Focus on the design, operation and maintenance of equipment that is essential in aircraft manufacturing and safety.

Aeronautical Engineering Technology

Aeronautical Engineering Technology Degree

A major in the Aeronautical Engineering Technology Program
in the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology

Aircraft and aerospace vehicles are complex mechanical marvels, utilizing concepts from several disciplines of science, engineering and mathematics. A degree in Aeronautical Engineering Technology will provide you with the skills and knowledge to design, manufacture and maintain these machines of flight and to improve the quality of life for those who depend on their use. Over the course of the program, you will learn how to design, manufacture, maintain, operate and support a variety of aerospace vehicles. The program also offers an in-depth study of critical thinking, management, supervision and the entrepreneurial skills needed for success.

 

Airframe and Powerplant Certification preparation

Disciplines covered in the AET program include applied aeronautical structures and materials, electrical and electronic systems, propulsion systems, vehicle design operation and maintainability. A Bachelor of Science degree in AET also prepares you to take the FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification exam. Graduates with the A&P certificate are highly valued and recognized by industry as having a significant level of technical knowledge across key areas of aviation and aerospace operations. This FAA-issued license allows you to conduct, inspect, and supervise air vehicle inspection and maintenance activities.

Special Features:

  • Learn in close-knit classes that feature individualized attention from knowledgeable instructors.
  • Learn by doing in laboratory situations which focus on team-building projects.
  • Extremely marketable graduates with a variety of aerospace engineering skills and FAA certifications.
  • Work in industry-standard labs and faculty-led research centers to gain the best hands-on experience.
  • Utilize the program’s global reputation, recognized coursework, and cutting edge research that prepare you to enter a rapidly growing industry.
  • Get involved with various student organizations specifically for aviation students
  • Utilize the Polytechnic learning environment to become a career-ready graduate

What can I do?

Airframe design engineer
Logistics engineer
Integration engineer
Reliability engineer

Where can I go?

United States Armed Forces
Lockheed Martin
NASA
Pratt & Whitney

ABET

The aeronautical engineering technology program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission’s general criteria and program criteria for aeronautical engineering technology and similarly named programs.

There are infinite opportunities to do things beyond classwork. The flight program has more to offer than just the skills it takes to be a pilot. There are hidden gems – fly a glider or fly along on the jet. It’s unique having our own airport and the amenities of a big university.
Sebastian Andrade
Professional Flight
student quote photo

What to expect in this major

What it's like to be a TECHIE!

The Polytechnic learning environment

Our learning experience is designed to produce graduates who not only have deep knowledge, applied skills, and experiences in their chosen discipline, but also problem solving, critical thinking, communications, and leadership skills sought by industries and communities.

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About the school/department

The School of Aviation and Transportation Technology is focused on providing the education and skills necessary to create and build airworthy machines, manage all facets of the aviation industry, and safely pilot aircraft for a variety of consumers. Research projects touch on the same topics as well as NextGen aviation challenges, alternative aviation fuel and general aviation issues.

Additional Information

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Talk to an Advisor

Prospective students

Prospective students can reach out to aviationadvisors@purdue.edu to request an appointment to speak with a School of Aviation and Transportation Technology advisor or student services professional.

Current students

Current students can schedule an appointment to meet with academic advisors in person or virtually via BoilerConnect.

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Related Degrees

Continuing Education