Best Aerospace Engineering Schools in Florida in 2024

Whether you want to work on airplanes or spacecraft, you can start by earning a degree in aerospace engineering. Six schools in Florida offer degrees in aerospace engineering; all six offer bachelor’s and master’s programs. And this article will highlight the Best Aerospace Engineering Schools in Florida.

Once you know that aerospace engineering is where you want to focus your efforts, you can continue your training. But you must study in one of the best schools in Florida to give you a high chance of employment with your aerospace engineering degree.

To become a certified engineer, you must have a bachelor’s degree. This involves completing 120 to 130 credits in four years. That is why you must enroll in any Florida school that offers aerospace engineering or its related degree.

There are schools near the northern Florida border in Gainesville and as far south as Miami. Each school sets its tuition fees, but Florida is quite affordable overall. The state’s average tuition cost is around $11,400 per year. The average class size in Florida is 21 students, so you probably have plenty of people you can work with in your classes.

In addition to our list of schools in Florida, this article will also review the cost of attending an aerospace engineering school in Florida and how much you may earn in Florida as an aeronautic engineer.

What is Aerospace Engineering?

Aerospace engineering deals with the design and construction of flying machines. It is one of the most recent branches of engineering and began in the 19th century with the first motorized flight experiences.

As technology progressed, two specialties emerged. Aeronautical engineering includes the design of aircraft such as lighter-than-air craft, gliders, fixed-wing airplanes and aircraft, gyros, and helicopters. And astronautical engineering, which focuses on the design and development of spacecraft.

In other words, aeronautical engineers are primarily involved in the design of aircraft that fly in Earth’s atmosphere. While astronautical engineers work with the science and technology of spacecraft that fly out of Earth’s atmosphere, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

You Can Also Check Out Best Aerospace Engineering Schools in Virginia | 2024

Why Study Aerospace Engineering in Florida?

Few disciplines have inspired humanity as much as aerospace engineering. Many of the technological advancements that are now part of our daily lives, such as portable calculators and nonstick pans, were initially developed to facilitate space flight.

Today’s aerospace engineers are still working to help us see the edges of the universe and improve how we live our lives here on planet Earth. If your career goals include creating innovative technologies that will shape the 21st century beyond, you may want to consider earning your degree in aerospace engineering in Florida.

The scope of aerospace engineering projects almost always requires engineers to work as a team. Furthermore, research and industry projects in the field are often international. For this reason, finding a program in Florida that emphasizes not only academic basics and engineering practices but also teamwork, communication, and professional development may be helpful.

Additionally, aerospace engineering has its foundations in mechanical engineering, so earning a college degree in aerospace engineering in Florida can lead to a wide range of careers in flight and on the ground.

For example, the need for more efficient jet and spacecraft fuels has led to advances in sustainable fuel sources that are now used in various products.

Is Aerospace Engineers in Demand in Florida?

There is a demand for aerospace engineers nationwide because these STEM professionals fill various critical roles and functions, just as in Florida.

Most people base their aerospace knowledge on Hollywood blockbusters, but aerospace engineers work in various industries with various individual tasks. Read on to discover the high demand for jobs in Florida and the career options available to an aerospace engineer.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for aeronautical and aerospace engineers in Florida is increasing at an average rate. And it’s believed that job prospects in the aviation industry will continue to grow for the next decade.

Also, aeronautical engineers in Florida must develop new products and redevelop existing ones because the new rules and regulations require quieter and more fuel-efficient aircraft.

Continuous space exploration efforts by governments and private organizations in Florida have created a greater need for experienced engineers.

Above all, aerospace engineers are in high demand from industries, from military services to space travel, and the right degree from a prestigious institution can open doors for a lifetime. The Embry-Riddle Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) has been one of the most sought-after degrees in the field for decades.

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What are the Education Requirements to Become an Aerospace Engineer in Florida?

Aerospace engineers in Florida need at least a bachelor’s degree to enter the field, usually in aerospace engineering.

Some university programs offer 5-year programs that allow students to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees simultaneously. All aerospace engineering programs in Florida get their accreditation from ABET.

Although entry-level positions do not require a license, the most advanced aerospace engineering programs will likely require a professional engineer (PE) license. However, requirements vary by state. Most require an accredited engineering degree, work experience, and passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineering Exam.

Acquiring a managerial position in aerospace engineering in Florida often requires extensive work experience and the observation of a senior aerospace engineer.

What is the Salary & Job Outlook of Aerospace Engineering in Florida?

Aerospace engineers in Florida earn an average of $95,760 a year. The lowest 10% earn approximately $65,450, while the highest 10% earn roughly $149,120.

