Aerospace Engineering Minor

Program Coordinator/Contact

Jeffrey Doom, Associate Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Crothers Engineering Hall 220, Box 2219
605-688-6703

Program Information

Aerospace engineering is the primary field of engineering concerned with design and development of aircraft and spacecraft. Applications include traditional piloted fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, as well as autonomous aircraft of various types. The Aerospace Engineering Minor specifies a sequence of courses and academic experiences that provide a basic background in concepts required to solve design problems in aerospace applications.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completing the Aerospace Engineering Minor, the student outcomes are:

• Ability to apply mathematics and engineering science to the design of structural elements, propulsion systems, and other fundamental components of aircraft or spacecraft.
• Understanding of, and ability to apply the concepts of fluid mechanics and aerodynamics to the design of aircraft.
• An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice in the aerospace industry.
• An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility in engineering practice in the aerospace industry.

Course Delivery Format

Mechanical engineering is an occupation requiring both study and practice. Instruction occurs through a combination of traditional classroom methods, laboratory exercises using contemporary engineering technologies, and design project experiences.