennan S. McCann

Safety Assurance of Non-Deterministic Flight Controllers in Aircraft Applications , Alfonso Noriega

Scale Interactions within a Perturbed Plane Wall Jet , Shibani Bhatt

Spacecraft Trajectory Planning for Optimal Observability using Angles-Only Navigation , Francisco José Franquiz

State Omniscience for Cooperative Local Catalog Maintenance of Close Proximity Satellite Systems , Chris Hays

Stochastic Model Predictive Control via Fixed Structure Policies , Elias Wilson

Stochastic Point Process Modeling for Engineering Applications , Samarth Motagi

Topology Optimization Using Load Path and Homogenization , Kaveh Gharibi

Trajectory Generation for a Multibody Robotic System: Modern Methods Based on Product of Exponentials , Aryslan Malik

Trustable Adaptive Controllers for Multi-Agent Systems with Actuator Dynamics , Atahan Kurttisi

Unsteady Internal Ballistics of a Hybrid Rocket , Naveen Sri Uddanti

Variable Fidelity Studies in Wake Vortex Evolution, Safety, and Control , Petr Kazarin

Dissertations - ERAU Login Required Dissertations - ERAU Login Required

A Set of Machine Learning Tools for Hazard Relative Navigation, Mapping, and Planetary Landing , Daniel Posada

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Aerospace Engineering Research Resources: Dissertations & Theses

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As part of the requirements for graduate level degrees, students must complete a thesis for a Master's degree and/or dissertation for a Ph.D. Dissertations and theses are submitted to the academic department and the Graduate College and are made available through the University Library. Since 2010, all theses and dissertations are electronically deposited into IDEALS, the Illinois Digital Environment for Access to Learning and Scholarship, the University's open repository of scholarly content.

ProQuest Dissertations is a comprehensive collection of citations to dissertations and theses worldwide from 1861 to the present day. Full text PDFs are available for many Ph.D. dissertations added since 1997 and some older graduate works.

• IDEALS (UIUC Institutional Repository) Digital copies of theses, data sets, and publications by University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign faculty and students.
• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses PDF copies of dissertations and theses from U.S. universities.

Aerospace Engineering Dissertations & Theses

• Aerospace Engineering Dissertations & Theses Search Interface

Print Dissertations & Theses

Prior to 2010, print format dissertations and theses were bound and cataloged separately for the Grainger Engineering Library. Prior to 1983, each thesis was shelved by a call number assigned by subject headings. To locate them, search the online catalog for the author’s last name, title word(s) if known, and “theses” and the year granted as subject term(s).

Aerospace Engineering dissertations and theses granted from 1985 to 1999 were assigned Q.629.1T a , followed by the 2-number year, followed by starting letters from the author’s last name. (Example: A 1991 thesis by M. Doyle would be Q.629.1Ta91D). Dissertations and theses granted from 2000 to present were assigned Q.629.1T b , followed by the 2-number year, followed by starting letters from the author’s last name. (Example: A 2006 thesis by H. Dewey would be Q.629.1Tb06De).

Aerospace Engineering - Q. 629.1T

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University of California Dissertations

Individual UC Davis dissertations and masters theses are cataloged in the UC Davis Library catalog — search for “Dissertations Academic University of California Davis”

See  Finding UC Davis Theses and Dissertations  for more information on locating and accessing UC Davis titles.

Dissertations and Theses

Resources listed in order of breadth and centrality to dissertation searching:

• Open Access Theses and Dissertations This link opens in a new window OATD.org aims to be the best possible resource for finding open access graduate theses and dissertations published around the world. Metadata (information about the theses) comes from over 1000 colleges, universities, and research institutions. OATD currently indexes 2,311,795 theses and dissertations.
• Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD) This link opens in a new window The Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD) is an international organization dedicated to promoting the adoption, creation, use, dissemination and preservation of electronic analogues to the traditional paper-based theses and dissertations. This website contains information about the initiative, how to set up Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD) programmes, how to create and locate ETDs, and current research in digital libraries related to NDLTD and ETDs.
• Cybertesis : tesis electrónicas en línea This link opens in a new window Cybertesis.Net is a cooperative project between the Université de Montréal, the Université de Lyon2, the University of Chile and 32 universities in Europe, Africa and Chile that allows access to more than 27,000 full text theses and dissertations. Some institutions have opted to digitize theses dating back to the 1700s. [Coverage: 1700s-present]
• China Doctoral Dissertations and Masters’ Theses Full-text Database (CDMD) This link opens in a new window CDMD is a database of dissertations and theses from China, representing nearly 500 PhD-granting institutions and over 775 masters-granting institutions, including the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and the Chinese Academy of Agriculture, among others. The theses and dissertations are available in Chinese, with an interface in English.
• EThOS Beta Electronic Theses Online Service Open Access to UK theses This link opens in a new window Please note: The British Library is experiencing a major technology outage as a result of a cyber-attack. Access may be limited or unavailable at this time. Register for a free account to download theses. Almost-complete index of all doctoral level theses awarded by UK universities. You can uncover the latest cutting edge research inside the pages of UK PhD theses, immediately download over 300,000 theses or order many more through the unique EThOS digitisation on demand service. Among other services, EThOS allows one to search, select and in some/many cases download the full-text of items of interest free of charge. more... less... Kept former link for future reference when service is back up: https://ethos.bl.uk/Home.do Changed link to the main home page.
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Preparing a Dissertation at UCI

• The Sage Handbook of Digital Dissertations and Theses, 2012 This book reviews trends and provides a context for digital creation and submission of dissertations & theses.
• UCI Theses and Dissertations Manual - Preparing Your Manuscript
• Theses/Disserations Workshop Dates New schedules are posted every quarter.
• Crafting your research future [electronic resource] : a guide to successful master's and Ph.D. degrees in science & engineering / Charles X. Ling, Qiang Yang

Finding Dissertations & Theses

• Proquest Dissertations and Theses Full Text 1989-present A collection of full text dissertations and theses which are available to all UCI users. more... less... Includes submissions from 80+ countries.

The major source is Dissertations and Theses Fulltext - the indexing and abstracting source of most submissions in North America and increasingly worldwide.  Other sources include:

• Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations Largest database of ETDs released worldwide.
• Yahoo Directory of Electronic Dissertations

LaTeX and BibTeX Templates

• Olivier Commowick PhD Thesis LaTeX Template Files
• Sunil Patel
• LaTeX template for PhD thesis
• Reed College Computing & Information Services LaTeX Your Thesis
• Stanford University latex thesis style file (suthesis-2e.sty) Recommended for theses or dissertations.
• LaTeX template for the The USENIX Association is the Advanced Computing Systems Association papers. This template is used by Usenix for its conference papers and journals. This version uses the latex2e styles, not the 2.09 version.
• Trevor's Bike Shed A LaTeX template for UCI dissertations
• Bibtex Templates
• UCI Theses and Disserations Manual - Preparing your manuscript
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Gambaro Graduate Program of Aeronautics and Astronautics - School of Aeronautics and Astronautics - Purdue University

Gambaro Graduate Program of Aeronautics and Astronautics

The Purdue University School of Aeronautics and Astronautics is among the top aerospace engineering programs in the nation and is ranked second by the U.S. News and World Report in aerospace graduate programs. 