Most aerospace engineers work for aerospace parts manufacturers, with lower percentages working for private research facilities and engineering companies.

The demand for jobs for aerospace engineers in Florida is expected to increase by 7% in the next ten years, which is slower than the average for all occupations. Aircraft will be continually required for national defense purposes.

Furthermore, a greater interest in environmental security will require restructuring plans to increase energy efficiency. However, manufacturing-related aerospace engineering positions will decline in the next ten years.

How Many Colleges in Florida offer Aerospace Engineering

There are approximately six universities offering aerospace and aerospace engineering in Florida. Choosing which school to attend matters. Hence, we have compiled the ranking of these best aerospace engineering schools based on some factors.

Many schools offer aerospace engineering degrees from undergraduate to doctorate, and the degree has a lot of flexibility. Those with college degrees in aerospace engineering can usually complete graduate studies in a specific engineering field. Such as electrical engineering, or move on to other fields, such as materials science or applied mathematics.

People with college degrees in a wide range of science and engineering are eligible for most graduate programs in aerospace engineering.

Particularly for the master’s programs, there are many colleges, including the US Air Force Academy and the US Naval Academy. Thanks to its strong and ongoing links with NASA, the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) continues innovating with its mechanical and aerospace engineering programs.

How Much Does it Cost to Study Aerospace Engineering in Florida?

Since there are several schools in Florida, there are many different prices for tuition. At the bottom of the scale, the University of Central Florida costs $2,526 per semester for residents and $8,966 for non-residents.

And the most expensive end of the scale is the University of Miami. Tuition fees here are $20,790 per year, regardless of your state of residence.

However, you can search for national, local, and school engineering scholarships to offset the cost of your studies. The Florida Engineering Society funds approximately $30,000 in scholarships for engineering students annually. The award-nominated scholarships, university scholarships, and FPEG scholarships.

After earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace engineering, you are ready to take the next step in your career. You must obtain your license from the Florida Board of Professional Engineers.

You must pay a registration fee of $230, in which case you can take the professional engineer exam. This exam is quite rigorous, so it is essential to study hard. You can get a professional engineer license in Florida when you pass your exam.

Which Schools in Florida Have the Best Aerospace Engineering Programs

As a student in Florida, you are likely to spend a lot of time in a hands-on learning environment. Most schools in Florida have dedicated engineering labs where you can work with different aerospace engineering materials and see how they work.

You may also be interested in working in aerospace research. These schools focus more on research, so take a closer look at each school.

Here is a list of the Scholls in Florida that offer the Best Aerospace Engineering Programs in the World:

• University of Florida
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach
• University of Central Florida
• University of Miami
• Florida Institute of Technology
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide & Online

What is the Best College in Florida for Aerospace Engineering

We have created a World scholarship Forum 2024 ranking of the best Florida schools offering degrees in aerospace, aeronautical, and astronautical / space engineering to help you find a school that meets your needs.

Each school’s ranking is based on compiling our data from reliable government sources, student surveys, interviews with college graduates, and an editorial review. You can also check out our complete list of the 6 Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering Schools in Florida.

With so many options, it can be difficult to find a solution that works best for you. This year, the ranking of the best mechanical and aerospace engineering colleges in Florida looked at six colleges and universities offering a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering.

We also provide reviews, facts, and questions and answers for schools on our site and offer you access to valuable information from colleges and universities in Florida.

Ranking Methodology

We will consider several ranking factors in selecting the Best and Top Aerospace Engineering Schools in Florida in 2024. Note that this World Scholarship Forum Ranking of Best Aerospace Engineering Schools in Florida considers many factors, but we will explain some in detail.

They include:

Number of Programs: These are one important criterion for ranking the Top Aerospace Engineering Schools in Florida in 2024. Because some of these universities can have a good number of programs they offer which will avail you a lot of options to choose from.

Accreditation: This criterion is essential because a school can be considered good with great programs but yet not have quality. So, we consider the body of accreditation and certification for each of these schools before ranking whether they fall in the category of regional or national accreditation.

University of Florida

Address: 939 Center Dr, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States

Programs

The University of Florida Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) administers the Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering.

Recently, the MAE houses approximately 1,600 undergraduate students, of whom about 70% specialize in mechanical engineering (ME) and about 30% in aerospace engineering (AE).

In 2002, the undergraduate program was revised to promote synergy between the mechanical and aerospace undergraduate programs while emphasizing each degree’s unique characteristics.

Equally, the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering administers the Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE) and the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME), as well as the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering. MAE is home to over 400 graduate students, roughly equally divided between masters and doctoral students.

Master’s thesis-free programs include 3 core courses in one of three areas of interest (DSC, SMDM, TSFD), 3 core/department courses, and four elective courses. Students can register full or part-time, on campus or remotely (EDGE online).

