Program Description

The Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering program at Kennesaw State University provides a robust foundation in engineering, mathematics, and science, preparing students to tackle complex challenges in the design and development of aerospace systems. This comprehensive program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with early exposure to system design concepts culminating in a yearlong senior capstone design project. This capstone experience involves team-based projects addressing real-world challenges from industry, government, or professional engineering societies, enhancing problem-solving and teamwork abilities.

The program comprises two concentrations. The Aeronautics concentration focuses on machines that operate within Earth’s atmosphere, such as airplanes, helicopters, drones, and wind turbines. It focuses on the principles of aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, controls, and the engineering of systems to enable safe and efficient operation. On the other hand, the Astronautics concentration involves the study and design of vehicles and systems that operate beyond Earth’s atmosphere, including spacecraft, satellites, and space exploration technologies. It encompasses the science of space travel, orbital mechanics, navigation, and communication in space environments.

Students gain firsthand experience using state-of-the-art resources, such as wind tunnels and structural testing facilities, and may participate in projects like designing, building, and testing unmanned aerial vehicles and small spacecraft. Graduates are well equipped for careers in aerospace and related industries, government labs like NASA, Air Force, and further academic pursuits.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to: 

1. Identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. 
2. Apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
3. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences. 
4. Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
5. Function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
6. Develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
7. Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
8. Utilize specialized software adopted in industry to solve complex engineering problems.

Aeronautics Concentration Student Learning Outcomes

1. Analyze and apply the principles of low and high-speed aerodynamics to aircraft design and performance evaluation.
2. Integrate various subsystems in aircraft design, ensuring cohesive and efficient overall system performance.
3. Evaluate and design aircraft structures to withstand operational loads and stresses.

Astronautics Concentration Student Learning Outcomes

1. Apply the principles of orbital mechanics to the design and analysis of spacecraft trajectories and missions.
2. Model and control spacecraft attitude dynamics to ensure stability and accurate positioning.
3. Integrate various spacecraft subsystems into a cohesive design, ensuring all components function together effectively.

This program is a part of the Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology . 

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Admissions, Enrollment, and Graduation Criteria

Admissions Critera

Admission to this program is open to all students who meet Kennesaw State University’s general admission standards. Visit the Admissions  section of the Catalog for more details.

Enrollment Criteria

In addition to meeting the requirements of Academic Policy 4.0 ACADEMIC STANDING, DISMISSAL, & REINSTATEMENT , students are expected to meet the following enrollment criteria: 

• Upper division courses require students to meet the Engineering Standing Requirements . 

Graduation Criteria

Each student is expected to meet the requirements outlined in Academic Policy 5.0 PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS & GRADUATION .

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Program Course Requirements