GRADUATE PROGRAM

Graduate programs in Aerospace Engineering U.S. News and World Report 2024

RESEARCH EXPENDITURES

Total research expenditures in 2023

ONLINE PROGRAM

Online master’s degrees in engineering U.S. News and World Report 2023

The Gambaro Graduate Program in Aeronautics and Astronautics at Purdue University is designed for aspiring aerospace engineers who aim to push the boundaries of innovation and technology. Our program offers a diverse range of graduate degree tracks, including a professional MSAA with a focus on engineering leadership, a non-thesis MSAA, a thesis-based MSAA, and a rigorous Ph.D. program. Students can choose from 45 graduate-level online courses, tailoring their studies to their career goals. Our curriculum covers six key areas of interest: Aerodynamics, Aerospace Systems, Astrodynamics and Space Applications, Autonomy and Control, Propulsion, and Structures and Materials. Each area combines theoretical, computational, and experimental methods, preparing students for the complex challenges of aerospace engineering.

Purdue AAE graduates are equipped to lead and excel in the aerospace industry, contributing to advancements in human space missions, autonomous aerial systems, propulsion technologies, and more. Purdue’s strong industry connections and extensive research opportunities provide unmatched avenues for professional growth, equipping you to succeed in the dynamic fields of aerospace engineering. Join us and become part of a community that is shaping the future of aerospace engineering.

Degree Programs Offered

• MS non-thesis program (on campus and distance learning )
• Professional MS with Engineering Leadership Concentration
• MS thesis program
• Ph.D. program

Dual Degree Programs

• Combined BSAAE/MSAA
• Combined MS/MBA

Research Areas

• Aerodynamics
• Aerospace Systems
• Astrodynamics and Space Applications
• Autonomy and Control
• Structures and Materials

Concentrations

• Computational Science and Engineering

Points of Contact

• DSpace@MIT Home
• MIT Libraries

This collection of MIT Theses in DSpace contains selected theses and dissertations from all MIT departments. Please note that this is NOT a complete collection of MIT theses. To search all MIT theses, use MIT Libraries' catalog .

MIT's DSpace contains more than 58,000 theses completed at MIT dating as far back as the mid 1800's. Theses in this collection have been scanned by the MIT Libraries or submitted in electronic format by thesis authors. Since 2004 all new Masters and Ph.D. theses are scanned and added to this collection after degrees are awarded.

MIT Theses are openly available to all readers. Please share how this access affects or benefits you. Your story matters.

If you have questions about MIT theses in DSpace, [email protected] . See also Access & Availability Questions or About MIT Theses in DSpace .

If you are a recent MIT graduate, your thesis will be added to DSpace within 3-6 months after your graduation date. Please email [email protected] with any questions.

Permissions

MIT Theses may be protected by copyright. Please refer to the MIT Libraries Permissions Policy for permission information. Note that the copyright holder for most MIT theses is identified on the title page of the thesis.

Theses by Department

• Comparative Media Studies
• Computation for Design and Optimization
• Computational and Systems Biology
• Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
• Department of Architecture
• Department of Biological Engineering
• Department of Biology
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• Department of Chemistry
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• Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
• Department of Economics
• Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences
• Department of Humanities
• Department of Linguistics and Philosophy
• Department of Materials Science and Engineering
• Department of Mathematics
• Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering
• Department of Ocean Engineering
• Department of Physics
• Department of Political Science
• Department of Urban Studies and Planning
• Engineering Systems Division
• Harvard-MIT Program of Health Sciences and Technology
• Institute for Data, Systems, and Society
• Media Arts & Sciences
• Operations Research Center
• Program in Real Estate Development
• Program in Writing and Humanistic Studies
• Science, Technology & Society
• Science Writing
• Sloan School of Management
• Supply Chain Management
• System Design & Management
• Technology and Policy Program

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Earn your doctorate in aerospace engineering

Doctor of philosophy.

A minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework beyond the bachelor's is required for the Doctor of Philosophy in aerospace engineering. At least 12 of these credits must be completed at the University of Maryland. A minimum of 12 semester hours of dissertation research is also required. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA.  

In addition to the coursework requirement, Ph.D. candidates must complete a qualifying exam and pass a research proposal examination. All Ph.D. students must pass an oral exam, administered by a committee of five graduate faculty members, in defense of their dissertation.

Degree Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy

For the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in aerospace engineering, the student is required to complete a minimum of 36 semester hours of coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree. Courses should be listed on the Doctoral Coursework Plan as early as possible in the program and must satisfy the following requirements:

• Aerodynamics and Propulsion
• Flight Dynamics and Control
• Space Systems
• Structural Mechanics and Composites
• Minor Area: At least six semester hours (two courses that relate to each other) shall be from one of the other departmental core areas of specialization in the department or from another department. At least three semester hours must be at the 600 level or higher.
• Math/Science Requirement: Not less than nine semester hours of coursework must emphasize mathematics, physical sciences, life sciences, or computer sciences. At least three semester hours must be at the 600 level or higher. No more than three semester hours can be from the College of Engineering. The one engineering course that can count toward this requirement must not be a course that could apply to either the major or minor concentration area.
• At least nine semester hours of the credits taken to satisfy (2) and (3) above, must be at the 600 level or higher.
• The student must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in all coursework.
• Graduate credit hours for courses completed previously at other universities may be applied to the doctoral coursework requirement in some cases. For example, most students entering with an M.S. degree will be granted 24 credits of coursework assuming their M.S. degree is in a closely related field. However, all students must pass the Ph.D. Qualifying Examination and Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination in the department and must satisfy the major, minor, and math/science requirements with their coursework. In addition, to facilitate the student becoming familiar with the faculty of the department, all Ph.D. students must complete a minimum of twelve semester hours of coursework in the department. It is preferable that at least six semester hours be taken from faculty other than the advisor and that these be in the student's major area of specialization.

Qualifying Exam and Comprehensive Exam

All students entering the Ph.D. program must pass both a qualifying examination and a comprehensive examination. The purposes of these exams are (1) to assess the student's aptitude and ability to be successful in the Ph.D. program, and (2) to assess the student’s knowledge in his/her technical area at an introductory graduate level.

Students who matriculate into the Ph.D. program with an M.S. degree must take the qualifying examination no later than their third semester. Students who matriculate into the Ph.D. program with a B.S. degree must take the qualifying examination no later than during the second semester after they have accumulated 18 or more credits, or during their fourth semester of study, whichever occurs first. Those students who pass the qualifying examination become eligible to take the Ph.D. comprehensive examination. The Ph.D. comprehensive exam is normally taken within one year after the qualifying examination. Only under extenuating circumstances, the student’s advisor may petition the graduate committee for an extension of the deadline.

Students who do not pass the qualifying examination during their first attempt may, on the recommendation of their examining committee, be allowed to repeat the examination once more. Under no circumstances will a student be permitted to repeat the qualifying examination more than once. The same rule applies for repeating the comprehensive examination.

Students who have exhausted their opportunities to pass the Ph.D. qualifying examination or to pass the comprehensive examination within the specified period will not be allowed to continue in the Ph.D. program. Such students will be permitted to remain in the program for one additional semester, after which their graduate admission will either be terminated or, upon the student’s request and eligibility, be transferred to the M.S. program.