Achievements & Reputation

The University of Florida is ranked 46 (tied) in the best engineering schools. Schools are ranked according to performance through a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence.

Mechanical and Aerospace engineering is a famous specialty, and Florida is the eighth most popular state for students studying this specialty. 1,974 of the 46,014 mechanical engineering degrees earned last year were issued by Florida schools.

Accreditation

The Aerospace Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Programs at the University of Florida are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, www.abet.org. 

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach Campus

Address: 1 Aerospace Boulevard Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3900

Students passionate about the world of high-tech aircraft, helicopter, and spacecraft engineering are at home in the Embry-Riddle aerospace engineering department.

Specifically, the Aerospace Engineering Department is in the Lehman Center for Engineering and Technology. A three-story building with ample laboratory space for students and faculty to explore current topics in aerospace research together.

Programs

The Department of Aerospace Engineering at Embry-Riddle offers five different programs in Aerospace engineering. They include:

Officially, the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering (BSAE) program at Embry-Riddle gives students the skills to solve even the most complex design, propulsion, and systems challenges for aircraft and super craft

Secondly, the department also offers several graduate degrees and an accelerated program. While the recent incorporation of a doctorate in aerospace engineering increases opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students. Most importantly, seek new and advanced knowledge to strengthen and enhance the classroom experience.

Above all, Embry-Riddle aerospace engineering graduates benefit from an extremely high placement rate after graduation (96% of graduates are employed or have chosen to pursue higher education within one year after earning their Degree).

Here is a list of the Aerospace Engineering Department programs at Embry-Riddle

• Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering
• Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering
• Distance Master in Aerospace Engineering
• Master of Science in Autonomous and Autonomous Systems Engineering *
• Ph.D. in aerospace engineering

Achievements & Reputation

Founded in the 1950s, the department has a long history of excellence.

The Aerospace Engineering Department is the largest in the country, with 1,534 B.S. students, 122 M.S. students. (including 20 distance students), and 34 doctoral students in the Fall of 2019. It should be noted that 13.4% of their undergraduate students are students of distinction, while the rest of the ERAU has 3.9% of students of distinction.

The AE undergraduate program has been ranked # 1 by the US News and World Report for the past 16 years when Daytona Beach was classified as a non-doctoral institution 2000-2015.) In 2016, for the first time, US News & World Report placed ERAU’s Daytona Beach Campus in the category of Ph.D. students.

Recently, their undergraduate program has moved to # 4 (tied with Purdue), the first in Florida. This represents up to seven places from last year when it was ranked 11. Also, their graduate program is currently ranked by USNews & World Report # 29 (tied), 2nd in the State of Florida.

Accreditation

The Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET accredits all the Aerospace Engineering program.

Also, the undergraduate program in Aerospace Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, www.abet.org.

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University of Central Florida

Address: 12760 Pegasus Drive Orlando, FL 32816

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Central Florida constantly evolves and strives to provide the highest quality engineering education.

They serve more than 4,000 students from 68,000 UCF through our undergraduate and graduate programs in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, and biomedical engineering.

Above all, they now have an internationally recognized faculty and dedicated staff. Especially those who guarantee their students the skills to achieve professional learning and professional development.

Programs

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering – Prepare for an exciting career with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. The UCF program prepares students to understand aerodynamics, aerospace materials, structures, propulsion, stability and control, and flight mechanics.

Graduates will receive training to be competitive in their role as aerospace engineers in society. And will be aware of ethical, environmental, economic, safety, and quality issues.

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering: Take your career to new heights with a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from UCF. This degree is designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering and mechanical engineering. Or a closely related field that wishes to advance their knowledge and skills in space system design and aerodynamic system design. Thermo fluids

Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering: Take your career to new heights with a PhD. in aerospace engineering from UCF. Through this program, students will conduct in-depth research in aerospace systems, mechanical systems, or thermofluids.

Achievements & Reputation

Over the years, the University of Central Florida Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering has become the No. 1 supplier of graduates to aerospace defense and industries.

Also, it got a ranking of UCF is ranked the 75th best graduate school for mechanical engineering education.

UCF is rated the best university by The Princeton Review and Kiplinger, and one of the most affordable universities in the country by Forbes.

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Science program in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Central Florida is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, www.abet.org.

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University of Miami

Address: 1251 Memorial DriveMcArthur Engineering Building, Room 205 Coral Gables, FL 33146

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers courses and facilities for three graduate and research programs, leading to a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Philosophy.

Within these programs, the individual student allows great flexibility in organizing a study and research program.

