Ready to get started in the field of aerospace engineering? There are four Alabama schools that can help you meet your goals, ranging from as far north as Huntsville to as far south as Tuskegee. All four of these schools offer both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs, so you have quite a few options. Tuition rates vary from school to school, but the overall average cost of tuition in Alaska is about $9,600 per year. The average class size here is only 16 students, giving you plenty of time to work closely with your professors and peers in each class.
Committing to an aerospace engineering degree is a big step! To become licensed, you need at least a Bachelor’s degree. You can generally graduate in four years, since you have to complete 120 credits at the rate of 12-18 credits per semester. Throughout the course of your education, you’ll learn about the research, testing, and science of aircraft and spacecraft.
Your school will likely require a wide range of classes to prepare you for any type of aerospace engineering job. Some of the classes that may be required include Aerospace Structural Dynamics, Flight Dynamics, Aerospace Structures, and Mechanics of Materials.
In addition to theory classes that give you an understanding of the science behind engineering, there are lots of lab classes that let you work hands-on with aerospace engineering classes. Many schools have dedicated aerospace engineering labs, so you can even work on your engineering skills after or before class.
Depending on where you want to take your career after graduation, you may want to take part in aerospace research. Auburn University, for example, has ongoing research into the design optimization of different aircraft and spacecraft vehicles.
Since the cost of living in Alabama is fairly low, there are many affordable education opportunities in this state. The University of Alabama Huntsville has some of the lowest tuition rates in the state. In-state tuition is $4,035, and out-of-state tuition is $9,403 per semester. Tuskegee University is considerably more expensive for residents, at $9,050 per semester.
Applying for scholarships is a great way to lower your educational costs. In Alabama, you can look to the American Council of Engineering Companies for assistance. They award the Richard A. Groenendyke Scholarship, which is worth $2,000. Two students win this award every year.
Before you can legally call yourself an engineer or work as an engineer in Alabama, you have to get your license from the Alabama State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. This involves paying $50 in fees for your application and exam and then passing the Professional Engineer exam. You must then renew your license by the end of the year every year to stay licensed.
Look into joining the Alabama Society of Professional Engineers to get ahead in your career. They offer an engineering job board, educational events, and annual engineering awards. Attending seminars and courses offered by ASPE can give you extra experience in the field and improve your employability.