Ph.D. Qualifying Examination

• Examining Committee : The Ph.D. Qualifying Examination will be administered by an examining committee, which will be comprised of three full-time faculty from the Department of Aerospace Engineering. The examining committee will consist of the student’s advisor, a chair, and a third member. The chair of the committee and the third member will be selected by the director of Graduate Studies and the department chair in concurrence with the advisor. Students will be notified of the composition of their committee via email.
• Registering for Exam : It is the student’s responsibility to register for the Ph.D. qualifying exam as early in the semester as possible and without fail by the first Friday of the month before the exam is to take place (so, by the first Friday of October for the fall semester and by the first Friday of February for the spring semester). To register, please fill out the sign up form (sent out each semester). Once you have been informed of the composition of your examining committee, you should contact the chair of the committee to make the necessary arrangements for the actual exam.
• Dates of Exam : The start date of the Ph.D. qualifying exam will be the first Friday of November for the fall semester exam and the last Friday of February for the spring semester exam. Each student will have a topic assigned to them on that Friday, a summary write-up will be due the following Friday, and then an oral exam will be held the following week.
• Exam Topic : On the first Friday of the Ph.D. qualifying exam, each student will be given a research topic and a relevant bibliographical reference in some aspect of his/her technical area. The topic will be selected by the chair of the examining committee and must be concurred with by the advisor. The topic will be different for each student and will not be the specific topic in which the student has done his/her Master’s thesis.
• Exam Preparation and Requirements : The student will study the pertinent literature on the assigned topic in order to be able to formulate questions suitable for investigation within the topic and to outline his/her approach to carrying out such an investigation. The results of this study are to be summarized in no more than three type-written pages formatted as follows: single-spaced, 12-point type, and one-inch margins all around. The summary must consist of the following: a section reviewing the assigned literature, a section identifying an issue related to the topic that the student wants to focus on, and a section describing a research approach (experimental or theoretical) to solve or clarify the selected issue. Note that this entire effort is to be performed by the student alone with no help from faculty or other students. A copy of the summary is to be submitted to the graduate secretary by noon on the following Friday (7 days after the topic is assigned).
• Exam Format : The Ph.D. Qualifying Exam will be given orally. The assigned topic will be the starting point for the oral discussion and will lead to a number of questions that will test the student’s aptitude and ability to do original and independent research at the doctoral level, as well as his/her basic engineering knowledge.
• Committee Decision : For the student to pass the exam, the decision of the three members of the examining committee must be unanimous. The examining committee will confer immediately after the exam, and make their decision known to the Graduate Office. The student will be notified about the outcome of the exam in writing. If the decision is negative, the student may be allowed to repeat the exam in the same semester. A new examining committee will be assigned to the student for the retake examination, but the same examination procedure will be followed. The student’s advisor may participate as an ex-officio member of the new examining committee.

Ph.D. Comprehensive Exam

• The student becomes eligible to take the Ph.D. comprehensive exam by passing the Ph.D. qualifying exam. The comprehensive exam should be scheduled as soon as the student becomes eligible. The student aided by his/her advisor is responsible for scheduling the comprehensive exam.
• The student and the advisor are also responsible for organizing the comprehensive examining committee and obtaining the approval of its membership by the Director of Graduate Studies. The committee will consist of at least 5 members, with at least one member representing the field of mathematics, physical sciences, life sciences, or computer sciences, and one member representing the student's minor area within the department.
• In the comprehensive examination, the student is responsible for all course material listed on the student's doctoral coursework plan.
• The normal duration of the examination is in the range of two to four hours.
• If two or more members of the committee vote not to pass the student, the student fails the exam. The comprehensive exam may be repeated only once. The second attempt on the oral should be taken within one semester of the failure.

Advancement to Candidacy

The student must apply for and be admitted to candidacy within five years of admission to the doctoral program. Admission to candidacy occurs after successful completion of the comprehensive examination and approval of the doctoral dissertation proposal. Once these milestones are complete, an advisor-approved form for advancement to candidacy must be submitted to the Graduate School. Any doctoral student admitted to candidacy must register for a minimum of one credit every Fall and Spring semester thereafter until the degree is awarded.

Doctoral Dissertation

The student must complete and obtain committee approval of the Ph.D. dissertation. The Ph.D. dissertation research should represent a significant contribution in a given field of endeavor. It should typically be of sufficient quality and scope that it would be suitable for publication as a full-length paper in an archival journal. The procedure for supervision and review of the dissertation is as follows:

• The student must register for at least 12 semester hours of ENAE 899 (Ph.D. thesis research) over the course of his/her doctoral program, in addition to the 36 semester hours of coursework.
• After successful completion of the Ph.D. comprehensive examination, the advisor forms a dissertation committee. This committee must be composed of at least 5 faculty members (including the advisor) as outlined. It is recommended that this committee, if possible, have the same membership as the Ph.D. comprehensive examining committee, and in fact no member can be dropped from the committee without explicit permission from the Director of Graduate Studies. The Director of Graduate Studies will also review the membership of the dissertation committee for its appropriateness to the topic.
• The student must submit to his/her advisor a thesis proposal consisting of a summary of the intended dissertation topic and a critical review of the literature. Upon approval by the advisor, a copy of the thesis proposal is to be distributed to the committee and included in the student's permanent file.
• The dissertation committee, and particularly the advisor, is responsible for ensuring that the dissertation research meets the accepted standards of originality and independent effort.
• The student will give a pre-defense oral report on the progress of his/her research to the dissertation committee. This should take place when the student is 50-80 percent finished with planned research so the committee can actively share in the research and make constructive comments. The student is responsible for scheduling this pre-defense, in agreement with the advisor.
• After approval of a majority of the committee, the student must undergo a final oral defense of his/her dissertation. This defense may be scheduled during any semester. The scheduling is the responsibility of the student. The defense is to be conducted during normal business hours. No exam should start prior to 8:00 a.m. or later than 3:30 p.m. Notification of the defense should be posted at least 5 working days prior to the defense.
• The student is responsible for providing each committee member and the department with a typewritten advisor-approved copy of the dissertation at least ten working days prior to the defense. The department copy is to be delivered to the graduate program secretary and is then made available to the entire departmental faculty.
• The dissertation defense will first consist of an oral presentation of the thesis to the examining committee and will be open to the public. The remainder of the defense will be open only to members of the Graduate Faculty of the University. After the examination, the committee will vote privately on the outcome of the examination. Two or more negative votes constitute failure of the exam. Revisions to the thesis may be recommended. These revisions should be reviewed and approved by the advisor or by all members of the committee before the Report of Examining Committee form is signed.
• The final dissertation defense may be repeated, if necessary, only once.
• The student must provide the department with a final revised copy of the thesis in electronic form (PDF file) via e-mail. Copies of the thesis must also be provided to the Graduate School in accordance with the Thesis and Dissertation Manual.

Doctoral Dissertation Committee

• A dissertation committee must consist of a minimum of five members, at least five of whom must be regular members of the University of Maryland Graduate Faculty. At least three members of the committee shall be full-time faculty who are members of the Aerospace Engineering Department; the Graduate Committee can be petitioned for a waiver of this requirement in case of dissertations based on multidisciplinary research, when this rule would prevent the dissertation committee from having the required background and expertise. Additional committee members may be required or invited to serve at departmental discretion.
• Each dissertation committee will have a chair, who must be a regular member of the graduate faculty and a full-time faculty member of the Department of Aerospace Engineering. Dissertation committees may be co-chaired upon written recommendation of the Graduate Director and the approval of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.
• Each committee shall have appointed to it a representative of the Dean for Graduate Studies and Research. This person must be a regular member of the graduate faculty at the University of Maryland and must be from a department other than the student's home department. In cases where a student is in an interdisciplinary department or program, the dean's representative must be from a program outside of those departments and programs involved in the interdisciplinary endeavors.
• Individuals from outside the University of Maryland system may serve on dissertation committees provided their credentials warrant this service and upon the written request of and justification by the advisor. These individuals must, however, be in addition to the minimum required number of regular members of the College Park Graduate Faculty.
• Graduate Faculty who terminate employment at the University of Maryland may be regarded, for dissertation-committee service purposes, as members of the Graduate Faculty for a 12-month period following their termination. During that time, they may chair individual dissertation and thesis committees and work with students as necessary. After that time, they may no longer serve as chair of a dissertation committee, although they may take on the position of co-chair or committee member. If, after this 12-month period, these individuals continue to serve on a committee (as co-chair or member) they must be in addition to the minimum required number of regular members of the College Park Graduate Faculty. After they leavethe university, faculty may not serve as the dean's representative.
• The doctoral dissertation committee must be submitted for approval by the Director of Graduate Studies and the Graduate School, using the Nomination of Thesis or Dissertation Committee form. This form must be submitted at least 6 weeks prior to the dissertation defense.