However, the specific programs must reflect the importance of the underlying principles of physical science and mathematical analysis for all phases of modern aerospace engineering.

Programs

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering offers a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering.

A student can study a sequence of courses at the baccalaureate level to offer an option in specialized fields. Such as aerospace engineering, environmental engineering, and automotive engineering. As well as biomedical engineering, energy engineering, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning).

Meanwhile, the aerospace engineering master’s program prepares students for a challenging career or new graduate studies in the doctoral program. With a focus on advanced knowledge, problem-solving experience, and rigorous scientific research. Which will go beyond what is normally obtained during undergraduate engineering training.

Achievements & Reputation

The University of Miami is ranked 102 (tied) in the best engineering schools.

Also, the University of Miami’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) emphasizes excellence in teaching and research while keeping abreast of growing technology.

Due to the relatively good number of teachers and students, individual students receive personalized attention.

During the 2017-2018 academic year, the University of Miami awarded 8 aerospace and aeronautical engineering degrees. For this reason, the school has been ranked number 65 among all the colleges and universities that offer this degree.

Accreditation

The Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited the B.S.A.S.E. program.

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Florida Institute of Technology

Address: 150 W. University Blvd. Melbourne, FL 32901

The Department of Aerospace, Physics, and Space Science is responsible for guiding the next generation of engineers and scientists in careers that you will enjoy. As well as to understand the physics of the universe and lead humanity’s future path in the air and space.

Programs

Florida Tech’s Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering begins with courses that provide you with an excellent foundation in computational and physical engineering.

Additionally, students are introduced to aircraft design during their first year, unlike other schools that reserve it as a junior or senior experience.

Equally, the aerospace engineering master’s program prepares students for a challenging career or new graduate studies in the doctoral program. Specifically, with a focus on advanced knowledge, problem-solving experience, and rigorous scientific research. Practically beyond what is normally obtained during undergraduate engineering training.

Achievements & Reputation

The academic environment of the Faculty of Engineering is particularly conducive to personalized attention from teachers. With its small classes (generally fewer than 25 students per class), Florida Tech benefits from a low student-teacher ratio while offering a high-quality program of study.

Working alongside professors in internships and research also provides students a more robust learning experience.

Above all, Florida Tech is surrounded by successful aerospace organizations/companies. Such as NASA / Kennedy Space Center, Patrick Air Force Base, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Embraer, GE, Harris, and Piper Aircraft. All offer internships and job opportunities to students working towards a master’s degree in aerospace engineering.

In addition, the bachelor’s program at Florida Tech was ranked #19 on College Factual’s Best Schools for the aerospace engineering list. It is also ranked #2 in Florida.

Accreditation

Above all, the undergraduate aerospace engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide & Online

Address: 1 Aerospace Boulevard Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3900

For professionals in aerospace engineering and those dreaming of a career in this exciting industry. The Embry-Riddle Graduate Degree in Aerospace Engineering has been one of the most sought-after degrees in the field for decades.

Now, for the first time, you can earn this esteemed degree completely online from the comfort of your home.

Programs

Embry-Riddle is a recognized leader in aviation and aerospace education and offers a Master of Science program in aerospace engineering that prepares graduates for successful careers in aircraft and spacecraft design, satellites, etc.

This graduate degree is designed for students with a degree in aerospace engineering or a related engineering field. The program offers a favorable balance between practical and theoretical training using the latest techniques and tools available.

Its expert teachers have industry experience and provide students with first-hand knowledge, enthusiasm, and advice.

Above all, an Embry-Riddle Worldwide degree symbolizes more than academic knowledge and skills. It is also proof of his hard work, persistence, and character. Discover the world that awaits you at Embry-Riddle Worldwide today!

Achievements & Reputation

Embry-Riddle Worldwide has offered distance learning courses for decades. Although teaching methods have changed, the university’s commitment to making high-quality education accessible to students, wherever they live, has not changed.

Known as the world leader in aviation and aerospace education, Embry-Riddle has expanded its program by offering related degrees at universities in aeronautics, arts and science, and commerce.

Above all, they are working hard to understand industry trends to develop new programs, such as engineering technology, information security, and assurance.

Embry-Riddle is an accredited nonprofit institution providing online and face-to-face education. Basically, through a network of educational institutions designed to support the advancement of students in the United States and abroad.

Accreditation

The Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET accredits all Aerospace Engineering programs. Including their online programs

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Florida Aerospace Engineering FAQs

References

• environmentalscience.org – What is an Aerospace Engineer?
• petersons.com – Why Study Aerospace Engineering
• universitis.com -Best Aerospace, Aeronautical, And Astronautical/space Engineering Colleges in Florida
• educatingengineers.com – Florida Aerospace Engineering Schools