College of Engineering
Aerospace Engineering (M.S.)(M.Eng.)
College of Engineering
Aerospace Engineering (M.S.)(M.Eng.)
Engineer the Future of Flight with an Advanced Aerospace Degree from NMSU
New Mexico State University’s Aerospace Engineering graduate programs — offering both a Master of Science (M.S.) and Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) — equip you with the advanced knowledge and hands-on skills to shape the future of aviation, space exploration, propulsion, and autonomous systems. Whether you’re drawn to research innovation or seeking a fast, career-focused pathway, NMSU provides the flexibility, faculty expertise, and state-of-the-art laboratories needed to excel in one of the world’s most dynamic engineering fields. With coursework and opportunities grounded in real-world aerospace challenges, you’ll gain the technical depth and practical experience to thrive in industry, government, or research.
Admission Deadlines
February 1 (fall) September 1 (spring)
- Total credits: 30
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates from either degree pathway are prepared for a wide range of impactful, high-tech careers, including:
- Aerospace engineer (aircraft, spacecraft, UAVs, and defense systems)
- Propulsion or aerodynamics engineer
- Flight test or systems integration engineer
- Structural or materials engineer specializing in aerospace components
- Control systems or avionics engineer
- Aerospace design and development engineer
- Quality assurance or manufacturing engineer in the aerospace sector
- Research engineer at government labs, private firms, or aerospace research and development centers
- Engineer in space systems, satellite design, or autonomous vehicle development
- Preparation for doctoral (Ph.D.) studies and advanced research careers
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Science or Engineering in Aerospace? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.S. or M.Eng. in Aerospace Engineering at NMSU?
NMSU offers one of the Southwest’s most accessible and hands-on aerospace engineering graduate experiences, supported by expert faculty and advanced research spaces. Students benefit from small class sizes, individualized mentorship, and access to cutting-edge laboratories dedicated to aerodynamics, propulsion, materials, and systems design.
The M.S. program offers a research-driven pathway ideal for those pursuing innovation or future doctoral studies, while the M.Eng. provides a flexible, coursework-only option tailored for professionals seeking immediate advancement. Located in a region rich with aerospace industry partners, space-flight activity, and defense research, NMSU places you at the heart of opportunity — preparing you to excel in a fast-evolving global industry.
ABET Accredited
Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Aerospace Engineering
The M.S. in Aerospace Engineering at NMSU is designed for students who want to deepen their expertise through advanced coursework and research. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and faculty actively engaged in aerospace innovation, you’ll gain the skills to tackle complex engineering challenges while building a strong foundation in research. This degree prepares graduates for technical leadership roles in industry, government, and defense, or for further study in a doctoral program.
Students complete a total of 30 course credits and complete a thesis. All students must pass a final examination conducted by the student’s advisory committee. The M.S. also requires publication including a refereed conference proceeding accepted or a refereed journal article in review by graduation. The M.S. thesis can be a reformatted version of this paper.
Take classes like:
- M E 570 - Engineering Analysis I
- A E 527 - Linear Systems Theory
- A E 530 - Intermediate Fluid Mechanics
- A E 564 - Advanced Flight Dynamics and Controls
The M.Eng. in Aerospace Engineering offers a practice-focused pathway for professionals who want to apply advanced engineering knowledge directly in the workplace. With an emphasis on real-world applications rather than a research thesis, this degree is ideal for engineers seeking to accelerate their careers in aerospace design, testing, or management. NMSU’s strong industry ties and proximity to aerospace hubs ensure that M.Eng. graduates are positioned for success in a rapidly evolving field.
Students complete a total of 30 course credits and complete a thesis. All students must pass a final examination conducted by the student’s advisory committee.
Take classes like:
- M E 570 - Engineering Analysis I
- A E 527 - Linear Systems Theory
- A E 533 - Numerical Methods for Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer
- M E 540 - Intermediate Heat Transfer
Degree Requirements:Students holding a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from a school accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
GRE Requirements: All students applying for admission to Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering Graduate Program must take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). The suggested minimum score for students applying for our graduate programs is: Verbal + Quantitative > 294 (new scale) or > 1000 (old scale).
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Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.