Ph.D. Planning Resources

• Checklist for Ph.D. Degree Requirements
• Ph.D. Career and Professional Development Resources
• Ph.D. Career and Development Timeline
• Ph.D. Milestone Tracker (spreadsheet download)
• Ph.D. Program Guide

Related Resources

• AE Ph.D. Milestone Tracker
• Graduate Program Guide
• Five-Year Graduate Plan
• Graduate Catalog
• UMD Grad Application Guide

Aerospace engineering (MS, PhD)

A nationally ranked program with a focus on innovating how we study, develop and design the future of aircraft and spacecraft. ASU’s aerospace engineering graduate studies put an emphasis on preparing students for doctoral work or stepping into vital roles in the industry.

Whether pursuing master’s studies or doctoral research, all graduate programs are built on a foundation in technical fundamentals, communication and professionalism. Outfitted with the latest tools and resources to better research, test and innovate the future of aerospace, our programs offer broad-based curriculum and support timely research investigations.

Degrees offered

Aerospace engineering, ms.

Following undergraduate studies, students have the option to choose between two Masters of Science tracks: a thesis option and non-thesis option.

• MS students are admitted by default in the non-thesis option
• MS students can transfer to the thesis option once they are active in the program and have secured a MS thesis faculty advisor
• The non-thesis option allows students two experiences including a portfolio and an applied project.

Aerospace engineering, PhD

The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering take pride in innovation through research, discovery and design of new ideas. The Ph.D. program is directed toward just that with original research and creating and defending a dissertation that describes an original contribution within the chosen discipline.

Graduate resources

• Course Descriptions
• Accelerated Master’s programs
• Class Search/Course Catalog
• Graduate College FAQs
• Online Advising Appointments
• Graduate Forms
• Fellowships and Funding
• International Applicants
• All Graduate Programs

Program information

• Graduate Course Information
• Graduate Faculty
• Research Areas

Application and admission information

Application information.

The following application materials must be submitted directly to Graduate Admission Services:

If your institution sends electronic official transcripts, we accept the following electronic transcript services: E-Scrip, Parchment, Credentials Inc., and National Student Clearinghouse. All E-Scrip, Parchment, and National Student Clearinghouse transcripts must be sent directly to [email protected] from those transcript services or from the institutions that use those services. If you can and choose to use these services, you should apply online to the ASU Graduate Admission Services application prior to having your official e-transcripts sent.

If your institution does not use one of those transcript services, you will need to mail an official transcript. Your six digit application ID should be on the transcript envelope if possible.

Graduate Admission Services Tel: 480-965-6113 Web: students.asu.edu/graduate

Application for Admission

The application can only be accessed online. Click here to go to Application for Admission

Application Priority   Deadline

Fall Semester – December 31 Spring Semester – August 1

A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.

Application Fee

US citizens $70 Non-US citizens $115

This is a processing fee assessed by Graduate Admission Services and cannot be waived or deferred: graduate.asu.edu/admissions/how_to_apply

Transcripts and GRE scores

Transcripts.

Only official transcripts are accepted; no photocopies. These must be mailed to Graduate Admissions Services (see address above). For international students, transcripts must be in the original language, along with an official English translation. Also see:

Graduate Admissions Services: students.asu.edu/graduate/apply

Official score sent by ETS only. Guideline for the GRE: verbal 146+, quantitative 159+, analytical 3.5+. Institution code for ASU: 4007; there is no department code. 

GRE Waiver : GRE scores are useful, but not required for MS students.  GRE waivers do not apply to PhD applications. 

Resume, personal statement and letters of recommendation

A resume is useful but not required. Upload a resume in the online application process.

Personal statement

Essay describing your background, academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and why you wish to pursue graduate study in Aerospace Engineering at ASU. You will be asked to upload your personal statement in the online application process. .

Three (3) recommendation letters

The online application will ask you for three names and three email addresses for three recommenders; and the company/school for which they work. Your recommenders will receive an email and must submit their letter of recommendation electronically.

International applicants

Additional admission requirements for international applicants.

Admissions:  students.asu.edu/graduate/international

Visa/Immigration information 

students.asu.edu/international/immigration

English proficiency (for international graduate applicants)

A TOEFL, IELTS or PTE score is required by the graduate Aerospace Engineering program, in order to be considered for admission.

• Official TOEFL sent by ETS only. Minimum scores: iBT 80; pBT 550. Institution code for ASU: 4007; for department code, applicant may enter 0000
• Official IELTS sent by issuing institution only. Minimum score: 6.5. No institution code is needed
• Official PTE sent by Pearson only. Minimum Score: 60

You could qualify for an exemption from this requirement by one of the following two options:

• This requirement would be met if you successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better; AND in addition, acquire a score of 50 or better on the Speak Test (must be taken at Arizona State University).
• You successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in the U.S.,  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 12 credit hours of graduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all credits must be earned in the U.S.),  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all 90 hours must be earned in the U.S.)

For  more information, visit the Graduate Admission Services English Proficiency Requirement and Exemption website .

Still have a question? Contact Advising

If you still have questions regarding admission requirements and procedures, please contact the SEMTE graduate advising office:

Phone: 480.965.2335 Email:  [email protected]

• Accessibility Tools
• Current Students
• Postgraduate
• Postgraduate Research Programmes
• School of Aerospace, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Research Courses
• Aerospace Engineering Postgraduate Research Courses

Aerospace Engineering, Ph.D. / M.Phil.

• Scholarships and Bursaries
• Research projects
• Postgraduate Research Programmes coming soon
• How to apply for your Postgraduate Research programme
• Postgraduate Taught Courses
• PhD/MPhil Aerospace Engineering
• MSc by Research in Aerospace Engineering
• PhD Aerospace Engineering - Distance Learning
• Civil Engineering Postgraduate Research Courses
• Electronic & Electrical Engineering Postgraduate Research Courses
• Mechanical Engineering Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Biosciences, Geography and Physics Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Culture and Communication Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Health and Social Care Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Law Postgrad Research Courses
• School of Management Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Mathematics and Computer Science Postgraduate Research Courses
• Medical School Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Psychology Postgraduate Research Courses
• School of Social Sciences Postgraduate Research Courses
• Fees and Funding

Are you a UK or International Student?

Home of flite the computational aerodynamics design system, key course details.

Course Overview

Start dates: PhD/MPhil - 1st October, 1st January, 1st April & 1st July.

Our world-leading technology has contributed to many exciting projects, including aerodynamics for the current world land-speed record car, Thrust SSC, and the future land-speed record car BLOODHOUND SSC and design of the double-decker super-jet Airbus A380.

Research within Engineering at Swansea University is multidisciplinary in nature, incorporating our strengths in research areas across the engineering disciplines.

Computational mechanics forms the basis for the majority of the PhD and MPhil projects within these engineering disciplines.

Swansea University provides an excellent base for your research as a PhD or MPhil student in Aerospace Engineering.

Recent PhD theses supervised in the area of Aerospace Engineering at Swansea University include:

• Uncertainty Quantification for Complex Engineering Structures: Statics and Dynamics
• The Application of Composite Corrugated Panels to Morphing Aircraft
• On the Isogeometric Finite Element Method
• Design, Modelling and Optimisation of Morphing Structures for MALE UAVS
• Rolling contact fatigue detection via high frequency acoustic emission
• Development of Numerical Schemes to improve the efficiency of CFD Simulation of High Speed Viscous Aerodynamic Flows

Entry Requirements

Qualifications MPhil:  Applicants for MPhil must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) in Engineering or similar relevant science discipline. See -  Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019  and  Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019 .

