College of Engineering
Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D.)
College of Engineering
Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D.)
From Hypersonics to Space Systems — Lead Innovation With a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering
At New Mexico State University, our Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering invites pioneering scholars to transform the future of flight and space technology through rigorous, real-world research. With a foundation in advanced coursework, qualifying and comprehensive examinations, and a high-impact dissertation, you'll publish and defend work that contributes to global aerospace progress. Conduct your studies in specialized labs — from hypersonics and flow control to unmanned aerial systems and structural health monitoring — and join a tight-knit research community where each graduate engages directly with faculty mentors and contributes to scholarship and technological innovation.
Admission Deadlines
March 1 (fall), October 1 (spring)
- Total credits: 60
- Total dissertation credits: 24
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of NMSU’s Ph.D. program in Aerospace Engineering move into high-level roles across industry, government, and academia. You could shape the future as a research scientist at NASA or national labs, lead cutting-edge development in aerospace companies, design autonomous vehicles and drones, or steer R&D in flight dynamics and propulsion systems. For those drawn to education, opportunities include university professorships, lab leadership, or consulting roles — equipping you to redefine the frontiers of aerospace engineering.
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Aerospace? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D..in Aerospace Engineering at NMSU?
The Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering at NMSU prepares scholars and innovators to lead the future of aerospace research and technology. Students work closely with faculty experts on groundbreaking projects in areas such as fluid dynamics, propulsion, space systems, and materials. With unparalleled access to testing facilities and collaborations with industry and government agencies, Ph.D. graduates are equipped to drive advancements in aerospace science and shape the future as researchers, professors, or senior engineers in top organizations.
ABET Accredited
Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Aerospace Engineering
Students complete a total of 36 credit hours of graduate coursework, a minimum of 24 credit hours of research, pass a written qualifying examination (administered during the first year of full-time study), an oral comprehensive examination, and submit and defend an acceptable dissertation based on independent investigation in a field of study approved by the advisory committee.
The Ph.D. also requires publication including refereed journal paper accepted and a second one accepted or in review by graduation. The Ph.D. dissertation can be a compilation and reformatted version of these published or accepted journal papers.
Take classes like:
- A E 533 - Numerical Methods for Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer
- A E 527 - Linear Systems Theory
- A E 575 - Propulsion
- A E 564 - Advanced Flight Dynamics and Controls
Application: The application includes transcripts, three letter of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume, writing sample, and GRE.
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.