Astronautical Engineering Major

View course descriptions and suggested course sequence.

Are you interested in designing, building, launching and operating satellite systems? If so, consider a major in astronautical engineering. This major is among the most challenging disciplines available here at the Academy, but the benefits are enormous. The Astronautical Engineering Major is the broad application of science and engineering to aerospace operations. Special emphasis is placed on astrodynamics, aerospace systems design and control systems. Design and depth options allow further concentration in one of these areas; thus, cadets are prepared for Air Force duty with specialization in research, design, development and analysis of space technology and aerospace avionics. Cadets who successfully complete this major are awarded the degree of Bachelor of Science in Astronautical Engineering, which is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). This is a unique opportunity, as no other university in the nation offers an accredited undergraduate degree in this field. If you are a top performer in the major, your first Air Force assignment could be graduate school – either by winning a prestigious national scholarship (Guggenheim, Hertz, Rhodes, etc.) or through departmental sponsorship.

The goals of the Astronautical Engineering Program are to prepare cadets to become Air Force officers who:

1. Possess a fundamental knowledge in astronautical engineering.
2. Can communicate effectively.
3. Work effectively with others.
4. Are committed to lifelong learning.
5. Can apply their knowledge and skills to frame and solve Air Force engineering problems, both well and ill defined.
6. Know their ethical and professional responsibilities as embodied in the U. S. Air Force Core Values.

The Program Operational Goals above describe what the Air Force would like to see in our graduates as they begin their careers as Air Force Engineering Officers. To best support these goals our program’s curriculum is designed such that, by graduation, our graduates possess certain qualities or outcomes. These Program Curricular Outcomes are listed below. Upon successful completion of the Academy program in astronautical engineering, cadets will have the ability to:

1. Use fundamental knowledge of orbital mechanics, space environment, attitude control, telecommunications, space structures and rocket propulsion to solve astronautical engineering problems.
2. Plan and execute experimental studies and formulate sound conclusions by analyzing empirical data.
3. Apply modern technology tools to solve astronautical engineering problems.
4. Communicate effectively using oral, written, graphical and electronic formats.
5. Recognize the ethical and professional responsibilities of Air Force officership and the engineering profession.
6. Work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
7. Recognize the benefits of and possess the skills needed to engage in lifelong learning.
8. Informatively discuss the impact of engineering on present-day societal and global contemporary issues, including Air Force aerospace capabilities and requirements.