PhD:  Applicants for PhD must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) in Engineering or similar relevant science discipline. See -  Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019  and  Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019 .

English Language IELTS 6.5 Overall (5.5+ each comp.) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found  here .

We welcome applications by prospective students from around the world and look for evidence of previous study that is equivalent to the entry requirements stated above. The Postgraduate Admissions Office are happy to advise you on whether your qualifications are suitable for entry to the course you would like to study. Please email  [email protected]  for further information.

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Requirement

Non UK/EU applicants are required to obtain ATAS clearance for this programme of study. Successful applicants are sent ATAS application details by the University PGR Admissions team. Further details on the ATAS scheme can be found at on the government Academic Technology Approval Scheme webpage .

Reference Requirement

As standard, two references are required before we can progress applications to the College/School research programme Admissions Tutor for consideration.

Applications received without two references attached are placed on hold, pending receipt of the outstanding reference(s). Please note that any protracted delay in receiving the outstanding reference(s) may result in the need to defer your application to a later potential start point/entry month, than what you initially listed as your preferred start option.

You may wish to consider contacting your referee(s) to assist in the process of obtaining the outstanding reference(s) or alternatively, hold submission of application until references are sourced. Please note that it is not the responsibility of the University Admissions Office to obtain missing reference(s) after our initial email is sent to your nominated referee(s), requesting a reference(s) on your behalf.

The reference can take the form of a letter on official headed paper, or via the University’s standard reference form. Click this link to download the university reference form .

Alternatively, referees can email a reference from their employment email account, please note that references received via private email accounts, (i.e. Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail) cannot be accepted.

References can be submitted to [email protected] .

How you are Supervised

Your supervisor will:

• Help you develop your research plan in the early stages of your PhD
• Advise on research aims and objectives and suggest relevant training or skills courses
• Provide direction in terms of relevant literature and sources
• Give guidance on gathering, recording and analysing data
• Supervise your written work, providing constructive criticism and ensuring you keep to deadlines
• Support and advise you when it comes to presenting papers at conferences, publishing your work and attending your viva (the final oral examination of your thesis)

Find your supervisor through our  Directory of Expertise .

Welsh Provision

Tuition fees, ph.d. 3 year full time.

Ph.D. Full Time

Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time

M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time

M.phil. 4 year part time.

Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3%.

You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page .

International students and part-time study: It may be possible for some students to study part-time under the Student Visa route. However, this is dependent on factors relating to the course and your individual situation. It may also be possible to study with us if you are already in the UK under a different visa category (e.g. Tier 1 or 2, PBS Dependant, ILR etc.). Please visit the University information on Visas and Immigration for further guidance and support.

Current students: You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

Funding and Scholarships

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study.

Government funding is now available for Welsh, English and EU students starting eligible postgraduate research programmes at Swansea University. To find out more, please visit our postgraduate loans page.

To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

Academi Hywel Teifi at Swansea University and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol offer a number of generous scholarships and bursaries for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. For further information about the opportunities available to you, visit the Academi Hywel Teifi Scholarships and Bursaries page.

Additional Costs

Access to your own digital device/the appropriate IT kit will be essential during your time studying at Swansea University. Access to wifi in your accommodation will also be essential to allow you to fully engage with your programme. See our dedicated webpages for further guidance on suitable devices to purchase, and for a full guide on getting your device set up .

You may face additional costs while at university, including (but not limited to):

• Travel to and from campus
• Printing, photocopying, binding, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
• Purchase of books or texts
• Gowns for graduation ceremonies

How to Apply

Once you have identified a topic area within which you would like to work, we recommend that you submit a research proposal and discuss this with an Admissions Tutor for the subject area before making an application. You can email [email protected]  to express your interest in a PhD or MPhil Aerospace Engineering.

Apply online and track your application status for the PhD or MPhil Aerospace Engineering at  www.swansea.ac.uk/applyonline

If you're an international student, find out more about applying for the PhD or MPhil Aerospace Engineering  www.swan.ac.uk/international/students/apply

Suggested Application Timings

In order to allow sufficient time for consideration of your application by an academic, for potential offer conditions to be met and travel / relocation, we recommend that applications are made before the dates outlined below. Please note that applications can still be submitted outside of the suggested dates below but there is the potential that your application/potential offer may need to be moved to the next appropriate intake window.

October Enrolment

UK Applicants – 15th August

EU/International applicants – 15th July

January Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th November

EU/International applicants – 15th October

April Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th February

EU/International applicants – 15th January

July Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th May

EU/International applicants – 15th April

EU students - visa and immigration information is available and will be regularly updated on our information for EU students page.

PhD Programme Specification

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision , either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary

This PhD in Aerospace Engineering at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 100,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The PhD is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva voce). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences. There may also be opportunities to develop your teaching skills through undergraduate tutorials, demonstrations and seminars.

Programme Aims

This PhD programme will provide doctoral researchers with:

• The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
• Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
• Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

• Entry and confirmation of candidature
• Main body of research
• Thesis and  viva voce examination

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 3 years duration full time (6 years duration part time). Doctoral researchers may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Doctoral researchers for the PhD in Aerospace Engineering are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 100,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination ( viva voce ).

Doctoral Researcher Supervision and Support

Doctoral researchers will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Departments/Schools other than the ‘home’Department/School (other Departments/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the doctoral research journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the  doctoral researcher to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre). 

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

• Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of research through the development of a written thesis.
• Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship. 
• Disseminate new knowledge gained through original research or other advanced scholarship via high quality peer reviewed publications within the discipline.
• Apply research skills and subject theory to the practice of research.
• Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised. 

Attitudes and values

• Conceptualise, design and implement a project aimed at the generation of new knowledge or applications within Aerospace Engineering.
• Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Aerospace Engineering, often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience.
• Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
• Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

• Respond appropriately to unforeseen problems in project design by making suitable amendments.
• Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media and events, including conference presentations, seminars and workshops.
• Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.
• Develop the networks and foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
• Implement  advanced research skills to a substantial degree of independence.
• Locate information and apply it to research practice.

Skills and Competencies

• Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the Doctoral researcher is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the doctoral researcher’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the doctoral researcher’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Learning Development

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors (https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable doctoral researchers to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the Department of Engineering and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the  doctoral researcher in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the Department of Engineering is developing a research culture that aligns with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students.

Research Environment

Swansea University’s research environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia.  

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself.

Postgraduate students in the Department of Engineering will have access to the University’s on-site library, open 24 hours a day, state-of-the-art laboratories, a year-round programme of seminars and talks, advanced computing technology and dedicated postgraduate student work rooms. The Department has developed some of the University’s strongest links with industry at a Wales, UK, and International level, and has established itself as a leader in engineering development, working in partnership with such blue chip companies such as TATA, Rolls-Royce, Airbus, BAE Systems and HP. Students can expect to benefit from close working relationships with industry experts and in many cases, gain valuable experience through industrial placements.

Career Opportunities  

Having a PhD demonstrates that graduates can work effectively in a team, formulate, explore and communicate complex ideas and manage advanced tasks. Jobs in academia (eg postdoctoral research, lecturing), education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. Examples include administrators, counsellors, marketing specialists, and researchers.

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

MPhil Programme Specification

This MPhil in Aerospace Engineering at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 60,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The Masters is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences.  

This Masters programme will provide students with: 

• Thesis and viva voce 

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 2 years duration full time (4 years duration part time). Students may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Students for the Masters in Aerospace Engineering are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 60,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

Supervision and Support 

Students will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Departments/Schools other than the ‘home’ Department/School (other Departments/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the student journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the student to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre).

• Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge through the development of a written thesis.
• Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship.  
• Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised.
• Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Aerospace Engineering often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience. 
• Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media.
• Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and academic enquiry.
• Develop the foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
• Implement independent research skills.
• Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and initiative in complex situations.

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the student is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the student’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the student’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Learning Development  

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors ( https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/ ).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable students to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating.  There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the Department of Engineering and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the student in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the Department of Engineering is developing a research culture that will align with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students.

Research Environment  

Swansea University’s Research Environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Department of Engineering

As a postgraduate student you will have access to our on-site library, open 24 hours a day, state-of-the-art laboratories, a year-round programme of seminars and talks, advanced computing technology and dedicated postgraduate student work rooms. The Department has developed some of the University’s strongest links with industry at a Wales, UK, and International level, and has established itself as a leader in engineering development, working in partnership with such blue chip companies such as TATA, Rolls-Royce, Airbus, BAE Systems and HP. As a student you can expect to benefit from close working relationships with industry experts and in many cases, gain valuable experience through industrial placements.

Career Opportunities

Having a Master of Philosophy degree shows that you can communicate your ideas and manage tasks. Jobs in academia, education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. 

• People Finder

Aerospace Engineering — MS, PhD

Degree programs.

• Aerospace Engineering — MS
• Aerospace Engineering — PhD

Graduate studies in aerospace engineering lead to the degrees of master of science and doctor of philosophy. The graduate program prepares students for careers in the aerospace industry, in government laboratories and in academia. Doctoral studies are also designed to produce research scholars.

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering or its equivalent from an institution of recognized standing, plus satisfactory GRE scores. Degrees in mathematics, physics and other related engineering disciplines may also be appropriate for entrance into the graduate program. Applications will be evaluated on an individual basis by the department’s graduate committee.

The master of science may be earned under either thesis or non-thesis options. For both options, a total of 30 semester graduate credits of 6000-7000 level courses are necessary and at least 21 credits must be in aerospace engineering or the AERO category. Substitution of up to six (of the 21) credit hours from other engineering and science disciplines is permitted with prior approval by the graduate programs committee when appropriate courses are unavailable in aerospace engineering. The remaining nine graduate credits can be earned through technical courses in engineering, science or mathematics.

Students pursuing a master of science degree under the thesis option should include six hours of AERO 7990  Research and Thesis as part of their 30 hours. After the completion of thesis research supervised by a major professor, the student must submit a written thesis to a committee of at least three faculty members and pass a final oral examination that includes defending the thesis.

Students pursuing a master of science degree under the non-thesis option will have a plan of study supervised by their graduate committee. The non-thesis master of science degree option does not have a residency, research or final oral examination requirement. The non-thesis degree can be earned entirely through the engineering online graduate program or though on-campus instruction.

For the doctor of philosophy degree, the student must complete a minimum of 60 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. A plan of study will be arranged on an individual basis and students may elect to specialize in the general areas of aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics, control theory, flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, propulsion, structures or structural dynamics. A written qualifying examination and a general doctoral examination, with both written and oral parts, are required of all doctoral candidates. An oral defense of the doctoral dissertation is also required of each student.

There is no language requirement for the master of science or PhD degree.

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Certificate in Aerospace Innovation

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Graduate study in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics includes graduate-level subjects in Course 16 and others at MIT, and research work culminating in a thesis. Degrees are awarded at the master’s and doctoral levels. The range of subject matter is described under  Graduate Fields of Study . Departmental research centers’ websites offer information on research interests. Detailed information may be obtained from the Department Academic Programs Office or from individual faculty members. For more information about MIT AeroAstro graduate degree programs, email [email protected] .

Master of Science (SM)

The Master of Science (SM) degree is a two-year graduate program with beginning research or design experience represented by the SM thesis. This degree prepares the graduate for an advanced position in the aerospace field, and provides a solid foundation for future doctoral study. The  general requirements for the Master of Science degree  are cited in the section on General Degree Requirements for graduate students. The specific departmental requirements include at least 66 graduate subject units, typically in subjects relevant to the candidate’s area of technical interest. Of the 66 units, at least 21 units must be in departmental subjects. To be credited toward the degree, graduate subjects must carry a grade of B or better. In addition, a 24-unit thesis is required beyond the 66 units of coursework. Full-time students normally must be in residence one full academic year. Special students admitted to the SM program in this department must enroll in and satisfactorily complete at least two graduate subjects while in residence (i.e., after being admitted as a degree candidate) regardless of the number of subjects completed before admission to the program. Students holding research assistantships typically require a longer period of residence. In addition, the department’s SM program requires one graduate-level mathematics subject. The requirement is satisfied only by graduate-level subjects on the list approved by the department graduate committee. The specific choice of math subjects is arranged individually by each student in consultation with their faculty advisor.

SM Requirements

• English evaluation Test (for non-native English-speakers if not previously satisfied at MIT)
• Technical writing requirement if not previously satisfied at MIT
• Math requirem ent
• 66 subject units, not including thesis units, in graduate subjects in the candidate’s area of technical interest
• Within the 66 subject units, a minimum of 21 units from AeroAstro subjects
• Classes taken on a pass/fail basis do not count towards degree requirements
• Minimum cumulative grade point average of 4.0
• Term-by-term thesis (16THG) registration and progress evaluation
• Acceptable thesis. View SM Thesis Archive (via DSpace).

Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or Sc.D.)

AeroAstro offers Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Doctor of Science (Sc.D.) doctoral degrees that emphasize in-depth study, with a significant research project in a focused area. The admission process for the department’s doctoral program is described previously in this section under Admission Requirements. The doctoral degree is awarded after completion of an individual course of study, submission, and defense of a thesis proposal, and submission and defense of a thesis embodying an original research contribution. The general requirements for this degree are given in the section on  General Degree Requirements . Program requirements are outlined in a booklet titled  The Doctoral Program [PDF] . After successful admission to the doctoral program, the doctoral candidate selects a field of study and research in consultation with the thesis supervisor and forms a doctoral thesis committee, which assists in the formulation of the candidate’s research and study programs and monitors his or her progress. Demonstrated competence for original research at the forefront of aerospace engineering is the final and main criterion for granting the doctoral degree. The candidate’s thesis serves in part to demonstrate such competence and, upon completion, is defended orally in a presentation to the faculty of the department, who may then recommend that the degree be awarded.

Doctoral Program Objectives & Outcomes

AeroAstro’s doctoral program objectives are:

• to produce original research and technologies critical to the engineering of aerospace vehicles, information, and systems.
• to educate future leaders in aerospace research and technology.

Upon graduation, our doctoral students will have:

• a strong foundation in analytical skills and reasoning
• the ability to solve challenging, engineering problems
• an understanding of the importance and strategic value of their research
• the ability to communicate their research with context and clarity

These degrees, for which the requirements are identical, are for students who wish to carry out original research in a focused field, and already hold a master’s degree. AeroAstro offers doctoral degrees in 13 fields. A description of general MIT doctoral requirements appears in the MIT Course Catalogue .

Ph.D./Sc.D. Requirements

• Qualifying Field Evaluation, completed within three terms of entering the department. (See below for more information.)
• Completion of Research Process and Communication (RPC) Course
• Formation of a thesis committee and first meeting confirmed by filing a virtual Doctoral Record Card within 2 regular terms of admission to the doctoral program.
• Completion of the major concentration with a minimum of 60 units and completion of the minor concentration with a minimum of 30 units, as approved by the student’s thesis committee
• Math requireme nt
• Minimum cumulative 4.4 grade point average
• Thesis proposal and defense within 3 regular terms of admission into the doctoral program.
• Successful thesis submission and defense within 4 regular terms of passing the thesis proposal defense. View the doctoral thesis archive (via DSpace.)

See the AeroAstro Doctoral Program Guide for additional guidelines and the PhD Quick Guide for a complete overview.

Doctoral Qualifying Field Evaluation

A student seeking entrance to the department’s doctoral program must complete a course-based evaluation in their chosen field of study . Information about the doctoral program and the doctoral qualifying process can be found in the department’s Doctoral Program Guide .

Field Evaluation Process Timeline

Thesis proposal and defense examples

The following are a few examples of successfully written and defended thesis proposals by doctoral candidates within AeroAstro. These may be downloaded and examined as part of your preparation for the Thesis Proposal Defense, a required part of our doctoral program.

• Xun Huan – A Bayesian Approach to Optimal Sequential Experimental Design Using Approximate Dynamic Programming – 2013 – Proposal – Defense
• Ashley Carlton – Scientific Imagers as High-Energy Radiation Sensors – 2017 – Proposal – Defense
• Maria de Soria Santacruz Pich – Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron Waves for RBR Applications – 2013 – Proposal – Defense

Interdisciplinary Programs

The department participates in several interdisciplinary fields at the graduate level, which are of special importance for aeronautics and astronautics in both research and the curriculum.

Aeronautics, Astronautics, and Statistics

The Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Statistics provides training in statistics, including classical statistics and probability as well as computation and data analysis, to students who wish to integrate these valuable skills into their primary academic program. The program is administered jointly by the departments of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Economics, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, and Political Science, and the Statistics and Data Science Center within the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society. It is open to current doctoral students in participating departments. For more information, including department-specific requirements, see the  full program description  under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs.

Air Transportation

For students interested in a career in flight transportation, a program is available that incorporates a broader graduate education in disciplines such as economics, management, and operations research than is normally pursued by candidates for degrees in engineering. Graduate research emphasizes one of the four areas of flight transportation: airport planning and design, air traffic control, air transportation systems analysis, and airline economics and management, with subjects selected appropriately from those available in the departments of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Economics, and the interdepartmental Master of Science in Transportation (MST) program. Doctoral students may pursue a Ph.D. with specialization in air transportation in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics or in the interdepartmental Ph.D. program in transportation or in the Ph.D. program of the Operations Research Center (see the section on Graduate Programs in Operations Research under Research and Study).

Biomedical Engineering

The department offers opportunities for students interested in biomedical instrumentation and physiological control systems where the disciplines involved in aeronautics and astronautics are applied to biology and medicine. Graduate study combining aerospace engineering with biomedical engineering may be pursued through the Bioastronautics program offered as part of the Medical Engineering and Medical Physics Ph.D. program in the Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (IMES) via the Harvard-MIT Program in Health Sciences and Technology (HST). Students wishing to pursue a degree through HST must apply to that graduate program. At the master’s degree level, students in the department may specialize in biomedical engineering research, emphasizing space life sciences and life support, instrumentation and control, or in human factors engineering and in instrumentation and statistics. Most biomedical engineering research in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics is conducted in the Human Systems Laboratory.

Today, the aerospace sector has returned to its original roots of innovation and entrepreneurship, driven not exclusively by large government or corporate entities, but by small and mid-size firms. These are experimenting with, and launching electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing and electric Short Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL and eSTOL) vehicles, cutting-edge CubeSat missions, and new drone-enabled services that offer data analytics in agriculture, renewable energy and in other sectors. Students in Aerospace Engineering and related fields have expressed a strong desire to hear from and learn about how to launch their own ventures and initiatives in aerospace. Responding to this need, AeroAstro is proud to launch a new Certificate in Aerospace Innovation in collaboration with the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship. To learn more, please visit the website for Certificate in Aerospace Innovation .

Computational Science and Engineering (SM or Ph.D.)

The  Master of Science in Computational Science and Engineering (CSE SM)  is an interdisciplinary program for students interested in the development, analysis, and application of computational approaches to science and engineering. The curriculum is designed with a common core serving all science and engineering disciplines and an elective component focusing on specific disciplinary topics. Current MIT graduate students may pursue the CSE SM as a standalone degree or as leading to the CSE Ph.D. program described below. The  Doctoral Program in Computational Science and Engineering (CSE Ph.D.)  allows students to specialize at the doctoral level in a computation-related field of their choice through focused coursework and a thesis through a number of participating host departments. The CSE Ph.D. program is administered jointly by the Center for Computational Science and Engineering (CCSE) and the host departments; the emphasis of thesis research activities is the development of new computational methods and/or the innovative application of computational techniques to important problems in engineering and science. For more information,  see the program descriptions  under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs.

Joint Program with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

The  Joint Program with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)  is intended for students whose primary career objective is oceanography or oceanographic engineering. Students divide their academic and research efforts between the campuses of MIT and WHOI. Joint Program students are assigned an MIT faculty member as an academic advisor; thesis research may be supervised by MIT or WHOI faculty. While in residence at MIT, students follow a program similar to that of other students in their home department. The  program is described in more detail  under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs.

Leaders for Global Operations

The 24-month  Leaders for Global Operations (LGO)  program combines graduate degrees in engineering and management for those with previous postgraduate work experience and strong undergraduate degrees in a technical field. During the two-year program, students complete a six-month internship at one of LGO’s partner companies, where they conduct research that forms the basis of a dual-degree thesis. Students finish the program with two MIT degrees: an MBA (or SM in management) and an SM from one of eight engineering programs, some of which have optional or required LGO tracks. After graduation, alumni lead strategic initiatives in high-tech, operations, and manufacturing companies.

System Design and Management

The  System Design and Management (SDM)  program is a partnership among industry, government, and the university for educating technically grounded leaders of 21st-century enterprises. Jointly sponsored by the School of Engineering and the Sloan School of Management, it is MIT’s first degree program to be offered with a distance learning option in addition to a full-time in-residence option.

Technology and Policy

The Master of Science in Technology and Policy is an engineering research degree with a strong focus on the role of technology in policy analysis and formulation. The  Technology and Policy Program (TPP)  curriculum provides a solid grounding in technology and policy by combining advanced subjects in the student’s chosen technical field with courses in economics, politics, quantitative methods, and social science. Many students combine TPP’s curriculum with complementary subjects to obtain dual degrees in TPP and either a specialized branch of engineering or an applied social science such as political science or urban studies and planning. See the  program description  under the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society.

Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering

Admission fees waived for domestic students with a 3.5 GPA (Contact Hannah Tyler for a fee waiver).

Guaranteed funding for Ph.D. students for five years.

The Ph.D. degree is a research degree granted on the basis of broad knowledge of aerospace engineering and in-depth study in a specific area leading to a dissertation reflecting original work by the doctoral candidate. To obtain a Ph.D. degree in aerospace engineering, in addition to meeting the general requirements of The Graduate School, a student must:

• Earn 36 graduate credit hours taken at the University of Kentucky while in graduate standing. Alternatively, those holding a non-UK M.S. may satisfy this requirement by earning 18 graduate credit hours at UK.
• Satisfy the mathematics requirement. The mathematics requirement for the Ph.D. degree in aerospace engineering may be satisfied by completing two math-related courses with a grade of B or better in each. A list of acceptable courses is maintained by the director of graduate studies.
• Pass the Ph.D. Preliminary Examination . The Preliminary Examination is a written examination and shall satisfy the written portion of the Qualifying Examination required by The Graduate School. This examination tests the student’s knowledge in the field of aerospace engineering. This is a uniform examination that is required in three subject areas. For the Ph.D. preliminary examination, a doctoral student may select any of the available technical areas as a major field (two of the three subject areas should be from the student’s chosen major field). A list of current technical areas, subject areas and various courses under each subject area is maintained by the director of graduate studies.
• Pass the Qualifying Examination . This examination evaluates the soundness of the student’s proposed doctoral dissertation research. A prospectus prepared by the student and submitted to the student’s advisory committee is required. Only those who have passed the preliminary examination and have satisfied the doctoral mathematics requirement may sit for this examination.
• Present and satisfactorily defend the dissertation.

For a more detailed description of these requirements, contact the director of graduate studies .

Graduate Bulletin Coming Soon!

Department Chair Jesse Hoagg, Ph.D. 859-218-0641

Director of Graduate Studies Jonathan Wenk, Ph.D. (859) 218-0658

Student Affairs Officer Hannah Tyler 859-218-0611

Home > Research > Student Research > Graduate Research > Master’s Theses > Aerospace Engineering

• Aerospace Engineering

Theses/Project Reports from 2024 2024

A Comparison Of Western And Eastern Soft Systems Approaches , John L. Anaya, John L. Anaya, and John L. Anaya

Short Arc Initial Orbit Determination For Leo Objects And The Impact Of Observation Eelevation On Predictive Accuracy , Alexis DiGregorio

The Pressure Distribution Of Rotating Cylinders Using An Onboard Wireless Data Acquisition System , Nathan Eller

Automatic Mass Balancing Of A Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics Simulator With Six Sliding Masses , Amelia J. Gilman

The Effect Of Atomic Oxygen On Additively Manufactured Materials , Ryan Grogan

A Hardware-In-The-Loop Star Tracker Test Bed , Ashley Haraguchi

Exploring The Feasibility Of The Resonance Corridor Method For Post Mission Disposal Of High-LEO Constellations , Payton G. Porter

Supersonic Air Inlet Modeling Using the Method of Characteristics , Shay S. Takei

Preliminary Analysis Of A 12U Astronomy CubeSat , Charles Van Steenwyk

Theses/Project Reports from 2023 2023

Launch Vibration Attenuation For In-Space Assembly Cargo , Jered Bell

Development Of Load Measurement Technique For Arbitrary Shapes , Quintin J. Cockrell

Parametric Optimization Of A Wing-Fuselage System Using A Vorticity-Based Panel Solver , Chino Cruz

Structural Design, Modeling, And Analysis Of The Wing For A World Speed Record-Breaking Turbo-Prop Racing Airplane , Joseph C. Hammond

Gyroless Nanosatellite Attitude Determination Using an Array of Spatially Distributed Accelerometers , Kory J. Haydon

Refactoring Dependency Loading And Standardizing Factory Patterns In The Horizon Simulation Framework , Jack W. Kelly

Autonomous Attitude Consensus for Nanosatellite Formations in LEO , Laird J. Mendelson

Distributed Control of Servicing Satellite Fleet Using Horizon Simulation Framework , Scott Plantenga

Feasibility Assessment of an All-Electric, Narrow-Body Airliner , Ariel Sampson

Coupled Boundary Conditions for Modeling Airbreathing Engines , Adam Louis Waldemarson

Theses/Project Reports from 2022 2022

Testing and Verification for the Open Source Release of the Horizon Simulation FrameworTesting and Verification for the Open Source Release of the Horizon Simulation Framework , William J. Balfour

Project Management and Systems Engineering Framework for Educational Cubesat Missions , Bailey Garrett

The Effects of Atomic Oxygen on Silicone and Carbon-Based Contamination , Mayana W. Gordon

Method and Simulation of On-Orbit Sub-microthrust Evaluation , Jonathan Hood

Spacecraft Trajectory Optimization Suite: Fly-Bys with Impulsive Thrust Engines (Stops-Flite) , Aaron H. Li

Development of a Dual-Band Radio Repeater to Be Carried by a Fixed-Wing Small Unmanned Aerial System , Carl Recine

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Sept 2025 Entry

As one of the founding departments of the University in 1937, the Department of Mechanical Engineering has been at the forefront of the vast evolvement of its field.

The Department takes pride in its focus on grand challenges in the international arena and is actively collaborating with various overseas institutions addressing these challenges.  Our global connections broaden the perspectives of the future generations opening their minds to discover new knowledge that benefits the society.  The Department’s world-class faculty and internationally renowned programmes draw students from across the globe. The Department has also published numerous important research findings in world-leading journals.

The Department has made significant achievements in International University Rankings by discipline in recent years, based on its academic performance, employer reputation and research impact.  The University was  ranked highly in the subject of Mechanical Engineering and/or related disciplines by different international ranking systems . This is an impressive testament to the Department’s contributions and sustained efforts nationally and internationally.

Advanced Materials and Processing

Aerospace Engineering

Clean Energy and Energy Storage

Robotics and Control

Sound and Vibration

Thermofluids and Combustion

The Department aims to provide advanced teaching and research accommodation for both undergraduates and postgraduates in state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities .

All research postgraduate applicants are recommended to approach potential supervisors and preferably, put their names on the applications. For details, please refer to “Research Areas” or ME website > Academic Staff .

The Department has organised/co-organised a series of symposiums and international conferences to pursue knowledge through interactions among the world’s foremost scientists and scholars.  To further elevate its research quality and academic standing, the Department has also invited top-notch scholars to serve as visiting chair professors under the Distinguished Visiting Chair Professor Scheme. Learn more at Emeritus Professor, Visiting & Adjunct Staff .

The Department offers student exchange opportunities to enhance students’ global outlook, language skills and personal development.  Every year, the Department arranges research attachments (from three months to one year) for students to visit overseas universities with financial support.

With the aim of advancing research by exchanging knowledge and ideas within the field of Mechanical Engineering, the Department also provides additional financial support to research students to attend international conferences.

Compulsory - Two Academic Referee's Reports are required. (Proposed supervisors from the PolyU and Partner University (if any), and persons from non-academic backgrounds are not considered as appropriate academic referee)

Compulsory - A standard form must be used for the submission of research proposal.  Please click here  to download the form.

Compulsory - Please upload all academic qualifications including Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree (if any) according to the University’s admission requirements , also refer to the ‘ Procedures – Guidelines for Submitting Supporting Documents ’ to follow the submission requirements.

Optional - Publication records, scholarships, awards/prizes and class rankings (with supporting documents)

Biomedical Imaging, Instrumentation, Sensing and AI

Molecular, Cellular and Tissue Engineering

Prosthetics, Orthotics, Smart Ageing and Rehabilitation Engineering

Sports and Neuromusculoskeletal Engineering

Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Computing

Blockchain, Cyber Security and Privacy

Graphics, Multimedia and Virtual Reality

Networking and Mobile Computing

Pattern Recognition and Natural Language Processing

Systems Modelling and Software Engineering

Advanced Materials Processing Technologies

Aviation and Transportation Logistics

Operations and Supply Chain Management

Precision Engineering (State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology)

Product Design and Miniaturisation

Smart Manufacturing and Robotics

Aerodynamics

Aerospace Propulsion and Combustion

Aerospace Structures and Materials

Aviation Engineering

Flight Mechanics and Control

Satellite Communication and Navigation

Artificial Intelligence and Signal Processing

Communications and Information Security

Future Mobility System

Microelectronics and Quantum Technology

Photonics, Smart Material and Devices

Power and Energy Systems 

Power Electronics and Electric Vehicles

• PolyU Main Site
• Academic Registry (AR)
• Global Engagement Office (GEO)
• Graduate School (GS)
• Office of Undergraduate Studies (OUS)
• Student Affairs Office (SAO)
• Hong Kong Community College (HKCC)
• School of Professional Education and Executive Development (SPEED)
• School Nominations Direct Admission Scheme (SNDAS)